Infineon Technologies CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT

Overview

CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT from Infineon Technologies (formerly Cypress) is a 256-Kbit (32 K × 8) nonvolatile static RAM with QuantumTrap technology, functioning as a drop-in SRAM replacement with integrated nonvolatile storage. It delivers 25 ns access time, operates from 2.7 V to 3.6 V, supports industrial temperature range (–40 °C to +85 °C), and uses a 44-pin TSOP II package. It enables automatic STORE on power-down and software- or hardware-triggered STORE/RECALL in embedded control and data-logging systems.

For engineers reviewing the CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT datasheet, CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT pinout, CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT application, or CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT equivalent, key selection criteria include AutoStore capacitor sizing (VCAP = 0.1 µF), HSB-driven hardware STORE timing (tDELAY = 100 ns), software STORE address sequence (0x0E38 → 0x31C7 → 0x03E0), and compatibility with 3.3 V MPU bus interfaces requiring infinite write endurance and 20-year data retention.

Technical Context

The CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT integrates parallel SRAM and QuantumTrap nonvolatile cells per bit, enabling simultaneous STORE/RECALL across all 32,768 bytes. Its architecture decouples volatile read/write (infinite cycles) from nonvolatile STORE (1 million cycles) and RECALL (infinite cycles), with internal voltage switching at VSWITCH ≈ 2.5 V to trigger AutoStore.

STORE is initiated via three independent paths: AutoStore (VCC dropout + VCAP discharge), Hardware STORE (HSB pin assertion), or Software STORE (three-address read sequence). RECALL occurs automatically on power-up or via software command, with HSB signaling busy status during both operations and enforcing tLZHSB (100 ns) post-completion access inhibition.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 44-pin Thin Small Outline Package (TSOP II), 400 mil width, JEDEC MO-141AC compliant, lead-free and RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar nvSRAM applications.

Compared with STK14C88-3A55I and FM24V10-G, CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT uniquely combines parallel SRAM timing, autonomous VCAP-based AutoStore, and HSB-driven hardware STORE - making it the only option for drop-in replacement in legacy 32-Kbyte SRAM sockets requiring guaranteed power-loss data capture without redesign.

Availability

CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial data loggers, automotive ECUs, programmable logic controllers, and medical infusion pumps requiring stable component supply and guaranteed long-term obsolescence support.

Supply support for CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT 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

Infineon Technologies is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Munich, Germany, specializing in power management, automotive microcontrollers, and memory solutions.

CY14B256LA belongs to Infineon's nvSRAM product line, engineered specifically for mission-critical applications where data persistence during power interruption is non-negotiable - including industrial control, automotive subsystems, and medical devices.

FAQ

What is the minimum VCAP capacitor value required for reliable AutoStore operation?

The CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT requires a minimum 0.1 µF X7R ceramic capacitor on the VCAP pin, rated for ≥6.3 V, placed within 5 mm of the package. This value ensures sufficient stored energy to complete a full 32-Kbyte STORE within 5 ms after VCC drops below VSWITCH (2.5 V). Larger capacitors extend dropout tolerance but do not improve STORE reliability beyond specification.

Can CY14B256LA-SZ25XIT be used as a direct replacement for standard 32-Kbyte SRAMs?

Yes - it is pin- and timing-compatible with industry-standard 32 K × 8 SRAMs in 44-pin TSOP II packages. CE/OE/WE control logic, address/data bus timing, and DC voltage levels match exactly. No PCB or firmware changes are needed unless AutoStore or HSB functionality is leveraged; unused HSB and VCAP pins may be left unconnected.

How does the software STORE sequence prevent accidental activation?

The software STORE requires three exact-address reads (0x0E38, then 0x31C7, then 0x03E0) with no intervening accesses. Any interrupt, bus contention, or incorrect address aborts the sequence. The nvSRAM internally latches partial sequences and resets on invalid access, ensuring STORE cannot occur due to noise, glitches, or partial firmware execution.

What happens if VCAP is omitted while AutoStore is enabled?

If AutoStore is enabled (default) and no capacitor is connected to VCAP, the device attempts STORE on power-down using insufficient charge - resulting in incomplete or corrupted data in the QuantumTrap array. The datasheet mandates disabling AutoStore via software sequence before operating without VCAP; otherwise, nonvolatile data integrity is not guaranteed.