Intel TE28F320J3C110 32Mbit 3V Flash Memory Chip: Datasheet, Pinout, and Application Notes

The Intel TE28F320J3C110 is a prominent 32-megabit (4M x 8) 3-volt single power supply flash memory chip, renowned for its reliability and performance in a wide range of embedded systems. Fabricated with Intel's advanced Multi-Level Cell (MLC) technology, this device strikes a balance between density, cost, and power consumption, making it a classic choice for applications requiring non-volatile storage.

Key Features and Datasheet Overview

According to its datasheet, the TE28F320J3C110 operates on a single 3.3V power supply for both read and program/erase operations, eliminating the need for a high-voltage programming power supply. It offers a fast 70ns page-mode read access time, significantly improving data throughput when reading sequential memory locations. The chip is organized as 64 blocks, supporting individual block locking and unlocking for flexible software data protection. Its command set is JEDEC standard, ensuring compatibility with other flash products. A critical feature is its 1,000,000 program/erase cycles per block endurance, guaranteeing robust longevity for frequently updated data.

Pinout and Interface

The device is offered in industry-standard packages like TSOP (Thin Small Outline Package) and is a 5x0mm 48-pin design. The pinout includes:

A0-A21: Address inputs to select memory locations.

DQ0-DQ7: 8-bit bidirectional data bus.

CE: Chip Enable, active low, to select the device.

OE: Output Enable, active low, to gate data onto the output bus.

WE: Write Enable, active low, to control write operations.

RP/RESET: Reset/Power-down pin. Driving this pin low aborts operations and places the device in a low-power standby mode.

VCC: +3.3V power supply.

GND: Ground.

BYTE: This pin controls the data bus width. Tied to VCC, it selects x8 mode; tied to GND, it would enable x16 mode (though this specific part is x8-only).

VPEN: Voltage Pin for Program/Erase. Must be held at VCC for normal operation.

Application Notes

Successful integration of the TE28F320J3C110 requires careful consideration:

1. Power Management: Ensure a clean and stable 3.3V power supply. Decoupling capacitors should be placed as close as possible to the VCC and GND pins.

2. Write State Machine (WSM): The chip incorporates an internal WSM that simplifies the software interface. The host processor writes commands to the command register, and the WSM automatically executes the complex algorithms for programming and erasure, including internal verification and retry.

3. Block Locking: Utilize the block lock/unlock feature to protect critical boot code or system parameters from accidental corruption. This is typically managed through specific command sequences.

4. Reset Operation: The RP/RESET pin is crucial for system stability. Driving it low during power-up or system reset ensures the device is in a known read array state. It also provides a quick way to terminate an ongoing operation if necessary.

5. Interfacing with Processors: The chip can be easily interfaced with modern microcontrollers either in a memory-mapped fashion (connected directly to the data and address bus) or via a bit-banged GPIO interface if a parallel bus is unavailable, though the latter is slower.

ICGOOODFIND

The Intel TE28F320J3C110 remains a highly capable and dependable parallel NOR flash memory solution. Its standard command set, excellent endurance, and robust block protection features make it particularly well-suited for storing boot code, operating systems, and configuration data in systems like networking equipment, set-top boxes, industrial controllers, and legacy embedded designs. While newer serial flash devices are popular for their smaller footprint, the TE28F320J3C110's fast random access and execute-in-place (XIP) capability ensure its continued relevance in performance-critical applications.

Keywords:

1. NOR Flash Memory

2. 3.3V Single Power Supply

3. Block Locking

4. Execute-in-Place (XIP)

5. Program/Erase Endurance