### Overview of STK17TA8-RF45 The **STK17TA8-RF45** is a high-performance **256Kbit (32K x 8) nvSRAM** (non-volatile Static Random Access Memory) manufactured by Infineon (formerly Cypress Semiconductor). It combines the speed of an SRAM with the non-volatile data retention of an EEPROM. --- ### 1. Key Technical Specifications | Feature | Specification | | :--- | :--- | | **Density** | 256 Kbit (32K x 8 bits) | | **Interface** | Parallel | | **Access Time** | 45 ns | | **Operating Voltage** | 2.7V to 3.6V | | **Package** | 32-pin SOIC (300 mil) | | **Retention** | 20 Years (at 55°C) | | **Endurance** | Unlimited Read/Write cycles to SRAM | --- ### 2. Functional Architecture The device consists of two main components integrated into a single monolithic chip: 1. **SRAM Cell:** Used for standard high-speed read/write operations. 2. **Non-volatile Element (QuantumTrap):** A shadow memory that stores data when power is lost. #### Operation Modes: * **STORE:** Data is transferred from SRAM to the non-volatile cells. This happens automatically on power-down (**AutoStore**) or via a software sequence. * **RECALL:** Data is transferred from the non-volatile cells back to the SRAM. This happens automatically on power-up (**Power-Up Recall**). --- ### 3. Core Features * **AutoStore:** The chip includes an internal capacitor-based system (or requires an external small capacitor on the $V_{CAP}$ pin) to provide enough energy to save data to the non-volatile layer if the main power supply ($V_{CC}$) drops below a certain threshold. * **Hardware Protection:** It features a Write Protection mechanism to prevent accidental data corruption during power transitions. * **Real-Time Clock (RTC) Integration:** This specific series (STK17TA8) often includes integrated clock functions, allowing for time-stamping of data. --- ### 4. Pin Configuration Highlights | Pin Name | Function | Description | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **A0 - A14** | Address Inputs | Used to select one of the 32,768 bytes. | | **DQ0 - DQ7** | Data I/O | Bidirectional 8-bit data bus. | | **$\overline{CE}$** | Chip Enable | Activates the device when LOW. | | **$\overline{WE}$** | Write Enable | Enables write operations when LOW. | | **$\overline{OE}$** | Output Enable | Controls the output buffers during a Read. | | **$V_{CAP}$** | Capacitor Pin | Connection for the AutoStore backup capacitor. | --- ### 5. Common Applications * **Industrial Automation:** Storing configuration parameters and state variables that must survive a power outage. * **Medical Equipment:** Critical data logging where data loss is not an option. * **Gaming Machines:** Storing high scores and credits. * **Networking Gear:** Maintaining routing tables and system logs.