M.2 SSD – Everything You Need To Know
Pronounced as M-dot-2, M.2 SSD is a solid state drive (SSD) that was created as an upgrade for the internal storage system of all kinds of computers used around the globe. Originally known as the Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), the M.2 SSD is the perfect device to install if you want an ultra-high storage capacity all the while using a sleek, slim and easily portable computer device (usually notebooks and tablets). By virtue of these devices having a small power range, the M.2 SSD amps up their performance dramatically by creating more storage spaces.
Another revolutionary feature came is the modification of the M.2 SSD, called the M.2 Form Factor. This allows for your M.2 SSD device to incorporate additional applications like the WiFi, USB, PCI Express and the Serial ATA (SATA).
Specifications:
- Shape
They are most commonly rectangular, resembling a stick or sheet of gum. The standard models are usually around 22mm wide and 60-80mm long. The one thing to note is that the longer the M.2 SSD, the more storage capacity it has –since it is able to store more NAND storage chips within its external body. If you have bought one, you can easily figure out its size by the digits inscribed onto the side; the first two often indicative of the width and the last two the length.
- Capacity
If you have a standard M.2 SSD then it is likely to be 22mm wide and 80 mm long. This would mean that it can hold around 6-8 NAND chips which amounts to 1 Terabyte of storage capacity for you to use however you wish.
- Usability
M.2 SSD are most commonly used for smaller and newer computerized devices like the tablet, small notebooks and other mobile devices. This is because it has been created in accordance to the rapid technological developments that have been taking place, thus is incompatible with older devices that are less likely to be used on a massive scale. Even large computer systems will not be able to use the M.2 SSD because of the nature of its creation.
- Cost
Normally, any average M.2 SSD will cost anywhere from 75 pence to £1.25 per gigabyte. Thus, the capacity you want will alter the cost in such multiples. Most of the popular producers of good quality M.2 SSD cards include Samsung M.2 SSD, Toshiba, Kingston, Plextor, Crucial and Intel.
How can you install an M.2 SSD card?
If you are looking to improve the performance of your device, installing a M.2 SSD is the solution you are looking for. Its utility to price ratio being incredibly high makes it a small investment that is worth every bit of effort that goes into installing it.
If you follow the steps given below, you should be able to install the device into your device in a matter of minutes:
- Check for Compatibility
As mentioned before, not every device will be compatible – especially if you are looking to install it into your computer. In order to check for compatibility, you will have to look for an M.2 connector on your motherboard. Most commonly, the slot will be labeled as ‘PCIe’ or ‘SATA’. Their placement may vary depending on the company that manufactured the motherboard.
- Get the correct Type
When you go to buy a M.2 SSD card, there are a few considerations you need to take into account before. For instance, you want to adhere to the PCIe or SATA standards that your motherboard is compatible with so that the function and performance speed of your device actually alters positively. This step should be easy once you give a thorough look at the M.2 SDD card slot on your motherboard.
- Unmount the Slot
Once you have the right device, get ready for installing it onto your device. This is a process that you can get done by an expert or do it at home yourself. The first thing you will have to do is unmount the device slot by removing the screw.
- Insert the M.2 SSD
Once the slot is open, you have to insert the M.2 SSD card. When you apply pressure to attach it, you must pay attention to each notch. When it stands at an angle, it will have been successfully inserted.
- Mount the Slot
Once the M.2 SSD card has been placed, you need to ensure that it remains secure. Thus, mounting the slot through the screw removed initially is imperative.
- Check for Recognition
Now that the actual installation process is completed, you just need to check whether your M.2 SSD is being recognized by the device. While some will automatically identify its presence, others will have to be notified. You will need to go to your BIOS settings and explore the ‘Advanced Settings’ option. There, you will find another entry by the name of ‘Onboard Devices Configuration’. This is where you will find ‘PCI Express X4_3 Slot Bandwidth’ from which you will select the M.2 Mode.
Once you save the information and press exit, the M.2 SSD card will be recognized and installed into your system. Now you will have access to all that additional storage all the while your PC starts performing at levels beyond your expectations.