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Flash Memory/Technology FAQs
Corporate/General FAQs
Flash Memory/Technology FAQs
Corporate/General FAQs
Flash Memory/Technology FAQs
What is flash memory?
Flash memory is a form of nonvolatile memory. Nonvolatile memory is memory that does not lose data when the power source is removed. SST's SuperFlash technology is a NOR type, split-gate cell architecture which uses a reliable thick-oxide process with fewer manufacturing steps resulting in a low-cost, nonvolatile memory solution with excellent data retention and higher reliability. The split-gate NOR SbperFlash architecture facilitates a simple and flexible design suitable for high performance, high reliability, small or medium sector size, in-or off-system programming and a variety of densities, all in a single CMOS-compatible technology.
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What is code storage flash memory?
Code storage refers to nonvolatile memory used to store operating system software for electronic digital devices. Put another way, code storage is the 'instruction set' for the microcontroller or CPU. In a computer, the PC Bios software provides instructions to the CPU, instructing the CPU about the number and types of peripheral devices and the amount of RAM available; this is the first thing that loads when you start your PC. In a microwave oven, the operating system tells the oven how to set the timer, various power settings, etc. In a cordless phone the operating system tells the phone how to activate the date/time stamp, save messages, how to activate caller ID, etc. The use of flash in such devices allows the manufacturer to update the operating system to do more or to remove bugs, etc.
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What is mass data storage flash memory?
Mass data storage refers to nonvolatile memory that is used to store large amounts of data. The greater the amount of data, the greater the data storage flash memory required to store the data. For instance, digital cameras require flash memory to store images. Compact Flash Cards, Smart Media and Memory Sticks are examples of packaged mass data storage devices used to store pictures for digital cameras or music for MP3 Players. Mass data storage devices are sometimes used in non-removable forms much like hard disk drives.
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What is the difference between NOR and NAND flash memory?
NOR flash is a true Random Access Memory. Each memory is constructed on a cross-point array (similar to a point on a graph) and can be selected by a column and a row. Therefore, when one needs to extract the content of a memory cell within a large array of cells, a row address and a column address can be used to uniquely select the desired location.
NAND flash is a Not Random Access Memory. In order to select a memory cell a number of cells have to be activated in order to access the desired memory location. This is because the memory cell is a part of a series of connected memory cells. Random access capability allows application flexibility and greater access speed. All applications can use random access, some must.
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What flash products does SST sell?
Click here to view all of the products SST sells
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Can you tell me about an existing or upcoming product from a competitor?
SST has a policy of not commenting on competitors' R&D programs for new technology or new products. Our own R&D goal is to strive to make SuperFlash the most viable technology with the lowest cost structure for targeted applications.
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How big is the flash memory market?
According to Web-Feet Research, 2004 total worldwide flash revenue was $17.3 billion. Total 2005 worldwide flash revenue is forecasted to be $19.8 billion.
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Corporate/General FAQs
Where is SST located?
Silicon Storage Technology, Inc.
1020 Kifer Road
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Main Tel: (408) 735-9110
SST Investor Relations: (408) 523-7749
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Who is Silicon Storage Technology, Inc.?
Silicon Storage Technology, Inc. designs, manufactures and markets a diversified range of nonvolatile memory solutions, based on patented, proprietary SuperFlash technology, for high volume applications in the digital consumer, networking, wireless communications and Internet computing markets.
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How long has SST been in business?
SST was founded August 1, 1989.
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What state is SST incorporated in?
SST is incorporated in the State of California.
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SST is in what industry and sector?
SST is in the technology sector; the semiconductor industry.
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What is SST's mission statement?
SST's mission is to become the leading provider of nonvolatile memory solutions.
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Who are SST's main competitors?
SST's main competitors include Intel, Macronix, Spansion (AMD/Fujitsu), and STMicroelectronics.
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What sets SST apart from the competition?
SST's patented, proprietary SuperFlash technology offers:
- Self-Aligned Cell Technology
- Thick-Oxide Split Gate Memory Cell
- Superior Reliability
- Low Voltage, Low Power Operation
- Inherent Small Sector
- Lower Cost Structure
- Faster, Fixed Erase Times
- Logic Compatibility
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What market segments is SST servicing?
SST's products service the following application segments:
- Digital Consumer
- Networking
- Wireless Communications
- Internet Computing
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How many customers does SST have? Who are some of SST's customers?
SST has over 2,000 direct and indirect customers (no one OEM [Original Equipment Manufacturer] customer represents more than 5% of our business).
Who are some of SST's customers?
Click here to view some of our customers
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Who and where are SST's foundry partners?
Click here to view SST's foundry partners
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How much cash does SST currently have?
SST has $148.0 million in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments as of March 31, 2007.
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How many employees does SST have?
SST has 660 employees as of March 31, 2007.
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What applications are driving SST's future growth?
SST's future growth is driven by many applications <click here to view the list of applications>
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