Infineon Technologies FM3164-GTR

Overview

FM3164-GTR from Infineon Technologies (formerly Cypress) is a 64-Kbit integrated processor companion IC combining ferroelectric RAM (F-RAM), real-time clock (RTC), low-VDD reset supervisor, watchdog timer, dual battery-backed event counters, and 64-bit lockable serial number in a single 14-pin SOIC package. It operates from 2.7 V to 5.5 V, delivers 10¹⁴ read/write endurance, 151-year data retention, and supports I²C up to 1 MHz. Used in industrial metering, backup power-critical embedded controllers, and secure logging systems.

For engineers reviewing the FM3164-GTR datasheet, FM3164-GTR pinout, FM3164-GTR application, or FM3164-GTR equivalent, key selection criteria include F-RAM write endurance vs. EEPROM, RTC BCD calendar with leap-year support through 2099, programmable VDD reset threshold (2.55 V / 2.75 V / 2.95 V / 3.15 V), battery-backed event counting on CNT1/CNT2, and I²C slave address configuration via A0/A1 pins.

Technical Context

The FM3164-GTR integrates two logically independent I²C devices on one die: an 8K × 8 F-RAM array (slave address 0x50–0x53) and a companion peripheral block (slave address 0x68) containing RTC registers, supervisor control bits, event counter latches, and serial number fields. All timekeeping and counter functions remain active during VDD dropout via VBAK-supplied backup power.

Its RTC uses a 32.768 kHz crystal (6 pF load) with software calibration capability and stores time/date in BCD format across seconds, minutes, hours, day, date, month, year, and century. The supervisor implements a programmable low-VDD reset with 100 ms reset pulse width and a 100 ms–3 s watchdog timer with flag-based timeout source identification.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

FM3164-GTR is housed in a 14-pin small outline integrated circuit (SOIC) package with standard 1.27 mm pitch, RoHS-compliant lead finish, and moisture sensitivity level (MSL) 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar integrated processor companion applications.

Compared with DS1340Z-33+T&R and MAX31341ATY+T, FM3164-GTR uniquely combines 64 Kbit F-RAM, dual battery-backed event counters, and lockable 64-bit serial number - making it optimal for applications requiring secure, high-endurance, time-stamped event logging under intermittent power.

Availability

FM3164-GTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, industrial PLCs, secure access panels, and medical diagnostic equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term data integrity, and robust power-fail resilience.

Supply support for FM3164-GTR 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, industrial, and security solutions.

The FM3164-GTR belongs to Infineon's legacy Cypress processor companion family, designed specifically to replace discrete RTC, supervisor, EEPROM, and counter ICs in space-constrained, reliability-critical embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by FM3164-GTR?

The FM3164-GTR supports I²C operation up to 1 MHz, with full compatibility for legacy 100 kHz and 400 kHz timing requirements. This allows seamless integration into both legacy and high-speed embedded designs without protocol translation. The SDA and SCL inputs feature Schmitt-triggered receivers for noise immunity, and the SDA driver includes slope control to reduce EMI during signal transitions.

How does the FM3164-GTR maintain RTC and counter functionality during main power loss?

FM3164-GTR uses the VBAK pin to accept a 3 V battery or large-value capacitor, which powers the RTC, dual event counters, and 64-bit serial number registers independently when VDD drops below ~3.6 V. Internal power-switching circuitry automatically transitions to VBAK when VDD falls, preserving time, count values, and security data without interruption or data loss.

Can the 64-bit serial number be reprogrammed after initial write?

No - the 64-bit serial number area can be permanently locked via software (bit SNL in register 0Bh). Once locked, the field becomes read-only and cannot be altered, erased, or rewritten. This provides hardware-enforced uniqueness and tamper resistance for device authentication, regulatory compliance, or anti-counterfeiting use cases.

What crystal specifications are required for accurate RTC operation?

The FM3164-GTR requires a standard 32.768 kHz tuning-fork crystal with 6 pF load capacitance and ±20 ppm frequency tolerance for typical industrial accuracy. The crystal connects between X1 and X2 pins; layout must minimize stray capacitance and avoid routing near noisy signals. Software calibration (via CAL/PFO 512 Hz output) allows fine-tuning to compensate for crystal aging or temperature drift.