No. 388: Next-generation microcomputer with a circuit line of 40 micrometers wide (December 23, 2011)

With the help of miniaturization technology, Renesas Electronics developed the next-generation microcomputer that uses a circuit line of 40 micrometers wide for the first time in the world. More circuits are built in one chip, and the built-in flash memory for data storage is 20% faster. As a result, a broad range of functions can be managed. Currently, a circuit line of 90 micrometers is the smallest size. The company plans to commercialize it next fall, and market it for the automotive market as a product that epitomizes its state-of-the-art technology.

A microcomputer inside a vehicle operates various functions using the software memorized by the built-in flash memory. The company will increase the readout speed of the built-in flash memory to 120 MHz for faster control of instruments. After having it verified by customers around the world, the company will mass-produce it between 2013 and 2014.