The TLC chip within the USB drive’s black resin casing is a core storage module based on TLC flash memory technology, encapsulated in black epoxy resin.
TLC (Triple-Level Cell) is a flash memory storage technology where each cell stores 3 bits of data (across 8 distinct voltage states). Compared to SLC (1 bit) and MLC (2 bits), TLC offers higher storage density and lower cost, but exhibits relatively weaker endurance and slower speeds. Within the black resin casing, the TLC chip is integrated with the controller chip, USB interface, and other components onto a miniature PCB substrate. This integrated packaging forms a complete storage module that directly fits into various USB flash drive housings.
| Dimension | TLC Black Colloid USB Flash Module | MLC Black Colloid USB Flash Module | SLC Black Colloid USB Flash Module |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Density | High (3bit/cell, Triple-Level Cell) | Medium (2bit/cell, Multi-Level Cell) | Low (1bit/cell, Single-Level Cell) |
| Cost | Lowest | Medium | Highest (about 3-5 times that of TLC) |
| Write/Erase Cycles | 500-3000 cycles | 3000-10000 cycles | Over 100,000 cycles |
| Read Speed | 80-150MB/s (USB 3.0) | 100-200MB/s (USB 3.0) | Over 200MB/s (USB 3.0) |
| Typical Applications | Gift USB flash drives, daily storage | Business USB flash drives, industrial equipment | Military, medical and other high-reliability scenarios |
MLC chip black resin is a USB drive core storage module based on MLC flash memory technology. It integrates MLC flash memory chips, controller chips, and USB interfaces into a single package using black epoxy resin — Its core advantage lies in balancing “performance (speed, lifespan)” with “cost,” positioning it between TLC black resin chips (high cost-effectiveness) and SLC black resin chips (high reliability). It caters to mid-to-high-end consumer-grade and entry-level industrial storage needs.
MLC (Multi-Level Cell) is one of the mainstream technologies for flash memory chips. Each storage cell can store 2 bits of data (corresponding to 4 voltage states). Compared to TLC (3 bits of data), it has lower storage density but simpler voltage control, resulting in advantages in read/write speed and endurance.
Compared to SLC (1-bit data), MLC offers lower costs and more competitive storage capacity, making it a “balanced” flash memory solution. Within the black gel structure, MLC chips serve as the core storage units, working in tandem with the controller chip to handle data writing, reading, and management. These components are then encapsulated in gel to form highly protective integrated modules.
Card-style USB drives do not necessarily require black gel encapsulation, but black gel technology remains the mainstream solution, particularly dominating ultra-thin, waterproof, and high-durability products.
Black gel encapsulation (UDP technology) integrates flash memory chips, controller chips, and USB interfaces into a single unit using epoxy resin gel. This eliminates solder joints and PCB boards, reducing thickness to 1.4-2mm (e.g., mUDP modules measure just 1.4mm thick). Key advantages include:
Ultra-slim design: Meets the ultra-thin requirements for card-style USB drives (e.g., business card USB drives at just 1.5mm thick);
Robust protection: IPX7 waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof, withstanding 1-meter drops;
High stability: Eliminates contact issues caused by component loosening in traditional soldered USB drives.
Traditional packaging (PCB board soldering) uses a separate PCB board to solder chips and interfaces, typically 3-5mm thick. Its advantages include:
Lower cost: Simple manufacturing process, suitable for low-cost promotional USB drives;
Easy maintenance: Damaged chips or interfaces can be replaced.