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STMicroelectronics Introduces First PC BIOS Flash Chip Combining Firmware Hub and Low Pin Count Architectures |
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 Geneva,
December 9, 2003 - STMicroelectronics (NYSE:STM) today introduced
the first two-in-one Firmware Hub (FWH) and Low Pin Count (LPC) Flash
memory for storing BIOS content in a wide range of PC desktops, laptops
and servers. The new M50FLW product line is designed for Intel or non-Intel chipsets and combines both Firmware Hub and Low Pin Count architectures on the same chip. As a result, this new family offers designers exceptional flexibility and avoids inventory risks during industry cycles. As the FWH and LPC protocols are both based on the same overall format, the M50FLW product can configure itself in either FWH mode or LPC mode by decoding the first 4 bits received during the START time slot. From the values of these 4 bits, the M50FLW defines in which mode, either LPC or FWH, further data will be decoded. The device supports full decoding of the instruction set defined in LPC mode and in FWH mode. The first product, M50FLW040, is a 4-Mbit device operating from a 3.0 to 3.6V single supply voltage. The device features 8 blocks of 64-Kbytes, including 5 blocks of 64-Kbytes each and 3 blocks subdivided into 16 uniform sectors of 4-Kbytes each. Two options are available on these three blocks: M50FLW040A is offered with 2 blocks at the top and one at the bottom and M50FLW040B has one block at the top and two at the bottom. The M50FLW family includes a unique auto-detection circuitry that automatically distinguishes the bus type: FWH or LPC. The product is Read compatible to Intel® 82802 Firmware Hub devices and conforms to Intel LPC Interface Specification Revision 1.1. The M50FLW040 fits into the PLCC32 package as well as the TSOP40 (10x20mm). Samples are available now, and volume production is ramping-up. The M50FLW Flash Memory portfolio will be extended with higher densities in 2004. Further information on this device is available at www.st.com/flash About STMicroelectronics STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a key role in enabling today's convergence markets. The Company's shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on Euronext Paris and on the Milan Stock Exchange. In 2002, the Company's net revenues were $6.32 billion and net earnings were $429.4 million. Further information on ST can be found at http://www.st.com. |
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