Memory

Powervation’s digital power management system on chip (SoC) products utilize two types of memory to perform the functions needed for their features, and to provide superior flexibility for users.  Both the program code and PMBus™ parameters are stored in non-volatile memory (NVM).  When the device is powered on, the contents of the NVM are loaded to the RAM for fast access to the processing unit.  The NVM serves as a long-term storage of vital code that determines functionality of the power supply; therefore it is crucial that this memory be reliable.  Powervation uses anti-fused based NVM to ensure maximum fidelity of the data stored, over elevated temperatures and time. 

Programming Not Reversible by Voltage, Temperature, or Time

The NVM provides memory for custom configuration of the product, storage for pre-loaded configuration tables, and storage for firmware code.  While this NVM is one-time programmable, the SoC products provide enough onboard NVM for multiple writes to memory, such as adjusting values in a configuration table when using Powervation’s single-pin configuration feature. 

The programming of anti-fused based NVM causes a permanent structural change, does not suffer from charge leakage (as is seen in some memory technologies), and is not reversible with voltage or temperature.  As this memory does not suffer from acceleration mechanisms related to high temperature stress (HTS), anti-fused based NVM provides a reliability advantage for designs that operate in elevated temperature environments and for designs that need to guarantee data retention for long periods of time.  Powervation’s NVM is specified from -40°C to 125°C with a 20 year data retention rating.