Microchip Technology AT17LV256A-10JC
- Part No.:
- AT17LV256A-10JC
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Configuration PROMs for FPGAs
- Package:
- 20-LCC (J-Lead)
- Datasheet:
-
AT17LV256A-10JC.pdf
- Description:
- IC SRL CONFG EEPROM 256K 20-PLCC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
AT17LV256A-10JC from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 256-Kbit serial FPGA configuration EEPROM designed to store bitstream programs for Altera FLEX® and APEX™ FPGAs. It operates at 3.3V ±10% or 5.0V ±5% (commercial), supports in-system programming via 2-wire bus, features programmable reset polarity, and delivers 90-year data retention at 85°C for industrial use. It is used in FPGA-based embedded control and reconfigurable logic systems.
For engineers reviewing the AT17LV256A-10JC datasheet, AT17LV256A-10JC pinout, AT17LV256A-10JC application, or AT17LV256A-10JC equivalent, key selection criteria include voltage compatibility (3.3V/5V), cascading support via nCASC/nCS, standby current (<100 µA), WP-enabled memory protection, and PLCC-20 package suitability for legacy FPGA board designs.
Technical Context
The AT17LV256A-10JC implements a serial master configuration interface compatible with SRAM-based FPGAs, using DCLK-driven address counting and tri-state DATA output synchronized to RESET/OE and nCS. Its internal oscillator enables autonomous configuration without external timing sources.
It supports daisy-chain cascading through nCASC-to-nCS interconnection and allows polarity programming of RESET/OE for alignment with Altera's active-Low reset convention. The device enters low-power standby (<100 µA) when nCS is high and retains configuration data for 90 years at 85°C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 256 Kbit (262,144 × 1-bit), sufficient to configure mid-density Altera FLEX10K/FLEX6000 devices |
| Supply voltage | 3.3V ±10% or 5.0V ±5% (commercial); dual-voltage support simplifies migration across legacy and modern FPGA platforms |
| Standby current | <100 µA at 3.3V (industrial), enabling low-power system sleep modes without configuration loss |
| Data retention | 90 years at 85°C (industrial), ensuring long-term reliability in harsh environments without refresh |
| Write endurance | 100,000 write cycles, supporting field firmware updates and reconfiguration during product lifecycle |
| Max clock frequency | 10 MHz (3.3V, industrial), matching typical FPGA configuration clock rates without timing margin violation |
| Operating temperature | –40°C to +85°C (industrial grade), qualified for automotive engine control and industrial PLC applications |
Pinout & Package
AT17LV256A-10JC is supplied in a 20-lead Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) package, compliant with JEDEC MS-018, Variation AA. Dimensions: 10.033 mm × 10.033 mm × 3.048 mm (max height), lead pitch 1.27 mm, coplanarity ≤0.102 mm.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (DCLK) | Input clock or output clock | Rising edge increments address counter; driven Low by device when configuration complete or RESET/OE asserted |
| 2 (WP) | Write protect input | When Low (nCS = Low), enables full memory write; High protects lowest memory block - only present on AT17LV65A/128A/256A |
| 3 (RESET/OE) | Reset (active Low) / Output Enable (active High) | Low resets address counter and tri-states DATA; polarity programmable for Altera FLEX compatibility |
| 4 (nCS) | Chip select input (active Low) | Enables DATA output and counter increment; High forces standby mode (<100 µA); determines master/slave role in cascade |
| 5 (GND) | Ground reference | 0 V reference plane; requires 0.2 µF decoupling capacitor between VCC and GND per datasheet recommendation |
| 6 (nCASC) | Cascade select output (active Low) | Goes Low when address counter reaches max; connects to nCS of next device in daisy-chain |
| 7 (A2) | Device selection input | Used during programming (SER_EN = Low); internal pull-down resistor ensures default disable |
| 8 (SER_EN) | Serial enable input | Must be High during FPGA loading; Low enables 2-wire ISP mode; tied to VCC for non-ISP operation |
| 9 (DATA) | Three-state bi-directional I/O | Configuration data output to FPGA DIN; open-collector for programming; tri-stated when RESET/OE or nCS inactive |
| 10 (VCC) | Power supply | Accepts 3.3V ±10% or 5.0V ±5%; internal charge pump generates programming voltages - no external super-Vcc needed |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| In-system programmability (ISP) | 2-wire serial interface (SER_EN + DATA) enables field reprogramming without socket removal or UV erasure |
