Microchip Technology 23A512-I/SN
- Part No.:
- 23A512-I/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
23A512-I/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC SRAM 512KBIT SPI/QUAD 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
23A512-I/SN from Microchip Technology is a 512-Kbit SPI Serial SRAM with SDI and SQI interface support, operating at 1.7V–2.2V supply and rated for -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range. It delivers 20 MHz clock rate, 3 mA read current at 5.5V/20 MHz (derated per VCC), 4 µA standby current at +85°C, 64K × 8-bit organization with 32-byte page, and unlimited read/write cycles - deployed in microcontroller-based data buffering and real-time logging systems.
For engineers reviewing the 23A512-I/SN datasheet, 23A512-I/SN pinout, 23A512-I/SN application, or 23A512-I/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include low-voltage operation (1.7–2.2V), SPI/SDI/SQI mode flexibility, zero write time, page/sequential access modes, and SOIC-8 (SN) package compatibility with standard PCB footprints.
Technical Context
The 23A512-I/SN implements a serial SRAM architecture with dedicated SI/SO pins for SPI mode and shared SIO0–SIO3 pins for SDI/SQI operation. Its MODE register (bits 7:6) configures byte/page/sequential access, with sequential mode as default. The HOLD pin enables mid-sequence suspension in SPI/SDI modes but is disabled in SQI mode due to pin function conflict.
It supports three instruction-driven protocols: standard SPI (single I/O), SDI (dual I/O, two bits/clock), and SQI (quad I/O, four bits/clock). All modes use MSB-first transmission, require CS low for activation, and maintain compatibility with PIC® and other SPI-capable microcontrollers via firmware-controlled timing.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 512 Kbit (64K × 8-bit), enabling 65,536 bytes of volatile RAM for temporary data storage |
| Supply voltage | 1.7V–2.2V - optimized for ultra-low-power embedded systems using 1.8V rails |
| Max clock frequency | 20 MHz (I-temp) - supports high-speed burst transfers up to 20 MB/s in SQI mode |
| Read current | 3 mA at 5.5V/20 MHz (typical); actual draw scales with VCC and frequency - ~1.5 mA typical at 2.2V |
| Standby current | 4 µA at +85°C - ensures minimal power drain during host sleep states |
| Page size | 32 bytes - defines maximum contiguous write length without address wrap in Page mode |
| Data retention voltage | 1.0 V minimum - guarantees RAM contents survive brown-out down to 1.0V before loss |
Pinout & Package
23A512-I/SN is supplied in an 8-Lead Plastic Small Outline (SOIC-N) package, 3.90 mm body width, JEDEC MS-012 variant, with gull-wing leads and RoHS-compliant matte tin plating. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot; device orientation follows standard SOIC conventions.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable: pulls device into active state; high = standby + SO tri-stated for bus sharing |
| SO/SIO1 (Pin 2) | Serial Output / SDI/SQI Data Line | Output-only in SPI; bidirectional I/O in SDI/SQI - requires external pull-up only if shared with other devices |
| SIO2 (Pin 3) | SQI Data Line | Dedicated quad-mode input/output; must not float in SPI/SDI mode per datasheet note |
| VSS (Pin 4) | Ground Reference | Primary return path for all internal logic and I/O; requires low-impedance connection to system GND plane |
| SI/SIO0 (Pin 5) | Serial Input / SDI/SQI Data Line | Input-only in SPI; bidirectional I/O in SDI/SQI - shares function with SO/SIO1 in dual/quad modes |
| SCK (Pin 6) | Serial Clock Input | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge latches SI, falling edge updates SO |
| HOLD/SIO3 (Pin 7) | Hold Control / SQI Data Line | Pauses ongoing SPI/SDI transfer without resetting address pointer; disabled in SQI mode |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Power Supply | 1.7–2.2V nominal; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF ceramic) required within 5 mm of pin |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Zero write time | Eliminates wait states after write command - data is immediately available for subsequent reads |
| Unlimited read/write endurance | Enables continuous logging or buffer cycling without wear-out concerns over product lifetime |
| Three configurable access modes | Byte (single-location), Page (32-byte block), Sequential (full-array) - selectable via MODE register |
| Multi-interface protocol support | Hardware-compatible SPI, SDI, and SQI modes - allows bandwidth scaling without changing physical layout |
| HOLD pin functionality | Preserves internal address and state during host interrupt latency - avoids retransmission overhead |
Applications
| Industrial Data Logger | Medical Sensor Hub |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Continuous acquisition of analog sensor readings (temperature, pressure) at 1 kHz with timestamping and local pre-processing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Volatile buffer storing raw samples prior to USB/Bluetooth upload; interfaces via SPI to ARM Cortex-M4 host MCU. Use Value: 32-byte page writes minimize transaction overhead; 20 MHz clock enables sub-10 µs per sample commit; 4 µA standby extends battery life between uploads. | Use Scenario: Real-time ECG waveform capture with on-device noise filtering and event-triggered storage. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-speed circular buffer holding 8 seconds of 12-bit samples (≈60 KB); accessed via sequential read/write in burst mode. Use Value: Unlimited endurance prevents memory degradation during frequent overwrite; 1.7–2.2V operation matches low-noise analog front-end supply rail. |
| Automotive Telematics Unit | POS Terminal Memory Expansion |
