Winbond Electronics Corporation W29GL256PL9T

Overview

W29GL256PL9T from Winbond is a 256-Mbit (32 MByte) parallel NOR Flash memory IC with uniform 128-KByte sectors, 90 ns random access time, 25 ns page access time, and single 3.0 V supply (2.7–3.6 V) operation. It supports page mode read, write buffer programming, sector erase suspend/resume, and CFI interface - deployed in boot code storage for industrial microcontroller-based systems requiring deterministic nonvolatile code execution.

For engineers reviewing the W29GL256PL9T datasheet, W29GL256PL9T pinout, W29GL256PL9T application, or W29GL256PL9T equivalent, key selection criteria include TSOP-56 package compatibility, #BYTE-configurable x8/x16 bus width, hardware write protection via #WP/ACC, RY/#BY status signaling, and deep power-down mode for low-quiescent-current embedded systems.

Technical Context

The W29GL256PL9T implements a parallel asynchronous interface with address latching on falling #CE or #WE (whichever occurs later) and data latching on rising #CE or #WE (whichever occurs first). Its architecture features 256 uniform sectors of 128 KByte each, supporting both word (x16) and byte (x8) modes via #BYTE pin control.

It integrates enhanced sector protection using volatile DPB and non-volatile IPB registers, a secured silicon sector with 256-byte factory- or customer-programmable ID, and EVIO voltage scaling (1.65 V to VCC) for I/O level adaptation. Erase and program operations are fully embedded and status-monitored via DQ5 toggling and DQ7 polling.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

W29GL256PL9T is packaged in a 56-pin TSOP-I (14 mm × 20 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), compliant with JEDEC MO-141AC. Pin functions support full parallel x16/x8 bus interfacing with dedicated control, status, and protection signals.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar parallel NOR Flash memory applications.

Compared with S29GL256S11TFI010 and MX29GL256ELXGI-90G, the W29GL256PL9T delivers superior system-level efficiency via EVIO voltage adaptation, deep power-down, and #WP/ACC acceleration - reducing BOM count, PCB area, and production test time without sacrificing industrial reliability.

Availability

W29GL256PL9T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC boot storage, medical device firmware vaults, automotive infotainment head units, and network router boot image applications requiring stable component supply, long lifecycle assurance, and consistent TSOP-56 footprint availability.

Supply support for W29GL256PL9T 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

Winbond Electronics is a Taiwan-based semiconductor company specializing in specialty memory solutions, including NOR/NAND Flash, SRAM, and mobile DRAM, serving industrial, automotive, and communications markets since 1987.

The W29GL series targets high-reliability embedded systems needing fast, secure, and power-efficient parallel Flash - optimized for deterministic boot, firmware update resilience, and long-term data integrity under thermal and voltage stress.

FAQ

What is the pin configuration and package type of the W29GL256PL9T?

The W29GL256PL9T uses a 56-pin TSOP-I package (14 mm × 20 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with standard parallel interface pins including A0–A23, DQ0–DQ15/A-1, #CE, #OE, #WE, #WP/ACC, #BYTE, #RESET, RY/#BY, EVIO, VCC, and VSS. Pin functions match JEDEC-standard parallel Flash layouts, enabling drop-in replacement in existing TSOP-56 designs targeting 3.0 V operation.

Does the W29GL256PL9T support both x8 and x16 data bus configurations?

Yes, the W29GL256PL9T supports configurable x8 or x16 operation via the #BYTE pin: when #BYTE = VIH, it operates in 16-bit word mode with A0–A23 addressing; when #BYTE = VIL, it operates in 8-bit byte mode with A-1 multiplexed onto DQ15. This flexibility allows seamless integration with 8-bit or 16-bit microcontrollers without external glue logic.

How does the W29GL256PL9T handle erase and program operation status monitoring?

The W29GL256PL9T provides dual status detection: DQ7 polling returns true when internal operation completes, and DQ5 toggling indicates active programming or erasing. The RY/#BY pin outputs active-low busy status synchronized to these operations. These mechanisms eliminate need for fixed delay loops and enable precise timing control in real-time firmware.

What is the purpose and behavior of the EVIO pin on the W29GL256PL9T?

The EVIO pin on the W29GL256PL9T sets the reference voltage for all input thresholds and output drive strength, ranging from 1.65 V to VCC. When EVIO = 1.8 V, inputs recognize 1.8 V logic levels and outputs drive to ~1.8 V swing - enabling direct interfacing with 1.8 V FPGAs or MCUs without level shifters, while maintaining full 3.0 V operation internally.

Can the W29GL256PL9T be used in deep power-down mode, and what is its typical current draw?

Yes, the W29GL256PL9T supports deep power-down mode entered via specific command sequence, reducing ICC to ≤1 µA (typical) while retaining full memory content. This mode is ideal for battery-powered edge nodes or systems requiring <10 µA total standby current, and exit requires only a hardware #RESET or power cycle - no firmware reinitialization needed.