DNA: SSDs of the future will be radically different

biorxiv.org

3 points·averageValentin··3 comments

The claim that we're reaching the limits of storage technology (SSDs, spinning rust and tape) is false. The amount of storage produced each year is determined by demand, and there isn't a demand signal asking for 10X or more. Even if DNA storage is created, it will be more expensive and less reliable than existing tech for decades- likely more, due to the innovator's dilemma. If you want to store lots of data for a long time (like deep time) use lithography on quartz.

I disagree with you, the main problem with our current storage is the energy consumption and use of natural resources. Also, the fact that data capacity is growing so much more than storage capacity is alarming. Of course, we are still in the early stages of this technology, but it has so many advantages, just the fact that data from a single data center could be stored in only 5 grams of dna is astounding

And please, what are your sources regarding "more expensive and less reliable than existing tech for decades". While our current ssd and hdd can last 5-10 years, dna could potentially store them for thousands of years.

Well, I have a phd in biophysics and have worked with DNA across my 30 year career- as well as with massive storage systems. I'm quite familiar with the technology. Offline HDDs last a lot longer than 10 years.

A single data center can't be stored in 5 grams of DNA- or even if it could, it would be far slower to access, and would require significant infrastructure to maintain.

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