F-RAM delivers faster, lower power replacement for serial EEPROM

As a direct hardware replacement for serial EEPROM, the FM24L256 256kbit Ferroelectric RAM (F-RAM) from Ramtron is easier to use, imposes lower system overheads, and is more reliable.

As a non-volatile memory delivering read and write performance comparable to RAM, the FM24L256 performs write operations at bus speed with no write delays. Unlike serial EEPROM, the next bus cycle commences immediately without the need for data polling. In addition, the product offers significantly greater write endurance than EEPROM and provides reliable data retention for 10 years.

Among further benefits, F-RAM does not require internal voltage conversion to produce a higher supply voltage for write circuits, thereby reducing power consumption compared to EEPROM. Active current for the FM24L256 is 70µA, and the device supports true 2.7V-to-3.6V operation.

With these inherent advantages, the FM24L256 delivers the greatest benefits in systems requiring frequent or rapid writes. These include systems where write time is critical, or where the long write time of EEPROM can result in data loss.

 

FEATURES Organised as 32,768 x 8 bits Unlimited read/write cycles ≤1MHz bus frequency Supports timing for 100kHz and 400kHz legacy EEPROMs Industry-standard 8-pin package

APPLICATIONS Industrial controls Data-collection systems General configuration memory usage

 

 

Ramtron / FM24L256