FRAM memory device qualified to +125ºC for intelligent powertrain applications

The FM25L04-GA is already designed into advanced powertrain systems where FRAM is required to record data quickly and frequently so that the gearbox can continually adapt itself to changing driver behaviour and road conditions. FRAM’s No Delay™ writes and virtually unlimited endurance, coupled with a high-speed SPI interface, uniquely enables reliable data writes at maximum bus speed in this and other advanced automotive applications.

“Ramtron’s FRAM has been accepted as a mainstream memory technology in intelligent automotive applications in the passenger cab and under the hood,” says Duncan Bennett, Ramtron International Strategic Marketing Manager. “Ramtron is growing its line of Grade 1 automotive parts to meet the emerging demands of automobile manufacturers worldwide.”

The FM25L04-GA is a 4Kb non-volatile RAM with an industry-standard SPI that enhances the high-speed write capability of FRAM technology. The device is a direct hardware replacement for equivalent EEPROMs, yet far superior because of its fast writes, virtually unlimited endurance, and low operating currents. The FM25L04-GA reads and writes at bus speeds up to 10MHz and boasts an advanced write protection scheme to prevent inadvertent writes and data corruption. It is guaranteed to retain data for 9,000 hours at +125ºC as well as 17 years at +55ºC degrees and operates at 3V over the automotive temperature range. The FM25L04-GA is available in a “green” 8-pin SOIC package.

FRAM’s fast writes and high endurance make it an ideal memory for data collection and storage. As more sensors are designed into the car, more data needs to be collected. FRAM NoDelay™ writes facilitates the collection of more data at higher frequencies, allowing intelligent automotive applications to act on the timeliest information available. FRAM is designed into a multitude of sophisticated automotive electronics systems worldwide such as smart airbags, event data recorders, adaptive cruise control, powertrain, active steering, infotainment, diagnostics, anti-pinch/trap windows, etc. The current Grade 1 qualification will enable designers to benefit from FRAM in systems throughout the car.