State saver avoids data loss

The FM111x operates like a conventional logic building block, but stores and retains the logic state in the absence of power.

Ramtron International's quad state saver is a 4bit FRAM-based device that retains logic states without power and restores outputs automatically upon power up.

Any change in state is automatically recorded in the nonvolatile ferroelectric latch, which is possible due to the fast writes, low power, and extremely high endurance of FRAM memory technology.

The FM111x 4bit state savers are available in three versions.

The FM1110 operates at 5V and the FM1112 and FM1114 operate at 3V.

As simple to use as a dual-latch or D-type flip-flop, the FM111x operates like a conventional logic building block, but stores and retains the logic state in the absence of power, simplifying the design of system control functions in applications such as switch interfaces, shift registers, relay drivers, LED drivers, recording error flags, power down state detection, tamper indicators, door open indicators, motor on/off control, DIP switch replacement, jumper replacement and other nonvolatile logic circuits.

The FM1114 has a standby current of less than 0.5uA, making it suitable for portable, battery-powered and low-power applications such as octal latches and nonvolatile counters.

"The FM111x is a natural extension of the 2bit state saver, and was developed for our customers whose applications require more data", explains Craig Taylor, Ramtron Director of Technical Marketing.

"The 4bit state saver is the second product line in an evolving family of truly novel products".

"FRAM technology uniquely enables this capability due to its fast write time, low power and virtually unlimited endurance".

This low-power, nonvolatile state saver is a logic building block that provides continuous access to nonvolatile system settings without reading a memory.

It enables storage of signals that may change frequently and without notice, and it allows the nonvolatile storage of system settings without the system overhead of a serial memory.

The FM1110 operates from 4.5 to 5.5V, the FM1112 operates from 2.7 to 3.6V with a low standby current of less than 10uA, and the FM1114 operates from 2.7 to 3.6V boasting an ultra-low standby current of less than 0.5uA.

All devices change state continuously at 1kHz, offer an unlimited number of state changes, operate over the industrial temperature range of -40C to +85C, and come in a 16-pin "green" QFN package.

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