Microchip Technology SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE

Overview

SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE from Silicon Storage Technology is a 16 Mbit (1M × 16) Multi-Purpose Flash Plus (MPF+) memory IC operating at 1.65–1.95 V, featuring 90 ns read access time, bottom 32 KWord hardware block protection, and JEDEC-standard x16 asynchronous interface - used for firmware storage in embedded controllers and boot code retention in industrial microcontroller systems.

For engineers reviewing the SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE datasheet, SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE pinout, SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE application, or SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications including Word-Program time (28 µs), sector/block/Chip-Erase timing, Auto Low Power mode (5 µA), Security ID capability, and hardware reset (RST#) behavior - all confirmed for the exact MBQE WFBGA package variant.

Technical Context

The SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE implements SuperFlash split-gate cell technology with thick-oxide tunneling injector, enabling fixed erase/program times independent of cycle count and eliminating performance de-rating over lifetime. It supports standard microprocessor bus timing with latched address/data, CE#/OE#/WE# control, and hardware write inhibit via WP# and RST# pins.

It executes JEDEC-compliant command sequences for Word-Program, Sector-Erase (30H), Block-Erase (50H), Chip-Erase (10H), Erase-Suspend (B0H), and CFI/Security ID access - all validated for the SST39WF1601 variant with bottom-boot block protection (000000H–007FFFH). The device uses Toggle Bit (DQ6/DQ2) and Data# Polling (DQ7) for end-of-write detection.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 48-ball WFBGA (4 mm × 6 mm), RoHS-compliant, ball pitch 0.5 mm - footprint matches JEDEC MO-276AA standard.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SST39VF1601-90-4C-B3K, the SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE offers identical functionality in a smaller 4×6 mm WFBGA, enabling higher board density; versus MX29LV160DTXGI-90G, it delivers 1.8 V operation, 5 µA standby, and hardware-assisted security - critical for modern low-power, certified embedded designs.

Availability

SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC firmware storage, medical device boot code retention, automotive infotainment systems, networking equipment configuration memory, and embedded controller update applications requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE 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

Silicon Storage Technology (SST) was a fabless semiconductor company specializing in high-reliability, low-voltage flash memory, acquired by Microchip Technology in 2010. Its SuperFlash technology is now integrated into Microchip's memory portfolio.

The SST39WF1601 belongs to the Multi-Purpose Flash Plus (MPF+) product line, designed specifically for embedded systems requiring single-supply 1.8 V operation, hardware security, and deterministic erase/program timing - targeting industrial, medical, and automotive applications where data integrity and longevity are non-negotiable.

FAQ

What is the exact package type and footprint of SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE?

The SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE uses a 48-ball WFBGA package measuring 4 mm × 6 mm with 0.5 mm ball pitch, per JEDEC MO-276AA. The "MBQE" suffix explicitly denotes this variant - confirmed in the datasheet Figure 3 and Table 4. It is not pin-compatible with the TFBGA (B3K) or other WFBGA sizes (e.g., 5×6 mm).

Does SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE support hardware block protection, and how is it configured?

Yes, the SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE implements bottom hardware block protection on addresses 000000H–007FFFH (32 KWord), as defined in Table 2. Protection is enabled by pulling the WP# pin low; when WP# is high or floating (internally pulled up), the boot block remains unprotected. This differs from SST39WF1602, which protects the top block.

How does the Auto Low Power mode function in SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE, and what is its impact on system power?

In SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE, Auto Low Power mode activates automatically after a valid read cycle when CE# remains low and no address/control transitions occur. It reduces active read current from ~9 mA to 5 µA - a 1800× reduction - without access penalty. The device exits instantly on any address or control signal change, making it ideal for intermittent-read embedded systems.

Can SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE be used as a direct replacement for SST39VF1601 in existing designs?

No - SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE operates at 1.65–1.95 V, while SST39VF1601 requires 2.7–3.6 V. Voltage incompatibility mandates level-shifting or regulator changes. Additionally, the MBQE WFBGA footprint differs from VF-series packages (e.g., TSOP or B3K TFBGA), so PCB layout modification is required even if voltage were matched.

What status detection methods does SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE provide for Program and Erase operations?

The SST39WF1601-90-4C-MBQE provides two hardware-supported status detection methods: Data# Polling (DQ7 toggles until completion, then outputs true data) and Toggle Bits (DQ6 toggles during operation, stops when complete; DQ2 indicates erase-suspend state). Both are validated for all write operations - Word-Program, Sector-, Block-, and Chip-Erase - per Figures 7–8 and Table 1.