HOW DOES IT WORK?

Flash 12 Click is based on the AT25EU0041A, a 4Mbit serial flash memory from Renesas, known for its ultra-low power consumption. This memory is part of a series specifically developed for applications operating on the IoT network's fringes, where energy efficiency is paramount. The AT25EU0041A is particularly well-suited for battery-operated systems, offering a reliable solution for both program code storage, which is then loaded into embedded systems, and serving as external RAM for direct program execution from the NOR Flash memory. Based on these features, this Click board™ is ideal for various applications from low-power reading and rapid erasure to boot/code shadow memory and straightforward event/data logging.

The AT25EU0041A sets a new standard in energy efficiency through its innovative erase architecture, which features short erase times while maintaining low power consumption across all operations, including reading, programming, and erasing. The consistent erase times, irrespective of the memory block size, and a page-erase capability that allows for as little as 256 bytes to be erased enhance the efficiency of write operations. Moreover, the AT25EU0041A adheres to the JEDEC standard for manufacturer and device identification, and it includes a 128-bit unique serial number, further enhancing its utility and security features.

Flash 12 Click communicates with MCU through a standard SPI interface supporting the two most common SPI modes, SPI Mode 0 and 3, and a maximum clock frequency of up to 108MHz. The AT25EU0041A enhances data transfer rates through Dual and Quad SPI operations, which double and quadruple the standard SPI speed, respectively. These enhanced speeds are achieved by re-purposing the SI and SO pins as bidirectional I/O pins during Dual and Quad SPI operations.

Furthermore, the board features a HOLD function, marked as HLD and routed on the default position of the INT pin of the mikroBUS™ socket. The hold function allows the suspension of serial communications without disrupting ongoing operations. The board also has a Write Protect feature, marked as WP and routed on the default position of the PWM of the mikroBUS™ socket, that safeguards all registers and memory from unintended write operations through both hardware and software mechanisms.

This Click board™ can be operated only with a 3.3V logic voltage level. The board must perform appropriate logic voltage level conversion before using MCUs with different logic levels. Also, it comes equipped with a library containing functions and an example code that can be used as a reference for further development.

SPECIFICATIONS