Fujitsu Microelectronics America, Inc.
Epson

Fujitsu and Epson Announce Joint Development of Next-generation Technology for FRAM Non-Volatile Memory

Sunnyvale, CA, June 15, 2005 — Fujitsu Limited ("Fujitsu") and Seiko Epson ("Epson") today announced their agreement for joint development of next-generation technology for Ferroelectric Random Access Memory(FRAM)⁽¹⁾non-volatile memory⁽²⁾.

According to the agreement, the two companies plan to develop highly integrated next-generation FRAM that is one-sixth the cell area of conventional FRAMs on the market, targeting completion in the first half of 2006. Fujitsu and Epson also plan to develop memory core process technology that features minimal constraints on the number of read/write cycles that can be executed

In recent years, portable information devices and intelligent home appliances have become increasingly sophisticated. As a result, demand for FRAM non-volatile memory has rapidly increased, as it fulfills a wide range of market needs such as low power consumption and high read/write speeds with greater advantages compared to flash memory⁽³⁾ and Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM)⁽⁴⁾. FRAM features non-volatile RAM functions in addition to ROM functions, thereby making it one of the best memory devices available and an ideal memory solution for system Large-Scaled Integrated circuits (LSIs).

Through their joint development of next-generation FRAM technology, the two companies plan to combine their elemental technologies, such as for FRAM materials and miniaturization processes, to enable shorter development periods.

Glossary and Notes

1 (FRAM):

Ferroelectric Random Access Memory (FRAM) : Non-volatile memory that uses a ferroelectric film on the capacitor for data retention. This memory technology features advantages of both ROM and RAM, such as high-speed data read/write functions, low power consumption, and virtually unlimited read/write cycles.

2 non-volatile memory:

Non-volatile memory: Memory that retains data even when a device is switched off.

3 flash memory:

Flash memory: Read-only non-volatile memory capable of being erased and rewritten in blocks (sectors).

4 (EEPROM):

Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM): Read only non-volatile memory capable of being erased and rewritten electrically.

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About Fujitsu

Fujitsu is a leading provider of customer-focused IT and communications solutions for the global marketplace. Pace-setting device technologies, highly reliable computing and communications platforms, and a worldwide corps of systems and services experts uniquely position Fujitsu to deliver comprehensive solutions that open up infinite possibilities for its customers' success. Headquartered in Tokyo, Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.7 trillion yen (US$44.5 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005. For more information, please see: www.fujitsu.com

About Epson

Epson is a global leader in imaging products including printers, projectors and LCDs. With an innovative and creative culture, Epson is dedicated to exceeding the vision and expectations of customers worldwide with products known for their superior quality, functionality, compactness and energy efficiency. Epson is a network of 85,647 employees in 115 companies around the world, and is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and to the communities in which it is located. Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corp., the Group had consolidated sales of 1479.7 billion yen in fiscal 2004 For more information, please see: http://www.epson.co.jp/e/

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