History of Flash Core Module in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 16, 2025

IBM FlashCore Modules (FCM) are high-performance solid-state data storage modules designed for IBM FlashSystem arrays. Utilizing PCI Express attachment and the NVMe command set, FCMs offer an alternative to standard 2.5" NVMe SSDs. Available in capacities ranging from 4.8 TB to 38.4 TB, they support hardware self-encryption and real-time inline hardware data compression, effectively expanding the address space up to 115.2 TB without compromising performance. FCMs enhance storage efficiency and security within compatible IBM systems.

September 17, 2007: Texas Memory Systems Announces RamSan-500

On September 17, 2007, Texas Memory Systems (TMS) introduced the RamSan-500, recognized as the first enterprise-class flash-based solid state disk (SSD). These Flash Modules featured a proprietary design by Texas Memory Systems, utilizing unique form-factors, physical connectivity, a hard-decision ECC algorithm, and a flash translation layer (FTL) completely within the SSD. The flash controllers employed a hardware-only data path, achieving lower latency compared to commodity controllers, marking the beginning of RamSan All Flash Arrays (AFA) and hybrid DRAM and Flash Arrays.

January 16, 2014: IBM Announces FlashSystem 840

On January 16, 2014, IBM launched the FlashSystem 840, the first FlashSystem designed entirely by IBM after acquiring TMS. IBM branded its flash controller technology as IBM MicroLatency technology, emphasizing its ability to reduce data access times from milliseconds to microseconds.

February 19, 2015: IBM Announces FlashSystem 900 and V9000

On February 19, 2015, IBM introduced the FlashSystem 900 and V9000 products, rebranding the flash controller technology as IBM FlashCore technology. This technology was described as a suite of innovations enhancing FlashSystem's performance beyond enterprise disk systems. The flash modules were named IBM MicroLatency Modules. This generation supported Micron's MLC flash chip technology and offered inline hardware compression and decompression at speed.

July 10, 2018: FlashCore Technology Re-implemented in FlashSystem 9100

On July 10, 2018, with the launch of the FlashSystem 9100, FlashCore technology was re-implemented into a standard 2+1⁄2-inch U.2 NVMe SSD form factor and rebranded as FlashCore Modules (FCM). This marked the first time that the original technology developed by TMS was packaged in an industry-standard SSD format.