What is Intel Optane Memory and Storage Management
Before we start, here is a bit about the Intel Opatne Memory. It is a new type of Memory designed by Intel to improve boot times and also accelerate system performance on desktops and laptops. It does it by keeping track of frequently used apps, files such as images, videos, and remembers them after shutdown. The software performs schedule optimization for the Intel Storage devices. It is possible that it may cause High CPU usage during this period, so make sure you schedule it during the time when you are not working.
Features of Intel Optane Memory and Storage Management
Manage: Gives a graphical overview of the current status of the storage subsystem of the computer. It will display Pass-through SATA and PCIe disks, Empty SATA ports, RAID volumes, and Intel® Optane™ memory volumes.
Create Volume: Allows the user to create RAID volumes where they can perform functions like Disk Selection, Selection to reserve data on one disk, Volume size, Data strip size, Enable write-back cache on the volume and naming the volume. Intel Optane Memory: This feature allows you to accelerate the overall system performance based on usage. Using the software, you can enable/disable and accelerate with pinning.
Performance: Link Power Management is a method where the controller puts the SATA link to the internal HDD and/or SSD disk into a very low power mode. You can choose to enable or disable it using this feature.
How to check if you have Optane Memory on the laptop?
Open Device Manager and expand the Disk Drives section. If it shows any listing of Intel Optane, then you have it.
How do I fix Intel Optane memory pinning errors
Pinning feature allows users to accelerate access to specific folders and apps. However, if you are facing any issue with it, you can try re-installing the Intel Optane Explorer Extension and uninstall the Intel Pinning Shell Extensions.
Can I replace Optane Memory with SSD?
Optane Memory uses the M2 form factor i.e.; you can replace it with an M. 2 NVMe SSD or an M. 2 SATA SSD. The M.2 is a form factor for SSDs (solid-state drives), which looks like a stick of gum or very similar to the RAM. Make sure to disable the Optane Memory using the Device Manager. Related Read: Fix Intel Optane Memory Pinning error after Windows 10 upgrade