Microchip Technology AT17C010A-10QI

Overview

AT17C010A-10QI from Atmel is a 1-Mbit serial EEPROM FPGA configuration memory designed to store and load bitstreams into Altera FLEX® devices. It operates at 5V ±5%, supports cascaded daisy-chain configuration, features programmable reset polarity, includes a system-friendly READY pin (TQFP package), and delivers active current ≤10 mA. It serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in industrial FPGA-based systems requiring reliable power-up initialization.

For engineers reviewing the AT17C010A-10QI datasheet, AT17C010A-10QI pinout, AT17C010A-10QI application, or AT17C010A-10QI equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1-Mbit density, TQFP-32 package with READY and nCASC support, 5V industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), and compatibility with Altera EPC1 replacement requirements.

Technical Context

The AT17C010A-10QI functions as a master or slave serial configurator for Altera FPGAs using an internal oscillator (default) or external DCLK synchronization. Its address counter, tri-state DATA output, and nCASC handshaking enable seamless multi-device cascading for large bitstream loads.

It implements in-system programming via 2-wire interface when SER_EN is low, supports write protection via WP1, and uses programmable EEPROM bytes to set OE reset polarity-critical for proper nCONFIG timing alignment with EPF10K/EPF6K devices.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT17C010A-10QI is housed in a 32-lead Thin Quad Flat Package (TQFP-32, JEDEC 32A), measuring 7.0 mm × 7.0 mm × 1.0 mm, with gull-wing leads and exposed pad not electrically connected.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT17LV010A-10QI and EPC1TC16, the AT17C010A-10QI uniquely combines 5V industrial operation, TQFP-32 packaging with READY/nCASC, and full cascading capability-making it the sole option for robust, upgradable, multi-FPGA 5V systems requiring power-on reset visibility.

Availability

AT17C010A-10QI is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, FPGA-based motor drives, legacy Altera system refreshes, automated test equipment, and reconfigurable instrumentation requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for AT17C010A-10QI 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 programmable logic solutions.

The AT17A Series was engineered specifically to provide cost-effective, pin-compatible configuration memory for Altera FLEX® FPGAs-emphasizing ease of integration, cascading scalability, and industrial-grade reliability.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AT17C010A-10QI in an FPGA system?

The AT17C010A-10QI serves as a dedicated serial configuration EEPROM that stores and loads the bitstream into Altera FLEX® FPGAs at power-up. It replaces volatile SRAM-based configuration by providing nonvolatile, one-time or field-upgradable storage. The AT17C010A-10QI drives the FPGA's DATA0 pin using its internal oscillator or external DCLK, and its READY pin synchronizes FPGA reset release-ensuring deterministic initialization critical for industrial applications.

Does the AT17C010A-10QI support cascading with other configuration devices?

Yes, the AT17C010A-10QI supports hardware-cascaded configuration through its nCASC output and nCS input. When the internal address counter reaches its maximum value, nCASC asserts Low to trigger the next device in the chain. This enables multi-device daisy chaining for FPGAs requiring >1-Mbit configuration data. The AT17C010A-10QI must be configured as the master (nCS held Low at reset) to initiate the sequence, and its DCLK drives all downstream devices.

Can the AT17C010A-10QI be programmed in-system, and what interface is required?

Yes, the AT17C010A-10QI supports in-system programming via a 2-wire serial interface. Programming is enabled by pulling SER_EN Low, after which standard I²C-like commands access the EEPROM array. No external high-voltage programming supply is needed-the AT17C010A-10QI generates internal programming voltages from VCC. This allows field updates without removing the device from the PCB.

What is the purpose of the READY pin on the AT17C010A-10QI, and how is it used?

The READY pin on the AT17C010A-10QI is an open-collector output that signals power-on reset completion: it is driven Low during internal reset and tri-stated afterward. It is intended to hold the FPGA in reset until the AT17C010A-10QI is ready to begin configuration. A 4.7 kΩ pull-up resistor is recommended. Note that READY releases before full VCC stabilization, so it should not be solely relied upon for power-rail monitoring.

Is the AT17C010A-10QI compatible with Altera EPC1 devices?

Yes, the AT17C010A-10QI is documented as a direct replacement for Altera EPC1 in 1-Mbit applications. It matches EPC1's memory density, 5V operation, and core interface signals (DCLK, DATA, nCS, OE). Unlike EPC1, the AT17C010A-10QI adds READY and nCASC in the TQFP-32 package, enabling enhanced diagnostics and cascading-without requiring PCB changes when migrating from EPC1 in compatible footprints.