EDRAM

eDRAM stands for "embedded DRAM", a capacitor-based dynamic random access memory usually integrated on the same die or in the same package as the main ASIC or processor, as opposed to external DRAM modules and transistor-based SRAM typically used for caches.

Embedding permits much wider buses and higher operation speeds, and due to much higher density of DRAM in comparison to SRAM, larger amounts of memory can potentially be used. However, the difference in manufacturing processes make on-die integration difficult, so several dies have to be packaged in one chip, raising costs. The latest developments overcome this limitation by using standard CMOS process to manufacture eDRAM, as in 1T-SRAM.

eDRAM is used in IBM's POWER7 processor and in many game consoles and other devices, including the PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, Nintendo GameCube, Wii, Zune HD, iPhone, and Xbox 360.

External links

• http://www.cs.unc.edu/~jp/DRAM.pdf
• Day dawns for eDRAM
• http://www.necelam.com/edram90/
• http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3751/is_200501/ai_n9521086
• http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20070214-8842.html
• http://www.allbusiness.com/electronics/computer-electronics-manufacturing/6302349-1.html

News

• IBM eDram - Accessed Feb 17, 2007