Introduction

Patriot has over 25 years of experience in the field of DRAM and flash memory. Being headquartered in the United States they promise leading quality without compromise for quality. The Patriot Torqx 2 128 GB SSD is based on the less-well-known Phison PS3105 flash controller which is a cost effective alternative to more expensive controllers from Indilinx or SandForce, for example. Patriot is targeting the drive specifically at users who do not yet have the fast SATA 6 Gbps interface in their computer. Unlike SandForce drives, there is no overprovisioning so the users will have maximum capacity at their disposal.

Packaging

Patriot's drive comes packaged in a fresh orange package that will certainly draw some attention on store shelves. The back has further product information.


You will receive:

• The SSD
• Quick Install Guide

The Drive

The drive conforms to the dimensions set forth by the 2.5" form factor. Unlike many other SSDs, the Torqx 2 comes in a rugged metal casing that feels extremely solid and high quality.


Patriot's Torqx 2 SSD uses a SATA-II 3 Gbps interface. The interface is compatible with all SATA standards, including SATA 6 Gbps. However, when used on a SATA 6 Gbps port the drive will only provide up to 300 MB/s throughput.


Patriot is using eight flash chips, the Phison flash controller and a DRAM chip which provides memory for the SSD controller.


As controller a Phison PS3105-S5 is used.


The DRAM chip is made by Hynix. It provides operating memory and cache for the SSD controller.


The flash chips are made by Toshiba and have a capacity of 16 GB each, they are produced on Toshiba's 32 nm process node. Interesting fact: The Apple iPad 2 uses the exact same flash memory.