Toshiba ships first self-encrypting SAS SSD

Toshiba Electronics has launched its first self-encrypting solid-state drive (SSD) to feature a serial attached SCSI (SAS) interface, part of a new line of enterprise SSD and mobile drives.

The PX02SMQ/U series comprises SSDs using a so-called enterprise multi-level cell (eMLC) design, optimised for low error rates but with the higher capacities offered by MLC, and set to ship later in Q1 2013.

Initial capacities are set to be 200GB, 400GB, 800GB and 1.6TB, with a SAS-2.0 interface supporting a 6Gbit/s SAS interface and 256-bit AES self-encryption.

The PX02SMQ/U line supports both the Sanitize cryptographic-erase method and TCG Enterprise Security Sub-Class specifications, providing the highest level of protection for the management and protection of confidential data, according to Toshiba.

Toshiba also unveiled new Sata SSDs, with the PX02AMU line available in 100GB, 200GB and 400GB capacities, while the PX03ANU line is available in 55GB, 120GB, 240GB and 480GB capacities.

These drives are Toshiba's first Sata SSD models to support the ATA enhanced secure cryptographic-erase function, which can invalidate all data saved on the disk in an instant.

Cryptographic-erase performs this by deleting the key required to access data on the drive, effectively rendering it unreadable.

The PX02AMU line is aimed at entry-to-mid-level server and storage applications, while the PX03ANU series is targeted at entry-level servers and uses consumer-grade MLC technology. Both will be available by the end of January.

For laptops, Toshiba unveiled the MQ01ABU series of hard drives (pictured above), offering self-encryption and cryptographic-erase capabilities, including Toshiba's Wipe technolog.

This can be configured to automatically cryptographic-erase if connected to an unidentified host system or if a defined number of authentication failures occurs, the firm said.

"These new drives deliver advanced encryption standards, protecting businesses from potentially disastrous data leakage and giving data centre manages confidence that their storage devices are keeping data protected at all times," said Martin Larsson, vice president of Toshiba's Storage Products division.