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Microchip Technology 23K256-I/ST
- Part No.:
- 23K256-I/ST
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
23K256-I/ST.pdf
- Description:
- IC SRAM 256KBIT SPI 20MHZ 8TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,204
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Product details
Overview
23K256-I/ST from Microchip Technology is a 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8-bit) SPI Serial SRAM with 3.6 V supply range, 20 MHz max clock, 32-byte page write capability, and HOLD pin for interrupt-safe bus suspension. It operates across -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range in an 8-lead TSSOP package and serves as nonvolatile-adjacent fast-access memory in microcontroller-based data logging systems.
For engineers reviewing the 23K256-I/ST datasheet, 23K256-I/ST pinout, 23K256-I/ST application, or 23K256-I/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include its 32-byte page write efficiency, 4 µA max standby current at +85°C, SPI-compatible timing compliance up to 20 MHz, and HOLD pin behavior during host interrupt servicing.
Technical Context
The 23K256-I/ST implements a true SPI interface with separate SI (MOSI) and SO (MISO) lines, requiring no bidirectional data line arbitration. Its internal 16-bit address pointer supports byte, page (32-byte), and sequential read/write modes controlled via STATUS register bits 7–6.
Operation relies on CS-driven selection, SCK-synchronized edge-triggered sampling (SI on rising edge, SO updated after falling edge), and HOLD pin assertion while SCK is low to enter high-impedance pause state without sequence reset - enabling deterministic host interrupt handling.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8-bit) - provides sufficient buffer space for real-time sensor data capture before host MCU processing. |
| Supply voltage | 2.7–3.6 V - compatible with standard 3.3 V logic domains and tolerant of rail droop in battery-backed systems. |
| Max clock frequency | 20 MHz - enables 2.5 MB/s peak serial throughput for burst data transfers. |
| Standby current | 4 µA max at +85°C - minimizes quiescent power in always-on monitoring nodes. |
| Page size | 32 bytes - balances write latency and bus efficiency; reduces command overhead versus byte writes. |
| Data retention voltage | 1.2 V minimum - ensures RAM contents survive brown-out events down to critical supply threshold. |
| Operating temperature | -40°C to +85°C - certified for industrial control, factory automation, and outdoor embedded applications. |
Pinout & Package
23K256-I/ST is housed in an 8-lead TSSOP (Thin Shrink Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm lead pitch, JEDEC MO-153 compliant, and marked "23K256I" with date code and traceability.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable: drives device into active mode when low; forces SO to high-Z and enters standby when high. |
| SO | Serial Data Output | MISO line: outputs memory data MSB-first on falling edge of SCK; tri-stated when CS high or HOLD asserted. |
| VSS | Ground | Reference return path for all digital I/O and internal circuitry; must be low-impedance connection to system GND plane. |
| SI | Serial Data Input | MOSI line: accepts instruction, address, and write data MSB-first on rising edge of SCK. |
| SCK | Serial Clock Input | Master-generated clock: synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge latches SI, falling edge updates SO. |
| HOLD | Hold Input | Pauses ongoing SPI transaction when pulled low while SCK is low; preserves internal address pointer and state. |
| VCC | Supply Voltage | Primary power input: powers core SRAM array and interface logic; requires local 100 nF decoupling near pin. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 32-byte page write mode | Reduces write command overhead by 31× vs. byte writes, accelerating firmware update buffering and sensor stream storage. |
| HOLD pin with deterministic timing | Enables atomic host interrupt response: suspend SPI mid-transfer without losing address context or requiring re-initialization. |
| Three configurable operation modes | Byte (default), Page, and Sequential modes selected via STATUS register - allows runtime optimization for access pattern. |
| Low-power standby at 4 µA | Supports energy-constrained deployments such as battery-powered IoT edge nodes with multi-year operational life. |
| Industrial temperature rating (-40°C to +85°C) | Validates reliable operation in uncontrolled environments including motor control cabinets, HVAC units, and industrial gateways. |
Applications
| Industrial Data Logger | Medical Sensor Hub |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Continuous acquisition of analog sensor readings (temperature, pressure, humidity) at 100 Hz with timestamping and local buffering prior to USB/UART upload. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-speed, low-latency SRAM buffer interfacing directly with PIC MCU's hardware SPI peripheral. Use Value: 32-byte page writes reduce firmware overhead by 97% compared to byte writes, enabling deterministic 100 Hz sampling without CPU saturation. | Use Scenario: Portable ECG monitor capturing raw waveform samples at 1 kHz, storing 30 seconds locally before wireless transmission to base station. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Off-chip RAM extension for MCU with limited internal SRAM, accessed via SPI with HOLD support during Bluetooth stack interrupts. Use Value: HOLD pin allows seamless interruption of 30-second burst writes without data loss or address misalignment, ensuring waveform continuity. |
| Smart Energy Meter | Factory Automation I/O Module |
