Microchip Technology AT29C040A-10TC
- Part No.:
- AT29C040A-10TC
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 32-TFSOP (0.724", 18.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
AT29C040A-10TC.pdf
- Description:
- IC FLASH 4MBIT PARALLEL 32TSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,482
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
AT29C040A-10TC from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 4-Mbit (512K × 8) CMOS Flash memory IC designed for in-system reprogrammability in embedded firmware storage applications. It operates exclusively from a single 5V ±10% supply, delivers 100 ns read access time, supports sector-based programming of 256-byte blocks, and features hardware/software data protection and dual 16 KB boot blocks with independent lockout.
For engineers reviewing the AT29C040A-10TC datasheet, AT29C040A-10TC pinout, AT29C040A-10TC application, or AT29C040A-10TC equivalent, key selection criteria include sector erase granularity, 5V-only reprogramming compatibility, boot block lockout behavior, DATA polling/Toggle Bit program status detection, and TSOP-32 package suitability for space-constrained PCB layouts.
Technical Context
The AT29C040A-10TC implements a sector-program architecture where each 256-byte sector must be fully loaded before internal auto-erase-and-program execution. Address latching occurs on falling CE or WE edges, with A0–A7 selecting byte offset and A8–A18 specifying sector address during programming.
It integrates dual protection layers: hardware-level VCC sense (inhibit below 3.8 V), noise filtering (<15 ns pulse rejection), and software-controlled 3-byte unlock sequence (5555H/2AAAH/AAH) required prior to any sector write. Boot block lockout uses a 7-command enable algorithm and disables chip erase when activated.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Density | 4 Mbit (524,288 × 8), organized as 2048 sectors × 256 bytes - enables fine-grained firmware updates without full device erasure. |
| Read Access Time | 100 ns max - supports high-speed CPU bus interfacing at up to 10 MHz sustained read throughput. |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V ±10% only - eliminates need for charge pumps or auxiliary voltage rails in legacy 5V systems. |
| Program Cycle Time | 10 ms per sector - deterministic timing allows precise host-side timeout management during firmware patching. |
| Endurance | >10,000 program/erase cycles per sector - suitable for field-upgradable embedded devices with moderate update frequency. |
| Standby Current | 100 µA typical (CMOS mode) - critical for low-power modes in battery-backed or energy-sensitive applications. |
| Operating Temp | 0°C to +70°C (Commercial) - validated for industrial control panels, consumer electronics, and office equipment environments. |
Pinout & Package
AT29C040A-10TC is housed in a 32-lead Thin Small Outline Package (TSOP Type I, 32T), pin-compatible with industry-standard 32-pin Flash memory footprints and optimized for surface-mount assembly in compact designs.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A0–A18 | Address Inputs | 19-bit address bus supporting full 512K-word addressing; A0–A7 select byte within sector during programming. |
| I/O0–I/O7 | Bi-directional Data Bus | 8-bit parallel interface compatible with standard microcontroller data buses; supports byte load and DATA polling on I/O7. |
| CE | Chip Enable | Active-low chip select; latches address on falling edge during byte load; must be low with OE high for programming. |
| OE | Output Enable | Active-low output control; must be high during programming; enables high-impedance tri-state during standby. |
| WE | Write Enable | Active-low write strobe; latches data on rising edge; used with CE for byte load and sector programming initiation. |
| NC | No Connect | Unbonded pin; must remain unconnected per design - no pull-up/down or routing required. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 256-byte Sector Architecture | Enables partial firmware updates without erasing unrelated code sections - reduces risk of bricking during field upgrades. |
| Dual 16 KB Boot Blocks | Provides dedicated, independently lockable memory regions for bootloader code - prevents accidental corruption of startup routines. |
| DATA Polling & Toggle Bit | Allows real-time program status monitoring via I/O7 complement or I/O6 toggling - eliminates need for fixed delay timers in host firmware. |
| Hardware + Software Data Protection | Combines VCC sensing, noise filtering, and 3-byte unlock sequence to prevent spurious writes during power transients or EMI events. |
| 5V-Only Reprogramming | Removes requirement for 12V programming voltage - simplifies power supply design and enables direct connection to 5V microcontroller buses. |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Firmware Storage | Legacy PC BIOS/UEFI Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing and updating ladder logic firmware in programmable logic controllers operating in factory-floor environments with wide temperature swings and electrical noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile firmware storage with in-system reprogrammability; provides 100 ns read access for fast instruction fetch and 10 ms sector programming for controlled field updates. Use Value: Dual boot blocks protect core runtime engine while allowing safe updates to application modules; hardware data protection prevents corruption during brown-out conditions. | Use Scenario: Serving as the primary BIOS/UEFI flash storage in desktop motherboards using legacy 5V I/O interfaces and requiring backward compatibility with older chipset designs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Boot-critical nonvolatile memory mapped into CPU address space; supports standard JEDEC-compliant read and sector-erase protocols used by BIOS update utilities. Use Value: TSOP-32 package fits standard socketed BIOS chip footprints; 5V-only operation avoids need for level-shifting circuitry on aging motherboard designs. |
| Point-of-Sale Terminal Bootloader | Medical Device Configuration Memory |
Use Scenario: Hosting secure bootloader code in retail POS terminals that require tamper-resistant firmware updates over USB or Ethernet without physical access. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure boot memory with programmable lockout; stores immutable startup code verified before loading application firmware from external storage. Use Value: Independent boot block lockout ensures bootloader integrity; software data protection prevents unauthorized modification even if host MCU is compromised. | Use Scenario: Retaining calibrated sensor parameters and regulatory-compliant configuration settings across power cycles in Class II medical diagnostic equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parameter storage with high endurance and data retention; leverages >10,000 cycle rating for frequent recalibration events and 100 µA standby current for battery backup operation. Use Value: Sector granularity allows isolated updates to calibration tables without disturbing safety-critical firmware; hardware VCC sense prevents writes during low-voltage battery conditions. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Flash memory applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AM29LV040B-120EC | 4 Mbit, 120 ns access, 3.0–3.6 V supply - requires 3.3V logic and separate VPP for programming. | Designed for newer 3.3V embedded systems; lacks 5V-only compatibility and boot block lockout. | Select when migrating to lower-voltage platforms and accepting additional voltage rail complexity. |
| SST39VF400A-70-4C-NHE | 4 Mbit, 70 ns access, 3.0–3.6 V supply - includes embedded erase suspend/resume but no hardware VCC sense. | Optimized for portable devices needing fast reads and interruptible erase; no boot block protection. | Prefer for battery-powered applications requiring sub-100 ns reads and interrupt-driven firmware updates. |
Compared with AM29LV040B-120EC and SST39VF400A-70-4C-NHE, the AT29C040A-10TC uniquely supports 5V-only operation with integrated VCC sensing and dual boot block lockout - making it the only choice for maintaining legacy 5V system compatibility while enforcing bootloader security.
