Date: 12/03/2009

Block-abstracted 8GB and 16GB NAND flash memory for media players

Micron Technology is sampling its high-density portfolio of block abstracted (BA) NAND flash memory of capacity 8GB and 16GB for use in personal media players and other applications. These NAND flash device made using 34nm process technology feature a built in memory controller.
Currently, most NAND flash memory host controllers are tasked with managing critical NAND functions such as block management and wear-leveling algorithms, and providing adequate error correction code (ECC) coverage to assure system reliability. However, because these features are becoming more advanced with every generation of NAND, designers are required to keep up with the latest innovations in order for their chipsets to properly manage NAND and assure reliable system operation.

Micron's BA NAND enables designers to migrate from raw NAND to a managed solution with minimal changes. It employs its own embedded controller to remove the burden of NAND management from the host chipset.

"Increasing demands from embedded applications to produce high-density memory solutions will continue to drive the evolution of NAND flash technologies," said Kevin Kilbuck, director of NAND market development for Micron. "Micron is a foremost innovator in NAND flash technology and as such, we recognize the complications manufacturers face when implementing new NAND technology into their systems. With the introduction of BA NAND, we're opening the doors for our customers to take advantage of the latest and most innovative NAND flash technology into their systems, avoiding costly re-designs and ultimately, lowering time to market."

"Being able to optimize applications with the latest generation of NAND flash technology is crucial to many embedded systems," said Tim Lewis, director of marketing at ZiiLABS. "ZiiLABS is known for delivering best-in-class products and we see great potential for implementing this solution in platforms based on our ZMS media-rich SOC. We are pleased to be working closely with Micron to eliminate the complications of managing successive generations of NAND through their one-package solution."