Micron Begins Shipping 1y DRAMs

Micron Technology Inc., based in Boise, Idaho, has recently made an exciting announcement regarding the shipment of their latest 1γ (1-gamma) 16Gbit DDR5 DRAMs to selected ecosystem partners and customers. This development marks a significant milestone for the company, as they claim to be the first to achieve the 1-gamma node, representing the sixth generation of DRAM process technology with minimum geometries ranging between 19nm and 10nm.

As the industry progresses, DRAM manufacturers have transitioned from using nanometer measurements to designations such as 1x, 1y, 1z, and now 1α, 1β, and 1γ. SK Hynix, a key player in the semiconductor market, has adopted a similar sequence with 1x, 1y, 1z, followed by 1a, 1b, and 1c, showcasing the evolution of DRAM technology.

The 1γ memory technology introduced by Micron is versatile and well-suited for a wide range of applications, spanning from cloud computing to industrial and consumer electronics, as well as edge AI devices like AI-PCs, smartphones, and automobiles. With speed capabilities reaching up to 9200MT/s, the 1γ 16Gbit DDR5 DRAM offers a notable 15 percent increase in speed and over 20 percent reduction in power consumption compared to its predecessor, the 16Gbit DDR5 implemented in 1β technology.

One of the key advantages of the 1γ node is its ability to accommodate a 30 percent increase in the number of bits-per-wafer compared to the previous generation, leading to improved economics for Micron. However, this advancement necessitates the use of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography, distinguishing it from the 1β node. Additionally, the memory incorporates next-generation high-K metal gate technology, although specific details regarding the enhancements have not been disclosed by the company.

Scott DeBoer, the chief technology and products officer at Micron, expressed his confidence in the company's expertise in developing proprietary DRAM technologies and leveraging EUV lithography to create cutting-edge 1γ-based memory products that will drive innovation in the AI ecosystem. Micron's strategic vision includes the widespread adoption of 1γ technology across their entire DRAM product range, encompassing DDR5 for data centers, low-power DRAM for edge AI applications, DDR5 SODIMMs for AI-PCs, and LPDDR5X for mobile devices and automotive systems.

In response to Micron's groundbreaking development, representatives from industry giants such as AMD and Intel have confirmed that they are actively validating the use of 1γ DRAMs with their server and consumer processors. This collaborative effort between Micron and leading technology companies underscores the industry's commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and driving the advancement of next-generation memory technologies.