Datasheet and document status

In Motorola semiconductor datasheets, Advance Information indicates a product is in the pre-production or first-sample stage. Preliminary indicates a more mature, pre-production stage.

The primary distinction lies in data reliability and the likelihood of specifications changing before full mass production.

A breakdown of the differences includes:

Advance Information (Early Stage)

Product Status	The device is generally in the initial sampling or pre-production stage.
Data Reliability	Parameters are often based on design simulations, engineering goals, or early test batches.
Changes	Specifications are tentative and highly likely to change without notice as the design is refined.
Typical Disclaimer	‘This document contains information on a new product. Specifications and information herein are subject to change without notice.’

Preliminary (Mid Stage)

Product Status	The product has moved closer to full production, typically after first silicon or hardware prototypes have been tested.
Data Reliability	The data is much closer to final. It is usually based on early silicon or hardware characterization.
Changes	Some parameters may still be subject to minor modifications, but the core functionality and limits are well-defined.
Typical Disclaimer	‘This document contains information on a product under development. Motorola reserves the right to change or discontinue this product without notice.’

Full Data Sheet (Final Stage)

Once a part goes into full mass production, the “Advance” or “Preliminary” tag is removed. The resulting full datasheet provides the finalized, guaranteed electrical characteristics and mechanical dimensions that Motorola officially supports.