Rolltronics Corporation have just announced that they intend to develop a new type of data storage technology. The new memory format will be based on nano-scale thin films, with data being stored in molecule-sized cylinders, with no loss of data when switched off. The new technology known as “NanoMem” has the potential to store 10 to 100 times more data in the same space as current technologies, at a reduced cost.
Rolltronics will produce NanoMem using roll-to-roll manufacturing processes, in which devices are printed onto long rolls of plastic or metal foils. The process will allow increased memory densities at prices approaching hard disk drives. As and example, a NanoMem PC card could be able to hold up to 64Gb, which is 100 times more then is possible with flash memory.
“Rolltronics’ NanoMem technology works on a very simple principle, “data is stored in molecules that self assemble into cylindrical stacks in a sheet of plastic that is about a micron thick. The data is written in a low voltage optoelectronic process that traps an electrical charge in the molecules of the plastic. The architecture requires no chemical change and is much simpler then flash, which makes it suitable for roll-to-roll manufacturing” said Dr. James Sheats, Chief Technology Officer for Rolltronics.
Rolltronics expect to be offering NanoMem products some time in 2004.
For more information on nanomaterials click here.
Posted June 24th, 2002
