Charge-trap startup working on denser flash memory

Multilevel operation allowing 2 or 4 bits per cell has already been achieved in flash memory, but usually using proprietary technologies. DensBits is targeting the high volume flash memory suppliers including Toshiba, Hynix, Samsung, IM Flash Technologies and Numonyx as possible licensees of its technology.

The startup, which was formally established in 2006, is reported to have completed a funding round of $9 million from Sequoia Capital Israel in 2007.

The company's co-founder and CEO Ilan Hen, who spoke with EE Times, confirmed the funding round but did not elaborate further about the company's technology. Nevertheless, some hints about Densbits' direction can be inferred from a statement issued in July 2007 by Israel-based Saifun Semiconductors Ltd., which has subsequently been acquired by Spansion.

Saifun said in its second quarter 2007 results release that it was working with DensBits on intellectual property within the field of charge trapping that would be licensed exclusively to Saifun. At that time Saifun said the agreement with DensBits, "allows us to offer our licensees unique system solutions to enable higher density (above 4-bits per cell) and enhance the performance of NROM-based flash memory products."

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