STMicroelectronics Extends M24LR16E Energy-Harvesting Wireless Memory
STMicroelectronics is taking the first step to extending its family of RFID/NFC wireless memory ICs with a new 16-Kbit device that can also harvest enough energy to enable small electronic items using it to become completely battery-free electronic applications.
ST’s dual-interface memories, including the new 16-Kbit device, feature a low power I2C interface, as well as a 13.56-MHz ISO15693 contactless RF interface. This RF interface can harvest ambient radio waves emitted by RFID reader-writers and convert those waves into a voltage output that may be used to power other electronic components.
The energy harvesting capability of the EEPROM will enable new types of miniaturized electronics. ST has demonstrated the M24LR16E energy-harvesting wireless memory by illuminating indicator LEDs as well as by powering its battery-less STM8L-based Discovery kit. Other potential applications include e-paper devices such as electronic shelf labels, as well as industrial automation, sensing and monitoring systems, and personal healthcare products.
The M24LR16E features 16Kbits of non-volatile EEPROM storage, introducing a new lower-density option alongside ST’s established 64Kbit dual-interface wireless memory, the M24LR64. ST anticipates a broad user base for these RFID/NFC-compatible devices as RFID is now widely used in supply-chain and retail businesses, and NFC technology will be included in more than 500 million mobile phones sold annually by 2015, according to figures from ABI Research.
Main features of the M24LR16E:
- 16-Kbit EEPROM user memory
- 40 years data retention, 1 million write-erase cycles
- RF interface operating at 13.56MHz, compatible with
- RFID reader-writers
- ISO15693-capable NFC devices
- Low-power I2C interface operating at 400 kHz
- 1.8V to 5.5V supply-voltage range
- Vout analog output (energy harvesting)
- RF status digital output
The M24LR16E is in volume production now and available in SO8, TSSOP8 or MLP8 surface-mount packages. Prices are $0.6 in SO8 and TSSOP8 and $0.66 in MLP8, for orders over 1000 pieces. Alternative pricing options may be available for higher quantities. The device may also be supplied in wafer form on request.
M24LR16E Energy-Harvesting Wireless Memory
(Photo from STMicroelectronics)
More information about Energy-Harvesting Wireless Memory can be found at STMicroelectronics Website
