Intel Pulls X25-M G2 TRIM Firmware Update
Intel has pulled the firmware update for the X25-M SSD.
Just one day after Intel released a firmware update for its second-generation 34nm X25-M SSD, Intel has decided to temporarily pull the TRIM update and the associated SSD Toolbox software. Various reports on the Intel Support Community indicate that the firmware was bricking drives under Windows 7 rather than providing the promised 40-percent speed boost.
"Just did the firmware update and it hosed my Windows 7 installation," writes one forum user. "The updater showed a successful firmware update. Initially the computer booted just fine, but once I was within Windows it installed some drivers and asked for a reboot. That's when the trouble started. Now the drive won't boot Windows 7 anymore. I don't know if it's a Dell problem or Intel problem. The Dell BIOS claims a SMART error. I have a Dell XPS 8000."
Engadget contacted Intel to find out if the reports of the company pulling the firmware were accurate. "Yes, we have been contacted by users with issues with the firmware upgrade for our 34nm SSDs and we are investigating," Intel stated. "We take all sightings and issues seriously and are working toward resolution. We have temporarily taken down the firmware link while we investigate."
For now, the firmware update is still offline. Consumers who have purchased the X25-M SSD--and have not currently updated the firmware--obviously should hold off until Intel releases another update.
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Kevin Parrish has over a decade of experience as a writer, editor, and product tester. His work focused on computer hardware, networking equipment, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and other internet-connected devices. His work has appeared in Tom's Hardware, Tom's Guide, Maximum PC, Digital Trends, Android Authority, How-To Geek, Lifewire, and others.
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amdgamer666 Wow Intel is 2/2 for screwing up firmware updates. At least they're decent enough to catch their mistakes, admit fault, and rectify themReply -
Shadow703793 fneunerI updated mine yesterday in XP and I am not having any issues.It's a Windows 7 related problem. It doesn't affect XP/Vista AFAIK.Reply -
kirvinb Knock on wood..I have installed the new firmware and hasn't had any problems as of yet. I'm not sure if it has anything to do with the 80gb vs 160 gb drives. I have 2 80 gbs drives though. Hopefuly never! And I have Windows 7 Pro installed.Reply -
techguy378 Why is everybody having so much trouble with TRIM support in Windows 7? This feature does work. Microsoft didn't have any trouble with it in their labs. This really isn't that hard to do.Reply