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0542F–PEEPR–2/09
AT28C040
5. Device Operation
5.1 Read
The AT28C040 is accessed like a static RAM. When CE and OE are low and WE is high, the
data stored at the memory location determined by the address pins is asserted on the outputs.
The outputs are put in the high impedance state when either CE or OE is high. This dual-line
control gives designers flexibility in preventing bus contention in their systems.
5.2 Byte Write
A low pulse on the WE or CE input with CE or WE low (respectively) and OE high initiates a write
cycle. The address is latched on the falling edge of CE or WE, whichever occurs last. The data is
latched by the first rising edge of CE or WE. Once a byte write has been started, it will automati-
cally time itself to completion. Once a programming operation has been initiated and for the
duration of tWC, a read operation will effectively be a polling operation.
5.3 Page Write
The page write operation of the AT28C040 allows 1 to 256 bytes of data to be written into the
device during a single internal programming period. A page write operation is initiated in the
same manner as a byte write; the first byte written can then be followed by 1 to 255 additional
bytes. Each successive byte must be written within 150 μs (tBLC) of the previous byte. If the tBLC
limit is exceeded, the AT28C040 will cease accepting data and commence the internal program-
ming operation. All bytes during a page write operation must reside on the same page as
defined by the state of the A8 - A18 inputs. For each WE high to low transition during the page
write operation, A8 - A18 must be the same.
The A0 to A7 inputs specify which bytes within the page are to be written. The bytes may be
loaded in any order and may be altered within the same load period. Only bytes which are spec-
ified for writing will be written; unnecessary cycling of other bytes within the page does not occur.
5.4 Data Polling
The AT28C040 features Data Polling to indicate the end of a write cycle. During a byte or page
write cycle an attempted read of the last byte written will result in the complement of the written
data to be presented on I/O7. Once the write cycle has been completed, true data is valid on all
outputs, and the next write cycle may begin. Data Polling may begin at anytime during the write
cycle.
5.5 Toggle Bit
In addition to Data Polling, the AT28C040 provides another method for determining the end of a
write cycle. During the write operation, successive attempts to read data from the device will
result in I/O6 toggling between one and zero. Once the write has completed, I/O6 will stop tog-
gling and valid data will be read. Reading the toggle bit may begin at any time during the write
cycle.
5.6 Data Protection
If precautions are not taken, inadvertent writes may occur during transitions of the host system
power supply. Atmel® has incorporated both hardware and software features that will protect the
memory against inadvertent writes.