Memory module which includes a form factor connector

Abstract

A plurality of flash (solid state) media coupled to a single form factor connector to provide a module, i.e., referred to as a SmartStack module, that can be coupled directly to a device with a SmartStack module controller. The SmartStack module does not include a controller and is controlled from the host side. The form factor connector would typically be a CompactFlash (CF) form factor or some other form factor used in a variety of devices. The SmartStack memory module in a preferred embodiment includes a write protect switch that prevents certain portions of the memory within the SmartStack module from being written to. In addition, a portion of the flash memory will be allocated to the secure area for storing information to implement various forms of security. Another portion of the flash memory is allocated to store optional biometric information such as a user's fingerprint or retinal scan information, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the SmartStack module is a flash memory card in a CF Type I or II format; however, the card will not be compatible with standard CF readers, but will be compatible with SmartStack readers. Larger memory sizes will be available as larger flash memory chips become available.