Infineon Technologies CY14E256L-SZ25XI

Overview

CY14E256L-SZ25XI from Cypress Semiconductor is a 256 Kbit (32K × 8) nonvolatile static RAM with QuantumTrap technology, functioning as a drop-in SRAM replacement with integrated nonvolatile storage. It operates at 5 V ±10%, supports 25 ns access time, delivers 100-year data retention, and performs STORE/RECALL via AutoStore (power-down), hardware (HSB pin), or software address sequence - used in industrial PLCs for real-time parameter backup during brownouts.

For engineers reviewing the CY14E256L-SZ25XI datasheet, CY14E256L-SZ25XI pinout, CY14E256L-SZ25XI application, or CY14E256L-SZ25XI equivalent, key selection criteria include VCAP capacitor sizing (68 µF), HSB timing constraints (tDELAY), STORE cycle endurance (1M cycles), and compatibility with STK14C88-based legacy designs requiring hands-off power-loss data preservation.

Technical Context

The CY14E256L-SZ25XI integrates parallel SRAM and QuantumTrap nonvolatile cells per bit, enabling simultaneous STORE/RECALL across all 32,768 bytes. It uses an internal charge pump to drive VCAP to 5 V and initiates AutoStore when VCC drops below VSWITCH (typically 3.6 V), sustaining operation for ≥10 ms using external 68–220 µF capacitor energy.

STORE is conditional: hardware or AutoStore only executes if at least one WRITE occurred since last STORE/RECALL; software STORE bypasses this condition. RECALL occurs automatically on power-up or via six-address CE-controlled READ sequence (0x0E38 → 0x0C63), clearing SRAM before loading nonvolatile data without altering QuantumTrap contents.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 32-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit), RoHS-compliant, 0.300-inch width, JEDEC MS-012AC.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with STK14C88-5VM35I and FM24V01A-G, the CY14E256L-SZ25XI uniquely combines parallel bus compatibility, 25 ns speed, internal VCAP charging, and conditional AutoStore - making it optimal for retrofitting high-speed industrial controllers where deterministic STORE timing and SRAM timing transparency are mandatory.

Availability

CY14E256L-SZ25XI is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, medical infusion devices, and telecom base station alarms requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for CY14E256L-SZ25XI 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

Cypress Semiconductor (now part of Infineon Technologies) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in memory, microcontrollers, and programmable solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The CY14E256L belongs to Cypress's nvSRAM product line, engineered specifically to replace battery-backed SRAM in mission-critical systems where maintenance-free, high-endurance, and deterministic nonvolatile storage are required.

FAQ

What is the minimum VCAP capacitance required for reliable AutoStore operation?

The CY14E256L-SZ25XI requires a minimum 68 µF tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitor on the VCAP pin, rated ≥6 V, to sustain the 10 ms STORE cycle when VCC drops below VSWITCH (3.6 V). Values up to 220 µF (+20%) are supported for extended hold-up time. Ceramic capacitors are not recommended due to insufficient energy density and DC bias derating.

Can the HSB pin be left unconnected if hardware STORE is not used?

Yes - the HSB pin has an internal weak pull-up and may be left floating if hardware STORE initiation and busy indication are unused. However, if HSB is employed as an open-drain busy signal, a 10 kΩ external pull-up resistor to VCAP is mandatory to ensure proper voltage level and timing during STORE execution.

How does the CY14E256L-SZ25XI prevent STORE corruption during partial power loss?

The device monitors VCC continuously and inhibits externally initiated STORE and WRITE operations when VCC falls below VSWITCH (3.6 V). Internal logic disables the SRAM interface and gates control signals until VCC stabilizes above reset threshold, preventing invalid address/data latching during brownout conditions.

Is the CY14E256L-SZ25XI pin-compatible with standard 32-pin SOIC SRAMs?

Yes - the CY14E256L-SZ25XI uses industry-standard 32-pin SOIC pinout matching 32K × 8 SRAMs like the AS6C4008 and IS61LV256AL. Address, data, and control pins (A0–A14, DQ0–DQ7, CE, WE, OE, VCC, VSS) align exactly; HSB and VCAP are additional pins that remain unused or tied per design, preserving drop-in compatibility.