Microchip Technology 23LC512-E/SN
- Part No.:
- 23LC512-E/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
23LC512-E/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC SRAM 512KBIT SPI/QUAD 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
23LC512-E/SN from Microchip Technology is a 512-Kbit serial SRAM with SPI/SDI/SQI interface, 2.5V–5.5V supply range, 20 MHz max clock (16 MHz at extended temp), 3 mA read current at 5.5V/20 MHz, and 4 µA standby current at +85°C. It supports byte/page/sequential access modes and is used in microcontroller-based data buffering, firmware parameter storage, and real-time logging systems.
For engineers reviewing the 23LC512-E/SN datasheet, 23LC512-E/SN pinout, 23LC512-E/SN application, or 23LC512-E/SN equivalent, key selection considerations include VCC compatibility (2.5–5.5 V), industrial/extended temperature support (−40°C to +125°C), SDI/SQI mode enablement via EDIO/EQIO commands, and HOLD pin behavior in non-SQI configurations.
Technical Context
The 23LC512-E/SN implements a serial SRAM architecture with an 8-bit instruction register and MSB-first data transfer. It operates in three configurable modes-Byte (00), Page (10), and Sequential (01)-via a writable MODE register accessed using RDMR/WRMR instructions.
It supports three physical interface protocols: standard SPI (SI/SO/SCK/CS), SDI (SIO0/SIO1), and SQI (SIO0–SIO3), with SQI disabling HOLD functionality. The device powers on in Standby mode (CS high) and requires CS low-to-high transitions to initiate operations.
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 |
| Interface modes | SPI (SI/SO), SDI (SIO0/SIO1), SQI (SIO0–SIO3); mode selected via EDIO/EQIO/RSTIO commands |
| Max clock frequency | 20 MHz at I-temp (−40°C to +85°C); reduced to 16 MHz at E-temp (−40°C to +125°C) |
| Read current | 3 mA at VCC = 5.5 V and 20 MHz - defines active power budget during high-speed data fetch |
| Standby current | 4 µA at VCC = 5.5 V and +85°C - enables ultra-low-power retention in battery-backed systems |
| Data retention voltage | 1.0 V minimum VCC - guarantees RAM data integrity during brown-out or backup-supply operation |
| Page size | 32-byte pages - constrains burst write length and informs buffer alignment in host firmware |
Pinout & Package
23LC512-E/SN is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) with 3.90 mm body width, JEDEC-compliant narrow outline, and RoHS-compliant matte tin finish.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable; places device in Standby (high-Z SO) when deasserted; required for all operations |
| SO/SIO1 | Serial Output / SDI/SQI Pin | Tri-state output in SPI mode; dual-input in SDI; quad-input in SQI; shares pin with SIO1 |
| SIO2 | SQI Pin | Dedicated quad-input line; unused in SPI/SDI modes; must not float in SDI mode per datasheet note |
| VSS | Ground Reference | Primary return path for all internal logic and I/O; requires low-impedance PCB connection |
| SI/SIO0 | Serial Input / SDI/SQI Pin | Instruction/address/data input in SPI; dual-input in SDI; quad-input in SQI; shares pin with SIO0 |
| SCK | Serial Clock Input | Synchronizes all transfers; SI latched on rising edge; SO updated after falling edge |
| HOLD/SIO3 | Hold Control / SQI Pin | Suspends ongoing SPI transfer without resetting address pointer; disabled in SQI mode |
| VCC | Power Supply | 2.5–5.5 V operating range; powers core logic and I/O buffers; decoupling capacitor required |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Unlimited read/write cycles | Enables persistent use in dynamic data logging or configuration update applications without wear-out concerns |
| Zero write time | Eliminates wait states after write commands - simplifies timing-critical firmware and improves throughput |
| Three access modes (Byte/Page/Sequential) | Allows optimization: Byte for random access, Page for block writes within 32-byte boundaries, Sequential for full-array streaming |
| SDI and SQI high-speed interfaces | Doubles (SDI) or quadruples (SQI) effective throughput vs. standard SPI - critical for bandwidth-constrained hosts |
| HOLD pin for transaction suspension | Permits host CPU to pause memory transfers mid-sequence (e.g., during interrupt handling) without losing state |
Applications
| Industrial Data Logger | Medical Sensor Hub |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Captures timestamped sensor readings (temperature, pressure, ECG) at 1–10 kHz into circular buffer before USB/Bluetooth upload. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Volatile high-speed buffer between analog front-end and host MCU; handles burst writes with zero write time. Use Value: 32-byte page writes align with typical sensor packet sizes; 20 MHz SPI sustains >2 MB/s effective throughput in Sequential mode. |
Use Scenario: Aggregates real-time vitals from multiple patient monitors onto a central display unit with local alarm triggering. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shared SRAM resource for multi-threaded data fusion; accessed concurrently by acquisition and UI threads via CS arbitration. Use Value: Unlimited endurance supports continuous 24/7 operation; 4 µA standby current extends battery life in portable units. |
| Automotive Telematics Unit | Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) |
Use Scenario: Stores GPS trajectory snapshots, CAN bus diagnostics, and firmware update staging data across ignition cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Non-volatile-adjacent buffer with 1.0 V data retention - retains last known position during cold cranking voltage sag. Use Value: Extended temperature rating (−40°C to +125°C) ensures reliability under hood conditions; SQI mode accelerates OTA update staging. |
