Digital ICs/DSPs: Ferroelectric RAM Packs 256 kbits In Eight-Lead SOIC Package

July 5, 2004

Designed for a serial-peripheral-interface (SPI) memory, the FM25L256 256-kbit nonvolatile ferroelectric RAM delivers bus-speed 25-MHz writes and unlimited read/write cycles, yet it provides nonvolatile storage. The FM25L256 offers designers a solution to the common challenge of packing faster access to data into a smaller space, requiring just 16% of the board space versus parallel-access memories. The nonvolatile memory operates from 2.7 to 3.6 V and offers drop-in compatibility with industry-standard SPI-based serial EEPROMs. It's also rated for the full industrial temperature range of −40°C to 85°C. Housed in an eight-lead SOIC package, the FM25L256 sells for $3.84 apiece in lots of 10,000 units.

Ramtron International Corp. www.ramtron.com (800) 545-3726

About the Author

Dave Bursky

Technologist

Dave Bursky, the founder of New Ideas in Communications, a publication website featuring the blog column Chipnastics – the Art and Science of Chip Design. He is also president of PRN Engineering, a technical writing and market consulting company. Prior to these organizations, he spent about a dozen years as a contributing editor to Chip Design magazine. Concurrent with Chip Design, he was also the technical editorial manager at Maxim Integrated Products, and prior to Maxim, Dave spent over 35 years working as an engineer for the U.S. Army Electronics Command and an editor with Electronic Design Magazine.