ST maximizes power savings and reliability benefits of industry-standard memory monitoring and protection

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND: STMicroelectronics has introduced the STTS2002, an integrated Serial Presence Detect (SPD) EEPROM memory and temperature-monitoring IC.

The protection device meets the latest JEDEC TSE2002 standard for DDR3 DRAM modules featured in computing products ranging from ultra-mobile devices to high-performance servers.

The STTS2002 combines accurate temperature sensing with the functions of the SPD EEPROM, which stores the memory module's characteristics, as specified by JEDEC TSE2002. The temperature sensor enables the CPU and chipset in the system to apply Closed-Loop Thermal Throttling (CLTT) when the temperature of the DDR3 DIMM modules exceeds a pre-programmed threshold value.

The CLTT prevents overheating of the memory modules, thereby assuring reliability and optimal power consumption. As system designers specify progressively higher-capacity, faster DRAMs within more miniaturized product form factors, memory modules have an increased risk of overheating. CLTT dynamically slows data transactions if excessive temperature is detected. This reduces the memory's power consumption until the temperature returns to within an acceptable range.

The STTS2002 meets the form, function and performance requirements of JEDEC TSE2002, communicating SPD and temperature data over an industry-standard System Management Bus (SMBus) interface. However, by consuming 30% less current than competing devices, it can be implemented with lower impact on the overall system power budget.

Key features of the STTS2002 are:
* 0.25 degrees C temperature resolution.
* +/-1 degrees C accuracy over specified temperature range (+75 degrees C to +95 degrees C).
* 2.3 to 3.6V operation.
* 2Kbit serial SPD EPPROM: non-modifiable in end-user application.
* Same 2x3mm TDFN 8-pin package and pinout as JEDEC-specified SPD-only IC.
* SMBus 2.0 Timeout protocol support.
* Multi-mode, open-drain EVENT output pin.
* Functionally and plug-in backwards compatible to the STTS424E02 in existing applications.

Joining ST's established STTS424E02 combined SPD-EEPROM and temperature monitor meeting JEDEC JC42.4 for 3.3V DRAM modules, the 2.3V STTS2002 is available for immediate sampling and production delivery, in the JEDEC-specified 2x3x0.8mm TDFN8 package. Pricing begins at $0.40 for orders over 10,000 units.