Flash Memory offers high-speed access for code execution.
Press Release Summary:
M58BW032 32 Mb chip is intended for automotive applications where conventional memory types cannot be used. Maintaining high-speed access over wide operating temperature range, unit suits powertrain and transmission control modules, ABS controllers, and other automotive systems. Chip reduces access time to 45 ns over automotive temperature range of -40° to +125°C packaged or -40° to +150°C bare die, enabling its use for code execution as well as for storage.
Original Press Release:
New Automotive 32-Mbit Flash Memory from STMicroelectronics Offers High-Speed Access for Code Execution
High-performance standalone Flash memory chip will satisfy automotive systems' demand for rugged, wide temperature range code storage
GENEVA, Jan. 28 -- STMicroelectronics (NYSE:STM) has announced the introduction of a new 32-Mbit Flash memory chip intended specifically for demanding automotive applications where other memory types cannot be used. Maintaining high-speed access over a wide operating temperature range, the M58BW032 is extremely well suited for use in powertrain and transmission control modules, ABS controllers, and in other high- performance automotive systems.
Direct code execution from Flash memory is one of the main requirements of extreme temperature range applications. In this environment application code cannot be run from large DRAM memories used in more conventional systems. Instead, application designers demand a large, fast and reliable Flash memory space for code execution. Their requirement is close to the size limit of embedded Flash technology on the MCU chip, but standalone Flash devices such as the M58BW032 are well established in this area.
The new chip uses a state-of-the-art architecture to reduce access times to as low as 45ns over the full automotive temperature range (-40 deg C to +125 deg C packaged, -40 deg C to +150 deg C bare die), enabling it to be used for code execution as well as for storage. It is manufactured using an advanced 0.13-micron technology, and benefits from ST's experience gained over twelve years of volume production of standalone Flash memory devices.
The M58BW032 features a wide 32-bit data bus and maintains the high data throughput pioneered by the previous generation M58BW016 device. Compatibility with the M58BW016 is preserved including its pin-to-pin footprint, software configuration protocols, and power consumption performance. It matches the new generation of 75MHz 32-bit microcontrollers, which are supported by a burst reading protocol enabled by high-speed logic and the advanced 0.13-micron technology.
Key features include a 3.3V core supply, a flexible input/output interface operating from 1.6V to 3.6V, and separate 1.6V power supplies for input and output buffers. The single bank memory is organized as eight parameter blocks of 64 Kbits, three blocks of 128 Kbits, one OTP (One Time Programmable) block of 128 Kbits, and 62 main blocks of 512 Kbits each. It operates in x4, x8 double, long word, or continuous burst modes, with configuration controlled through a dedicated register; access times of 45ns, 55ns and 60ns are available. Maximum burst frequency is 75MHz over the full automotive temperature range. Flexible protection techniques include WP# pin, 64-bit password tuning protection and a protection register.
The M58BW032 is supplied in LBGA80 and PQFP80 packages, and in Certified Bare Die form. All devices are manufactured in ST facilities qualified to ISO/TS 16949:2002, and for security each die embeds a unique device ID to allow the use of cryptographic algorithms for protection against illegal software modifications. Engineering samples are available for evaluation now, with volume production expected in Q3 2005. Pricing for the M58BW032 is US$6 per device.
Further information on these and other STMicroelectronics memory devices is available at: http://www.st.com/stonline/products/families/memories/memory/index.htm
About STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a key role in enabling today's convergence markets. The Company's shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on Euronext Paris and on the Milan Stock Exchange. In 2004, the Company's net revenues were $8.76 billion and net earnings were $601 million. Further information on ST can be found at http://www.st.com/.
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