06/06/2006

Intel pushes NOR into embedded space

BURLINGAME, Calif. — Seeking to find new markets, Intel Corp. Tuesday (June 6) disclosed that it will expand its portfolio of NOR flash memory products for the embedded space.

The company introduced a 3-volt version of its multi-level-cell (MLC) NOR technology for embedded applications. Intel’s new technology is called the StrataFlash Embedded Memory architecture.

As part of the move, it also disclosed that it will enter the fast-growing serial flash segment with its first Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) product. SPI flash products offer high performance and security features for the consumer electronics and computing market segments. Serial flash technology reduces pin count and simplifies board design, according to Intel (Santa Clara, Calif.).

Applications for embedded NOR include consumer electronics devices, industrial applications, PCs and wired communications equipment. Analysts estimate that the NOR embedded flash market segments will reach $2-to-$3 billion in 2006, with SPI flash memory one of the fastest growing parts of the arena.

“Analysts expect the NOR embedded flash market segments to continue to grow, nearly doubling from 2006 to 2010,” said Darin Billerbeck, vice president and general manager for Intel’s Flash Products Group, in a statement. “Intel is committed to expanding its presence in these segments with a comprehensive product portfolio.”

The 3-volt version is currently sampling and expected to be in production in the fourth quarter of this year.

serial flash = NAND

doni