The FM18L08 is a 256-kilobit nonvolatile memory employing an advanced ferroelectric process. A ferroelectric random access memory or FRAM is nonvolatile and reads and writes like a RAM. It provides data retention for 45 years while eliminating the reliability concerns, functional disadvantages and system design complexities of battery-backed SRAM (BBSRAM). Fast write timing and high write endurance make FRAM superior to other types of nonvolatile memory. In-system operation of the FM18L08 is very similar to other RAM based devices. Read cycle and write cycle times are equal. The FRAM memory, however, is nonvolatile due to its unique ferroelectric memory process. Unlike BBSRAM, the FM18L08 is a truly monolithic nonvolatile memory. It provides the same functional benefits of a fast write without the disadvantages associated with modules and batteries or hybrid memory solutions. These capabilities make the FM18L08 ideal for nonvolatile memory applications requiring frequent or rapid writes in a bytewide environment. The availability of a surface-mount package improves the manufacturability of new designs, while the DIP package facilitates simple design retrofits. Device specifications are guaranteed over a temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.