Microchip Technology AT17LV512A-10JC

Overview

AT17LV512A-10JC from Atmel is a 512-kbit (524,288 × 1-bit) serial EEPROM FPGA configuration memory designed for Altera FLEX® and APEX™ FPGAs, operating at 3.3V ±10% or 5.0V ±5% (commercial), featuring in-system programmability via 2-wire bus, programmable reset polarity, and cascading support for multi-device configurations in industrial control and telecom infrastructure.

For engineers reviewing the AT17LV512A-10JC datasheet, AT17LV512A-10JC pinout, AT17LV512A-10JC application, or AT17LV512A-10JC equivalent, key selection criteria include its 20-lead PLCC package, 15 MHz max clock frequency (3.3V), 100,000 write cycles endurance, 90-year data retention at 85°C, and compatibility with Altera EPC1441 replacement requirements.

Technical Context

The AT17LV512A-10JC implements a serial master-configuration interface for SRAM-based FPGAs, using DCLK-driven address counting and tri-state DATA output synchronized to nCS and RESET/OE control signals. Its internal oscillator enables autonomous configuration without external timing sources.

It supports daisy-chained cascading via nCASC output driving the nCS of subsequent devices, and includes SER_EN-gated 2-wire ISP mode with on-chip voltage boosting-no external programming voltage required. WP1 input provides block-level write protection during programming only.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT17LV512A-10JC is supplied in a 20-lead Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) package, compliant with JEDEC MS-018 Variation AA, with 9.78 mm × 9.78 mm body size, 1.27 mm lead pitch, and 0.10 mm max coplanarity.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with Altera EPC1441 and Xilinx XC18V02, the AT17LV512A-10JC delivers unique value through integrated 2-wire ISP, cascading support, and dual-voltage operation-enabling single-part logistics across heterogeneous FPGA designs while reducing BOM count and PCB footprint.

Availability

AT17LV512A-10JC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC configuration, telecom baseband processing, avionics data acquisition, medical imaging controller, and FPGA-based test equipment requiring stable component supply across extended lifecycle programs.

Supply support for AT17LV512A-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 programmable logic solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The AT17LV512A-10JC belongs to Atmel's AT17LV series of FPGA configuration EEPROMs, engineered specifically to replace parallel PROMs with serial, low-pin-count, in-system programmable alternatives for Altera and Xilinx SRAM-FPGA platforms.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AT17LV512A-10JC in an FPGA-based system?

The AT17LV512A-10JC serves as a serial configuration memory that stores and loads the bitstream into SRAM-based FPGAs such as Altera FLEX® and Xilinx Spartan® devices upon power-up. It operates in master-serial mode, using DCLK from the FPGA to drive sequential data output on the DATA line, eliminating the need for an external controller. Its 512-kbit capacity supports medium-complexity FPGA configurations, and the AT17LV512A-10JC integrates features like programmable reset polarity and cascading to ensure robust, flexible deployment.

Does the AT17LV512A-10JC support in-system programming (ISP), and how is it implemented?

Yes, the AT17LV512A-10JC supports in-system programming via a 2-wire serial interface activated when SER_EN is pulled low. During ISP, the device generates internal programming voltages-no external high-voltage source is required. The WP1 pin enables optional block-level write protection, and A2 allows device selection in multi-device programming setups. This capability enables field firmware updates without removing the AT17LV512A-10JC from the board, simplifying maintenance and reducing downtime in deployed systems.

Which FPGA families are explicitly compatible with the AT17LV512A-10JC according to official documentation?

Per Atmel's datasheet, the AT17LV512A-10JC is confirmed compatible with Altera FLEX® and APEX™ FPGAs, Xilinx XC3000™, XC4000™, XC5200™, Spartan®, and Virtex® families, Lucent ORCA® FPGAs, and Motorola MPA1000 devices. Compatibility is achieved through direct pin mapping (e.g., DCLK, nCS, RESET/OE) and protocol alignment with master-serial configuration modes. The AT17LV512A-10JC also emulates AT24CXXX EEPROMs, enabling reuse of existing I²C infrastructure where applicable.

How does the cascading feature of the AT17LV512A-10JC work in multi-FPGA systems?

The AT17LV512A-10JC uses its nCASC output to enable daisy-chained configuration: when the internal address counter reaches its maximum value, nCASC asserts low, disabling the current device's DATA driver and signaling the next AT17LV512A-10JC (or compatible device) in the chain via its nCS input. This automatic handoff permits seamless expansion beyond 512 kbit-e.g., two AT17LV512A-10JC units deliver 1 Mbit total capacity. No FPGA firmware changes or external logic are needed, and the AT17LV512A-10JC maintains full timing compliance throughout the cascade.

What are the thermal and reliability specifications critical for industrial deployment of the AT17LV512A-10JC?

The AT17LV512A-10JC is rated for industrial operation from –40°C to +85°C, with 90 years of data retention at 85°C and 100,000 write/erase cycles-validated per JEDEC standards. Its PLCC package exhibits θJA = 90°C/W, supporting passive cooling in enclosed enclosures. The device meets 2000 V HBM ESD rating and operates reliably under 100 µA standby current at 3.3 V, making the AT17LV512A-10JC suitable for fanless industrial PCs, remote telemetry units, and other thermally constrained environments where long-term unattended operation is required.