Microchip Technology 23K640-I/P

Overview

23K640-I/P from Microchip Technology is a 64 Kbit (8192 × 8) low-power serial SRAM with SPI interface, operating at 2.7–3.6 V and supporting up to 20 MHz clock frequency. It features 32-byte page write capability, HOLD pin for interrupt-safe bus suspension, and industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C). It serves as nonvolatile-adjacent fast-access memory in microcontroller-based data logging and real-time control systems.

For engineers reviewing the 23K640-I/P datasheet, 23K640-I/P pinout, 23K640-I/P application, or 23K640-I/P equivalent, key selection criteria include supply voltage compatibility (2.7–3.6 V), SPI timing margins at 20 MHz, standby current ≤5 µA at +85°C, and PDIP-8 package integration into legacy through-hole designs.

Technical Context

The 23K640-I/P implements a synchronous serial interface compliant with standard SPI Mode 0 (CPOL = 0, CPHA = 0), using separate SI (MOSI) and SO (MISO) lines with edge-triggered sampling (data latched on SCK rising edge, output updated after falling edge). Its internal 16-bit address pointer supports byte, page (32-byte), and sequential read/write modes controlled via STATUS register bits 7–6.

Operation requires active-low CS for device selection and supports HOLD functionality-asserting HOLD low while SCK is low pauses ongoing transfers without resetting the address counter, enabling host CPU to service higher-priority interrupts. The HOLD feature is enabled only when the HOLD bit in the STATUS register is cleared to '0'.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

23K640-I/P is housed in an 8-lead Plastic Dual In-line Package (PDIP) with 0.300-inch body width, suitable for prototyping, legacy PCBs, and manual assembly environments.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial SRAM applications.

Compared with 23LC640-I/P and FM25V05-G, the 23K640-I/P offers optimal balance of 3.3 V compatibility, 20 MHz throughput, and industrial-grade reliability in PDIP packaging - making it ideal for cost-sensitive, through-hole-based control modules requiring predictable SPI timing and moderate power efficiency.

Availability

23K640-I/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, medical handheld diagnostics, smart energy metering, and data acquisition nodes requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for 23K640-I/P 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 infrastructure.

The 23K640 belongs to Microchip's serial SRAM product line, engineered specifically for SPI-based embedded systems needing fast, low-power, pin-compatible memory expansion without EEPROM wear limitations or FRAM cost premiums.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 23K640-I/P?

The 23K640-I/P supports a maximum clock frequency of 20 MHz under industrial temperature conditions (−40°C to +85°C) and 3.0 V supply. This enables peak serial data rates up to 2.5 MB/s for continuous read/write operations, verified per DS22126E AC Characteristics Table 1-2.

Does the 23K640-I/P retain data during power loss?

No, the 23K640-I/P is volatile SRAM and does not retain data without continuous VCC. Data retention voltage is specified at 1.2 V minimum (D011), meaning memory contents are lost if VCC drops below this threshold. For nonvolatile storage, external backup power or alternative nonvolatile memory like FRAM or EEPROM must be used alongside the 23K640-I/P.

What package type does the 23K640-I/P use?

The 23K640-I/P uses an 8-lead Plastic Dual In-line Package (PDIP) with 0.300-inch body width, designated by the "P" suffix in the part number. This through-hole package supports breadboard prototyping, wave soldering, and legacy board designs where surface-mount alternatives are impractical.

How does the HOLD pin function in the 23K640-I/P?

The HOLD pin in the 23K640-I/P suspends ongoing SPI transfers asynchronously when pulled low while SCK is low. During HOLD, SI, SCK, and SO enter high-impedance states and are ignored except for CS. The internal address counter remains intact, allowing seamless resumption upon HOLD release - a key feature for interrupt-driven hosts managing real-time tasks.

Is the 23K640-I/P RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the 23K640-I/P is Pb-free and RoHS-compliant, with halogen-free construction as confirmed in the device features table (DS22126E, page 1). The "I/P" suffix denotes Industrial temperature grade in PDIP packaging, and all units shipped meet JEDEC J-STD-609A Class 1 marking standards for matte tin (Sn) termination.