March 4, 2010 -- X-FAB Silicon Foundries AG today became the first pure play foundry to offer an embedded non-volatile random-access memory (NVRAM) process feature, leading to a single-chip solution. Combining the benefits of quickly accessible SRAM with the non-volatile data retention of EEPROM or FLASH memories, the new NVRAM capability of the XH018 process and supporting NVRAM compiler enable designers to achieve the same or better functionality in significantly less chip area, and to save time and effort as they design and test.

The new compiler lets designers create cost-effective, ready-to-use NVRAM blocks according to their specifications, and try out various memory configurations before finalizing their design. The new XH018 embedded NVRAM intellectual property (IP) is an ideal design feature for fast, safe non-volatile data storage in applications that require dynamic data storage, data availability when the supply voltage is powered down, and data protection in case of sudden power loss. Typical applications include industrial control and automotive applications, data transfer systems, RAID data storage and security data handling.

Traditionally, non-volatile RAM capability was created by combining SRAM with a separate EEPROM, requiring additional functionality for data handling and transfer, and added design effort to integrate and test the functionality. In contrast, X-FAB's embedded NVRAM stores the SRAM content to the non-volatile memory in a single cycle. Dr. Jens Kosch, Chief Technology Officer at X-FAB, said, "Our customers find they can easily integrate this new embedded NVRAM functionality with the rest of their design into a single-chip solution. Our new NVRAM process feature enables more cost-effective designs, due to the smaller chip area required, and the time-savings achieved."

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