Samsung Electronics, the largest maker of NAND flash and DRAM memory chips, is about to enter the market of solid-state drives for upgrade that is about to explode.

Although Samsung Electronics has been producing solid-state drives (SSDs) for many years now, the company has not really gained popularity on this market as the manufacturer has never offered retail SSDs, but concentrated on drives for OEMs. As a result, names like OCZ Technology, Corsair Memory and Patriot Memory are much better known for solid-state drives than much larger Samsung Electronics. One of the reasons for that is the size of the SSD aftermarket, which has been small for Samsung. But the market is growing and the company is reconsidering its stance about it.

Samsung on Wednesday said that later this year it will release a new 830-series solid-state drives aimed exactly at personal computers requiring upgrade of storage sub-systems.

Samsung 830-series SSDs will use Serial ATA-600 interface, will be available in 64GB, 128GB, 256GB and 512GB capacities as well as will be powered by Samsung’s proprietary firmware fine-tuned for the company's memory to achieve maximum performance and reliability. In addition, the included Samsung Magician software keeps the SSD running at its peak.

The 830-series bundle includes a bracket for installing the 2.5" drive in a 3.5" bay, all required cables, and detailed instructions. Notebook upgrade kits include a USB to SATA adapter cables. Samsung will also include Norton Ghost software for easier migration from SSDs.

“Solid state drives have long been the preferred choice for those seeking the very best in performance. With the Samsung SSD 830 Series, we are raising that performance to even higher levels, while also delivering unparalleled Samsung design and convenience in the package," said UnSoo Kim, vice president of memory brand product marketing at Samsung Electronics.

Detailed features will be disclosed at the official launch, which is scheduled for October.

Tags: Samsung, SSD, NAND, Flash