| Cascadable architecture | nCASC output directly drives nCS of next device, enabling seamless expansion beyond 256 Kbit using multiple AT17LV256A-10JC units |
| Programmable reset polarity | User-configurable RESET/OE logic polarity ensures native compatibility with Altera FLEX FPGA reset timing requirements |
| Low-power standby | <100 µA ICCS at 3.3V (industrial) reduces system power budget during idle or sleep states |
| EEPROM process reliability | 100,000 write cycles and 90-year data retention at 85°C meet industrial-grade lifecycle expectations |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Configuration | FPGA-Based Motor Control |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Reconfigurable logic in programmable logic controllers requiring field-upgradable firmware and robust bitstream storage. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serial configuration EEPROM providing deterministic, single-clock-cycle-per-bit loading to Altera FLEX10K FPGA upon power-up. Use Value: Eliminates need for external microcontroller or JTAG controller; 90-year data retention ensures decades of unattended operation in factory-floor environments. | Use Scenario: Real-time motor drive systems using SRAM-based FPGAs for PWM generation and closed-loop feedback processing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Master serial configurator delivering bitstream to FPGA at up to 10 MHz, synchronized to DCLK generated by FPGA or external source. Use Value: Cascading support (nCASC→nCS) enables multi-FPGA coordination; WP pin prevents accidental overwrite of critical startup code during runtime diagnostics. |
| Avionics Reconfigurable Computing | Test Equipment FPGA Platform |
Use Scenario: DO-254-compliant airborne systems using FPGAs for signal processing, where configuration integrity must survive extended thermal cycling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Industrial-grade (–40°C to +85°C) configuration memory with programmable reset polarity aligned to FPGA boot sequence. Use Value: 100,000 write cycles support in-flight reconfiguration; 85°C retention spec validated for avionics enclosure temperatures without derating. | Use Scenario: Automated test equipment (ATE) with FPGA-based pattern generators requiring fast, reliable bitstream reload between test sequences. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standby-mode enabled (nCS = High) reduces power draw between tests; SER_EN-controlled ISP allows remote firmware updates over Ethernet-connected host. Use Value: <100 µA standby current minimizes thermal drift in precision analog test fixtures; PLCC-20 package ensures mechanical stability under repeated thermal cycling. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar FPGA configuration memory applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT17LV256A-10JI | Same 256-Kbit density and PLCC-20 package, but rated for –40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range | Required for deployments outside commercial 0°C–70°C ambient; identical pinout and timing | Select AT17LV256A-10JI when operating in extended temperature environments such as outdoor telecom or automotive under-hood applications. |
| AT17LV512A-10JC | 512-Kbit capacity (2× density), same 3.3V/5V supply, PLCC-20 package, and cascading interface | Supports larger FPGAs (e.g., Altera APEX20K) or dual-FPGA configurations without cascading hardware | Choose AT17LV512A-10JC when future-proofing for higher-density FPGA upgrades or eliminating daisy-chain complexity in space-constrained layouts. |
Compared with AT17LV256A-10JC, AT17LV256A-10JI offers identical functionality with extended temperature qualification, while AT17LV512A-10JC doubles memory capacity within the same footprint - both preserve pin compatibility and require no PCB changes.
Availability
AT17LV256A-10JC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC configuration, FPGA-based motor control, avionics reconfigurable computing, and automated test equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.
Supply support for AT17LV256A-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
Microchip Technology acquired Atmel in 2016 and maintains full support for legacy Atmel programmable logic configuration products including the AT17LV series.
