Speedy Serial-Access Flash Memories Deliver Data At 33 MHz

Based on a speed-enhanced version of the serial-peripheral interface, the members of the spiFlash family of serial flash memories can operate at clock rates of 33 MHz. The family includes densities ranging from 1 to 64 Mbits, with the first three offering 1-, 2-, and 4-Mbit capacities (the NX25P10, P20, and P40, respectively). Available in space-saving eight-lead SOIC (5 by 6 mm) or thinner MLP (also called QFN) packages, the memories can be used in a broad range of serial-code-storage applications, or for data, text, and voice storage. The spiFlash devices operate from a single 2.7- to 3.6-V supply and consume just 4 mA for reads and 15 mA during erase/program operations. In quantities of 25,000 units, the 1-, 2-, and 4-Mbit memories are priced at $0.74, $0.86, and $1.20 each.