Infineon Technologies S29AL016J55TFI020

Overview

S29AL016J55TFI020 from Infineon Technologies (formerly Cypress) is a 16 Mbit (2M × 8-bit / 1M × 16-bit), 3.0 V-only boot sector Flash memory with 55 ns access time, AEC-Q100 Grade 1 (–40°C to +125°C) qualification, and flexible sector architecture including one 16 KB, two 8 KB, one 32 KB, and thirty-one 64 KB sectors. It operates across 2.7–3.6 V, supports in-system programming without high-voltage VPP, and is used for automotive boot code storage and industrial firmware retention.

For engineers reviewing the S29AL016J55TFI020 datasheet, S29AL016J55TFI020 pinout, S29AL016J55TFI020 application, or S29AL016J55TFI020 equivalent, key selection criteria include boot-block configuration (top/bottom), sector protection granularity, CFI compliance for host auto-configuration, erase suspend capability for real-time firmware updates, and RY/BY# hardware status signaling.

Technical Context

This device implements JEDEC-standard single-power-supply Flash command set compatibility with embedded program/erase algorithms that internally manage pulse timing and margin verification. It features dual-mode data bus (x8/x16), byte/word configuration via BYTE# pin, and hardware reset (RESET#) for synchronous system initialization.

Its architecture integrates a low-VCC detector for write inhibition during power transitions, sector group protection with temporary unprotect capability, and CFI-compliant identification registers enabling host software to dynamically configure memory mapping and timing parameters without hard-coded assumptions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 48-ball Fine-pitch BGA (VBK048, 0.8 mm pitch, 8.15 mm × 6.15 mm).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar boot sector Flash memory applications.

Compared with S29AL016J70TFI020 and MX29LV160ETTI-70G, the S29AL016J55TFI020 delivers faster 55 ns access for high-speed microcontrollers, CFI support for flexible host integration, and secured silicon sector for device authentication-making it optimal for new automotive and medical designs requiring both performance and security.

Availability

S29AL016J55TFI020 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU development, industrial PLC firmware upgrades, and medical diagnostic imaging systems requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for S29AL016J55TFI020 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 specializing in power management, sensor, and memory solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications.

The S29AL016J series belongs to Infineon's automotive-qualified parallel NOR Flash portfolio, designed specifically for deterministic boot code execution, field firmware updates, and secure identity storage in safety-critical embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the function of the BYTE# pin on S29AL016J55TFI020?

The BYTE# pin configures the device data bus width: when pulled high, it enables 16-bit (x16) operation using DQ15–DQ0; when pulled low, it enables 8-bit (x8) operation using DQ7–DQ0. This pin must be held static during device operation and cannot be toggled mid-access. Its state determines internal address decoding and data latching behavior, directly affecting how the host processor interfaces with the memory array.

Does S29AL016J55TFI020 support in-system programming without external high voltage?

Yes. The device performs all program and erase operations using only the standard 3.0 V supply (2.7–3.6 V range); no 12 V VPP or 5 V auxiliary supply is required. Internal charge pumps generate necessary high voltages for Fowler-Nordheim tunneling (erase) and hot-electron injection (program), enabling safe, low-cost in-circuit reprogramming via standard microprocessor buses.

How does the Secured Silicon Sector differ from standard Flash sectors?

The Secured Silicon Sector is a dedicated 256-byte region containing a factory-programmable 16-byte electronic serial number and lock bits. Unlike user sectors, it cannot be erased by standard commands and requires a unique unlock sequence to program. Once locked (at factory or by customer), its contents become read-only and immune to accidental overwrite, providing hardware-rooted device identity for security and traceability.

Can S29AL016J55TFI020 operate in both top-boot and bottom-boot configurations?

Yes. The boot block location (first or last 16 KB) is determined by the WP# pin state during power-up and is fixed for the duration of operation. Top-boot configuration occurs when WP# is high at power-on; bottom-boot occurs when WP# is low. This selection is board-level configurable and does not require firmware changes, allowing reuse of the same part across multiple bootloader architectures.