Microchip Technology AT17F080-30CU

Overview

AT17F080-30CU from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is an 8-Mbit in-system programmable 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 AT17F080-30CU datasheet, AT17F080-30CU pinout, AT17F080-30CU application, or AT17F080-30CU equivalent, this device supports cascaded daisy-chain configuration, four-page bitstream selection via PAGE_EN/PAGESEL, ISP programming via 2-wire bus, and compatibility with Xilinx Virtex/Spartan, Altera FLEX/APEX, and Lattice ORCA FPGAs.

Technical Context

The AT17F080-30CU implements a serial flash memory architecture optimized for FPGA configuration sequencing, using a dedicated 2-wire ISP interface when SER_EN is low and standard master-serial mode when SER_EN is high. Its control logic synchronizes CLK-driven address incrementing with CE/RESET/OE state transitions to manage data output timing and counter reset behavior.

It supports page-selectable memory partitioning (four 2-Mbit pages), CEO-driven daisy-chaining for multi-device configurations, and automatic power-on reset with READY open-collector indicator. The device uses internal charge-pump circuitry for 3.3V-only programming without external high-voltage supplies.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT17F080-30CU is packaged in an 8-pad Leadless Array Package (LAP), 6 mm × 6 mm × 1.04 mm body, pin-compatible with 8-lead SOIC/VOIC footprints. This RoHS-compliant, green Sn-finish package supports surface-mount assembly and thermal performance suitable for industrial PCBs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with XC18V08 and AT17F080-30JU, the AT17F080-30CU offers unique 5V-tolerant I/O for mixed-voltage designs, integrated page-select logic for multi-bitstream systems, and compact 8-pad LAP packaging ideal for space-constrained industrial PCBs.

Availability

AT17F080-30CU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, FPGA-based test equipment, communications baseband processing, defense radar signal processing, and other applications requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for AT17F080-30CU 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 full support for legacy Atmel FPGA configuration products including the AT17F series.

The AT17F product line was designed specifically to provide cost-effective, in-system programmable serial configuration memory for SRAM-based FPGAs from Xilinx, Altera, Lattice, and others - emphasizing ease of integration, daisy-chain scalability, and industrial reliability.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AT17F080-30CU in an FPGA-based system?

The AT17F080-30CU serves as a serial configuration PROM that stores and delivers FPGA bitstreams during power-up or reconfiguration events. It operates in master-serial mode, driven by the FPGA's CCLK signal, and supports daisy-chained configurations via its CEO output. The AT17F080-30CU eliminates the need for external microcontrollers or complex configuration logic, enabling direct, reliable bitstream loading into SRAM-based FPGAs such as Xilinx Virtex and Altera FLEX devices.

Does the AT17F080-30CU support in-system programming (ISP), and how is it enabled?

Yes, the AT17F080-30CU supports in-system programming via a 2-wire serial interface. ISP is activated by driving the SER_EN pin low, which places the device into programming mode. In this mode, the A2 pin functions as a chip-select input, and DATA/CLK serve as the bidirectional data and clock lines. The AT17F080-30CU performs internal voltage boosting, so no external high-voltage supply is needed - programming occurs at standard 3.3V VCC levels using tools like the Atmel ATDH2225 ISP cable.

How does the page-select feature work on the AT17F080-30CU, and what is its practical benefit?

The AT17F080-30CU divides its 8-Mbit memory into four 2-Mbit pages using PAGE_EN and PAGESEL[1:0] inputs. When PAGE_EN is high, PAGESEL[1:0] selects one of four address ranges (00000–1FFFFh, 20000–3FFFFh, etc.). This allows a single AT17F080-30CU to store and rapidly switch between up to four distinct FPGA configurations - for example, supporting different operating modes, calibration sets, or hardware revisions without requiring multiple PROMs or PCB changes.

Can the AT17F080-30CU be used with FPGAs from multiple vendors, and which ones are explicitly supported?

Yes, the AT17F080-30CU is vendor-agnostic and explicitly supports Xilinx (XC3000, XC4000, XC5200, Spartan, Virtex), Altera (FLEX, APEX), Lucent (ORCA), Motorola (MPA1000), and Atmel's own AT40K/AT94K families. Its timing parameters, signal definitions (e.g., CEO for daisy-chaining), and serial protocol align with industry-standard FPGA master-serial configuration requirements, ensuring interoperability without custom firmware or adapter logic.

What package type does the AT17F080-30CU use, and are there any layout considerations?

The AT17F080-30CU uses the 8-pad Leadless Array Package (LAP), designated 8CN4, measuring 6 mm × 6 mm × 1.04 mm with 1.27 mm pitch. It is pin-compatible with 8-lead SOIC/VOIC footprints but requires careful attention to solder paste volume and reflow profile due to its exposed pad-less thermal structure. A 0.2 μF decoupling capacitor must be placed between VCC and GND as close as possible to the device to ensure stable power delivery during high-speed configuration reads.