Microchip Technology AT17LV020A-10JC

Overview

AT17LV020A-10JC from Atmel is a 2-Mbit serial EEPROM FPGA configuration memory designed specifically for Altera FLEX® devices, operating at 3.3V ±5%, featuring programmable reset polarity, in-system programmability via 2-wire bus, and a system-friendly open-collector READY pin for power-up synchronization.

For engineers reviewing the AT17LV020A-10JC datasheet, AT17LV020A-10JC pinout, AT17LV020A-10JC application, or AT17LV020A-10JC equivalent, key selection criteria include 3.3V operation, PLCC-20 package compatibility with Altera EPC2 replacement requirements, cascading support via nCASC, and active-mode current draw of ≤5 mA at FMAX.

Technical Context

The AT17LV020A-10JC implements a self-clocked serial configuration architecture where internal oscillator-driven DCLK synchronizes bitstream delivery to FPGA DATA0 input; it supports master/slave daisy-chaining via nCS/nCASC handshaking and uses OE as dual-function reset/output-enable with user-programmable polarity.

Its control interface (nCS, OE, DCLK, DATA) maps directly to Altera FPGA configuration pins without external logic; the READY pin provides open-collector power-on reset status indication, while SER_EN enables 2-wire programming mode independent of FPGA operation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT17LV020A-10JC is housed in a 20-lead Plastic J-leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC-20, JEDEC MS-018 AA), with 0.050" lead pitch and body size 0.350" × 0.350". The package supports reflow soldering and provides mechanical robustness for industrial environments.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT17C020A-10JC and EPCS4SI8N, the AT17LV020A-10JC uniquely balances 3.3V operation, PLCC-20 pin compatibility with Altera reference designs, READY-based power sequencing, and nCASC-supported scalability-making it optimal for industrial FPGA upgrades where voltage, timing, and form factor constraints are binding.

Availability

AT17LV020A-10JC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation controllers, telecom infrastructure equipment, and FPGA-based test instrumentation requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.

Supply support for AT17LV020A-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 FPGA configuration solutions with emphasis on reliability and industrial qualification.

The AT17A Series-including AT17LV020A-10JC-is designed specifically to replace Altera's EPC family in FPGA configuration applications, delivering pin-compatible, self-timed, cascade-capable EEPROMs optimized for FLEX® device boot integrity.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AT17LV020A-10JC in an FPGA system?

The AT17LV020A-10JC serves as a dedicated serial configuration EEPROM for Altera FLEX® FPGAs, storing and delivering the bitstream needed to initialize the FPGA upon power-up. It operates autonomously using its internal oscillator and interfaces directly with FPGA control pins (nCS, OE, DCLK, DATA), eliminating the need for external controllers. Its design ensures deterministic, repeatable FPGA configuration essential for industrial and telecom applications where boot reliability is critical.

Can the AT17LV020A-10JC be used interchangeably with the AT17C020A-10JC?

No-the AT17LV020A-10JC and AT17C020A-10JC are not interchangeable due to fundamental voltage domain differences: AT17LV020A-10JC operates at 3.3V ±5%, while AT17C020A-10JC requires 5V ±5%. Using the wrong variant risks damage or failure to initialize. Their AC timing, leakage current, and active current specs also differ significantly. System-level validation is mandatory before substitution, even within the same PLCC-20 package.

How does the READY pin on the AT17LV020A-10JC improve system reliability?

The READY pin on the AT17LV020A-10JC is an open-collector output that remains Low during power-on reset and transitions to high-impedance once initialization completes. When connected to FPGA nCONFIG (via pull-up), it holds the FPGA in reset until the AT17LV020A-10JC is fully ready-preventing premature configuration attempts caused by unstable VCC or incomplete EEPROM initialization. This hardware coordination eliminates race conditions common in uncoordinated power-up sequences.

Is the AT17LV020A-10JC capable of cascading with other configuration devices?

Yes-the AT17LV020A-10JC supports daisy-chain cascading via its nCASC output and nCS input. When the first device reaches end-of-data, it drives nCASC Low, which activates the nCS of the next AT17LV020A-10JC in the chain. This allows seamless extension beyond 2 Mbit without external logic. All devices in the chain share the same DCLK, and timing is maintained per AC specs (e.g., TOCK ≤55 ns), ensuring deterministic multi-device boot.

What programming interface does the AT17LV020A-10JC support, and how is it enabled?

The AT17LV020A-10JC supports in-system programming via a 2-wire serial interface enabled by pulling SER_EN Low. While SER_EN is Low, the device enters programming mode and accepts commands through DATA and DCLK pins-no high-voltage programming supply is needed, as internal charge pumps generate required voltages. Programming occurs at nominal VCC (3.3V), and the process is compatible with industry-standard programmers or Atmel's ATDH2200E kit.