The blue giant has spent more than half a decade working on the so-called “phase-change memory”, or simply PCM. The big goal is to create a memory capable of matching the performance, durability, and cost of options like traditional RAM and flash memory. One of the most important drawbacks in PCM modules is their limit on storing bits per cell, but IBM has announced that its new generation can hold three bits per cell and withstand at least ten million write cycles.
Consumer frustration with behind-the-scenes tech
From the consumer's point of view, it's logical to conclude that some developments are directly frustrating. A great example is virtual reality: it's already among us, but nobody denies that it took a long time to arrive, perhaps too long. When advances “move away” from the user and get increasingly embedded in computers and mobile devices, it becomes even harder to appreciate their potential benefits. We all want more powerful, durable, and cheaper components, but the road is long, and more than once, it never leaves the laboratory.
A rocky history for phase-change memory
Take the case of PCM memory. Micron announced the first commercial solution in July 2012, only to pull it from the market 18 months later, and join forces with Intel in the development of 3D XPoint, now called Optane. The only big player still seemingly interested in PCM is IBM, and its new achievement could put a little pressure on its direct rivals. In simple terms, IBM can now store a maximum of three bits per PCM cell. Since it's a thermal process, the difficulties of storing more than one bit are considerable, but IBM achieved its goal by modifying the reaction of crystals under high temperatures. With this increase in density, IBM's number one in non-volatile memory research, Haris Pozidis, said that PCM technology will cost less than DRAM memory, and closer to flash memory.
The first idea IBM proposes for the use of PCM memory is the complete storage of operating systems on mobile devices, which would greatly improve their responsiveness. Finally, IBM's new PCM module withstands at least ten million write cycles, which is impressive compared to the 3,000 cycles we see in the cheapest flash memories. Well, we already know how. The big question is when.
