Microchip Technology 23LC512-I/ST
- Part No.:
- 23LC512-I/ST
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
23LC512-I/ST.pdf
- Description:
- IC SRAM 512KBIT SPI/QUAD 8TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:195
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Product details
Overview
23LC512-I/ST from Microchip Technology is a 512-Kbit SPI Serial SRAM with SDI/SQI interface, organized as 64K × 8 bits in 32-byte pages. It operates at up to 20 MHz (16 MHz for extended temp), supports byte/page/sequential read/write modes, and delivers 3 mA read current at 5.5 V - ideal for microcontroller-based data buffering in industrial control systems.
For engineers reviewing the 23LC512-I/ST datasheet, 23LC512-I/ST pinout, 23LC512-I/ST application, or 23LC512-I/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2.5–5.5 V supply range, -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature rating, dual/quad I/O capability, HOLD function, and SOIC-8 (ST) package compatibility with standard PCB footprints.
Technical Context
The 23LC512-I/ST implements a serial SRAM architecture with SPI-compatible command protocol (0x03 READ, 0x02 WRITE), MODE register (0x05 RDMR / 0x01 WRMR) for configuring byte/page/sequential operation, and dedicated instruction set for SDI (0x3B EDIO) and SQI (0x38 EQIO) entry. Its internal address pointer auto-increments within page or across array boundaries depending on mode.
It features three distinct I/O configurations: standard SPI (CS/SI/SO/SCK/HOLD), SDI (using SIO0/SIO1), and SQI (SIO0–SIO3), with HOLD disabled in SQI mode. The device powers up in standby (CS high), requires CS low to initiate any operation, and maintains data retention down to 1.0 V VCC.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 512 Kbit (64K × 8-bit organization) - provides sufficient buffer space for real-time sensor logging or firmware patch storage in resource-constrained MCUs. |
| Interface Modes | SPI / SDI / SQI - enables scalable bandwidth: SPI (1-bit/clock), SDI (2-bit/clock), SQI (4-bit/clock), supporting host controller flexibility without hardware redesign. |
| Max Clock Frequency | 20 MHz (I-temp), 16 MHz (E-temp) - delivers up to 20 MB/s effective throughput in SQI mode, reducing host CPU wait time during bulk memory access. |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - compatible with both 3.3 V and 5 V logic systems, eliminating level-shifting requirements in mixed-voltage designs. |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +85°C (Industrial grade) - validated for deployment in factory automation, motor drives, and outdoor instrumentation without thermal derating. |
| Read Current | 3 mA at 5.5 V, 20 MHz - enables low-power active operation in battery-backed or energy-harvesting edge nodes where continuous memory access is required. |
| Standby Current | 4 µA at +85°C - ensures minimal quiescent drain during system sleep, critical for long-life embedded applications with infrequent data writes. |
Pinout & Package
8-Lead SOIC (Narrow, 3.90 mm body), RoHS-compliant, JEDEC-standard footprint (Microchip drawing C04-057-SN Rev H). Pin 1 marked by notch or dot; lead finish is matte tin.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable: pulls device into active state; high forces standby and tri-states SO for bus sharing. |
| SO/SIO1 | Serial Output / SDI/SQI Data Line | Outputs read data in SPI mode; serves as bidirectional I/O in SDI/SQI; must be externally pulled up in SPI mode. |
| SIO2 | SQI Data Line | Used only in SQI mode for 4-bit parallel data transfer; left unconnected or tied low in SPI/SDI operation. |
| VSS | Ground Reference | Primary return path for all digital and I/O currents; requires low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling. |
| SI/SIO0 | Serial Input / SDI/SQI Data Line | Accepts instructions, addresses, and write data in SPI mode; bidirectional in SDI/SQI; shares pin with SI. |
| SCK | Serial Clock Input | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge latches SI, falling edge updates SO; max 20 MHz rate defines timing budget. |
| HOLD/SIO3 | Hold Control / SQI Data Line | Suspends ongoing SPI transaction without resetting address pointer; disabled in SQI mode (functionally replaced by chip select). |
| VCC | Power Supply | 2.5–5.5 V input; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF ceramic) required near pin to suppress switching noise and ensure stable operation. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Unlimited Read/Write Cycles | Enables true RAM behavior - no wear leveling or erase cycles required, simplifying firmware design for frequent data updates. |
| Zero Write Time | Eliminates write latency overhead; data written on clock cycle following address, enabling deterministic real-time buffering. |
| Page Mode (32-byte) | Reduces command overhead for burst transfers - single address initiates 32-byte block read/write, improving throughput efficiency. |
| SDI/SQI High-Speed Modes | Doubles (SDI) or quadruples (SQI) effective data rate vs. SPI, allowing faster firmware loading or sensor stream ingestion without bus upgrade. |
| HOLD Function | Permits interruption of multi-byte transfers (e.g., during interrupt servicing) and resumption from exact point - preserves transaction integrity. |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Data Buffering | Medical Sensor Data Logger |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Real-time acquisition of analog sensor inputs (temperature, pressure) in programmable logic controllers with periodic upload to HMI. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Off-chip SRAM buffer interfacing via SPI with Cortex-M3/M4 MCU; absorbs burst ADC samples while host processes prior frame. Use Value: 64K × 8-bit capacity accommodates >1 second of 10 kHz sampled data; 20 MHz clock enables full buffer fill in <33 ms, meeting hard real-time deadlines. | Use Scenario: Portable ECG monitor capturing heartbeat waveforms continuously during patient ambulation, storing raw samples before Bluetooth transmission. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power serial SRAM holding digitized waveform data between BLE connection intervals; powered from coin cell with 4 µA standby draw. Use Value: 4 µA standby current extends battery life beyond 7 days; zero-write-time allows immediate sample capture upon trigger, eliminating missed beats. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | IoT Edge Gateway Firmware Cache |
