1Gbit memory gears up for volume

Posted on 13 Oct 2005 at 16:43

Spansion has begun sampling what it claims to be the world's first one gigabit single-chip of NOR Flash Memory.

Rather than mobile phones, the memory is targeted at a range of embedded applications, including gaming and industrial control as well as auto-navigation systems and comms infrastructure equipment.

The 1Gbit chip is part of the MirrorBit GL family, based on the company's MirrorBit technology. Essentially, MirrorBit involves storing two full and distinct charges within a single memory cell. As well as doubling storage capacity, AMD claims the new architecture is inherently more reliable than competing MLC (multi-level cell) products.

'Our innovative MirrorBit technology has enabled us to reach this very important milestone, with a product that meets the density, quality, cost structure and scalability needs of the diverse embedded market,' said Ian Williams, corporate VP of marketing for the Embedded Memory Division for Spansion.

Such high-density chips give greater flexibility to product designers. For example, as well as underpinning a wider range of processing capabilities, the increased capacity could enable the use of a single chip for both code execution and data storage.

Production of the S29GL01GP part is slated to begin before the end of 2005, priced at $18.50 in quantities of 10,000.

Spansion is the joint Flash memory venture of AMD and Fujitsu, and the announcement comes in the wake of AMD's latest quarterly financial results, which saw microprocessor business waxing as its Flash memory business waned. This further confirmed AMD's decision to spin off its subsidiary into a separate business, a process that is underway.

Author: Alun Williams