Microchip Technology AT29C040A-15PI
- Part No.:
- AT29C040A-15PI
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 32-DIP (0.600", 15.24mm)
- Datasheet:
-
AT29C040A-15PI.pdf
- Description:
- IC FLASH 4MBIT PARALLEL 32DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
AT29C040A-15PI from Atmel is a 4-Mbit (512K × 8) 5-volt-only Flash memory IC organized in 2048 sectors of 256 bytes each, featuring 150 ns read access time, hardware/software data protection, and two 16K-byte boot blocks with independent lockout - used for firmware storage and system boot code in industrial embedded controllers.
For engineers reviewing the AT29C040A-15PI datasheet, AT29C040A-15PI pinout, AT29C040A-15PI application, or AT29C040A-15PI equivalent, key selection considerations include sector-based reprogramming timing (10 ms), DATA polling/Toggle Bit end-of-program detection, CMOS/TTL compatibility, industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), and PLCC-32 packaging with verified pin mapping.
Technical Context
The AT29C040A-15PI implements sector-erase-and-program architecture with internal address/data latches for full 256-byte sector loading before simultaneous programming; it uses standard 5V-only command sequences without high-voltage inputs. Its dual boot block lockout enables secure low/high-address firmware partitioning.
Operation supports EPROM-like read mode (CE/OE low, WE high), byte-load programming via WE/CE pulse control, and software-controlled features including Data Protection (3-byte unlock sequence) and Chip Erase (6-byte code). Toggle Bit (I/O6) and DATA Polling (I/O7) provide real-time program status feedback independent of external timers.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Density | 4 Mbit (512K × 8), sufficient for medium-complexity firmware images and configuration tables |
| Read Access Time | 150 ns - defines maximum clock rate for synchronous read interfaces in microcontroller systems |
| Sector Size | 256 bytes - enables fine-grained firmware updates without erasing entire device |
| Program Cycle Time | 10 ms per sector - sets minimum latency for field firmware patching operations |
| Endurance | >10,000 write/erase cycles per sector - supports long-life industrial logging or parameter storage |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V ±10% - eliminates need for dedicated programming voltage rails in host systems |
| Operating Temperature | –40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial-grade embedded applications without derating |
| Standby Current | 300 µA - enables low-power sleep modes in battery-backed or energy-sensitive designs |
Pinout & Package
AT29C040A-15PI is packaged in a 32-lead Plastic J-Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC-32), compliant with JEDEC MS-016 Variation AE, with 1.27 mm pitch, 12.45 mm × 14.95 mm body size, and 3.35 mm max height. Pin 1 identifier is a corner chamfer.
| 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, A8–A18 select sector |
| CE | Chip Enable | Active-low chip select; must be low for read/write; high forces outputs to high-Z and inhibits programming |
| OE | Output Enable | Active-low output control; used with CE to prevent bus contention during reads |
| WE | Write Enable | Active-low write strobe; controls byte load timing and initiates sector programming when combined with CE |
| I/O0–I/O7 | Bidirectional Data Bus | 8-bit data path for reading stored values or loading sector data; I/O7 used for DATA polling, I/O6 for Toggle Bit |
| VCC | Power Supply | +5 V ±10% supply; powers core logic and memory array; includes VCC sense for hardware write inhibit |
| GND | Ground Reference | Signal and power return; required for stable operation and noise immunity |
| NC | No Connect | Unbonded pin; must remain unconnected to avoid parasitic coupling or latch-up risk |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Two Independent Boot Block Lockouts | Enables secure firmware partitioning: first 16KB (lower boot block) and last 16KB (upper boot block) can be individually write-locked to protect bootloader or recovery code |
| Hardware + Software Data Protection | VCC sense (<3.8 V inhibits write), noise filtering (<15 ns pulses ignored), and 3-byte unlock sequence prevent accidental or malicious reprogramming |
| DATA Polling & Toggle Bit Status Detection | Real-time program completion monitoring via I/O7 complement read or I/O6 toggling - eliminates need for fixed delay timers in host firmware |
| Single-Cycle Sector Erase/Program | Entire 256-byte sector erased and programmed in one atomic 10 ms cycle - simplifies host driver logic and improves update reliability |
| CMOS/TTL Input/Output Compatibility | Accepts standard 0.8 V / 2.0 V logic thresholds and drives 2.4 V / 0.45 V levels at specified loads - interoperable with legacy 5V microcontrollers and FPGAs |
| Industrial Temperature Range Support | Rated –40°C to +85°C with guaranteed 150 ns access time and 300 µA standby current - suitable for factory automation, motor drives, and outdoor equipment |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Firmware Storage | Embedded Network Router Boot Code |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing firmware and configuration data in programmable logic controllers deployed in factory environments with wide ambient temperature swings and electrical noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile program memory holding ladder logic executables and I/O mapping tables; accessed during cold start and runtime updates. Use Value: 10,000-cycle endurance and industrial temperature rating ensure multi-year reliability; sector locking prevents corruption of critical startup routines. | Use Scenario: Hosting boot loader and fail-safe recovery image in enterprise-grade Ethernet routers requiring field-upgradable firmware without hardware intervention. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary boot memory mapped at reset vector; provides initial instruction fetch and secure jump to main application image. Use Value: Dual boot blocks allow A/B firmware partitioning; software lockout ensures bootloader integrity across power cycles and remote updates. |
| Medical Diagnostic Equipment Parameter Tables | Automotive Body Control Module Calibration Data |
