How is it possible that an IC can maintain persistent memory

[Victor43]

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

 

[atferrari]

For starters go to wikipedia, learn the names of those currently in use and then search through Google for more details.

 

[RCinFLA]

Start by looking up Flash memory or EEPROM technology. Basically it is held in floating MOSFET gate charge.

 

[Sceadwian]

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.

 

[Victor43]

For starters go to wikipedia, learn the names of those currently in use and then search through Google for more details.

Thanks for the reply. But what names would you be suggesting that I search ? I need some clarification. Thanks.

 

[Victor43]

Start by looking up Flash memory or EEPROM technology. Basically it is held in floating MOSFET gate charge.

Many thanks for the reply. Just a quick question how would it be possible to erase /clear that memory ? Thanks. Victor

 

[Pommie]

Thanks for the reply. But what names would you be suggesting that I search ? I need some clarification. Thanks.

Wow, that's a tough one. Try this Link.

Mike.

 

[Menticol]

The "Let me Google this for you" page was a powerful punch until they added that horrendous banner

Here you go Victor
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flash_memory#Principles_of_operation

 

[Pommie]

The "Let me Google this for you" page was a powerful punch until they added that horrendous banner

It's still useful for demonstrating laziness.

Mike.

 

[Mr RB]

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)

 

[Victor43]

Wow, that's a tough one. Try this Link.

Mike.

Many thanks ! That was a cool link. Victor.

 

[Victor43]

The "Let me Google this for you" page was a powerful punch until they added that horrendous banner

Here you go Victor
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flash_memory#Principles_of_operation

Many thanks for the help. Sorry did not mean to imply laziness on my part. Appreciate the help.

Victor