SGS Thomson Microelectronics BV has a new 1M-bit M28F101 Flash memory device and says it is planning to sample a series of multi-megabit EPROM Flash memories this year. The 128Kb by 8-bit M28F101 is compatible with Intel Corp’s Flash architecture. It is built with proprietary 0.8 micron CMOS technology, and follows the 1.2 micron 256Kb and 512Kb Flash memories that were introduced last year. It is available now but supplies are not huge and priority will be given to prized customers. Despite the excitement over Flash memory, SGS Thomson is not convinced that it will replace EPROMs, which remain a cheaper alternative. To prove its point, it has announced new 1M-, 2M-, 4M- and 8M-bit EPROMs which are to be built using the 0.6 micron process developed in the company’s facility in Agrate, Italy, as part of the Joint European Sub-micron Silicon Initiative programme. SGS Thomson says it intends to sample the devices by the year end.
