High-speed multiplexer targets DDR4 NVDIMM technology

25th February 2015

IDT

Nat Bowers

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Datasheet

Integrated Device Technology has announced a high-speed multiplexer targeting the nascent NVDIMM (non-volatile dual in-line memory module) ecosystem. The 12-bit bus switch/multiplexer features a make-before-break circuit that prevents glitches when switching and AC and DC parameters optimised for DDR4, enabling the highest possible memory channel performance for NVDIMMs even when intermixed with other DIMM types.

The NVDIMM architecture provides data persistence to DRAM by allowing data to be backed up to NVM, such as Flash memory, during special events including catastrophic power failure. Multiplexers are key components of NVDIMM architecture, isolating the host controller from the DRAM memory during 'save' and 'restore' operations between DRAM and NVM. Multiplexers have traditionally placed a burden on the signal integrity of the memory channel, which can compromise the speed of the operation.

The 4MX0121V is designed to mitigate the signal integrity impact to the memory channel while enabling DDR4 NVDIMM applications to run at bus rates of 2,133MT/s. The 12-bit bus switch/multiplexer comes in a VFBGA 48-pin package, for a compact footprint that can replace data buffers on the DIMM for NVDIMM applications.

Additionally, Micron Technology has selected IDT as its preferred supplier for NVDIMM multiplexers, which target the enterprise and cloud server markets.

Rami Sethi, Vice President and General Manager, Memory Interface Products, IDT, commented: "The potential of persistent main memory in server and storage systems is in the very early innings of being realised. As a leading component supplier for DDR4 NVDIMMs, including NVDIMM registered clock drivers, temperature sensors and now multiplexers, we have diligently worked with leading companies like Micron to develop solutions that deliver best-in-class performance in both homogeneous and heterogeneous memory channel populations.”

“Micron is committed to significantly improving the performance of applications and systems by leveraging persistent memory. Our team has worked closely with IDT to develop a new high-speed multiplexer. This new multiplexer will be used on Micron DDR4 NVDIMM products," added Robert Feurle, Vice President, Compute & Networking Marketing, Micron Technology.