ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a brief overview of system-level integration of memory and logic technology followed by enhanced nonvolatile memorie (NVM) device-technology integration schemes in greater detail. NVMs have been increasingly employed in electronic devices and systems, large and small, to improve power/performance/cost/reliability trade-offs. From very-large-end distributed-memory systems employed for ever-expanding Internet activities to smart controllers for automotive and handheld devices such as cell phones, NVMs improve memory throughput, power reduction, code protection, and update, as well as system reliability. For embedded NVMs, several integration assumptions are made. These include that a platform technology in a given technology node provides not only the scaled NFET and PFET transistors, but also NVM memory arrays with appropriate isolation schemes, and high-voltage generation and distribution circuitry required for programming and sensing. Additionally, contents of memory arrays in the embedded technology reflect proper trade-offs in terms of application requirements, cost, and process complexities.
