Freescale Semiconductor, a leading provider of magnetoresistive random access memory (MRAM) products, is providing non-volatile MRAM technology for an industrial touch-screen application developed by Siemens Industry Automation division. Freescales 4Mbit MRAM device has been integrated into Siemens Simatic Multipanel MP 277 and MP 377 human machine interface (HMI) used in industrial automation systems.

Siemens chose Freescales MRAM device for its HMI application because it provides an easy-to-use, non-volatile memory that maintains software-programmable logic controller (SoftPLC) process data for Siemens HMI platforms without battery-backup. The user-programmable SoftPLC option enables the implementation of a complete, expandable machine control system in a small form factor that helps reduce overall system cost. The multi-panels allow the integration of several automation tasks on a single platform using the SoftPLC.

"Freescales MRAM device provides the non-volatility, performance and reliability that we need to add user-programmable features to our mid- and high-end display products for the industrial automation market," said Ingmar Binder, project manager for HMI R&D at Siemens Industry Automation division.

Freescales 4Mbit MRAM device was selected for this rugged industrial application platform after extensive Siemens qualification testing. Key highlights of the Simatic multi-panel HMI series include exceptional connectivity options and a non-volatile alarm buffer that does not require an additional backup battery in the event of an unexpected power loss. The touch screens and keyboards enable the multi-panels to be used for precise, efficient operator control and monitoring.

“Freescales MRAM technology provides significant benefits, ranging from non-volatility to fast read/write capabilities, for rugged applications such as Siemens industrial automation systems,” said David Bondurant, MRAM product manager at Freescale Semiconductor. “Our customers and their end users demand highly reliable memory products that are designed for critical applications.”

For more information about Freescale's MRAM products and technology, visit www.freescale.com/files/pr/mram.html.

About Freescale MRAM

MRAM uses magnetic materials combined with conventional silicon circuitry to deliver the speed of SRAM with the non-volatility of flash memory in a single, unlimited-endurance device. Freescales MRAM devices are designed to combine the best features of non-volatile memory and RAM to enable “instant-on” capability and power loss protection in new classes of intelligent electronic devices.

Announced in 2006, Freescales MR2A16A 4Mbit product, the worlds first commercially available MRAM device, has been awarded a 2007 Design News Golden MouseTrap Product of the Year award, 2007 R&D 100 Award, Electronic Products 2006 Product of the Year, EE Times Chinas 2007 Memory Product of the Year, LSIs 2007 Excellence Award in conjunction with ESEC Japan and the 2007 In-Stat/Microprocessor Reports Product of the Year Award in innovation. Additionally, Freescales MRAM device was selected as a finalist in EDNs 2006 Innovation Awards and EE Times 2006 ACE Awards.

About Siemens

Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a global powerhouse in electrical engineering and electronics. The company has around 400,000 employees (continuing operations) working to develop and manufacture products, design and install complex systems and projects, and tailor a wide range of services for individual requirements. Siemens provides innovative technologies and comprehensive know-how to benefit customers in some 190 countries. Founded 160 years ago, the company focuses on the areas of Information and Communications, Automation and Control, Power, Transportation, Medical, and Lighting. In fiscal 2007 (ended September 30), Siemens had revenue from continuing operations of €72.4 billion and net income from continuing operations of €3.909 billion (IFRS) – preliminary figures, unaudited. Further information is available on the Internet at: www.siemens.com

About Freescale Semiconductor

Freescale Semiconductor is a global leader in the design and manufacture of embedded semiconductors for the automotive, consumer, industrial, networking and wireless markets. The privately held company is based in Austin, Texas, and has design, research and development, manufacturing or sales operations in more than 30 countries. Freescale is one of the world's largest semiconductor companies with 2007 sales of $5.7 billion (USD). www.freescale.com.