nvSRAM Offers Best Solution for High-Speed, Non-Volatile Data
In Computing, Automotive, Industrial and Office Applications
SAN JOSE, Calif., October 15, 2007 - Cypress Semiconductor Corp. (NYSE: CY) today introduced a 4-Mbit non-volatile static random access memory (nvSRAM). The new device features access times as low as 15 ns, infinite read, write and recall cycles, and 20-year data retention, making it ideal for applications requiring continuous high-speed writing of data and absolute non-volatile data security including RAID applications, harsh environment industrial controls, and data logging functions in automotive, medical and data communications systems.
The nvSRAMs offer the best alternative for fast, non-volatile memory. They reduce board space and design complexity compared to battery-backed SRAMs, and are more economical and reliable than magnetic (MRAM) or ferroelectric (FRAM) memories. The new products are the latest in a series of nvSRAMs from Cypress, which include 256K- and 1-Mbit nvSRAM devices currently shipping in production volumes. Further introductions are expected in the first half of 2008.
The new 4-Mbit nvSRAMs are the first manufactured on Cypress's S8
0.13-micron SONOS (Silicon Oxide Nitride Oxide Silicon) embedded nonvolatile memory technology, enabling greater densities and improved access times and performance. A leader in SONOS process technology, Cypress will use the S8 technology in next generation PSoC
mixed-signal arrays, OvationONS laser navigation sensors, programmable clocks and other products. SONOS is highly compatible with standard CMOS technologies and offers numerous advantages including high endurance, low power, and radiation hardness. In addition, SONOS provides a more robust, manufacturable and cost-effective solution compared to other embedded non-volatile memory technologies.
"The nvSRAM melds two of Cypress's traditional strengths, SRAM and non-volatile memory, into a monolithic, high-performance solution required by many applications," said Robert Dunnigan, vice president of Non-Volatile Memory business unit at Cypress. "In addition, we offer the market's broadest distribution and best support for these products."
"This introduction represents a seminal touchpoint in Cypress's process development evolution," said Paul Keswick, Cypress's executive vice president of new product development. "We have turned our internal resources towards value-added, proprietary processes such as S8 that yield market-differentiated solutions. A number of important new products are under development using this process."
The 4-Mbit nvSRAM is available in either a 512-Kbit x 8 (CY14B104L) or 256-Kbit x 16 (CY14B104N) configuration. The devices are ROHS-compliant and directly replace SRAM, battery-backed SRAM, EPROM and EEPROM devices, offering reliable non-volatile data storage without batteries. Data transfers from the SRAM to the device's nonvolatile elements take place automatically at power down. On power up, data is restored to the SRAM from the nonvolatile memory. Both operations are also available under software control.
Availability
Cypress's 4-Mbit nvSRAM is currently sampling, with production starting in the first quarter of 2008. To download a photo of the nvSRAMs, visit www.cypress.com/go/NVSRAMphoto.
About Cypress nvSRAMs
Cypress's nvSRAMs use charge stored on an external capacitor instead of a battery, making the devices compatible with standard PCB assembly processes." The devices are available in 4-Mbit/3V 1-Mbit/3V, 256-Kbit/3V, 256-Kbit/5V, 64-Kbit/5V and 16-Kbit/5V configurations. The devices are highly scalable, with 1-Mbit and 256-Kbit devices available in small 32-pin SOIC and 48-pin SSOP packages. The 4-Mbit devices are available in 44 TSOPII and 54 TSOPII packages.
In RAID applications, nvSRAMs offer high-speed data transfer while ensuring data integrity in case of power outages. For copiers, nvSRAMs deliver fast data access and eliminate the need for a battery. Handheld meters benefit from the data buffering provided by nvSRAMs for fast access to data being uploaded to a server. For more information about the Cypress family of nvSRAM products, visit www.cypress.com/NVM.
About Cypress
Cypress delivers high-performance, mixed-signal, programmable solutions that provide customers with rapid time-to-market and exceptional system value." Cypress offerings include the PSoC Programmable System-on-Chip, USB controllers, general-purpose programmable clocks, image sensors and memories. Cypress also offers wired and wireless connectivity solutions ranging from its WirelessUSB radio system-on-chip, to West Bridge and EZ-USB FX2LP controllers that enhance connectivity and performance in multimedia handsets. Cypress serves numerous markets including consumer, computation, data communications, automotive, industrial, and solar power. Cypress trades on the NYSE under the ticker symbol CY. Visit Cypress online at www.cypress.com.