Microchip Technology AT17C512A-10JC

Overview

AT17C512A-10JC from Atmel is a 512-kilobit serial EEPROM FPGA configuration memory designed for Altera FLEX® devices, operating at 5V ±5% over 0°C to 70°C, featuring cascading support via nCASC, programmable reset polarity, and in-system programmability via 2-wire interface. It serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in embedded programmable logic systems.

For engineers reviewing the AT17C512A-10JC datasheet, AT17C512A-10JC pinout, AT17C512A-10JC application, or AT17C512A-10JC equivalent, key selection criteria include its 20-pin PLCC package, 5V operation, READY pin availability, cascading capability for multi-FPGA configurations, and compatibility with Altera EPC1441 replacement requirements.

Technical Context

The AT17C512A-10JC implements a serial-access configuration memory architecture with internal oscillator-based master-mode clock generation, supporting both master and slave operation modes controlled by SER_EN and DCLK timing. Its address counter resets on OE low and enables DATA output only when nCS is low and OE is high.

It uses open-collector DATA and READY outputs with internal pull-down on WP1, supports programmable reset polarity via EEPROM byte programming, and features tri-state control of DATA through OE/nCS coordination - enabling seamless daisy-chained FPGA configuration without external controllers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT17C512A-10JC is housed in a 20-lead Plastic J-leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC), JEDEC MS-018 AA compliant, with 0.050" lead pitch and 0.354" body size. The package supports reflow and wave soldering and provides mechanical stability for board-level reliability in programmable logic applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT17LV512A-10JC and EPC1441, the AT17C512A-10JC delivers higher-speed 5V operation and broader industrial temperature availability than the LV variant, while offering second-source reliability and documented drop-in compatibility versus the discontinued EPC1441.

Availability

AT17C512A-10JC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA configuration, industrial logic board boot, and legacy 5V system upgrade requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence management, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for AT17C512A-10JC 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 developed specifically to provide cost-effective, serial EEPROM-based configuration memory for Altera FLEX® FPGAs, emphasizing ease of integration, cascading scalability, and in-system programmability.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AT17C512A-10JC in an FPGA system?

The AT17C512A-10JC serves as a dedicated configuration memory that stores and serially loads bitstream data into Altera FLEX® FPGAs during power-up. It operates autonomously using its internal oscillator in master mode, driving the FPGA's DATA0 pin and synchronizing with DCLK - eliminating the need for external controllers in standard configurations.

Does the AT17C512A-10JC support cascading with other configuration devices?

Yes, the AT17C512A-10JC supports hardware-cascaded configuration via its nCASC output and nCS input. When the first device completes its data stream, it asserts nCASC low to activate the next device's nCS, enabling sequential loading across multiple FPGAs or higher-density logic arrays without software intervention.

Can the AT17C512A-10JC be programmed in-system, and what interface is required?

Yes, the AT17C512A-10JC supports in-system programming (ISP) via a 2-wire serial interface. Programming is enabled by pulling SER_EN low, after which standard I²C-compatible protocols can write to the EEPROM array using DATA and DCLK lines - all at nominal VCC voltage, with no external programming voltage required.

What is the role of the READY pin on the AT17C512A-10JC, and how should it be used?

The READY pin on the AT17C512A-10JC is an open-collector output that signals power-on reset completion: it is driven low during reset and tri-stated afterward. It should be externally pulled up (e.g., 4.7 kΩ to VCC) and connected to the FPGA's nCONFIG pin to hold the FPGA in reset until the EEPROM is fully initialized and ready to begin configuration.

Is the AT17C512A-10JC compatible with 3.3V FPGA systems?

No, the AT17C512A-10JC is a 5V-only device (5V ±5%) and is not compatible with 3.3V FPGA systems. For 3.3V operation, the pin-compatible AT17LV512A-10JC should be used instead - it shares the same 20J PLCC package and functionality but features adjusted voltage thresholds and timing parameters optimized for 3.3V logic interfaces.