News Article
Infineon, IBM and Macronix to develop phase-change memory
Chip makers Infineon, IBM and Macronix have launched a joint research initiative to explore the potential of a new form of computer memory called phase-change memory (PCM).
Chip makers Infineon, IBM and Macronix have launched a joint research initiative to explore the potential of a new form of computer memory called phase-change memory (PCM).
PCM is a novel technology that stores data by changing the state of a special material from an amorphous to a crystalline structure, rather than storing data as an electrical charge.
While in its early stages, the technology shows potential for high speed, high density storage of data. It also has the advantage of retaining data even when power is turned off.
The initiative combines IBMs strengths in the research of fundamental materials and physics research, Infineon's expertise in the high volume manufacturing of various memory technologies and product types and Macronix's experience in non-volatile memory technologies.
"This collaborative effort reinforces IBMs commitment to explore new phenomena for memory applications," said IBM Research vice president TC Chen. "The project will aim to develop the materials for high performance, advanced non-volatile memory and evaluate these materials in realistic memory chip demonstrations."
Wilhelm Beinvogl, senior vice president at Infineons Memory Products Group, added: "The initiative underlines Infineons strong momentum in the evaluation and development of interesting emerging memory technologies.
"With this partnership combining resources from specialists in different areas, Infineon continues its long history of R&D co-operations."
The research will be conducted at IBMs TJ Watson Research Center in New York and the IBM Almaden Research Lab in San Jose. Around 20-25 employees from across the three companies will be seconded to the project.
PCM is a novel technology that stores data by changing the state of a special material from an amorphous to a crystalline structure, rather than storing data as an electrical charge.
While in its early stages, the technology shows potential for high speed, high density storage of data. It also has the advantage of retaining data even when power is turned off.
The initiative combines IBMs strengths in the research of fundamental materials and physics research, Infineon's expertise in the high volume manufacturing of various memory technologies and product types and Macronix's experience in non-volatile memory technologies.
"This collaborative effort reinforces IBMs commitment to explore new phenomena for memory applications," said IBM Research vice president TC Chen. "The project will aim to develop the materials for high performance, advanced non-volatile memory and evaluate these materials in realistic memory chip demonstrations."
Wilhelm Beinvogl, senior vice president at Infineons Memory Products Group, added: "The initiative underlines Infineons strong momentum in the evaluation and development of interesting emerging memory technologies.
"With this partnership combining resources from specialists in different areas, Infineon continues its long history of R&D co-operations."
The research will be conducted at IBMs TJ Watson Research Center in New York and the IBM Almaden Research Lab in San Jose. Around 20-25 employees from across the three companies will be seconded to the project.
