Microchip Technology AT29C020-12PC
- Part No.:
- AT29C020-12PC
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 32-DIP (0.600", 15.24mm)
- Datasheet:
-
AT29C020-12PC.pdf
- Description:
- IC FLASH 2MBIT PARALLEL 32DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,235
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Product details
Overview
AT29C020-12PC from Atmel is a 2-megabit (256K × 8) 5-volt-only Flash memory IC organized as 262,144 bytes, featuring 70 ns read access time, sector-based reprogramming with 1024 × 256-byte sectors, and hardware/software data protection. It supports in-system programming for embedded boot code storage in industrial controllers and legacy BIOS modules.
For engineers reviewing the AT29C020-12PC datasheet, AT29C020-12PC pinout, AT29C020-12PC application, or AT29C020-12PC equivalent, key selection considerations include its 120 ns maximum tACC timing grade, PLCC-32 package compatibility, boot block lockout capability for secure firmware partitioning, and CMOS/TTL I/O compatibility in commercial temperature range (0°C to 70°C).
Technical Context
The AT29C020-12PC implements sector-erase-and-program architecture with internal latching of 256-byte sectors and automatic erase-before-write sequencing controlled by an on-chip timer. Its dual-line chip enable (CE) and output enable (OE) control enables bus contention avoidance in shared-memory systems.
It supports three distinct operational modes: standard read (CE/OE low, WE high), byte-load programming (WE or CE pulse with OE high), and software-controlled protection via 3-byte command sequences at addresses 5555H/2AAAH. Toggle-bit (I/O6) and DATA polling (I/O7) provide real-time program cycle status without external timing dependencies.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Density | 2 Mbit (262,144 × 8), enabling full BIOS or bootloader storage in single-package footprint |
| Read Access Time (tACC) | 120 ns max - defines minimum clock-to-data latency in microcontroller memory interfaces |
| Sector Size & Count | 256 bytes × 1024 sectors - allows granular firmware updates without full-chip erase |
| Program Cycle Time | 10 ms per sector - determines worst-case firmware patch duration during field upgrades |
| VCC Supply | 5 V ±10% - eliminates need for dedicated programming voltage rails in system design |
| Endurance | >10,000 write/erase cycles per sector - supports long-term field maintenance of configuration data |
| Standby Current | 100 µA (CMOS) - enables low-power retention in battery-backed embedded systems |
Pinout & Package
AT29C020-12PC uses a 32-pin Plastic Dual Inline Package (PDIP), 0.600" wide (32P6), with 0.100" lead pitch and through-hole mounting. Package dimensions: 41.8–42.3 mm length × 15.2–15.9 mm width × 4.8 mm max height.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A0–A17 | Address Inputs | 18-bit address bus supporting full 256K-byte addressing; A0–A7 select byte within sector during programming |
| I/O0–I/O7 | Bidirectional Data Bus | 8-bit parallel interface; I/O7 used for DATA polling, I/O6 for toggle-bit status monitoring |
| CE | Chip Enable | Active-low global device select; must be low for read/write; high forces outputs to high-Z |
| OE | Output Enable | Active-low read control; used with CE to prevent bus contention during multi-device sharing |
| WE | Write Enable | Active-low programming control; falling edge latches address/data during byte load sequences |
| NC | No Connect | Pin 1 (DIP top view) is unconnected - must remain floating or grounded per layout guidelines |
| VCC | Power Supply | +5 V ±10% main supply; powers core logic and I/O buffers; requires local 0.1 µF decoupling |
| GND | Ground Reference | Signal and power return path; separate ground plane recommended for noise-sensitive applications |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Two 8K-byte Boot Blocks with Independent Lockout | Enables secure storage of startup code in first/last 8K bytes; lockout prevents accidental overwrite during field updates |
| Hardware Data Protection | VCC sense (inhibit below 3.8 V), 5 ms power-on delay, and noise filtering (<15 ns pulses rejected) prevent spurious writes |
| Software Data Protection | Three-command sequence (5555H/2AAAH/A0H) enables/disables write access - survives power cycles |
| DATA Polling & Toggle Bit | I/O7 complement detection and I/O6 toggling provide asynchronous, bus-compatible program completion signaling |
| Single-Cycle Sector Reprogram | Internal erase-and-program automation eliminates external timing control - simplifies host firmware |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Firmware Storage | Legacy PC BIOS Retention |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing ladder logic firmware and configuration parameters in programmable logic controllers deployed in factory automation environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile program memory mapped into microcontroller address space; accessed via parallel bus with 120 ns tACC timing constraint. Use Value: Sector-level erasure enables incremental firmware patches without disrupting runtime control logic stored in adjacent sectors. | Use Scenario: Maintaining BIOS code in desktop motherboards where backward compatibility with ISA-based expansion cards requires fixed memory mapping. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: EPROM-replacement boot ROM with identical pinout and read protocol; operates at 5 V only with TTL/CMOS-compatible signaling. Use Value: Two independent 8K boot blocks allow separation of POST routines (lower block) and setup utility (upper block), each protected individually against corruption. |
| Embedded Network Router Bootloader | Medical Device Configuration Archive |
