TDK releases GBDriver RS1 Series SATA compatible NAND Flash memory controller LSI circuit
(Technology News, 19 Feb 2008 )
TDK Corporation has announced the development of the GBDriver RS1 Series NAND Flash memory controller LSI circuit. Sales will begin in March.
The new GBDriver RS1 is compatible with 1.5 Gbps SATA I, and when functioning as a NAND Flash memory controller IC can control the latest 4 Kbyte/page SLC (single-level cell) and MLC (multi-level cell) NAND Flash memories.
NAND Flash memory capacities continue to increase while prices fall, and the use of Flash memory as an alternative for hard disc drives (HDDs) is expanding rapidly. TDK developed and markets the GBDriver RA series of parallel ATA (PATA) compatible NAND Flash memory controller ICs, but HDD data transfer formats are currently shifting from PATA to serial ATA (SATA).
Previously, when NAND Flash memory was controlled using the SATA format, it was necessary to have a Flash memory controller IC and an SATA converter IC, but the new GBDriver RS1 performs both functions with a single chip. The controller is supplied in a 64-pin TQFP package (12 mm x 12 mm).
GBDriver RS1 employs the NAND Flash memory control engine of the latest GBDriver RA7, which has an established track record in industrial applications and offers a high level of reliability.
TDK will begin releasing SATA-compatible silicon discs equipped with the new GBDriver RS1 starting in May 2008.
