Microchip Technology AT17N256-10PC

Overview

AT17N256-10PC from Atmel is a 256-Kbit (262,144 × 1-bit) serial EEPROM FPGA configuration memory operating at 3.3V ±10%, designed for Master Serial mode loading of Xilinx Spartan-II, Spartan-IIE, and Spartan XL FPGAs. It features pin compatibility with XC17SXXXA/L PROMs, low-power standby current (<50 µA), and 20-year data retention at 85°C.

For engineers reviewing the AT17N256-10PC datasheet, AT17N256-10PC pinout, AT17N256-10PC application, or AT17N256-10PC equivalent, key selection criteria include serial interface timing (FMAX = 10 MHz), CE/RESET/OE control logic, 8-lead PDIP package compatibility, and industrial-grade reliability metrics including 10 write cycles endurance.

Technical Context

The AT17N256-10PC implements a simple serial-access architecture where the FPGA's CCLK drives the EEPROM's CLK input, and DATA is driven unidirectionally from EEPROM to FPGA DIN. SER_EN must be tied high during configuration, enabling standard Master Serial operation without external controllers.

It supports two operational modes: normal configuration mode (SER_EN = VCC) and Two-Wire ISP programming mode (SER_EN = low). In standby mode (CE = high), power consumption drops below 50 µA, and internal address counters reset on RESET/OE low pulse or power-up.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT17N256-10PC is packaged in an 8-lead PDIP (package code 8P3), with pins arranged in dual-inline format measuring 0.365" wide × 0.310" body width. Thermal resistance θJA is 107°C/W, suitable for through-hole mounting on standard PCBs without forced airflow.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT17N256-10PC, AT17LV256-10CU offers higher clock rate and broader supply range but mandates TQFP layout changes, while XC17S100A provides identical footprint and interface but lacks reprogrammability and endurance - making AT17N256-10PC optimal for field-upgradable commercial systems requiring PDIP compatibility.

Availability

AT17N256-10PC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, FPGA-based test equipment, and legacy control system retrofits requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and through-hole manufacturing compatibility.

Supply support for AT17N256-10PC 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.

The AT17N series was designed specifically for reliable, low-cost serial configuration of Xilinx SRAM-based FPGAs in commercial and industrial environments - emphasizing pin compatibility, EEPROM endurance, and seamless Master Serial integration.

FAQ

What is the function of the SER_EN pin on the AT17N256-10PC?

The SER_EN pin on the AT17N256-10PC controls operational mode: when held high (tied to VCC), it enables standard FPGA configuration in Master Serial mode; when pulled low, it activates Two-Wire In-System Programming (ISP) mode. During normal operation, SER_EN must remain high to ensure correct DATA output timing and address counter behavior - misconfiguring this pin will prevent successful FPGA configuration.

Is the AT17N256-10PC pin-compatible with Xilinx XC17S100A PROMs?

Yes, the AT17N256-10PC is explicitly pin-compatible with Xilinx XC17SXXXA and XC17SXXXXL PROMs, including the XC17S100A, sharing identical 8-lead PDIP pinout, signal names (DATA, CLK, RESET/OE, CE), and electrical interface timing. This allows direct replacement without PCB modification, preserving legacy board designs while upgrading to reprogrammable EEPROM technology in the AT17N256-10PC.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the AT17N256-10PC?

The AT17N256-10PC supports a maximum clock frequency (FMAX) of 10 MHz in commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C), as specified in its AC characteristics table. This defines the upper limit for CCLK-driven configuration speed when interfacing with Xilinx Spartan-II, Spartan-IIE, or Spartan XL FPGAs in Master Serial mode - exceeding this frequency may result in read errors or failed configuration.

Does the AT17N256-10PC support in-system programming (ISP)?

Yes, the AT17N256-10PC supports Two-Wire In-System Programming via the SER_EN pin: pulling SER_EN low enters ISP mode, enabling field reprogramming without socket removal. Programming occurs at standard VCC (3.3V); no external high-voltage supply is required, as internal charge pumps generate necessary programming voltages - a key advantage over OTP PROM alternatives like XC17S100A.

What is the data retention specification for the AT17N256-10PC?

The AT17N256-10PC guarantees 20 years of data retention at 85°C, verified under accelerated life testing per industry standards. This specification applies to stored FPGA configuration bitstreams and ensures long-term reliability in thermally stressed environments such as enclosed industrial enclosures or unventilated control cabinets - critical for applications where field replacement is costly or impractical.