iX Systems TrueNAS Mini read/write cache SSD

ZFS-based TrueNAS Mini systems often suffer from sluggish synchronous writes and slow read caching when relying solely on hard drives. The iX Systems TrueNAS Mini Read/Write Cache SSD solves this by providing a dedicated high-performance NVMe cache drive that accelerates both write operations via ZFS Intent Log (ZIL) and read operations via L2ARC, dramatically improving overall system responsiveness and reducing latency for critical workloads.

Who is it for

This cache SSD is intended for IT professionals, system administrators, and advanced home users who operate iX Systems TrueNAS Mini storage appliances and need to boost performance for virtualization, database transactions, or file serving. It is ideal for environments where data integrity and speed are paramount, such as small business servers, remote offices, or home labs running demanding applications.

Main features

• Purpose-built for ZFS: Optimized for use as a ZFS Intent Log (ZIL) write cache or L2ARC read cache, ensuring efficient data flow and reduced write latency.
• High-speed NVMe interface: PCIe Gen3 x4 with NVMe 1.3 protocol delivers sequential read speeds up to 3500 MB/s and write speeds up to 3000 MB/s.
• Robust endurance: Rated for 800 TBW, providing long-term reliability for write-intensive caching tasks.
• Compact M.2 2280 form factor: Fits directly into compatible TrueNAS Mini systems without additional cabling or drive bays.
• Advanced data protection: Features end-to-end data protection, ECC, TRIM, and S.M.A.R.T. monitoring to maintain data integrity and drive health.
• Energy efficient: Low power consumption with idle at just 0.5 W, reducing overall system energy costs.

Specifications

• Capacity: 1 TB
• Form Factor: M.2 2280
• Interface: PCIe Gen3 x4 NVMe 1.3
• NAND Flash Type: 3D TLC
• Sequential Read Speed: Up to 3500 MB/s
• Sequential Write Speed: Up to 3000 MB/s
• Random Read IOPS (4KB): Up to 500,000
• Random Write IOPS (4KB): Up to 450,000
• Endurance: 800 TBW
• MTBF: 1,500,000 hours
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 70°C
• Power Consumption (Active Read): 5 W
• Power Consumption (Active Write): 6 W
• Power Consumption (Idle): 0.5 W
• Features: TRIM, S.M.A.R.T., ECC, End-to-End Data Protection
• Compatibility: iX Systems TrueNAS Mini Series (e.g., TrueNAS Mini X, TrueNAS Mini R)

Tips

For optimal performance, install this cache SSD in the dedicated M.2 slot of your TrueNAS Mini system and configure it as a separate pool for ZIL or L2ARC. Always ensure your TrueNAS software is up to date to take full advantage of the drive's capabilities. Monitor drive health regularly using the built-in S.M.A.R.T. tools to preemptively replace the drive before endurance limits are reached.