Non-volatile memory with analog and digital interface and storage

Abstract

A non-volatile memory stores both analog and digital information in an array, and has digital and analog read and write circuits and dual I/O interfaces which allow input and output signals in digital or analog form. A user selects the input signal, output signal, and data storage formats. Each selection can be digital or analog format. On-chip analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters allow conversion of signals from one format into another. Analog signals can be read or written serially, and one embodiment includes an address counter and an internal oscillator for generating sequential addresses. An output amplifier for driving a speaker and an input amplifier for a microphone allow stored sounds to be directly recorded and reproduced.