50PB DNA Storage Capsules

AtlasBase is developing groundbreaking DNA storage hardware that could store up to 50 PB of digital information in a small capsule. A cartridge, which holds 100 capsules, could have a potential capacity of between 100 TB and 5 EB. The stored DNA can last more than 1,000 years without electricity or cooling, making it an attractive option for long-term data preservation.

The company's Thalia platform combines conventional semiconductor controls with biochemical processes to convert digital information into combinations of four DNA bases. This process involves a 16nm CMOS layer beneath a separate biological section, allowing electrical controls to direct reactions across millions of tiny sites. The resulting synthetic DNA strands can then be dried and sealed inside metal capsules, which are designed to fit into storage cartridges.

According to Jeff Treuhaft, CEO of AtlasBase, DNA has proven itself as a capable structure for processing information over 2 billion years. The company's molecular medium can remain usable for more than 1,000 years without continuous electricity, cooling, or mechanical movement.

## What it means The storage proposition centres on long-term preservation rather than replacing high-speed systems. This technology has the potential to displace traditional tape storage methods, offering a more compact and durable solution. With the ability to store massive amounts of data in a small footprint, AtlasBase's DNA storage hardware could be a game-changer for industries that require long-term data preservation.

The potential applications of this technology are vast, and the fact that the stored DNA can last over 1,000 years without electricity or cooling makes it an attractive option for archival storage. However, it is essential to note that there is currently no information available on the speed, drive cost, and availability of this technology.

## Why it matters The development of DNA storage hardware has significant implications for the future of data preservation. As the amount of digital data continues to grow exponentially, the need for reliable and efficient storage solutions becomes increasingly important. AtlasBase's innovative approach to DNA storage could provide a solution to this problem, offering a compact and durable way to store massive amounts of data for extended periods.

The fact that the stored DNA can last over 1,000 years without electricity or cooling makes it an attractive option for industries that require long-term data preservation, such as financial institutions, government agencies, and research organizations. As this technology continues to develop, it will be interesting to see how it is adopted and utilized in various industries.