Use Scenario: Holds runtime I/O mapping tables, PID tuning parameters, and event history logs in modular control cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Configurable memory bank for deterministic scan-cycle data exchange between FPGA and ARM host. Use Value: Page-mode writes minimize bus occupancy during cyclic parameter updates; HOLD pin allows safe context switching during fault interrupts. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial SRAM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23LC1024-I/SN | 1 Mbit capacity (2× larger), same 2.5–5.5 V VCC, identical pinout and command set | Required where >64 KB buffer space is needed; no change to host driver or layout | Select when future-proofing for larger data sets or consolidating multiple 23LC512 instances |
| FM25V05-G | F-RAM technology; 512 Kbit, 2.0–3.6 V VCC, 40 MHz SPI, <100 ns write time, 10¹⁴ endurance | Superior write speed and endurance; incompatible VCC range and no SDI/SQI support | Choose for extreme write-cycle applications (e.g., black-box recording) where voltage range permits |
Compared with 23LC1024-I/SN, the 23LC512-E/SN offers smaller footprint and lower cost for ≤64 KB needs; compared with FM25V05-G, it supports wider VCC and advanced interfaces but lacks F-RAM's instant-write and cycle endurance.
Availability
23LC512-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial data loggers, medical sensor hubs, automotive telematics units, and programmable logic controllers requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for 23LC512-E/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 microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, serving industrial, automotive, and communications markets with high-reliability silicon and development tools.
The 23LC512-E/SN belongs to Microchip's serial SRAM product line, designed specifically for microcontroller co-processing applications requiring fast, low-power, protocol-flexible external RAM with robust industrial temperature support.
FAQ
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 23LC512-E/SN across temperature grades?
The 23LC512-E/SN supports up to 20 MHz at industrial temperature (−40°C to +85°C) and 16 MHz at extended temperature (−40°C to +125°C). This is specified in Table 1-2 AC Characteristics and confirmed in the Device Selection Table. Exceeding these frequencies may result in timing violations and data corruption.
Does the 23LC512-E/SN support Quad SPI (QSPI) mode, and how is it enabled?
Yes, the 23LC512-E/SN supports Serial Quad Interface (SQI) mode using pins SIO0–SIO3. It is enabled by issuing the EQIO command (0x38) over SPI. Note that HOLD functionality is disabled in SQI mode, and pin SIO2 must be actively driven-not left floating-during operation.
What happens to the internal address counter during a Sequential Read operation when it reaches the end of memory?
During Sequential Read, the internal address counter rolls over from address 0xFFFF to 0x0000 upon reaching the end of the 64K-byte array. This allows indefinite continuous reads without host-side address management, as documented in Section 2.3 and Figure 2-5 of the datasheet.
Can the 23LC512-E/SN retain data during brief power interruptions?
Yes - the 23LC512-E/SN guarantees RAM data retention down to 1.0 V VCC (per Parameter D011, VDR). This enables reliable operation during brown-out events or when backed by a supercapacitor, provided VCC does not drop below this threshold.
Is the 23LC512-E/SN pin-compatible with the 23A512 series, and what are the key electrical differences?
No - while both share identical pinout and command structure, the 23LC512-E/SN operates from 2.5–5.5 V, whereas the 23A512 requires 1.7–2.2 V. They are not interchangeable without adjusting the host power rail and level-shifting I/O lines, as confirmed in the Device Selection Table.
23LC512-E/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:
- 16 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- -
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
23LC512-E/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 23LC512-E/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 23LC512-E/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 23LC512-E/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 23LC512-E/SN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 23LC512-E/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 23LC512-E/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 23LC512-E/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 23LC512-E/SN?
23LC512-E/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 23LC512-E/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 23LC512-E/SN?
For technical support, including 23LC512-E/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 23LC512-E/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 23LC512-E/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 23LC512-E/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 23LC512-E/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 23LC512-E/SN?
All 23LC512-E/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 23LC512-E/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 23LC512-E/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 23LC512-E/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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