New single-chip solution reduces bill of materials cost in processor-based systems

Ramtron has upgraded its FM31x Processor Companion family with the new FM3127x/L27x Processor Companion, a highly integrated F-RAM enhanced system management solution that supports virtually any processor-based design. The FM3127x/L27x combines nonvolatile F-RAM memory with highly integrated support and peripheral functions. By integrating F-RAM, individual system features are improved over discrete versions, creating a single-chip solution with lower bill of material cost and reduced board space.

Improvements over the FM31x include a superior trickle charger that can typically charge a 1 Farad supercapacitor in less than three hours. This enables designers to use the capacitor as a backup supply without adding any additional components. Also added is a real-time clock (RTC) that requires only a standard, low-cost 12.5pF external crystal, reducing overall system costs.

The FM3127x (5V) and FM31L27x (3V) combine all the benefits of 4, 16, 64, or 256 kilobits (Kb) of F-RAM with:

• An RTC that operates with a standard 12.5pF external crystal
• An advanced trickle charger
• A high-speed two-wire interface
• A processor supervisor
• A programmable low-VDD reset
• A programmable watchdog timer
• A manual reset function
• Dual battery-backed event counters
• A lockable serial number
• A general-purpose comparator
• Other highly integrated support and peripheral functions
• A RoHS-compliant, 14-pin SOIC package

The FM3127x/FM31L27x supports commonly-needed system functions in a variety of applications:

• Metering
• Consumer
• Industrial
• Computing
• Communications

F-RAM is a direct hardware replacement for equivalent EEPROMs and other nonvolatile memories, but is inherently more reliable, as it features:

• NoDelay™ writes
• Virtually unlimited endurance
• Low operating currents

About the Processor Companion

The Processor Companion is a highly integrated F-RAM enhanced system management solution that supports virtually any processor-based design. By integrating a nonvolatile F-RAM, individual system features are improved over discrete versions, creating a single-chip solution with superior bill of material cost and reduced board space. For more Processor Companions, visit www.ramtron.com/doc/Products/Nonvolatile/Nonvolatile.asp?ID=12.