Use Scenario: Retaining calibration coefficients, sensor offset tables, and user preferences in portable ultrasound or ECG devices subject to periodic recalibration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Configuration memory updated infrequently via service port; read frequently during signal processing pipeline initialization. Use Value: 256-byte sector granularity enables selective update of individual calibration sets without disturbing unrelated parameters; low 300 µA standby current extends battery life. | Use Scenario: Storing vehicle-specific trim settings, lighting profiles, and door module behavior maps in automotive BCMs operating under engine bay thermal stress. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Persistent data storage accessed at ignition-on and during CAN-based reconfiguration events. Use Value: Hardware VCC-sense protection prevents spurious writes during brown-out conditions; 150 ns access time meets real-time response requirements for lighting control loops. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Flash memory applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MX29LV400CBTI-70G | 3.3 V supply, 70 ns access, 4 Mbit CFI-compliant NOR Flash; lacks boot block lockout and software data protection | Requires level-shifting for 5V systems; no native support for secure bootloader partitioning | Choose when migrating to lower-voltage platforms and CFI-standard toolchains are preferred |
| SST39VF400A-70-4C-NHE | 3.3 V supply, 70 ns access, 4 Mbit; includes boot block protection but uses different unlock sequence and lacks Toggle Bit | Compatible with 3.3V microcontrollers; requires redesign of status polling logic due to missing I/O6 toggle capability | Prefer for cost-sensitive 3.3V designs where DATA polling alone suffices for program monitoring |
Compared with MX29LV400CBTI-70G and SST39VF400A-70-4C-NHE, the AT29C040A-15PI uniquely delivers 5V-only operation with integrated hardware/software write protection, dual boot block lockout, and dual-status signaling (DATA Polling + Toggle Bit) - making it optimal for legacy 5V industrial systems requiring robust firmware security and deterministic update timing.
Availability
AT29C040A-15PI is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC firmware storage, embedded network router boot code, and medical diagnostic equipment parameter tables requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for AT29C040A-15PI 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 fabless semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, nonvolatile memory, and security ICs, with design centers across the US, Europe, and Asia.
The AT29C040A-15PI belongs to Atmel's 5-volt-only Flash family, engineered for in-system reprogrammability in industrial and telecom infrastructure where high-reliability firmware storage and secure boot integrity are critical.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the AT29C040A-15PI?
The AT29C040A-15PI is rated for industrial operation from –40°C to +85°C. This range is validated across all specified DC and AC parameters, including 150 ns read access time and 300 µA standby current, ensuring reliable performance in harsh environments such as factory floors or outdoor telecommunications cabinets.
How does the boot block lockout feature work on the AT29C040A-15PI?
The AT29C040A-15PI includes two independent 16K-byte boot blocks - one at the lowest addresses (0x00000–0x03FFF) and one at the highest (0x7C000–0x7FFFF). Each can be permanently locked using a 7-byte enable algorithm; once activated, no erase or program commands affect that block. The lock state is persistent across power cycles and detectable via software identification mode reads at 0x00002H and 0x7FFF2H.
Can the AT29C040A-15PI be used in a 3.3 V system?
No - the AT29C040A-15PI is strictly a 5 V ±10% device. Its input thresholds (VIL = 0.8 V, VIH = 2.0 V), output drive strength, and internal VCC-sense circuitry are designed for 5 V operation. Attempting to power it from 3.3 V will result in undefined behavior, failed programming, or permanent damage. For 3.3 V systems, consider alternatives like SST39VF400A or MX29LV400C.
What methods are available to detect program completion on the AT29C040A-15PI?
The AT29C040A-15PI provides two hardware-supported methods: DATA Polling (monitoring complement-to-data on I/O7) and Toggle Bit (observing I/O6 toggling state). Both can be checked at any time during programming; no external timer or fixed delay is required. These mechanisms eliminate race conditions and simplify host firmware implementation compared to timeout-based approaches.
Is the AT29C040A-15PI pin-compatible with other members of the AT29C040A family?
Yes - all AT29C040A variants (e.g., AT29C040A-90PI, AT29C040A-12PI, AT29C040A-15PI, AT29C040A-20PI) share identical PLCC-32 pinout, address/data bus mapping, and control signal definitions. Only access time (tACC), operating current, and temperature grade differ between speed grades; PCB layout and firmware drivers are fully interchangeable across the family.
AT29C040A-15PI 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:
- 4Mbit
- Memory Organization:
- 512K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- Parallel
- Clock Frequency:
- -
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 10ms
- Access Time:
- 150 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
AT29C040A-15PI FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT29C040A-15PI through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT29C040A-15PI 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-15PI reliable?
The price and inventory of AT29C040A-15PI are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT29C040A-15PI is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT29C040A-15PI?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT29C040A-15PI transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT29C040A-15PI?
AT29C040A-15PI orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT29C040A-15PI 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-15PI?
For technical support, including AT29C040A-15PI datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT29C040A-15PI requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT29C040A-15PI is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT29C040A-15PI 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-15PI meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT29C040A-15PI?
All AT29C040A-15PI units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT29C040A-15PI, 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-15PI part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT29C040A-15PI:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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