Availability
AT29C040A-10TC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC firmware storage, legacy PC BIOS modules, and point-of-sale terminal bootloaders requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.
Supply support for AT29C040A-10TC 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 is a global semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog components, and nonvolatile memory solutions, with a strong heritage in Flash technology through its acquisition of Atmel.
The AT29C040A product line was developed to deliver 5V-compatible, in-system reprogrammable Flash memory for industrial control, computing, and communications systems requiring robust data retention and field-upgrade capability.
FAQ
What is the maximum read access time specified for the AT29C040A-10TC?
The AT29C040A-10TC has a maximum read access time of 100 ns, measured from address valid or CE/OE assertion to valid data on I/O0–I/O7. This parameter is guaranteed across the commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C) and defines the upper limit for synchronous bus timing in CPU or FPGA interfaces. The AT29C040A-10TC achieves this performance while maintaining full compatibility with standard 5V TTL/CMOS logic levels.
Does the AT29C040A-10TC support full-chip erase, and how is it initiated?
Yes, the AT29C040A-10TC supports optional full-chip erase via a 6-byte software command sequence. This function is disabled if either boot block lockout feature has been activated. The erase is initiated by loading specific data values (90H, 55H, AAH, 55H, AAH, F0H) to designated addresses (5555H, 2AAAH, 5555H, 2AAAH, 5555H, 5555H) in sequence, with appropriate delays. The AT29C040A-10TC does not support hardware chip erase via pin strapping.
How does hardware data protection operate in the AT29C040A-10TC?
Hardware data protection in the AT29C040A-10TC consists of four mechanisms: (1) VCC sense inhibits programming if supply drops below ~3.8 V; (2) a 5 ms power-on delay prevents writes during voltage ramp-up; (3) program inhibition occurs if OE is low, CE is high, or WE is high; and (4) a noise filter rejects input pulses shorter than ~15 ns. These features act independently of software protection and are always active in the AT29C040A-10TC.
Can the AT29C040A-10TC be used in systems requiring both 5V and 3.3V logic interfaces?
No - the AT29C040A-10TC is strictly a 5V-only device with inputs and outputs compliant to 5V TTL/CMOS voltage thresholds (VIH = 2.0 V min, VIL = 0.8 V max). It is not 3.3V-tolerant: applying 3.3V signals directly may result in unreliable operation or damage due to insufficient VIH margin and potential contention on shared buses. Level translation is required for interoperability with 3.3V hosts, unlike newer 3.3V Flash devices. The AT29C040A-10TC must be used in fully 5V signal environments.
What package type is used for the AT29C040A-10TC, and what are its key mechanical attributes?
The AT29C040A-10TC uses a 32-lead Thin Small Outline Package (TSOP Type I, package code 32T), measuring 18.4 mm × 8.0 mm × 1.2 mm with 0.5 mm lead pitch. It features gull-wing leads for surface-mount assembly and is RoHS-compliant. This package replaces the larger PDIP variant (e.g., AT29C040A-10PC) in space-constrained applications while maintaining identical pinout and electrical behavior. The AT29C040A-10TC's TSOP footprint is widely supported in automated SMT lines.
AT29C040A-10TC Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 32-TFSOP (0.724", 18.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- FLASH
- Technology:
- FLASH
- Memory Size:
- 4Mbit
- Memory Organization:
- 512K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- Parallel
- Clock Frequency:
- -
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 10ms
- Access Time:
- 100 ns
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TC)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-TSOP
AT29C040A-10TC FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT29C040A-10TC through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT29C040A-10TC 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 AT29C040A-10TC reliable?
The price and inventory of AT29C040A-10TC are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT29C040A-10TC is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT29C040A-10TC?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT29C040A-10TC transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT29C040A-10TC?
AT29C040A-10TC orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT29C040A-10TC 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 AT29C040A-10TC?
For technical support, including AT29C040A-10TC datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT29C040A-10TC requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT29C040A-10TC is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT29C040A-10TC 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 AT29C040A-10TC meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT29C040A-10TC?
All AT29C040A-10TC units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT29C040A-10TC, 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 AT29C040A-10TC part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT29C040A-10TC:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
AT29C040A-10TC 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…

