Value creation and technological convergence by evolution of embedded non-volatile memory

Flash-MCU, micro-controller with embedded flash memory storage (eFlash), has seen a tremendous up-surge in real-time control application markets, with assumed 20% CAGR. The programmable code storage provided by eFlash contributes to production cost reduction and real-time adaptive control applications, realizing a value innovation with remarkable cost/value advantage. The diversified advanced eFlash technology for converging flash-MCU products challenges new market drivers like automotive and smart-IC cards. Current status and future directions of flash-MCU in view of how on-chip programmability function evolution contributes to innovate MCU/SOC applications are overviewed. The 3^rd generation MCU products as realized by NV-RAM concepts will drive a convergence into unified technology by value creation opportunities provided.