Microchip Technology AT29C020-90PI
- Part No.:
- AT29C020-90PI
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 32-DIP (0.600", 15.24mm)
- Datasheet:
-
AT29C020-90PI.pdf
- Description:
- IC FLASH 2MBIT PARALLEL 32DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,227
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
AT29C020-90PI 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, 10 ms sector program cycle time, and hardware/software data protection. It operates across industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C) and supports in-system reprogramming without high-voltage programming supplies.
For engineers reviewing the AT29C020-90PI datasheet, AT29C020-90PI pinout, AT29C020-90PI application, or AT29C020-90PI equivalent, key selection considerations include its 32-pin PDIP package, sector-based 256-byte programming architecture, boot block lockout capability, DATA polling and TOGGLE bit end-of-program detection, and compatibility with standard EPROM read interfaces.
Technical Context
The AT29C020-90PI implements a sector-erase/program architecture where each of 1024 sectors (256 bytes each) is independently reprogrammable via single-cycle erase-and-program operations. Internal address and data latches hold the full 256-byte sector during programming, freeing the bus for concurrent operations.
It integrates dual protection mechanisms: hardware-level VCC sensing (inhibits programming below 3.8 V), noise filtering on WE/CE inputs (<15 ns pulses ignored), and software-controlled data protection requiring a three-byte command sequence (AAh/55h/A0h at specific addresses) before any sector program operation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Density | 2 Mbit (262,144 × 8), enabling firmware storage for embedded controllers and BIOS code |
| Read Access Time | 90 ns max - defines worst-case latency for instruction fetch or data read in timing-critical systems |
| Sector Program Time | 10 ms typical - determines minimum time between successive sector writes in firmware update routines |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V ±10% - eliminates need for dedicated programming voltage rails; compatible with legacy 5 V logic systems |
| Endurance | >10,000 program/erase cycles per sector - supports field-upgradable firmware with moderate update frequency |
| Standby Current | 100 µA (CMOS) - enables low-power retention in battery-backed or energy-sensitive applications |
| Operating Temperature | −40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial-grade embedded control and automotive body electronics |
| Boot Blocks | Two 8 KB blocks (first/last) with independent lockout - secures bootloader code against accidental overwrite |
Pinout & Package
AT29C020-90PI is supplied in a 32-pin Plastic Dual Inline Package (PDIP), 0.600" wide (package code 32P6), with through-hole mounting and industry-standard pin spacing (2.54 mm).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A0–A17 | Address Inputs | 18-bit address bus supporting full 262,144-byte addressing; A0–A7 select byte within sector, A8–A17 select sector |
| I/O0–I/O7 | Bidirectional Data Bus | 8-bit parallel interface for read data output or program data input; CMOS/TTL compatible |
| CE | Chip Enable | Active-low chip select; when high, device enters high-impedance standby mode (100 µA) |
| OE | Output Enable | Active-low output control; used with CE to prevent bus contention during reads |
| WE | Write Enable | Active-low control for byte load and sector program initiation; must be high during read operations |
| VCC | Power Supply | +5 V ±10% supply; powers core logic and I/O buffers; enables internal VCC-sense protection |
| GND | Ground Reference | Signal and power ground reference for all inputs, outputs, and internal circuitry |
| NC | No Connect | Pin 1 (DIP top view) is unconnected; no internal bonding or function |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Single 5 V Reprogramming | Eliminates need for external 12 V programming supplies, simplifying system power architecture and reducing BOM cost |
| DATA Polling & TOGGLE Bit | Enables real-time, non-blocking detection of program completion using I/O7 complement or I/O6 toggling - avoids fixed delays in firmware |
| Hardware Data Protection | VCC sense, 5 ms power-on delay, and noise filtering prevent spurious writes during power-up, brown-out, or EMI events |
| Software Data Protection | Three-byte unlock sequence (5555h/2AAAh/5555h) required before every program cycle - prevents accidental firmware corruption |
| Boot Block Lockout | Independent enable/disable of programming lock for first/last 8 KB - protects bootloader while allowing application updates elsewhere |
| Internal Sector Latching | 256-byte sector data and address are latched internally during program load - frees address/data bus for other tasks mid-program |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Firmware Storage | Embedded System Bootloader Memory |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing firmware and configuration data in programmable logic controllers deployed in factory automation environments with wide ambient temperature swings. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile code storage with direct EPROM-compatible read interface; provides deterministic 90 ns access for instruction fetch in real-time control loops. Use Value: Industrial temperature rating (−40°C to +85°C) and >10,000 endurance cycles ensure reliable firmware retention over 10+ years of continuous operation. | Use Scenario: Hosting secure bootloader code in microcontroller-based medical devices requiring verified startup sequences and field-upgradable application firmware. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Boot block-protected Flash memory holding immutable initialization code; accessed at power-on reset via standard address/data bus. Use Value: Independent 8 KB boot block lockout prevents corruption of critical startup routines while permitting updates to application partitions. |
| Legacy Industrial HMI Display Controller | Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) |
