Qualification and testing of semiconductor components is one of the most expensive and complicated parts in the manufacturing process of memory ICs. Due to the size, complexity and costs of the equipment, only few companies can afford to implement test capabilities. And those who do, need to test high volumes to recoup the investment, which means that test times need to be short and usually only cover the requirements of consumer or standard industrial applications that buy large volumes of one product. This often means that the requirements of smaller volume customers like an extended temperature range are not covered. In addition, secret circuitry is added to the memory chips…