Much has been written about overprovisioning and its implementation on SSDs. In short, overprovisioning, or OP, is a portion of storage space on an SSD that is reserved for use only by the SSD controller. The three most common uses for this space are wear leveling, the replacement of bad blocks, and read-modify-writes. Overprovisioning serves to help increase both the longevity and performance of SSDs and it is a very common practice among SSD manufacturers.

However, some users would like to be able to buy their SSDs without the built in overprovisioning and make the decision to OP, or not to OP for themselves. They prefer the flexibility of deciding for themselves when to OP and how much space to use based on their specific needs. Corsair has announced and is now offering SSDs without this overprovisioned space.

Corsair SSDs with overprovisioning space typically have used 7% of the total SSD storage capacity. This means that users now have a choice with these new drives to use them with or without overprovisioning. Users can manually overprovision the drives if they wish or, they can leave them at their full capacity with no overprovisioning and enjoy the extra space.

For users of 256GB SSDs, this means they can have an extra 16GB of storage capacity on their drive over the equivalent 240GB overprovisioned SSD. Of course, RAID users will benefit even more as the number of drives is increased.

In reading some of that aforementioned information about overprovisioning, I've found a great deal of very useful information over at Anandtech. Here's a diagram from one of Anand's SSD articles highlighting how overprovisioning works.

Our initial offerings in the non-OP drive arena are in the Force Series GS and the Neutron Series with more to come. For more information on our SSD lineup, please visit our Corsair website SSD page.

To OP, or not to OP. That is the question. Whether tis nobler to the PC performance...

Corsair proudly brings you the Corsair SSD Toolbox. This helpful utility provides users with several powerful and useful tools for use with Corsair SSDs. Let's take a look. Download the Corsair SSD Toolbox HERE. 

The Corsair SSD Toolbox will run on:

• XP SP3 (32-bit)...(64-bit version not supported)
• Vista 32-bit w/ latest SP (all functions)
• Vista 64-bit w/ latest SP (all functions)
• Win 7 32-bit w/ latest SP (all functions)
• Win 7 64-bit w/ latest SP (all functions)
• Win 8 32-bit (TRIM is not supported, all others functions are)
• Win 8 64-bit (TRIM is not supported, all others functions are)

We have provided a detailed help file which can be accessed by clicking on the question mark symbol shown here circled in red on the upper left side of the screen.

After you select firmware update the tool will scan your drive and check for firmware updates. If there is an update available, the dialogue will prompt you to update the firmware or cancel the operation.

Note: Firmware updates can only be executed when the SSD controller is in AHCI mode. Firmware updating via this toolbox is enabled for The Corsair Series Force 3, Force Series GT, Force Series GS, Neutron Series, and Neutron Series GTX SSDs. Earlier and EOL Corsair drives with firmware updates can be updated manually using the tools supplied on our website.

Apply.

Note: Corsair recommends that users update their OS drive as attached storage when possible. Some systems will require the SSD to be disconnected briefly before the new firmware version will appear in the Drive Information window.

Additional functions can be activated with the column of buttons down the left side of the toolbox. Corsair is now producing SSDs that do not have factory overprovisioning. For users that desire to manually overprovision their drives, we have provided a function for this. Overprovisioning your drive can contribute to maintaining better performance and adding longevity to your SSD.

How do I make a warranty claim?

Prior to submitting your warranty claim, we recommend checking the Corsair knowledge base at https://support.corsair.com/ first, where you can find answers to commonly-asked questions. You can also receive troubleshooting assistance by clicking Ask a Question or proceed with product replacement by clicking Request an RMA.

Valid warranty claims should be processed through the retailer where the item was purchased during the first thirty (30) days after purchase. This period may vary depending on where you purchased your product; please verify the return policy with the retailer where you purchased your product. Any warranty claims that cannot be processed through your original point our purchased should be submitted to Corsair at https://support.corsair.com/ 

What are Corsairs replacement options?

Corsair offers the following Warranty fulfillment options:

Standard Replacement:

Through Corsairs Standard Replacement process, Corsair will issue an approved RMA number for the return and replacement of your defective product(s). Our Standard Replacement processing time from receipt of your product(s) to the replacement product(s) shipment is 1-3 business days plus transit time.

Express Replacement:

At Corsair, we understand the need to be up and running at all times! To minimize down time, we offer an Express Replacement RMA process. Through this process Corsair will ship your replacement product(s) prior to receiving your defective product(s). This process requires a valid Credit Card where a holding fee will be applied for the cost of the product until the returning product(s) are received by Corsair. To avoid being fully charged for the Express Replacement product(s), the defective product(s) must be received by Corsair within 10 business days from the date your Express Replacement order is shipped.

Accessory Product Request:

Experiencing a problem with a Corsair Component Product? Many of Corsair products have easy to install replacement accessories which will resolve the issue and prevent the need to return the entire product for replacement.

Where do I ship my items?

Corsair operates multiple RMA receiving locations worldwide. Your RMA confirmation will specify the specific return address you must use when sending your RMA package. This will be your standard return location and should not be changed without prior approval from Corsair. Any packages received at an unauthorized location may be refused and returned to the sender at the senders expense.

Lot codes for Corsair products can generally be found in the follow locations. For more specific information, please view the Corsair knowledge base Lot Code article for a particular product series.

Audio:

     Headset: code is located on the earcup?s arm.

     Speakers: code is located on the back of the subwoofer.

Case: the code is located on the case?s back panel.

Cooling: the code is located on the radiator.

Flash: the code is located on the unit?s packaging, near UPC barcode.

Flash SSD: the code is located on the label on top of the SSD.

HID:

     Mice: the code is located on the label taped next to the USB connector.

     Keyboard: the code is located on the packaging near the UPC barcode.

Memory: the code is on the memory module?s label. PSU: The code is on the PSU?s label, next to the serial number.