How is it possible that an IC can maintain persistent memory

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Victor43

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I am speaking in general, how does a IC actually store memory even when power/current has been taken away ? What is the structure of this memory ? Any additional information would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
 
For starters go to wikipedia, learn the names of those currently in use and then search through Google for more details.
 
Start by looking up Flash memory or EEPROM technology. Basically it is held in floating MOSFET gate charge.
 
The boundaries beetween eeprom and flash memory are a big vague. Though Wikipedia's entry on Flash memory does help quiet a bit.

NOR flash would most likely be the type used in modern micro controllers. NAND flash is the type most typically found in mass storage devices. EEPROM operates a bit differently but has better long term wear characteristics which is why most micro controllers still have eeprom as well as flash.
 
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atferrari said:
For starters go to wikipedia, learn the names of those currently in use and then search through Google for more details.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the reply. But what names would you be suggesting that I search ? I need some clarification. Thanks.
 
RCinFLA said:
Start by looking up Flash memory or EEPROM technology. Basically it is held in floating MOSFET gate charge.
Click to expand...

Many thanks for the reply. Just a quick question how would it be possible to erase /clear that memory ? Thanks. Victor
 
He didn't specifically ask about "flash" so there are also older types of non-volatile IC memory;

PROM programmeable read only memory - oldest, actually burnt out tiny fuses in the silicon to make the data

EPROM erasable PROM - also quite old, they had little windows and UV light could erase the "burnt" data

EEPROM electrically erasable PROM- much more recent and uses magic

flash- a buzzword for modern EEPROM, again using magic (just faster)
 
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