Watch this video on how to choose the best One-Time-Programmable embedded memory for your application.
Download our OTP guide here: sythra.com/otp
OTP stands for One Time Programmable memory which is part of the family of non-volatile memory technologies, often called NVMs. Non-volatile-memories keep its data when power is switched off. Volatile Memories technologies like SRAM, and DRAM lose their contents when power is switched off. Embedded means that it is a technology, or IP, which gets integrated in a chip such as a processor, sensor, a system on a chip etc. It is an important technology for realizing a large variety of ICs.
A classic example of a Non-Volatile-Memory is ROM
An example of an OTP is a fuse. In its original state a fuse has a low resistance, after a fuse is programmed (or blown) its resistance becomes high, and it will stay that way permanently.
Another member of the NVM family is MTP which stands for Multi-Times-Programmable memory. An example of an MTP memory is Flash memory.
There are plenty of applications which need some form of One-Time-Programmable on-chip Non-volatile Memory. In fact, almost all ICs require some type of Non-Volatile Memory.
A very popular use for OTP is Chip ID. In markets like automotive it is a must to have a Chip ID because of the need to be able to trace a chip back to when it was manufactured, in which batch it was manufactured, and also where the DIE was located on the wafer, in case of any problems.
In this world were sensors are becoming increasingly important, the need for on-chip trimming or calibration is an absolute must. Analog circuits need to be calibrated in order to ensure to meet specifications. One-Time-Programmable embedded memory offers an easy and cheap way to store the calibration or trimming parameters on-chip.
Today’s chips have one or more processors integrated. Embedded OTP offers a way to boot a chip in a secure way.
Some OTP technologies offer the possibility for in-field programming, which makes it possible to install software updates on devices which are produced already and may be integrated already on boards or in electronic equipment.
These are just a couple of frequently used applications for embedded One-Time-Programmable memory technology.
If you are interested in using embedded OTP for your chip design, you need to understand which One-Time-Programmable memory technology is best for your application. There are multiple technologies available and each one has its advantages and disadvantages. It just depends on what problem you try to solve, which application you are designing for, and also on the target process technology.
Syhtra Technologies developed a small guide which will helps you with selecting the best OTP for your application. Just have a look on sythra.com/otp.