Microchip Technology AT29LV020-12TC
- Part No.:
- AT29LV020-12TC
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 32-TFSOP (0.724", 18.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
AT29LV020-12TC.pdf
- Description:
- IC FLASH 2MBIT PARALLEL 32TSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
AT29LV020-12TC from Atmel is a 2-Mbit (256K × 8) 3.3V-only Flash memory IC used for nonvolatile program/data storage in embedded microcontroller systems. It features 100 ns read access time, 20 ms sector programming, 10,000 write/erase endurance, and dual 8K-byte boot blocks with independent lockout. It operates across commercial temperature range (0°C to 70°C) and supports in-system reprogramming via software data protection.
For engineers reviewing the AT29LV020-12TC datasheet, AT29LV020-12TC pinout, AT29LV020-12TC application, or AT29LV020-12TC equivalent, key selection criteria include sector-based erase architecture, 3.3V-only operation, boot block lockout for firmware protection, DATA polling and toggle-bit programming status detection, and PLCC-32/TSSOP-32 package compatibility.
Technical Context
The AT29LV020-12TC implements a sector-erasable Flash architecture with 1024 × 256-byte sectors and two dedicated 8K-byte boot blocks. Programming requires a three-byte software unlock sequence followed by byte-load cycles within 150 µs windows, with automatic internal sector erase prior to programming.
It uses CMOS-compatible inputs (0–5.5V tolerant) and TTL-compatible outputs, supports hardware and software data protection, and provides dual status detection methods-DATA polling on I/O7 and toggle-bit monitoring on I/O6-enabling robust host system integration without external timing dependencies.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Density | 2 Mbit (262,144 × 8), enabling full firmware image storage for 8-bit MCUs with limited external memory space |
| Read Access Time | 120 ns max - meets timing requirements for 8 MHz Z80 or 68K-based legacy control systems |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V ± 0.3 V - eliminates need for 5 V supply rail or level shifters in modern low-voltage designs |
| Active Current | 15 mA max - supports battery-backed or energy-constrained industrial controllers during active read |
| Standby Current | 40 µA max (CMOS) - enables ultra-low-power sleep modes in always-on embedded devices |
| Endurance | >10,000 program/erase cycles per sector - sufficient for field-upgradable firmware with infrequent updates |
| Operating Temp | 0°C to 70°C - certified for commercial-grade instrumentation, POS terminals, and office equipment |
Pinout & Package
AT29LV020-12TC is packaged in a 32-lead Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC-32), pin-compatible with JEDEC MS-016 AE variant. The package measures 12.45 mm × 14.95 mm × 3.35 mm and features J-leads for reliable socket or reflow mounting in high-reliability applications.
| 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, A8–A17 select sector |
| I/O0–I/O7 | Bidirectional Data Bus | 8-bit parallel interface compatible with 8-bit microcontrollers; supports both read output and program input |
| CE | Chip Enable | Active-low chip select; must be low for read/write; high-Z output when high - prevents bus contention in multi-device systems |
| OE | Output Enable | Active-low output control; allows data read without asserting CE - useful for memory-mapped I/O arbitration |
| WE | Write Enable | Active-low write strobe; initiates byte load during programming; combined with CE for timing-critical sector writes |
| NC | No Connect | Pin 16 (PLCC top view); must remain unconnected - no internal function or pull-up/pull-down |
| VCC | Power Supply | +3.3 V supply input; requires local 0.1 µF ceramic decoupling near pin to suppress switching noise during program cycles |
| GND | Ground Reference | Signal and power ground return; shared with MCU ground plane to minimize read/write timing skew |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Software Data Protection | Three-byte unlock sequence (AAh→55h→A0h) required before any sector programming - prevents accidental firmware corruption during power transients or noise events |
| Dual Boot Block Lockout | Independent 8K-byte upper/lower boot blocks can be permanently locked after enable algorithm - secures bootloader code against overwrite in field-deployed systems |
| DATA Polling & Toggle Bit | I/O7 complement feedback and I/O6 toggling provide real-time, bus-synchronous programming status - eliminates need for fixed delay timers or external interrupt lines |
| Single-Cycle Sector Erase/Program | Entire 256-byte sector erased and programmed in one internal operation - simplifies host firmware logic and reduces update latency vs. page-by-page architectures |
| Input Voltage Tolerance | Address and control inputs accept 0–5.5 V while powered at 3.3 V - enables direct interfacing with 5 V logic without level translators in mixed-voltage systems |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Firmware Storage | Legacy Embedded Instrumentation |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Storing ladder logic firmware and configuration parameters in programmable logic controllers requiring field updates without hardware replacement. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile program memory mapped to MCU address space; provides deterministic 120 ns read access for real-time scan cycle execution. Use Value: Dual boot blocks allow safe A/B firmware partitioning; sector lockout prevents corruption of critical startup routines during remote OTA updates. |
Use Scenario: Retaining calibration constants and sensor compensation tables in benchtop test equipment with long product lifecycles and infrequent recalibration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Read-mostly data storage accessed during initialization and periodic self-test; low 40 µA standby current extends battery backup life. Use Value: >10,000 endurance cycles support decades of recalibration events; 3.3 V-only operation simplifies power design versus older 5 V EPROM alternatives. |
| Point-of-Sale Terminal BIOS | Medical Device Configuration Memory |
|
Use Scenario: Holding secure boot code and peripheral driver modules in retail POS terminals subject to PCI-DSS compliance requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Boot ROM executing immediately post-reset; boot block lockout ensures immutable first-stage loader integrity. Use Value: Hardware + software data protection layers prevent malicious or erroneous writes; 120 ns access enables fast boot times under strict regulatory timing constraints. |
Use Scenario: Storing device-specific calibration offsets and usage logs in Class II medical analyzers requiring traceable, tamper-resistant configuration storage. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure nonvolatile memory accessed only during service mode; DATA polling confirms write completion for audit trail generation. Use Value: Manufacturer and device codes (1Fh/BAh) enable automated BOM verification; industrial temp grade optional for sterilization-capable enclosures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Flash memory applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SST39VF200A-70-4C-NHE | 2 Mbit, 70 ns read, 3.3 V, TSOP-48 package; lacks boot block lockout and uses different unlock sequence | Higher speed but larger footprint; no native boot protection - requires external logic or firmware overhead for secure boot | Choose when faster read performance is prioritized over firmware security features and board space is not constrained. |
| MX29LV200CBTI-70G | 2 Mbit, 70 ns read, 3.3 V, TSOP-48; includes CFI query support and uniform 64K-byte sectors (no boot blocks) | CFI compatibility simplifies generic flash drivers but removes dedicated boot sector isolation - increases risk of accidental bootloader overwrite | Prefer for systems using standardized flash abstraction layers; avoid where bootloader integrity is mission-critical. |
Compared with SST39VF200A-70-4C-NHE and MX29LV200CBTI-70G, the AT29LV020-12TC trades raw speed for deterministic boot security, smaller 32-pin footprint, and simpler software protection - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, safety-aware legacy embedded platforms.
