System-on-Chip (SoC) designers face a recurring challenge: integrating multiple memory interfaces without bloating area, pin count, or design complexity. Arasan’s xSPI/eMMC5.1 PHY directly addresses this by combining two widely used memory standards—xSPI (JESD251) and eMMC 5.1—into a single PHY IP.
This dual-mode integration enables both boot functionality (via xSPI) and high-speed storage (via eMMC 5.1), making it ideal for embedded platforms where efficiency, flexibility, and performance are paramount.
Why a Dual-Mode PHY?
Traditionally, SoCs required separate PHY implementations for different memory protocols, which increased silicon area, added I/O overhead, and complicated system integration. With Arasan’s unified PHY:
- One block serves two purposes: boot and storage.
- Shared I/O and analog front-end reduce pin count and area.
- Configurable protocol switching (hardware or software-controlled) simplifies design flows.
The result is a leaner, smarter design that accelerates product development and lowers cost.
Key Features
- Dual-Protocol Support: Fully compliant with JEDEC JESD251 (xSPI) and eMMC 5.1.
- High-Speed Operation:
- eMMC 5.1 Mode: HS400 with DDR clock at 200MHz.
- xSPI Mode: xSPI-400 with DDR clock at 200MHz.
- Advanced I/O Architecture:
- Analog DLL ensures PVT-independent clock delays.
- Push-pull and open-drain transmitters.
- Configurable drive strengths (50Ω, 33Ω, 66Ω, 100Ω, 40Ω).
- Differential receivers for enhanced noise immunity.
- Built-in MUX Logic: Seamless interface selection and pad sharing.
- Test & Debug Support:
- DC I/O testing.
- BIST capability.
- Analog DLL output phase measurement.
- DC scan support.
Applications
The xSPI/eMMC5.1 PHY is designed for embedded platforms where both boot and storage capabilities are critical. Example use cases include:
- Mobile SoCs.
- Automotive ECUs.
- Consumer electronics.
- Industrial controllers.
By consolidating memory PHYs, designers gain design flexibility, reduced cost, and faster time-to-market—all without sacrificing performance.
Conclusion
Arasan’s xSPI/eMMC5.1 PHY is more than a PHY—it’s a strategic enabler for SoC designers aiming to build efficient, high-performance, and cost-optimized platforms. With its dual-mode support, high-speed operation, and robust test features, this IP is ready to power the next wave of embedded innovation.