Use Scenario: Hosting primary bootloader code in network infrastructure equipment requiring secure, field-upgradable firmware with tamper resistance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-stage execution memory accessed during power-on reset; relies on hardware data protection to prevent glitch-induced corruption. Use Value: Software data protection mode (enabled via 3-byte command) ensures bootloader integrity across uncontrolled power cycles and ESD events. | Use Scenario: Archiving calibration coefficients, sensor compensation tables, and regulatory compliance logs in Class II medical instruments with long service life. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parameter storage memory interfaced to microcontroller via parallel bus; endurance >10,000 cycles supports lifetime recalibration events. Use Value: 100 µA CMOS standby current enables battery-backed retention for >10 years without refresh in portable diagnostic tools. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Flash memory applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AM29LV020-120EC | 3 V core with 5 V I/O tolerance; 120 ns tACC; 2 Mbit density; no boot block lockout | Lacks dedicated boot block protection; requires level-shifting in pure 5 V systems | Choose when migrating to lower-voltage systems or when boot block security is not required |
| MX29LV020TC-12V | 3 V operation only; 120 ns tACC; 2 Mbit; includes CFI query support; no hardware VCC sense | Requires external voltage regulator; lacks Atmel's VCC-sense programming inhibit | Prefer for new designs needing industry-standard CFI interface and broader vendor support |
Compared with AT29C020-12PC, AM29LV020-120EC offers voltage flexibility but sacrifices boot block security, while MX29LV020TC-12V provides CFI compliance at the cost of 5 V-only simplicity and hardware write protection - making AT29C020-12PC optimal for legacy 5 V systems requiring robust, self-contained firmware protection.
Availability
AT29C020-12PC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC firmware storage, legacy PC BIOS retention, and embedded network router bootloader applications requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for AT29C020-12PC 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, specialized in nonvolatile memory and microcontroller solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets before its 2016 acquisition.
The AT29C020-12PC belongs to Atmel's 5-volt Flash memory product line, designed specifically for drop-in EPROM replacement in legacy systems requiring in-system reprogrammability without high-voltage programming circuitry.
FAQ
What is the maximum operating temperature range for the AT29C020-12PC?
The AT29C020-12PC is rated for commercial temperature operation from 0°C to 70°C. This is confirmed in the Ordering Information table, where the "-12PC" suffix explicitly denotes the Plastic DIP package with commercial temperature range. Industrial-grade variants (e.g., AT29C020-12PI) support -40°C to +85°C, but the -12PC variant does not.
Does the AT29C020-12PC require external high-voltage programming signals?
No, the AT29C020-12PC does not require external high-voltage programming signals. It operates with 5 V ±10% only for both read and program operations. Hardware protection features - including VCC sensing below 3.8 V and a 5 ms power-on delay - ensure programming is inhibited unless stable 5 V is present, eliminating the need for dedicated VPP pins or charge pumps.
How many sectors does the AT29C020-12PC contain, and what is the size of each sector?
The AT29C020-12PC contains 1024 sectors, each 256 bytes in size. This is explicitly stated in the Features section and confirmed in the Description: "1024 Sectors (256 Bytes/Sector)" and "2 megabits of memory is organized as 262,144 bytes" (262,144 ÷ 256 = 1024). Sector addressing uses A8–A17, while A0–A7 select the byte within the sector.
Can the boot block lockout feature be disabled after it is enabled on the AT29C020-12PC?
No, the boot block lockout feature cannot be disabled once activated on the AT29C020-12PC. The datasheet states: "Once the programming lockout feature has been activated, the data in that block can no longer be erased or programmed." There is no documented algorithm to reverse the lockout; it is a one-time, irreversible hardware-enforced protection mechanism for firmware integrity.
What package type is used for the AT29C020-12PC, and how is it identified in the ordering code?
The AT29C020-12PC uses a 32-pin Plastic Dual Inline Package (PDIP), 0.600" wide, designated as package code "32P6". This is confirmed in the Ordering Information table, where "AT29C020-12PC" maps to package "32P6", and the Packaging Information section provides mechanical drawings labeled "32P6 – PDIP". The "-PC" suffix directly indicates Plastic DIP packaging.
AT29C020-12PC Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 32-DIP (0.600", 15.24mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- FLASH
- Technology:
- FLASH
- Memory Size:
- 2Mbit
- Memory Organization:
- 256K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- Parallel
- Clock Frequency:
- -
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 10ms
- Access Time:
- 120 ns
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TC)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-PDIP
AT29C020-12PC FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT29C020-12PC through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT29C020-12PC 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 AT29C020-12PC reliable?
The price and inventory of AT29C020-12PC are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT29C020-12PC is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT29C020-12PC?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT29C020-12PC transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT29C020-12PC?
AT29C020-12PC orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT29C020-12PC 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 AT29C020-12PC?
For technical support, including AT29C020-12PC datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT29C020-12PC requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT29C020-12PC is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT29C020-12PC 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 AT29C020-12PC meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT29C020-12PC?
All AT29C020-12PC units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT29C020-12PC, 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 AT29C020-12PC part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT29C020-12PC:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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