The AT17LV family was designed specifically to provide cost-effective, pin-compatible, nonvolatile configuration memory for Altera, Xilinx, and Lucent SRAM-based FPGAs - emphasizing ease of integration, industrial reliability, and in-system reprogrammability.
FAQ
What is the primary function of the AT17LV256A-10JC in an FPGA system?
The AT17LV256A-10JC serves as a serial configuration EEPROM that stores and loads bitstream data into SRAM-based FPGAs such as Altera FLEX® and APEX™ devices during power-up or reset. It eliminates the need for external controllers by interfacing directly with FPGA control signals (DCLK, nCS, RESET/OE) and supports master-serial mode operation. The AT17LV256A-10JC delivers deterministic, single-bit-per-clock configuration with built-in oscillator and tri-state DATA output.
Does the AT17LV256A-10JC support in-system programming (ISP), and how is it enabled?
Yes, the AT17LV256A-10JC supports 2-wire in-system programming via the SER_EN and DATA pins. ISP is activated by pulling SER_EN Low while applying appropriate VCC (3.3V or 5V); no external programming voltage is required because internal charge pumps generate necessary programming voltages. The AT17LV256A-10JC remains fully functional in FPGA configuration mode when SER_EN is held High, making it suitable for both production programming and field updates.
What package type and pin count does the AT17LV256A-10JC use, and is it compatible with other AT17LV devices?
The AT17LV256A-10JC uses a 20-lead Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) package, compliant with JEDEC MS-018, Variation AA. It shares identical pinout and signal mapping with AT17LV65A-10JC and AT17LV128A-10JC in the same PLCC-20 variant, enabling drop-in replacement within the same density tier. However, AT17LV512A-10JC and higher-density variants retain PLCC-20 compatibility but add functional differences like READY and WP1 pins not present on AT17LV256A-10JC.
How does the AT17LV256A-10JC handle power supply variations, and what are its voltage tolerance specifications?
The AT17LV256A-10JC supports dual supply operation: 3.3V ±10% (i.e., 2.97V–3.63V) and 5.0V ±5% for commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C). It tolerates transient excursions per Absolute Maximum Ratings (–0.1V to VCC+0.5V), and internal regulation ensures stable EEPROM programming and read operations across the full specified range. The AT17LV256A-10JC draws ≤5 mA active current at 3.3V and <100 µA in standby, minimizing regulator load and thermal impact.
Can multiple AT17LV256A-10JC devices be cascaded, and what is required to implement daisy-chaining?
Yes, AT17LV256A-10JC devices support hardware cascading via the nCASC and nCS pins. When the first device completes transmission, its nCASC pin goes Low, enabling the nCS input of the second AT17LV256A-10JC and initiating its data output. All devices share the same DCLK and DATA lines. No additional logic or glue components are needed - the AT17LV256A-10JC nCASC output is electrically and timing-compatible with the nCS input of another AT17LV256A-10JC, preserving signal integrity across the chain.
AT17LV256A-10JC Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 20-LCC (J-Lead)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Programmable Type:
- Serial EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 256Kb
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 3.6V, 4.75V ~ 5.25V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 20-PLCC (9x9)
AT17LV256A-10JC FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT17LV256A-10JC through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT17LV256A-10JC on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for AT17LV256A-10JC reliable?
The price and inventory of AT17LV256A-10JC are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT17LV256A-10JC is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT17LV256A-10JC?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT17LV256A-10JC transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT17LV256A-10JC?
AT17LV256A-10JC orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT17LV256A-10JC order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for AT17LV256A-10JC?
For technical support, including AT17LV256A-10JC datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT17LV256A-10JC requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT17LV256A-10JC is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT17LV256A-10JC products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that AT17LV256A-10JC meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT17LV256A-10JC?
All AT17LV256A-10JC units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT17LV256A-10JC, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The AT17LV256A-10JC part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT17LV256A-10JC:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
AT17LV256A-10JC Tags

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EPCQ4ASI8N
Intel

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Microchip Technology

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EPCQ64ASI16N
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EPCQ128ASI16N
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AT17LV512A-10JU
Microchip Technology

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AT17LV512-10JU
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