Use Scenario: Storing GPS trackpoints, CAN bus diagnostics, and firmware update staging data in harsh-temperature environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Non-critical volatile cache co-located with application processor; operates across -40°C to +85°C without derating. Use Value: Industrial temp grade and 4 µA standby ensure reliable operation during vehicle ignition-off periods; HOLD pin maintains context during CAN interrupt bursts. | Use Scenario: Adding fast, low-power RAM to legacy 8-bit microcontroller-based payment terminals for receipt spooling and encryption key caching. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI slave expanding onboard RAM capacity beyond MCU's internal limit; uses byte-mode for small transaction alignment. Use Value: Pin-compatible SOIC-8 footprint simplifies drop-in upgrade; zero write time eliminates polling delays in time-sensitive transaction flows. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial SRAM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23LC512-I/SN | Wider VCC range (2.5–5.5V); same pinout, timing, and feature set except voltage rating | Preferred where 3.3V or 5V systems dominate; not suitable for 1.8V-only designs | Select 23LC512-I/SN only when supply exceeds 2.5V; verify hold timing and AC specs match host controller at target VCC |
| FM25V05-G | F-RAM technology; 2.0–3.6V supply; 40 MHz max clock; 10-year data retention without power | Used where non-volatility or extreme endurance (>10¹⁴ cycles) is required; higher cost per bit | Choose FM25V05-G when data persistence during power loss is mandatory; otherwise 23A512-I/SN offers lower cost and simpler interface |
Compared with 23LC512-I/SN and FM25V05-G, the 23A512-I/SN provides optimal balance of ultra-low-voltage operation, proven SPI/SDI/SQI interoperability, and cost-effective volatile buffering - making it the preferred choice for 1.8V embedded systems requiring high-speed, high-endurance RAM without non-volatility overhead.
Availability
23A512-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial data loggers, medical sensor hubs, automotive telematics units, and POS terminal memory expansion requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.
Supply support for 23A512-I/SN includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, serving industrial, automotive, consumer, and communications markets with vertically integrated silicon and development tools.
The 23A512-I/SN belongs to Microchip's serial SRAM product line, designed specifically for low-voltage, high-reliability embedded systems needing fast, endurance-rich volatile memory with flexible SPI-compatible interfaces.
FAQ
What is the operating voltage range for the 23A512-I/SN?
The 23A512-I/SN operates from 1.7V to 2.2V, making it suitable for 1.8V systems. This narrow range distinguishes it from the 23LC512 (2.5–5.5V) and ensures compatibility with low-power microcontrollers and analog subsystems. Operation outside this window may cause functional failure or data corruption.
Does the 23A512-I/SN support Quad SPI (SQI) mode, and what are the trade-offs?
Yes, the 23A512-I/SN supports SQI mode via the EQIO command, enabling 4-bit-per-clock transfers for up to 80 MB/s effective throughput. However, SQI mode disables the HOLD pin functionality and requires all four SIO pins (SIO0–SIO3) to be actively driven - limiting use in designs that rely on pause/resume capability or share pins with other peripherals.
How does the 23A512-I/SN handle power loss during write operations?
The 23A512-I/SN is a volatile SRAM: all data is lost when VCC drops below the data retention voltage (1.0V min). It does not include built-in backup capacitors or non-volatile elements. System-level protection (e.g., supercapacitor hold-up, controlled shutdown sequence) must be implemented externally to preserve data across power transitions.
What package type does the 23A512-I/SN use, and is it RoHS compliant?
The 23A512-I/SN uses an 8-Lead Plastic Small Outline (SOIC-N) package, designated SN in Microchip's ordering code, with 3.90 mm body width and RoHS-compliant matte tin (Sn) lead finish. It adheres to JEDEC MS-012 standards and is compatible with standard SOIC-8 reflow profiles and pick-and-place equipment.
Can the 23A512-I/SN be used interchangeably with the 23LC512-I/SN on the same PCB?
No - while both share identical pinout, timing, and instruction set, the 23A512-I/SN requires 1.7–2.2V supply and will not function reliably above 2.2V, whereas the 23LC512-I/SN requires ≥2.5V. Substituting one for the other without adjusting the power rail will result in malfunction or damage. They are functionally identical but electrically incompatible.
23A512-I/SN Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Volatile
- Memory Format:
- SRAM
- Technology:
- SRAM
- Memory Size:
- 512Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 64K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- SPI - Quad I/O
- Clock Frequency:
- 20 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- -
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.7V ~ 2.2V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
23A512-I/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 23A512-I/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 23A512-I/SN on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 23A512-I/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 23A512-I/SN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 23A512-I/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 23A512-I/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 23A512-I/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 23A512-I/SN?
23A512-I/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 23A512-I/SN order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 23A512-I/SN?
For technical support, including 23A512-I/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 23A512-I/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 23A512-I/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 23A512-I/SN products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 23A512-I/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 23A512-I/SN?
All 23A512-I/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 23A512-I/SN, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 23A512-I/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 23A512-I/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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