Microchip Technology AT17C010-10CI

Overview

AT17C010-10CI from Atmel is a 1-Mbit (1,048,576 × 1-bit) serial EEPROM FPGA configuration memory with 5V ±10% industrial supply range (–40°C to +85°C), in-system programmable via 2-wire bus, and featuring programmable reset polarity, READY pin for power-up sequencing, and cascading CEO support for multi-FPGA systems.

For engineers reviewing the AT17C010-10CI datasheet, AT17C010-10CI pinout, AT17C010-10CI application, or AT17C010-10CI equivalent, key selection criteria include industrial temperature rating, 5V operation, 8-lead LAP package compatibility, cascading capability via CEO, and system-friendly READY signal timing.

Technical Context

The AT17C010-10CI implements a serial-access configuration memory architecture optimized for SRAM-based FPGAs in Master Serial Mode. It uses a synchronous clock-driven address counter and bit counter, with CE, RESET/OE, and CLK directly interfacing FPGA control signals-no external controller required.

Its dual-mode operation includes FPGA loading mode (SER_EN = High) and in-system programming mode (SER_EN = Low). The device supports write protection via WP1/WP2 inputs, programmable reset polarity, and automatic power-on reset with READY pin assertion during VCC ramp-up.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT17C010-10CI is packaged in an 8-lead Leadless Array Package (LAP), 6 mm × 6 mm × 1 mm body, pin-compatible with standard 8-lead SOIC and VOIC footprints. Thermal resistance θJA = 135.71°C/W (0 ft/min airflow).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar FPGA configuration memory applications.

Compared with AT17LV010-10CI, the AT17C010-10CI delivers higher clock speed and 5V compatibility essential for legacy industrial FPGAs; versus XCR3064XL-10VQG44C, it offers simpler layout, proven cascading, and true in-system reprogramming without CPLD recompilation.

Availability

AT17C010-10CI is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, aerospace avionics, telecom baseband units, medical imaging systems, and test equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for AT17C010-10CI includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Atmel Corporation (now part of Microchip Technology) is a semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, nonvolatile memory, and FPGA configuration solutions.

The AT17 Series was designed specifically as cost-effective, easy-to-integrate configuration memory for SRAM-based FPGAs - targeting industrial, telecom, and aerospace applications where reliability, cascading, and in-system update capability are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AT17C010-10CI in an FPGA-based system?

The AT17C010-10CI serves as a dedicated serial configuration memory that stores and delivers the bitstream to initialize SRAM-based FPGAs such as Xilinx Virtex or Altera FLEX devices upon power-up. Its role is strictly nonvolatile storage and synchronous serial delivery - it does not execute logic or process data. The AT17C010-10CI interfaces directly with FPGA control pins (CCLK, DIN, INIT) and requires no external processor, making it a plug-and-play solution for Master Serial Mode configuration.

Does the AT17C010-10CI support cascading with other configuration devices?

Yes, the AT17C010-10CI supports hardware cascading via its CEO (Chip Enable Output) pin, which goes active-Low when the internal address counter reaches its maximum value. This signal can drive the CE input of a second AT17C010-10CI (or compatible AT17-series device) to enable seamless daisy-chained configuration of multiple FPGAs or larger bitstreams. Cascading is electrically and logically defined in the datasheet and verified across Xilinx, Altera, and Lucent FPGA platforms using the AT17C010-10CI.

What is the purpose of the READY pin on the AT17C010-10CI?

The READY pin on the AT17C010-10CI is an open-collector output that is actively driven Low during the device's internal power-on reset cycle and tri-stated (high-impedance) once VCC stabilizes and internal circuitry is fully operational. When pulled up externally (e.g., with a 4.7 kΩ resistor), it provides a clean, FPGA-synchronizable power-good signal. This ensures the FPGA does not begin configuration until the AT17C010-10CI is ready to deliver valid data - preventing boot failures due to marginal supply conditions.

Can the AT17C010-10CI be programmed in-system without removing it from the PCB?

Yes, the AT17C010-10CI supports in-system programming (ISP) through its 2-wire serial interface by pulling the SER_EN pin Low. During ISP mode, industry-standard programmers (e.g., Atmel ATDH2225 ISP Cable) communicate with the device using CLK and DATA lines while VCC remains at 5V. Programming occurs without soldering/desoldering, enabling field updates of FPGA bitstreams. The AT17C010-10CI's ISP capability is documented in Atmel Application Note doc0437.pdf and validated across commercial and industrial temperature grades.

What package options are available for the AT17C010-10CI, and which one is used in this variant?

The AT17C010-10CI is specified in the industrial temperature grade (–40°C to +85°C) and uses the 8-lead Leadless Array Package (LAP), designated 8CN4 - a 6 mm × 6 mm × 1 mm surface-mount package with 1.27 mm lead pitch, pin-compatible with standard 8-lead SOIC and VOIC footprints. While the same part number family is also offered in PDIP (8P3) and PLCC (20J), the "I" suffix in AT17C010-10CI explicitly denotes the industrial-grade LAP variant per Atmel's ordering matrix.