Macrotron Systems, Inc. of Fremont, CA, a premier producer of PC memory modules for over 10 years, is migrating their PC133 DIMM SDRAM modules to a 128Mb chip from a 64Mb chip. By using half the chips at twice the density, Macrotron is doubling the memory for each form factor. Some of the advantages to the customer are:

Power Savings
By doubling the density to 128Mb, the average power per memory chip increases by only 30%. Therefore, on a per bit basis the current for the 128Mb part is only 65% of the power for the 64Mb part. By using the 128Mb part on Macrotron modules, the end result is at least a 35% power reduction for each module. Since large power swings become exasperated with increasing frequency, like going from 100MHz to 133MHz (PC100 to PC133), the large power reduction reduces this concern.

Lower Module Profile
The 32MB, 64MB and 128MB SDRAM DIMM modules can now sport a slimmer look. The height of the module can be reduced from the standard 1.375 inches to 1 inch. This becomes important in areas where height is at a premium, such as, network appliances, thin-client applications, networking solutions, single board computers, etc.

The 256MB and 512MB modules have been redesigned from a two-row configuration to a one-row configuration shrinking from a height of 2.7 inches to a height of 1.2 inches. This places it well below the standard height allocation of the PC133 footprint of 1.375 inches. Just in time for thin-client and Linux servers that require up to 1GB of main memory.

Reduced Module Capacitance
Since the 64Mb and the 128Mb chips have similar input and output capacitances, and the new modules use half as many chips, the resultant capacitive load contributed by the memory chips is cut in half. This enhances the signals on unbuffered modules and reduces undershoot and overshoot resulting in reduced electrical noise.

Better Reliability
Increased reliability is the result of many contributing factors, some of which are: fewer interconnects and solder joints, fewer components to handle and test, reduced operating temperature due to at least 35% lower power per module, etc.

No Increase in Price
Not only do you get all of the benefits mentioned above, but you get it at no increase in price. Everybody wins on this one.

About Macrotron

Macrotron is a specialized Electronics Contract Manufacturer with focus on memory intensive products and services. Conveniently located in Silicon Valley since 1984, ISO 9002 certified, with operations worldwide, Macrotron has developed the reputation as a leader in consignment and turnkey memory module manufacturing and programming services.

As an example of this commitment, Macrotron provides not only the highest quality Memory Modules but also testing & programming services at the lowest cost available. This requires the flexibility and capacity to provide the design, layout, manufacturing, cleaning, testing, programming, marking, packaging and quick delivery of any type of Memory Product requested (SRAM, DRAM, Flash).

For more information, contact Bill Mikelonis of Macrotron at 4400 Technology Drive; Fremont, CA 94538. Telephone: 510-683-9600, E-mail: bill@macrotronusa.com and on the Internet at http://www.macrotronusa.com