Availability
AT29LV020-12TC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC firmware storage, legacy embedded instrumentation, and point-of-sale terminal BIOS requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and verified second-source availability.
Supply support for AT29LV020-12TC 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, Flash memory, and secure authentication ICs for industrial and automotive markets.
The AT29LV020 belongs to Atmel's legacy low-voltage Flash memory product line, designed specifically for 3.3 V embedded systems needing field-upgradable firmware storage with hardware-enforced boot protection.
FAQ
What is the maximum read access time specified for the AT29LV020-12TC?
The AT29LV020-12TC has a maximum read access time of 120 ns, as indicated by the "-12" suffix in its part number. This value is guaranteed across the commercial temperature range (0°C to 70°C) and at VCC = 3.3 V ± 0.3 V. The AT29LV020-12TC achieves this timing using advanced nonvolatile CMOS process technology, enabling compatibility with 8 MHz microcontroller buses without wait states.
Does the AT29LV020-12TC support in-system programming without high-voltage signals?
Yes, the AT29LV020-12TC supports full in-system programming using only the standard 3.3 V supply - no external 12 V or 5 V programming voltage is required. Programming is initiated via a documented three-byte software unlock sequence (AAh → 55h → A0h), after which sector-based byte loads proceed at microprocessor speed. This capability is intrinsic to the AT29LV020-12TC architecture and eliminates need for dedicated programmers or high-voltage circuitry.
How does the boot block lockout feature work on the AT29LV020-12TC?
The AT29LV020-12TC contains two independent 8K-byte boot blocks - one at the lowest addresses (0x00000–0x01FFF) and one at the highest (0x3E000–0x3FFFF). Each can be permanently locked using a seven-command enable algorithm. Once activated, that block becomes read-only: no erase or program operations are possible. The AT29LV020-12TC supports software detection of lockout status via reads from 0x00002H (lower) and 0x3FFF2H (upper), returning FFh if locked.
Can the AT29LV020-12TC be used with 5 V logic interfaces?
Yes - the AT29LV020-12TC's address and control inputs (A0–A17, CE, OE, WE) tolerate 0–5.5 V when operating at VCC = 3.3 V, allowing direct connection to 5 V microcontrollers or FPGAs without level-shifting components. However, I/O0–I/O7 pins are limited to 0–3.6 V and must interface only with 3.3 V–compatible devices. This hybrid tolerance makes the AT29LV020-12TC suitable for mixed-voltage legacy system upgrades.
What programming status detection methods does the AT29LV020-12TC provide?
The AT29LV020-12TC provides two hardware-confirmed programming status detection methods: DATA polling on I/O7 (complement of last loaded byte indicates ongoing program cycle) and toggle-bit monitoring on I/O6 (toggling between 0 and 1 during programming, stopping upon completion). Both methods are accessible over the standard data bus and require no additional pins or external components - a key design advantage of the AT29LV020-12TC for resource-constrained hosts.
AT29LV020-12TC 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:
- 2Mbit
- Memory Organization:
- 256K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- Parallel
- Clock Frequency:
- -
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 20ms
- Access Time:
- 120 ns
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 3.6V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TC)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-TSOP
AT29LV020-12TC FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT29LV020-12TC through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT29LV020-12TC 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 AT29LV020-12TC reliable?
The price and inventory of AT29LV020-12TC are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT29LV020-12TC is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT29LV020-12TC?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT29LV020-12TC transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT29LV020-12TC?
AT29LV020-12TC orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT29LV020-12TC 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 AT29LV020-12TC?
For technical support, including AT29LV020-12TC datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT29LV020-12TC requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT29LV020-12TC is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT29LV020-12TC 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 AT29LV020-12TC meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT29LV020-12TC?
All AT29LV020-12TC units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT29LV020-12TC, 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 AT29LV020-12TC part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT29LV020-12TC:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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