Understanding the hardware architecture of the Pure Storage FlashArray//E is crucial for proper deployment and capacity management. The FlashArray//E (and FlashBlade//E) family was specifically engineered to deliver an all-flash solution for capacity-optimized, tier-2 workloads and unstructured data repositories, aiming to replace legacy spinning disk (HDD) environments entirely.
To achieve this massive storage density at a disruptive price point, the //E series exclusively utilizes Quad-Level Cell (QLC) flash. While older arrays (like the //X50) use strictly dedicated NVRAM modules centrally located in the chassis, and higher-end TLC arrays (like the //XL) use DirectFlash Modules with Distributed NVRAM (DFMDs), the FlashArray//E utilizes a highly specialized drive.
On the FlashArray//E, the non-volatile write cache is distributed across DFMes . "DFMe" is the specific Pure Storage hardware nomenclature for a QLC-based DirectFlash Module that includes integrated, distributed NVRAM. By moving the NVRAM directly onto the QLC capacity modules, the //E architecture eliminates the need for dedicated NVRAM bays, streamlines the write path, and allows the write cache bandwidth to scale linearly as the customer adds more capacity to the system.
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