Intel Corp and flash memory maker Sharp Corp have been working together to develop high-density, fast-write flash memory devices, which they say they will manufacture and market worldwide. The companies said the 16Mb and 32Mb flash components will be suitable for networking and telecommunications equipment, facsimile machines, printers and copiers, mobile phones and terminals. The products will be supported by the Common Flash Memory Interface agreed on last year by Intel and Sharp, along with Fujitsu Ltd and Advanced Micro Devices Inc (CI No 2,961). The interface ensures software compatability between flash products from different companies, and between current and future versions of flash products. Until last year’s agreement, both Intel/Sharp and Fujitsu/AMD produced NOR-type flash memories, but products from the two camps were not compatible. The companies say trial samples of the 16Mb product should begin today, and of the 32Mb device by the end of the year.
