Micron has reduced the chance of having popcorn failures with surface-mount packages
by shipping all material that is not level one (as defined in Table 1 on page 2) in sealed
bags containing a desiccant. Devices stored in these bags show no measurable weight
gain when subjected to a high-humidity environment for extended periods. Hence,
devices stored in unopened, sealed bags at lower than 40°C and 90% RH have a shelf life
of 24 months. Before shipping product, Micron will ensure that the package seal date is
within the 24 month window. If not, the product will be backed out of finished goods and
the condition of the HIC will be inspected. If the HIC indicates an elevated level of moisture,
the parts will be baked dry, repackaged with a new bag, desiccant, and HIC. The
package seal date on the label will be updated accordingly. If the HIC does not indicate
an elevated level of moisture, the parts will be repackaged as above without the baking step. The date code on the product will not change, but the customer can be assured that
the product shelf life with respect to moisture absorption extends to 24 months from the
package seal date. Electrical functionality of the devices is not affected by the extended
storage times.
Moisture absorption can be eliminated by storing the devices at the recommended floor
life conditions specified in Table 1.