Microchip Technology AT17F32-30BJU

Overview

AT17F32-30BJU from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 32-Mbit in-system programmable serial configuration PROM designed to store and deliver FPGA bitstreams in Master Serial mode. It delivers 33 MHz serial download speed, supports 4-page memory partitioning via PAGESEL[1:0], features 5V-tolerant I/O pins, and operates from 2.97–3.63 V over –40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range.

For engineers reviewing the AT17F32-30BJU datasheet, AT17F32-30BJU pinout, AT17F32-30BJU application, or AT17F32-30BJU equivalent, key selection considerations include cascading capability via CEO/CE daisy-chain, ISP programming via 2-wire bus with SER_EN control, low-power standby current ≤3 mA, and compatibility with Xilinx Virtex/Spartan, Lattice ORCA, and Intel (Altera) FLEX/APEX/Stratix FPGAs.

Technical Context

The AT17F32-30BJU implements a serial flash-based configuration memory architecture with internal address counter, page-select logic, and open-collector DATA output synchronized to FPGA CCLK. Its control interface uses RESET/OE for reset/output enable, CE for chip enable, and SER_EN to switch between FPGA configuration mode (SER_EN = High) and 2-wire ISP programming mode (SER_EN = Low).

It supports both single-device reconfiguration (up to four independent bitstreams) and multi-device cascading: CEO asserts Low upon end-of-data to enable the next device's CE, enabling seamless expansion beyond 32 Mbits. Page partitioning (PAGE_EN + PAGESEL[1:0]) enables selective loading of configuration subsets without full device erase.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT17F32-30BJU is housed in a 44-lead Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC), JEDEC MS-018 AC compliant, with lead coplanarity ≤0.102 mm and thermal resistance θJA = 50°C/W.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with XC18V04 and EPC16, the AT17F32-30BJU offers double the density of EPC16 and eight times that of XC18V04, plus unique page-select and CEO-driven daisy-chain capabilities - making it the only option supporting multi-configuration storage and vendor-agnostic FPGA cascading in a single PLCC package.

Availability

AT17F32-30BJU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, telecom infrastructure, aerospace avionics, and medical imaging systems requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and LHF-compliant packaging.

Supply support for AT17F32-30BJU 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 the legacy AT17F series, including documentation, programming tools, and long-term supply assurance.

The AT17F product line was designed specifically for robust, high-reliability FPGA configuration in industrial and mission-critical environments - emphasizing in-system programmability, cascading scalability, and wide-temperature operation.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AT17F32-30BJU in an FPGA-based system?

The AT17F32-30BJU serves as a serial configuration PROM that stores and delivers bitstreams to SRAM-based FPGAs during power-up or reconfiguration. It operates in Master Serial mode, synchronizing data delivery to the FPGA's CCLK signal. The AT17F32-30BJU supports daisy-chained configurations, page-selectable bitstreams, and in-system programming - making it integral to reliable, field-upgradable FPGA deployments.

Does the AT17F32-30BJU support in-system programming, and how is it enabled?

Yes, the AT17F32-30BJU supports in-system programming (ISP) via a 2-wire serial interface. ISP mode is activated by driving the SER_EN pin Low; in this state, the A2 pin functions as a chip-select input, and DATA/CLK are used for bidirectional programming communication. The AT17F32-30BJU does not require external high-voltage supplies - all programming voltages are generated internally.

How does the CEO pin function in a multi-device AT17F32-30BJU cascade?

The CEO (Chip Enable Output) pin of the AT17F32-30BJU goes Low when its internal address counter reaches the end of the selected memory region - either the full 32 Mbit space (PAGE_EN = Low) or a 8 Mbit page (PAGE_EN = High). In a cascade, CEO is wired to the CE input of the next AT17F32-30BJU device, automatically enabling it to begin data output once the prior device completes transmission - enabling seamless expansion beyond 32 Mbit.

What is the significance of the PAGE_EN and PAGESEL[1:0] pins on the AT17F32-30BJU?

PAGE_EN and PAGESEL[1:0] enable 4-way memory partitioning of the AT17F32-30BJU's 32 Mbit array into four independent 8 Mbit pages. When PAGE_EN is High, PAGESEL[1:0] selects which page (00–11) is active during serial download. This allows a single AT17F32-30BJU to store and selectively deliver multiple FPGA configurations - simplifying system reconfiguration, version management, and partial reprogramming without full device erase.

Is the AT17F32-30BJU compatible with Xilinx and Intel (Altera) FPGAs?

Yes, the AT17F32-30BJU is explicitly qualified for compatibility with Xilinx Spartan, Virtex, and XC4000-series FPGAs, as well as Intel (Altera) FLEX, APEX, and Stratix devices. Its timing parameters (e.g., TOE ≤55 ns, FMAX = 33 MHz), 3.3 V I/O, and Master Serial interface meet the configuration requirements of these families. The AT17F32-30BJU datasheet confirms interoperability through direct reference to Xilinx and Intel device support.