2.7 volt-only NOR-based flash memory meets portable system requirements

Abstract

NOR-based flash devices represent 95 percent of the flash memory sold in 1995. The NOR-based flash memory devices are widely used in application to store control code. The first 5.0 V-only flash memory devices, introduced in 1991, which combined Embedded Algorithms, single power-supply operation, and 100,000 program/erase cycle endurance, has become the industry standard. However, there is an emerging need for 2.7 V flash memory products to service the need of battery-powered systems. This paper discusses the general flash memory market, 2.7 V flash alternatives, 2.7 V flash applications, and design considerations for a 2.7 V system.