The FM25L04 is a 4-kilobit nonvolatile memory employing an advanced ferroelectric process. A ferroelectric random access memory or FRAM is nonvolatile and performs reads and writes like a RAM. It provides reliable data retention for 45 years while eliminating the complexities, overhead, and system level reliability problems caused by EEPROM and other nonvolatile memories. Unlike serial EEPROMs, the FM25L04 performs write operations at bus speed. No write delays are incurred. Data is written to the memory array immediately after each byte has been transferred to the device. The next bus cycle may commence without the need for data polling. In addition, the product offers virtually unlimited write endurance. Also, FRAM exhibits much lower power consumption than EEPROM. These capabilities make the FM25L04 ideal for nonvolatile memory applications requiring frequent or rapid writes or low power operation. Examples range from data collection, where the number of write cycles may be critical, to demanding industrial controls where the long write time of EEPROM can cause data loss. The FM25L04 provides substantial benefits to users of serial EEPROM as a hardware drop-in replacement. The FM25L04 uses the high-speed SPI bus, which enhances the high-speed write capability of FRAM technology. Device specifications are guaranteed over an industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.