To: Ausdauer who wrote (13478 ) 8/1/2000 10:14:22 PM From: hueyone Read Replies (1) | Respond to Hello Aus, Thanks for your reply again. SSTI barters its IP for consideration of flash production. Message 13873206 SST uses a model it calls a virtual integrated device manufacturer (IDM) model. Unlike traditional fabless semiconductor companies, SST does not use a foundry's standard process. Instead, SST's proprietary process is installed at its foundry partners' fabs and is only used to manufacture devices for SST and its authorized licensees. We believe this is a distinct advantage for the company as it benefits from not having to invest in building an expensive wafer fabrication facility while maintaining competitive advantages through the use of proprietary manufacturing technologies. Further, the company maintains control of its most valuable intellectual property -its SuperFlash technology. Eric Ziegler's cool SNDK post #12443 also notes that SST's patents cover the production process. Message 13984637 Both NOR and NAND Flash continue to experience phenomenal growth as virtually every supplier in the world of both flavors was unable to meet demand in the June quarter. Lately, some have argued that the NOR space is being cannibalized by the NAND. We would point out, however, that most applications that require NAND technology, also require NOR. Indeed, as cellular handsets become increasingly functional, the standard memory configurations will likely move towards 16-32Mbs of NOR Flash and a 32-64MB NAND Flash storage card.
