Microchip Technology AT28C16-15TC

Overview

AT28C16-15TC from Atmel is a 16 Kbit (2K × 8) parallel EEPROM with 5-V-only operation, 150 ns access time, and TSOP-28 package. It functions as nonvolatile attribute memory for PCMCIA systems, supports SRAM-like byte writes with self-timed 1 ms write cycles, and delivers 100,000 write endurance and 10-year data retention.

For engineers reviewing the AT28C16-15TC datasheet, AT28C16-15TC pinout, AT28C16-15TC application, or AT28C16-15TC equivalent, key selection criteria include its 150 ns read timing, RDY/BUSY and DATA polling end-of-write detection, 5 V ±10% supply compatibility, commercial temperature range (0°C to 70°C), and TSOP-28 footprint for compact card-based designs.

Technical Context

The AT28C16-15TC implements a parallel interface with CE/OE/WE control logic enabling SRAM-compatible read/write timing. Its internal address and data latching eliminates external bus controllers, and the open-drain RDY/BUSY output supports interrupt-driven write completion signaling across multi-device buses.

Write protection relies on VCC sensing (<3.8 V inhibits writes), 5 ms power-on delay, and triple-input inhibit (OE high, CE high, or WE high). Chip Clear (12 V on OE) and Device ID (12 V on A9, addresses 7E0H–7FFH) are implemented via voltage-boosted control pins-distinct from standard TTL-level operation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT28C16-15TC is housed in a 28-lead Plastic Thin Small Outline Package (TSOP), 8.10 mm × 13.7 mm body size, 0.55 mm lead pitch, compliant with JEDEC MO-153.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar parallel EEPROM applications.

Compared with AT28C16-15JC and MN65E16F-15, the AT28C16-15TC uniquely combines TSOP-28 surface-mount compatibility, hardware-ready signaling, and 12 V–enabled extended functions-making it optimal for space-constrained, interrupt-driven PCMCIA and embedded card applications.

Availability

AT28C16-15TC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PCMCIA card design, industrial control configuration storage, and legacy ISA bus expansion modules requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence planning, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for AT28C16-15TC 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) was a fabless semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, nonvolatile memory, and wireless solutions for embedded systems.

The AT28C16 series was designed specifically for PCMCIA attribute memory applications, delivering 5-V-only parallel EEPROM functionality with SRAM-like ease of use and robust write protection for portable and industrial card-based systems.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the AT28C16-15TC?

The AT28C16-15TC is rated for commercial operation from 0°C to 70°C. This range is validated per the manufacturer's DC and AC specifications and aligns with PCMCIA Type I/II environmental requirements for consumer and office equipment. The "C" suffix in AT28C16-15TC explicitly denotes this commercial temperature grade, distinct from the industrial-grade AT28C16-15TI (-40°C to +85°C).

Does the AT28C16-15TC require a high-voltage programming supply?

No, the AT28C16-15TC performs all standard byte writes using only a 5 V ±10% supply-no external high-voltage generator is needed. However, two advanced functions-Chip Clear and Device Identification-require 12.0 V ±0.5 V applied to OE or A9 respectively. These are optional features; normal read/write operations function entirely at 5 V.

How does write completion detection work on the AT28C16-15TC?

The AT28C16-15TC provides two independent methods: RDY/BUSY pin (open-drain, active-low signal) and DATA polling on I/O7. During a write, I/O7 toggles to the complement of the written data; when true data appears, the write is complete. RDY/BUSY goes high upon completion and supports wired-OR interrupt sharing across multiple devices.

What package type is used for the AT28C16-15TC?

The AT28C16-15TC uses a 28-lead Plastic Thin Small Outline Package (TSOP), designated as package code "28T". Its dimensions are 8.10 mm × 13.7 mm with 0.55 mm lead pitch, conforming to JEDEC MO-153. This surface-mount package is optimized for PCMCIA card density and automated assembly.

Can the AT28C16-15TC be used as a direct replacement for standard SRAM in existing designs?

No-the AT28C16-15TC is not a drop-in SRAM replacement. While its read interface mimics SRAM timing, write operations are self-timed (1 ms) and require explicit WE/CE/OE handshaking plus end-of-write detection. Unlike SRAM, it retains data without power but cannot support concurrent read/write or random-access write bursts.