Microchip Technology AT17LV65-10NC

Overview

AT17LV65-10NC from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 64-Kbit serial EEPROM FPGA configuration memory designed for master-serial mode loading of SRAM-based FPGAs. It supports dual-voltage operation (3.3V ±10% or 5.0V ±5%/±10%), features in-system programmability via two-wire bus, and delivers 10 MHz max clock frequency at 3.3V. Its primary role is nonvolatile storage and sequential delivery of bitstream data to Xilinx XC3000/XC4000/Spartan, Altera FLEX/APEX, and Atmel AT40K/AT94K devices.

For engineers reviewing the AT17LV65-10NC datasheet, AT17LV65-10NC pinout, AT17LV65-10NC application, or AT17LV65-10NC equivalent, key selection considerations include its 8-lead SOIC package compatibility, RESET/OE polarity programmability, low-power standby current (<50 µA at 3.3V), cascading limitations (no CEO pin), and support for industry-standard FPGA master-serial boot protocols.

Technical Context

The AT17LV65-10NC implements a simple serial-access configuration controller with an internal address counter driven by FPGA-provided CCLK. Its RESET/OE pin serves dual functions-active-Low reset and active-High output enable-with programmable polarity stored in EEPROM. The device operates without external intelligence: FPGA directly controls CE, CLK, and RESET/OE to sequence configuration data delivery.

It lacks CEO (Chip Enable Output) and READY pins, distinguishing it from higher-density AT17LV variants. Standby mode is entered when CE is high, reducing ICCS to <50 µA (3.3V commercial). Programming occurs only in SER_EN-low two-wire mode, using on-chip charge pumps-no external super-voltage required.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT17LV65-10NC is supplied in an 8-lead plastic gull-wing small-outline IC (SOIC) package per JEDEC MS-012, 0.150" wide body, with 1.27 mm lead pitch. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or notch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with XC18V02 and AT17LV128-10NC, the AT17LV65-10NC uniquely balances minimal footprint, dual-voltage flexibility, and proven compatibility with legacy 5V FPGA platforms-making it the preferred choice for cost-optimized, single-FPGA industrial designs where 64-Kbit capacity suffices.

Availability

AT17LV65-10NC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, FPGA-based test equipment, and telecom infrastructure requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for AT17LV65-10NC 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 continues to manufacture and support the AT17LV series as part of its broad FPGA configuration and nonvolatile memory portfolio.

The AT17LV series was originally developed by Atmel to provide cost-effective, pin-compatible configuration memory for SRAM-based FPGAs across Xilinx, Altera, and Atmel's own FPGA families-emphasizing ease of integration, low power, and field-programmability.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the AT17LV65-10NC during FPGA configuration?

The AT17LV65-10NC supports a maximum clock frequency of 10 MHz when operating at 3.3V (±10%) and 12.5 MHz at 5.0V (±5% commercial). This timing aligns with standard CCLK requirements for Xilinx XC4000 and Spartan families, ensuring reliable bitstream delivery without setup/hold violations. The AT17LV65-10NC datasheet specifies TCAC (CLK to Data Delay) at 75 ns (3.3V commercial), confirming robust timing margins.

Does the AT17LV65-10NC support cascading with other configuration EEPROMs?

No, the AT17LV65-10NC does not support cascading because it lacks the CEO (Chip Enable Output) pin-explicitly noted in the datasheet as "not available on the AT17LV65 device." Cascading requires CEO to drive the CE input of the next device in the chain, a feature present only in AT17LV512 and higher-density variants. For multi-FPGA or extended-memory applications, the AT17LV128-10NC or AT17LV256-10NC must be selected instead of the AT17LV65-10NC.

Can the AT17LV65-10NC be programmed in-circuit without removing it from the PCB?

Yes, the AT17LV65-10NC supports in-system programming (ISP) via its two-wire serial interface. By pulling SER_EN low, the device enters ISP mode and accepts programming commands through the DATA and CLK pins. This capability allows field updates of FPGA configuration bitstreams without socket removal or dedicated programming fixtures-enabling remote firmware revisions and manufacturing flexibility for the AT17LV65-10NC.

What is the purpose of the RESET/OE pin on the AT17LV65-10NC, and how is its polarity configured?

The RESET/OE pin on the AT17LV65-10NC serves dual roles: active-Low reset (to clear the internal address counter) and active-High output enable (to activate the DATA pin driver). Its logic polarity is user-programmable via four EEPROM bytes-allowing configuration as either RESET-active-Low/OE-active-High or RESET-active-High/OE-active-Low. This programmability ensures seamless interface with diverse FPGA families (e.g., Xilinx vs. Altera) without external logic, and is a core feature of the AT17LV65-10NC design.

Is the AT17LV65-10NC compatible with both 3.3V and 5.0V FPGA systems?

Yes, the AT17LV65-10NC is explicitly rated for dual-voltage operation: 3.3V ±10% and 5.0V ±5% (commercial) or ±10% (industrial). Its VIH/VIL thresholds (2.0V min / 0.8V max) and VOH/VOL levels are specified across both rails, enabling direct connection to 3.3V FPGAs (e.g., Spartan-3) and legacy 5V FPGAs (e.g., XC4000E) without level shifters. This dual-rail support is a defining characteristic of the AT17LV65-10NC and distinguishes it from single-voltage alternatives.