Microchip Technology AT17F040A-30CU

Overview

AT17F040A-30CU from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 4-Mbit FPGA configuration PROM designed for serial master-mode loading of SRAM-based FPGAs. It delivers 3.3V output capability, 5.0V-tolerant I/O pins, fast 33MHz serial download speed, 100,000 write cycles endurance, and operates across -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range.

For engineers reviewing the AT17F040A-30CU datasheet, AT17F040A-30CU pinout, AT17F040A-30CU application, or AT17F040A-30CU equivalent, key selection considerations include cascading support via nCASC, page-selectable bitstream storage (PAGE_EN/PAGESEL), ISP programming via 2-wire bus, compatibility with Altera FLEX/Cyclone/Stratix and Atmel AT40K/AT94K FPGAs, and 8-pad LAP package footprint.

Technical Context

The AT17F040A-30CU implements a serial flash memory architecture optimized for FPGA configuration sequencing, using DCLK as bidirectional clock (input during ISP, output during configuration) and DATA as open-collector bi-directional interface. Its control logic supports both single-device configuration and daisy-chained cascading via nCASC-to-nCS interconnection.

Page-select functionality partitions the 4-Mbit address space into four 1-Mbit pages when PAGE_EN is high, enabling independent storage and retrieval of up to four distinct FPGA bitstreams. The device enters low-power standby (<3mA ICCS) when SER_EN is high and nCS is high, with internal pull-up resistors on RESET/OE (20kΩ) and PAGE_EN/PAGESEL (30kΩ).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT17F040A-30CU is packaged in an 8-pad Leadless Array Package (LAP), 6.00mm × 6.00mm × 1.04mm body size with 1.27mm pitch, compatible with standard 8-lead SOIC/VOIC PCB footprints.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with XC18V04 and EPC2, the AT17F040A-30CU offers broader FPGA vendor compatibility (Atmel, Altera, Xilinx), integrated page-select for multi-configuration storage, and native cascading support-making it suitable for heterogeneous or expandable FPGA architectures where flexibility and field update capability are critical.

Availability

AT17F040A-30CU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, FPGA-based test equipment, communications baseband units, avionics signal conditioners, and reconfigurable embedded systems requiring stable component supply over extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for AT17F040A-30CU 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

Microchip Technology acquired Atmel in 2016 and maintains its legacy FPGA configuration memory portfolio, emphasizing reliability, long-term availability, and industrial-grade performance.

The AT17FxxxA series was designed specifically to simplify and harden FPGA configuration in resource-constrained embedded systems, supporting master serial mode across multi-vendor FPGA platforms with minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AT17F040A-30CU in an FPGA-based system?

The AT17F040A-30CU functions as a serial configuration PROM that stores and delivers bitstream data to SRAM-based FPGAs during power-up or reconfiguration. It operates in master serial mode, driving the FPGA's DIN and DCLK lines directly. The AT17F040A-30CU supports both single-device configuration and daisy-chained cascades via its nCASC output, and its 4-Mbit capacity accommodates typical configuration images for mid-range FPGAs used in industrial and communications applications.

Does the AT17F040A-30CU support in-system programming, and how is it implemented?

Yes, the AT17F040A-30CU supports in-system programming (ISP) via a 2-wire serial interface activated by pulling SER_EN low. During ISP mode, the device accepts programming commands and data through the DATA and DCLK pins without requiring device removal or specialized high-voltage programming. The AT17F040A-30CU integrates on-chip charge pumps to generate required programming voltages from the 3.3V supply, enabling field updates using standard microcontroller GPIOs or dedicated ISP cables like the Atmel ATDH2225.

How does the page-select feature of the AT17F040A-30CU improve system reconfiguration capability?

The AT17F040A-30CU's page-select feature divides its 4-Mbit memory into four 1-Mbit partitions using PAGE_EN and PAGESEL[1:0] inputs. This allows independent storage and on-demand retrieval of up to four distinct FPGA bitstreams-such as different functional modes or hardware revisions-without external memory management. When PAGE_EN is high, the selected page determines the active address space; when low, the full 4-Mbit space is accessed. This capability makes the AT17F040A-30CU ideal for systems requiring runtime FPGA reconfiguration, like adaptive test equipment or multi-role industrial controllers.

What package type is used for the AT17F040A-30CU, and what are its layout advantages?

The AT17F040A-30CU uses an 8-pad Leadless Array Package (LAP), designated 8CN4, measuring 6.00mm × 6.00mm × 1.04mm with 1.27mm pitch. Its footprint is pin-compatible with standard 8-lead SOIC and VOIC packages, enabling drop-in replacement in existing layouts without PCB redesign. The LAP package offers improved thermal performance and smaller board area versus PLCC alternatives, while maintaining hand-soldering feasibility and compatibility with automated assembly processes used in industrial electronics manufacturing.

Can the AT17F040A-30CU be used with both Altera and Xilinx FPGAs, and what interface requirements must be met?

Yes, the AT17F040A-30CU is explicitly compatible with Altera FLEX®, Cyclone™, Stratix®, and APEX™ devices, as well as Xilinx and Atmel SRAM FPGAs. It interfaces using standard master serial protocol: DCLK drives the FPGA's configuration clock, DATA connects to DIN, nCS controls chip enable, and RESET/OE synchronizes initialization. The AT17F040A-30CU's 5.0V-tolerant I/O pins allow direct connection to 5V FPGA control signals even when operating at 3.3V, eliminating level shifters. No FPGA-specific configuration logic is required-the AT17F040A-30CU delivers raw bitstream data in sequence as defined by the FPGA vendor's master serial specification.