Microchip Technology AT17C512-10CC

Overview

AT17C512-10CC from Atmel is a 512-kilobit serial EEPROM FPGA configuration memory with 5V ±5% supply, 15 MHz max clock frequency, and programmable reset polarity. It provides nonvolatile storage for SRAM-based FPGAs including Xilinx XC4000™, Altera FLEX®, and Atmel AT40K/AT94K devices in master serial mode.

For engineers reviewing the AT17C512-10CC datasheet, AT17C512-10CC pinout, AT17C512-10CC application, or AT17C512-10CC equivalent, this device serves as a drop-in replacement for legacy XC17/ATT17 PROMs, supports daisy-chain cascading via CEO, features system-friendly READY signaling, and operates in low-power standby mode consuming ≤0.5 mA at 5V.

Technical Context

The AT17C512-10CC implements a serial-access configuration memory architecture with internal address counter, tri-state DATA output, and cascading support via CEO (Chip Enable Output). Its control logic directly interfaces with FPGA CCLK, CE, and INIT/RESET signals without external controller intervention.

It supports two operational modes: FPGA loading (SER_EN = High) and in-system programming (SER_EN = Low), with programmable reset polarity stored in EEPROM bytes. The device uses on-chip charge pumps for internal programming voltage generation and includes write protection inputs WP1/WP2 disabled by default.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT17C512-10CC 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. The package uses exposed metal pads for thermal conduction and requires no through-hole mounting.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT17LV512-10CC and XC17S100PC44C, the AT17C512-10CC uniquely combines 5V operation, in-system reprogrammability, cascading capability, and compact 8-lead LAP packaging - making it optimal for upgrading legacy 5V FPGA systems requiring field-upgradable configuration memory.

Availability

AT17C512-10CC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, Xilinx Spartan® FPGA boot systems, Altera FLEX® 10K instrumentation, and Atmel AT40KAL avionics requiring stable component supply across extended lifecycle phases.

Supply support for AT17C512-10CC 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 with emphasis on industrial and automotive reliability.

The AT17 Series was designed specifically to replace one-time-programmable PROMs in SRAM-based FPGA configuration systems, offering EEPROM reprogrammability, cascading support, and direct FPGA interface compatibility.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AT17C512-10CC in an FPGA-based system?

The AT17C512-10CC serves as a serial configuration EEPROM that stores and delivers the bitstream required to initialize SRAM-based FPGAs such as Xilinx Spartan®, Altera FLEX®, and Atmel AT40K/AT94K devices. During power-up, the FPGA automatically reads the configuration data from the AT17C512-10CC via its CLK, DATA, and CE signals in Master Serial Mode - eliminating the need for external processors or complex boot firmware.

Can the AT17C512-10CC be reprogrammed in-circuit without removing it from the PCB?

Yes, the AT17C512-10CC supports in-system programming (ISP) via its 2-wire serial interface when the SER_EN pin is driven Low. This allows field updates of FPGA configuration data without desoldering or socketing. Programming occurs at the nominal 5V supply voltage, with internal charge pumps generating required programming voltages - no external high-voltage sources are needed for the AT17C512-10CC.

How does the CEO pin enable cascading of multiple AT17C512-10CC devices?

The CEO (Chip Enable Output) pin of the AT17C512-10CC goes Low when its internal address counter reaches the final memory location. In a daisy chain, this CEO signal connects to the CE input of the next AT17C512-10CC device, enabling its DATA output only after the first device completes transmission. This automatic handoff ensures seamless expansion of configuration memory capacity across multiple AT17C512-10CC units without external sequencing logic.

Is the AT17C512-10CC compatible with both 5V and 3.3V FPGA families?

The AT17C512-10CC is specified for 5V ±5% operation and is fully compatible with 5V-tolerant FPGA families like Xilinx XC4000™, Spartan®, and Altera FLEX®. It is not electrically compatible with native 3.3V FPGA I/Os without level-shifting, as its outputs exceed 3.3V logic-high thresholds. For 3.3V systems, the pin-compatible AT17LV512-10CC variant should be used instead of the AT17C512-10CC.

What role does the READY pin play during system power-up?

The READY pin on the AT17C512-10CC is an open-collector output driven Low during the internal power-on reset cycle and released (tri-stated) once VCC stabilizes and internal circuitry is ready. When pulled up externally (e.g., with a 4.7 kΩ resistor), it provides a clean reset synchronization signal to the FPGA's PROGRAM or INIT pin - ensuring configuration begins only after stable power is confirmed, preventing corrupted bitstream loading.