Managed memory gives OEMs control of data

Nexus GB believes that the functionality provided by the NFX series results in a data token more suited to the needs of OEMs than that offered by consumer solutions, such as camera cards and USB sticks. The NFX’s guaranteed long-term availability, total system ownership, rugged build and reliability uniquely combine to meet the needs of embedded systems. In addition, the tokens provide an efficient command set and on-board file management system, which eases the host microprocessor’s load, decreasing both hardware requirements and firmware complexity.

Long-term availability of the tokens is ensured by configuration controlling the token’s electrical, mechanical and software interfaces for each OEM program. This virtually eliminates the costly re-qualifications OEMs suffer due to the ever accelerating obsolescence of mass-market memory devices. Additionally, this configuration-control effectively eliminates the need for in field updating of deployed OEM equipment due to data carrier obsolescence.

“In comparison with the NFX, consumer products seem unmanageable,” commented Nexus GB marketing director Victoria Barrett. “Our ‘managed memory’ concept means that the device provides OEMs with control over all of its critical aspects. They can manage the file system, be assured of long term availability, source the entire data carrier and receptacle structure from a single point and easily manage implementation. Ultimately, we hope this helps OEMS choose between consumer and industrial memory more effectively.”

The NFX token’s electronics are extremely rugged because they are solid over-moulded. The token can be soaked in water or fuels, covered in mud, autoclaved, washed, and even driven over by a truck and it will still work. Its redundant contact system and 50,000 cycle mating receptacle design have been used successfully, in other Datakey products, for more than 15 years in the most extreme conditions; including military, medical, and industrial applications.

The token also features several customisable write-once registers that can be used for encryption seeds, one-time use flags or write protect flags. This enables protection of onboard data and the distribution or sale of software, firmware upgrades or recipes.

Nexus GB supports the NFX with a complete line of peripherals including mating receptacles and development kits designed to help embedded designers reduce R&D costs, bring products to market more quickly and reduce technical risk.