Use Scenario: Storing configuration parameters and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) in vehicle door modules operating across automotive temperature range. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile-configurable SRAM used for runtime DTC logging and calibration storage; accessed via SPI from 8-bit automotive MCU. Use Value: Industrial -40°C to +85°C rating ensures reliability under hood conditions; unlimited endurance prevents data corruption after years of service cycling. | Use Scenario: Local caching of OTA firmware images in smart home gateways before secure installation, minimizing cloud dependency during updates. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI-accessible buffer staging compressed firmware binaries; interfaces with ESP32 host using quad I/O for rapid image preload. Use Value: SQI mode achieves 80 MB/s effective throughput - cuts 2 MB firmware load time from ~200 ms (SPI) to <25 ms, improving user update experience. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial SRAM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| CY14V104Q2L-BA25XIT | 4-Mbit nvSRAM (nonvolatile), 25 MHz max, 2.7–3.6 V only, SOIC-28 package | Retains data without backup battery; higher density but incompatible voltage and pinout | Select only if nonvolatility and >512 Kbit capacity are mandatory; requires PCB redesign and voltage regulation change. |
| IS66WV51216EBLL-100BLI | 8-Mbit parallel SRAM, 100 MHz, 3.3 V only, 48-pin TSOP | Higher speed/density but parallel interface increases MCU pin count and layout complexity | Choose when MCU has spare parallel bus and needs >512 Kbit with sub-10 ns access; not drop-in for SPI-based designs. |
Compared with CY14V104Q2L-BA25XIT and IS66WV51216EBLL-100BLI, the 23LC512-I/ST offers optimal balance of SPI simplicity, industrial temperature support, and power efficiency for mid-density buffering - avoiding nonvolatile overhead or parallel interface constraints.
Availability
23LC512-I/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, medical data loggers, automotive body electronics, and IoT edge gateways requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for 23LC512-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 devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, serving global industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The 23LC512-I/ST belongs to Microchip's serial SRAM product line, designed specifically to deliver high-speed, low-power, pin-efficient memory expansion for microcontroller-based systems with limited I/O resources.
FAQ
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 23LC512-I/ST in industrial temperature range?
The 23LC512-I/ST supports a maximum clock frequency of 20 MHz when operated within its industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. This specification is confirmed in the AC Characteristics table (Param. No. 1, FCLK) of the official datasheet DS20005155C, and applies to all interface modes - SPI, SDI, and SQI - under VCC = 2.5–5.5 V conditions.
Does the 23LC512-I/ST require an external pull-up resistor on the SO pin?
Yes, the 23LC512-I/ST requires an external pull-up resistor on the SO pin when used in standard SPI mode. As stated in Section 3.2 of the datasheet, SO is an open-drain output in SPI configuration and must be pulled up to VCC to ensure valid logic-high levels. Typical values range from 4.7 kΩ to 10 kΩ; omission causes read failures due to floating high states.
Can the HOLD function be used while operating in SQI mode on the 23LC512-I/ST?
No, the HOLD function is explicitly disabled when the 23LC512-I/ST operates in SQI mode. According to Section 3.5 and Section 4.2 of the datasheet, SIO3 (HOLD/SIO3) is repurposed as a data I/O line in SQI mode, and the HOLD functionality is not available. Users must rely on CS deassertion to pause transactions in SQI mode.
What is the memory organization and page size of the 23LC512-I/ST?
The 23LC512-I/ST is organized as 64K × 8 bits (512 Kbit total), with a fixed page size of 32 bytes. This is documented in the Features section and Functional Description (Section 2.2), where Page Operation is defined to increment the internal address counter within a 32-byte boundary - enabling efficient burst access without crossing page limits.
Is the 23LC512-I/ST pin-compatible with the 23A512 series?
No, the 23LC512-I/ST is not pin-compatible with the 23A512 series despite identical pinout diagrams. The 23A512 operates at 1.7–2.2 V and uses different DC characteristics (e.g., VIH/VIL thresholds), making direct substitution electrically invalid. The datasheet Device Selection Table explicitly separates them by VCC range and temp grades - confirming they are distinct parts sharing only functional similarity, not interoperability.
23LC512-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:
- 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:
- 2.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-TSSOP
23LC512-I/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 23LC512-I/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 23LC512-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 23LC512-I/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of 23LC512-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 23LC512-I/ST is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 23LC512-I/ST?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 23LC512-I/ST transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 23LC512-I/ST?
23LC512-I/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 23LC512-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 23LC512-I/ST?
For technical support, including 23LC512-I/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 23LC512-I/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 23LC512-I/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 23LC512-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 23LC512-I/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 23LC512-I/ST?
All 23LC512-I/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 23LC512-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 23LC512-I/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 23LC512-I/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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