Exploring Parallel NOR Flash Memories: Innovative Solutions from Micron and ISSI

Parallel NOR flash memory is a type of non-volatile storage technology widely used in embedded systems, mobile devices, and industrial applications.

NOR flash is designed for fast read speeds and random access, making it ideal for code execution and frequent data retrieval. In a parallel NOR flash memory setup, multiple data lines allow for simultaneous data access, enhancing speed and performance.

This architecture supports direct code execution, enabling devices to run applications directly from the flash memory without needing to load them into RAM, thus optimizing system efficiency and responsiveness.

In this basic guide, SMH Technologies’ engineers briefly explained the difference between NOR flash memories and NAND flash memories: https://smh-tech.com/corporate-blog/in-system-programming-of-nor-and-nand-flash-memories-a-comprehensive-guide/

In today’s article, we provide more information about different types of parallel NOR flash memories. 

Micron’s parallel NOR flash memory 

Micron’s parallel NOR flash memory products come in various densities designed to meet the performance requirements of high-end applications. The MT28EW family, with capacities ranging from 128Mb to 2Gb and operating at 3V, features rapid boot times, low-latency reads, and fast random access speeds.

These parallel NOR flash devices function in page mode, allowing code to execute directly from the device, which reduces system boot time and is perfect for performance-critical and process-intensive applications. They also offer data security features, making them suitable for long-term industrial use.

Micron provides a standard range of parallel NOR flash products to meet diverse application needs.

Discover more about on Micron’s website: https://www.micron.com/products/storage/nor-flash/parallel-nor

ISSI’s Parallel ISA NOR Flash

ISSI’s expanding range of flash products features the IS29GL series of 3-V Parallel NOR flash memories. These IS29GL devices are engineered to serve as direct replacements for the widely-used “x29GL” memory products, making them perfect for high-performance, high-throughput applications. The 29-series comes in densities from 32Mb to 256Mb. 

Additionally, Parallel NOR ISA is available in densities from 512Kb to 32Mb. With industry-standard architecture, interfaces, features, and packaging, these products offer an easy drop-in solution, eliminating the need for expensive redesigns.

More details are available on ISSI’s website: https://www.issi.com/US/product-flash-nor.shtml