Use Scenario: Storing 15-minute interval consumption data, tariff tables, and event logs across power cycles using external backup capacitor. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile-adjacent volatile memory holding last-known valid data during brief AC mains dropout. Use Value: 1.2 V data retention voltage ensures memory integrity through brown-outs lasting >100 ms, preventing meter data corruption. | Use Scenario: Real-time collection of PLC status signals (digital inputs/outputs) and diagnostic counters across 16 channels at 10 kHz aggregate rate. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-throughput SPI buffer between FPGA logic and ARM Cortex-M host processor. Use Value: 20 MHz clock support delivers 2.5 MB/s sustained bandwidth, matching FPGA parallel-to-serial conversion throughput without backpressure. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial SRAM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| CY14V104Q2L-BAI | 4 Mbit nvSRAM with integrated lithium battery backup; 3.3 V only; no HOLD pin; SPI-compatible but different command set. | Used where data persistence across full power loss is required; not suitable for pure volatile buffering with interrupt-safe pausing. | Select when nonvolatility is mandatory and HOLD functionality is unnecessary. |
| FM25V20A-G | 2 Mbit F-RAM with 3.3 V supply; unlimited endurance; no page limits; 20 MHz SPI; no HOLD pin. | Preferred for high-write-cycle applications like event counters or configuration tracking; lacks deterministic pause capability for interrupt handling. | Select when write endurance >10¹⁴ cycles is critical and HOLD is not needed. |
Compared with CY14V104Q2L-BAI and FM25V20A-G, the 23K256-I/ST offers optimal balance of low-cost volatile buffering, deterministic HOLD-based interrupt handling, and 32-byte page efficiency - making it ideal for time-sensitive industrial data acquisition where power loss is managed externally.
Availability
23K256-I/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial data loggers, medical sensor hubs, smart energy meters, and factory automation I/O modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for 23K256-I/ST 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 microcontrollers, analog components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 23K256-I/ST belongs to Microchip's 23X256 SPI Serial SRAM product line, designed specifically to deliver cost-effective, low-power, pin-efficient external memory for resource-constrained microcontroller systems in industrial and automotive environments.
FAQ
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 23K256-I/ST?
The 23K256-I/ST supports a maximum clock frequency of 20 MHz under 3.0 V supply and industrial temperature conditions. This enables a theoretical peak data transfer rate of 2.5 MB/s in sequential read/write modes. The device maintains timing compliance across its full 2.7–3.6 V supply range and -40°C to +85°C operating temperature, with AC characteristics verified per DS22100F-page 3 Table 1-2.
Does the 23K256-I/ST have built-in nonvolatile storage?
No, the 23K256-I/ST is a volatile serial SRAM and does not retain data when power is removed. It requires continuous VCC to maintain memory contents. However, its 1.2 V data retention voltage specification ensures stored data remains intact during brief brown-out events down to that threshold, supporting use with external backup capacitors in power-fail scenarios.
How does the HOLD pin function on the 23K256-I/ST?
The HOLD pin on the 23K256-I/ST suspends ongoing SPI communication without resetting the internal address pointer or command state. To activate HOLD, the pin must be pulled low while SCK is low; the device then places SI, SO, and SCK in high-impedance states. Resuming requires bringing HOLD high while SCK remains low. This behavior is confirmed in DS22100F-page 5 Figure 1-1 and Section 3.5.
What package type is used for the 23K256-I/ST?
The 23K256-I/ST uses an 8-lead TSSOP (Thin Shrink Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm lead pitch, as specified in the Product Identification System on DS22100F-page 25. This package is marked "23K256I" followed by temperature grade (I), year/week code, and traceability characters, and complies with JEDEC MO-153 standards.
Can the 23K256-I/ST operate with a 1.8 V supply?
No, the 23K256-I/ST is rated for 2.7–3.6 V supply only. Using 1.8 V violates its absolute minimum VCC specification and will result in unreliable operation or failure. For 1.5–1.95 V operation, Microchip specifies the pin-compatible 23A256 variant; the 23K256-I/ST and 23A256 are distinct parts with different DC and AC characteristics per DS22100F-page 2 Device Selection Table.
23K256-I/ST Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Volatile
- Memory Format:
- SRAM
- Technology:
- SRAM
- Memory Size:
- 256Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 32K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- SPI
- Clock Frequency:
- 20 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- -
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 3.6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-TSSOP
23K256-I/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 23K256-I/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 23K256-I/ST 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 23K256-I/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of 23K256-I/ST are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 23K256-I/ST is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 23K256-I/ST?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 23K256-I/ST transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 23K256-I/ST?
23K256-I/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 23K256-I/ST 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 23K256-I/ST?
For technical support, including 23K256-I/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 23K256-I/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 23K256-I/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 23K256-I/ST 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 23K256-I/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 23K256-I/ST?
All 23K256-I/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 23K256-I/ST, 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 23K256-I/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 23K256-I/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
23K256-I/ST Tags
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AT24C02C-XHM-T
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