Memory chip designers perfect the design of the next but one generation so early these days that there is not much kudos any more in being one of the three to claim to have perfected the first of its kind, and IBM Corp, Siemens AG and Toshiba Corp are making a different claim for their 256M-bit design: they say is nearly twice as fast as those designed by rivals – with a formidable 26nS access time against the 45nS or so for a fast 16M-bit dynamic – around 60nS is typical, and is also smaller. It is described as fully functional, but it will not be ready for marketing for at least three years. The chip measures 13.25mm by 21.55mm and is designed to support any proposed electronic industry standard for 256M parts and is said to be easier to fabricate – in 0.25 micron CMOS process technology. The companies are particularly proud that a collaboration many said would be beset with problems should achieve this breakthrough.
