Managed memory gives OEMs control of data

~ Nexus GB extends its product range with the NFX managed memory token in UK and Ireland ~

Nexus GB has added the NFX managed memory token to its product range, which provides portable data transport for use in OEM systems controlled by embedded microprocessors. Manufactured in the United States by Datakey Electronics Inc, the tokens are used to transport data to and from non-networked electronic devices, deployed in any environment. The NFX features an SPI (Service Provider Interface) for simple direct connection to microprocessors and a storage capacity from 128MB to 1GB.

Nexus GB believes that the functionality provided by the NFX series results in a data token more suited to the needs of OEMs than that offered by consumer solutions, such as camera cards and USB sticks. The NFX’s guaranteed long-term availability, total system ownership, rugged build and reliability uniquely combine to meet the needs of embedded systems. In addition, the tokens provide an efficient command set and on-board file management system, which eases the host microprocessor’s load, decreasing both hardware requirements and firmware complexity.

Long-term availability of the tokens is ensured by configuration controlling the token’s electrical, mechanical and software interfaces for each OEM program. This virtually eliminates the costly re-qualifications OEMs suffer due to the ever accelerating obsolescence of mass-market memory devices. Additionally, this configuration-control effectively eliminates the need for in field updating of deployed OEM equipment due to data carrier obsolescence.

“In comparison with the NFX, consumer products seem unmanageable,” commented Nexus GB marketing director Victoria Barrett. “Our ‘managed memory’ concept means that the device provides OEMs with control over all of its critical aspects. They can manage the file system, be assured of long term availability, source the entire data carrier and receptacle structure from a single point and easily manage implementation. Ultimately, we hope this helps OEMS choose between consumer and industrial memory more effectively.”

The NFX token’s electronics are extremely rugged because they are solid over-moulded. The token can be soaked in water or fuels, covered in mud, autoclaved, washed, and even driven over by a truck and it will still work. Its redundant contact system and 50,000 cycle mating receptacle design have been used successfully, in other Datakey products, for more than 15 years in the most extreme conditions; including military, medical, and industrial applications.

The token also features several customisable write-once registers that can be used for encryption seeds, one-time use flags or write protect flags. This enables protection of onboard data and the distribution or sale of software, firmware upgrades or recipes.

Nexus GB supports the NFX with a complete line of peripherals including mating receptacles and development kits designed to help embedded designers reduce R&D costs, bring products to market more quickly and reduce technical risk.

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For further information contact:
Victoria Barrett, Marketing and PR director, Nexus GB,
Rushdene House, Dodsley Grove, Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 9BE
Telephone: +44 (0)1730 816502
Fax: +44 (0)1730 817393
www: http://www.nexusgb.co.uk/
e-mail: victoria@nexusgb.co.uk

Press enquiries: Richard Stone
Stone Junction Ltd, No. 2 the Garthlands,
Stafford, Staffordshire, ST17 9ZP
Telephone: +44 (0) 1785 225416
e-mail: richards@stonejunction.co.uk
www: http://www.stonejunction.co.uk/
Blog: http://www.stone-junction.blogspot.com/

About Nexus GB: Established in 1986 Nexus GB is Datakey Electronics’ UK and Ireland exclusive distributor for portable, rugged keys and tokens containing non-volatile memory. These reliable and re-programmable items provide data transport, security, and access control solutions even in extreme environments where other methods, such as USB memory, would not survive. Furthermore, distinct from consumer-like memory solutions, they are a well established product that will not become obsolete as technology progresses. As a result, they are commonly used by design engineers working on long term projects, with more than three million units currently in UK service.

Ref: NEX005/07/10