NXP and TSMC automotive embedded MRAM with FinFET

16th May 2023

Harry Fowle

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NXP Semiconductors has announced its collaboration with TSMC to deliver automotive embedded MRAM (Magnetic Random Access Memory) in 16nm FinFET technology.

As automakers transition to software-defined vehicles (SDVs), they need to support multiple generations of software upgrades on a single hardware platform. Bringing together NXP’s high-performance S32 automotive processors with fast and highly reliable next-generation non-volatile memory in 16nm FinFET technology provides the ideal hardware platform for this transition.

MRAM can update 20MB of code in ~3 seconds compared to flash memories that take about 1 minute, minimizing the downtime associated with software updates and enabling carmakers to eliminate bottlenecks that arise from long module programming times. Moreover, MRAM provides a highly reliable technology for automotive mission profiles by offering up to one million update cycles, a level of endurance 10x greater than flash and other emerging memory technologies.

SDVs enable carmakers to roll out new comfort, safety, and convenience features via over-the-air (OTA) updates, extending the life of the vehicle and enhancing its functionality, appeal, and profitability. As software-based features become more widespread in vehicles, the frequency of updates will increase, and MRAM’s speed and robustness will become even more important.

TSMC’s 16FinFET embedded MRAM technology exceeds the rigorous requirements of automotive applications with its one-million cycle endurance, support for solder reflow, and 20-year data retention at 150°C.

“The innovators at NXP have always been quick to recognize the potential of TSMC’s new process technologies, especially for demanding automotive applications,” said Dr. Kevin Zhang, Senior Vice President of Business Development at TSMC. “We’re excited to see our leading MRAM technology employed in NXP’s S32 platform to enable the coming generation of software-defined vehicles.”

“NXP’s successful collaboration with TSMC spans decades and has consistently delivered high quality embedded memory technology to the automotive market,” said Henri Ardevol, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Automotive Processing, NXP. “MRAM is a breakthrough addition to NXP’s S32 automotive solution portfolio supporting next-generation vehicle architectures.”