Microsoft deploys NEC Electronics’ Embedded DRAM technology in its next generation Xbox platform to usher in a new era of high-definition graphics performance for gaming consoles

NEC Electronics Corporation (TSE:6723) and its subsidiaries in the United States and Europe, NEC Electronics America, Inc. and NEC Electronics (Europe) GmbH, today announced that Microsoft Corporation will incorporate leading-edge embedded DRAM (eDRAM) technology from NEC Electronics in the next generation Xbox® platform. The high-performance eDRAM macros designed by NEC Electronics are a key piece of the graphics subsystem and will enable the console to provide users with a stunning high-definition (HD) graphics experience. The eDRAM graphics chip is manufactured in NEC Electronics’ 300-millimeter (mm) wafer fabrication facility, which runs the company’s most advanced processes.

“The next generation Xbox platform will provide gamers with a highly advanced graphics experience,” said Todd Holmdahl, corporate vice president, Xbox Product Group.  “NEC Electronics’ cutting-edge embedded DRAM technology plays a vital role in enabling our graphics engine’s performance, while its manufacturing process provides a reliable resource that can deliver the volumes required to support what will be an extremely popular gaming platform.”

“Microsoft’s next generation Xbox platform promises to be a revolutionary gaming platform and must-have consumer device,” said Hirokazu Hashimoto, executive vice president, NEC Electronics Corporation.  “NEC Electronics is pleased to be an integral part of this device and looks forward to working with Microsoft to make the next generation Xbox platform a top seller.”

About NEC Electronics’ Embedded DRAM
NEC Electronics' eDRAM technology provides a wide range of macro variants that supply the high performance and low power consumption required by a variety of applications, including high-end networking devices and consumer electronics products such as cell phones, mobile handheld devices and gaming/entertainment devices.  The eDRAM macros are designed in-house by NEC Electronics and offer dual advantages of high performance and reduced-power consumption. More information can be found at www.necelam.com/eDRAM.

About Microsoft’s Xbox
Xbox (http://www.xbox.com) is the video game system from Microsoft that brings people together for the most exhilarating game and entertainment experiences.  Xbox delivers an expansive collection of breakthrough games, powerful hardware and the unified Xbox Live™ online service.  The tag line, "It’s good to play together," captures the spirit of Xbox as the social hub of the new digital entertainment lifestyle.  Xbox is now available in North America, Asia, Europe and Australia.

About NEC Electronics
NEC Electronics Corporation (TSE: 6723) specializes in semiconductor products encompassing advanced technology solutions for the high-end computing and broadband networking markets, system solutions for the mobile handset, PC peripherals, automotive and digital consumer markets, and platform solutions for a wide range of customer applications.  NEC Electronics Corporation has 26 subsidiaries worldwide including NEC Electronics America, Inc. (www.necelam.com) and NEC Electronics (Europe) GmbH (www.eu.necel.com).  In addition to marketing, selling and supporting NEC Electronics products to customers in their respective regions, NEC Electronics America and NEC Electronics Europe also operate local manufacturing facilities in Roseville, California, and Ballivor, Ireland, respectively.  Additionally, NEC Electronics America for North America and NEC Electronics Europe for Europe are the sales and marketing channels of NEC AM-LCD modules. For additional information about NEC Electronics worldwide, visit www.necel.com.

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NEC Electronics is either a registered trademark or trademark of NEC Electronics Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Xbox is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other registered trademarks or trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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