--Newest Members of Simultaneous Read/Write Family--
SUNNYVALE, CA -- October 19, 1998 --AMD today announced new high-density flash memory devices optimized for the cellular phone market, the DL160 series and the DL320 series. These 16 and 32 megabit devices combine AMD's patented simultaneous read/write architecture with an anti-cloning feature, implemented with an extra 64KB SecSi™ (secured silicon) sector. Like other members of this family, the new devices simplify code and data storage in a single memory device.
The new SecSi™ sector can be factory protected with an identification number so original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can identify their equipment and prevent unauthorized device duplication. Remaining space in the sector can be utilized for extra storage.
"Simultaneous read/write has become the preferred architecture for advanced digital cellular phone designs," said Walid Maghribi, group vice president of AMD's Memory Group. "The higher densities and the SecSi sector will lead to secure phones with new functions like voice recognition, e-mail and messaging."
Applications
In addition to the digital cellular phone market, other applications include personal information devices, set-top boxes, handheld global positioning systems and portable instrumentation.
Features-
Simultaneous Read/Write Flash Architecture
AMD's Am29DLxxx flash family provides a highly integrated hardware solution that provides simultaneous read/write functionality. The devices are partitioned into two banks. Unlike conventional Flash memories, data can be accessed from either bank without interrupting a program or erase operation in the other bank. There is no system or device latency between read and write operations.
Choice of Bank Sizes
The new devices utilize AMD's proprietary sliding bank architecture, which allows different bank size options to be offered to customers. Customers can select the bank sizes that best fit their code and data storage needs.
Fast Factory Programming
The simultaneous read/write family has an accelerated programming mode that increases factory throughput by 56 percent.
Zero-power Operation
During normal operation, most portable systems have many inactive periods. AMD's advanced power-management system automatically puts the flash device into sleep mode during these inactive periods, consuming virtually zero power. There is no latency/wake-up time when the system subsequently accesses the device.
High Performance
The DL160 series and DL320 series offer read access times as fast as 70 nanoseconds.
Easy Upgrade
These devices are pin and software compatible with the Am29DL400, Am29DL800 and the Am29LVxxx family.
Reduces System-level Cost Structure
These devices reduce the system-level cost structure by eliminating the need for additional memory devices such as EEPROMs. Lower component count reduces board, logistics and carrying costs, increases manufacturing yields, and enables smaller form-factor systems. Coupled with AMD's easy to use Data Management Software (DMS) these simultaneous read/write memories significantly reduce development costs.
