S25FL256S timing analysis issues

[Anonymous]

Hi, I am struggling to show that the timing analysis for the S25FL256S SPI Flash memory holds for Figure 5.10 SPI Single Bit Output Timing of the Document Number: 001-98283 Rev. *J.

The issue is that the Clock Low to Output Valid (tV) parameter max time delay is 8 ns, which violates the read operation setup time for AM3358 processor running in master mode with 48MHz clock frequency and 45/55 clock duty cycle. The AM3358 processor' Setup time(tsu(SOMI-SPICLKH)) (SOMI) valid before SPI_CLK active edge is 3.02 ns. Setup time margin = half period x duty cycle - tV - tsu = 9.36 - 8 - 3.02 = -1.66ns. However this example is application specific and out of your control, but I wanted to add the calculations for clarification.

Now assuming that one would like to run the SPI memory at say 100 MHz = 10 ns period = 5 ns half period, then given the Clock Low to Output Valid (tV) parameter max time delay of 8 ns and ignoring the delays related to clock duty cycle and master setup delays this should theoretically not work.

Please advise what am I missing..

[PradiptaB_11]

Hi Georgi,

If you are running SPI at 100 MHz then as you write it is theoretically not possible. Please note for Single bit SPI our device offers a max speed of 50 MHz.

Can you let us know if you are able to read data from the device correctly or are you facing any issues.

Thanks,

Pradipta.

[Anonymous]

Hi Pradipta,

Thanks for the quick response.

I understand the max speed of 50 MHz. The boards have been manufactured and tested at ambient conditions and things are working fine, but our concern is that they might fail at max temperature testing.

Can you please confirm if my understanding is correct for the following calculation?

For 48 MHz clock frequency the time period is 20.8 ns.

Page 32 of the datasheet states min clock pulse (tWH, tCH) is 45% of the period which equates to 9.36 ns.

The maximum Clock Low to Output Valid (tV) delay is 8 ns.

This leaves is with 9.36 - 8 = 1.36 ns maximum setup time on the master device?

Thanks,

Georgi

[PradiptaB_11 · Accepted solution]

Hi Georgi,

As you stated tV parameter is 8 ns but please note it is a max spec. It may take less than that time also at ambient temperatures as you are seeing in the testing. At max temperature testing  it may take 8 ns leaving 1.36 ns setup time for the master device which can result in a faulty read. Your understanding here is correct. In this case you have to reduce your operating frequency to include sufficient time for the processor.

Thanks,

Pradipta.

[Anonymous]

Hi Pradipta,

That's understandable. Thank you for your help!

Regards,

Georgi