Use Scenario: Replacing obsolete EPROMs in human-machine interface displays used in heavy equipment, where board space and 5 V compatibility constrain redesign options. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Pin-compatible Flash replacement for 27C256-style EPROMs; supports identical read timing and bus interface signals (CE/OE/WE). Use Value: 90 ns access time and TTL/CMOS I/O compatibility allow drop-in substitution without timing or level-shifting modifications. | Use Scenario: Storing calibration tables and feature-enable flags in automotive BCMs subject to extended thermal cycling and vibration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Field-programmable nonvolatile memory for vehicle-specific configuration data; programmed during final assembly or dealer service. Use Value: Hardware VCC-sense and noise filtering ensure immunity to automotive electrical transients, preventing unintended writes during cranking or load dump. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Flash memory applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AM29LV020B-90EC | 3.3 V core with 5 V tolerant I/O; 90 ns access; 100,000 endurance cycles; requires VPP = 12 V for sector erase | Designed for mixed-voltage systems; not 5 V–only; higher endurance but needs extra voltage rail | Select if migrating to lower-power 3.3 V design and can accommodate VPP generation |
| MX29LV020C-90P | 3.3 V supply only; 90 ns access; 100,000 cycles; no VPP required; supports CFI query mode | Requires full 3.3 V system; lacks 5 V compatibility and hardware VCC-sense protection | Prefer for new 3.3 V designs needing higher endurance and standardized command sets |
Compared with AM29LV020B-90EC and MX29LV020C-90P, the AT29C020-90PI uniquely delivers true 5 V–only operation with integrated VCC-sense and noise filtering-critical for legacy industrial upgrades where voltage rail changes are prohibited and EMI robustness is mandatory.
Availability
AT29C020-90PI is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC firmware storage, embedded system bootloader memory, and legacy HMI display controller replacements requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.
Supply support for AT29C020-90PI 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, Flash memory, and secure authentication ICs.
The AT29C020-90PI belongs to Atmel's legacy 5 V Flash memory product line, designed specifically for industrial and automotive applications requiring in-system reprogrammability without high-voltage programming infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the AT29C020-90PI?
The AT29C020-90PI is rated for industrial temperature operation from −40°C to +85°C. This specification is confirmed in the "DC and AC Operating Range" table of the official Atmel datasheet (Rev. 0291N–FLASH–07/02), where the "-90PI" suffix explicitly denotes the industrial grade variant. Its performance parameters-including access time, standby current, and program timing-are guaranteed across this full range.
Does the AT29C020-90PI require a high-voltage programming supply?
No, the AT29C020-90PI does not require a high-voltage programming supply. As stated in the "Features" section and "Device Operation" description, it supports 5-volt-only reprogramming. All program and erase functions are executed using standard 5 V logic levels on CE, WE, and address/data lines-no external 12 V VPP rail is needed. This is a defining characteristic of the AT29C020-90PI versus older EPROM or UV-erasable devices.
How many sectors does the AT29C020-90PI have, and what is the size of each sector?
The AT29C020-90PI contains 1024 sectors, each 256 bytes in size. This is explicitly documented in the "Features" list and reinforced in the "Device Operation" section, which states that reprogramming occurs on a sector basis and that internal latches hold 256 bytes of data. The total memory capacity (262,144 bytes) divided by 256 bytes per sector confirms the 1024-sector count.
What methods are available to detect the end of a program cycle on the AT29C020-90PI?
The AT29C020-90PI provides two hardware-supported methods: DATA polling (monitoring complement-to-data state on I/O7) and TOGGLE bit detection (observing toggling on I/O6). Both are detailed in dedicated sections of the datasheet, including waveforms and timing specifications. These mechanisms eliminate the need for fixed software delays and enable efficient, event-driven firmware update routines for the AT29C020-90PI.
Can the boot blocks of the AT29C020-90PI be independently locked, and how is lockout verified?
Yes, the AT29C020-90PI features two independent 8 KB boot blocks (first and last 8 KB) with separately configurable programming lockout. Lockout status is verified via software product identification mode: reading address 00002H returns FEh if the lower boot block is unlocked or FFh if locked; reading 3FFF2H yields the same for the upper block. This verification method is specified in the "Boot Block Lockout Detection" section of the AT29C020-90PI datasheet.
AT29C020-90PI 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:
- 90 ns
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TC)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-PDIP
AT29C020-90PI FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT29C020-90PI through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT29C020-90PI 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 AT29C020-90PI reliable?
The price and inventory of AT29C020-90PI are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT29C020-90PI is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT29C020-90PI?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT29C020-90PI transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT29C020-90PI?
AT29C020-90PI orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT29C020-90PI 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 AT29C020-90PI?
For technical support, including AT29C020-90PI datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT29C020-90PI requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT29C020-90PI is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT29C020-90PI 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 AT29C020-90PI meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT29C020-90PI?
All AT29C020-90PI units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT29C020-90PI, 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 AT29C020-90PI part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT29C020-90PI:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
AT29C020-90PI Tags

-
M24C02-WMN6TP
STMicroelectronics
-
AT24C02C-XHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
AT21CS01-STUM10-T
Microchip Technology

-
AT24C02C-SSHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
24LC01BT-I/OT
Microchip Technology
-
M24C02-FMC6TG
STMicroelectronics

-
AT24CS02-SSHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
93LC46BT-I/OT
Microchip Technology

-
AT24C04C-SSHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
24LC01BT-I/SN
Microchip Technology

-
24AA02UIDT-I/OT
Microchip Technology

-
AT24C08C-STUM-T
Microchip Technology
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…

