Microchip Technology 25LC020AT-I/MC

Overview

25LC020AT-I/MC from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2 Kbit (256 × 8) SPI Serial EEPROM with 16-byte page write capability, 10 MHz max clock frequency, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It features hardware write protection (WP pin), HOLD functionality for interrupt-safe serial pauses, and block-level write protection (none/¼/½/all array). Used in microcontroller-based systems for storing calibration data, configuration settings, or firmware patches.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC020AT-I/MC datasheet, 25LC020AT-I/MC pinout, 25LC020AT-I/MC application, or 25LC020AT-I/MC equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range (2.5–5.5V), 8-lead DFN package (MC), 5 µA standby current, self-timed 5 ms write cycle, and SPI Mode 0,0/1,1 compatibility with PIC® and other embedded controllers.

Technical Context

The 25LC020AT-I/MC implements a standard SPI interface with separate SI (data in), SO (data out), SCK (clock), CS (chip select), WP (write-protect), and HOLD (serial pause) signals. It supports both byte and page write modes, with automatic address incrementing during sequential reads and wraparound at 0xFF.

Internally, it uses a nonvolatile EEPROM array with integrated high-voltage generation, status register (WIP/WEL/BP0/BP1), and power-on reset logic that clears the write enable latch. Write operations require explicit WREN instruction and CS high transition to initiate internal 5 ms erase/write cycle.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC020AT-I/MC is housed in an 8-lead 2×3 mm DFN (Dual Flat No-lead) package with exposed pad (designated "MC" in Microchip's package code), RoHS-compliant and Pb-free.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar SPI EEPROM applications.

Compared with 25AA020AT-I/MC and AT25020B-MAHL-T, the 25LC020AT-I/MC provides optimal balance of industrial-grade reliability, 2.5V minimum supply compatibility, and seamless integration with Microchip MCU ecosystems-without requiring command set changes or layout revision.

Availability

25LC020AT-I/MC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, medical device configuration storage, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for 25LC020AT-I/MC 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, FPGA, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 25LC020AT-I/MC belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, engineered for robust, low-power, SPI-based nonvolatile storage in harsh industrial and automotive environments-emphasizing data integrity, endurance, and ease of MCU integration.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC020AT-I/MC?

The 25LC020AT-I/MC supports up to 10 MHz clock frequency when VCC is 4.5V to 5.5V. At 2.5V ≤ VCC < 4.5V, the maximum is 5 MHz, and at 1.8V ≤ VCC < 2.5V, it is 3 MHz. These limits ensure reliable setup/hold timing across voltage and temperature ranges. The 25LC020AT-I/MC datasheet specifies AC characteristics for each VCC band, and all timing parameters (e.g., TCSS, Tsu) scale accordingly.

Does the 25LC020AT-I/MC require external pull-up resistors on its SPI lines?

No, the 25LC020AT-I/MC does not require external pull-ups on SI, SO, or SCK. Its SO pin is actively driven and tri-stated when deselected; SI and SCK are CMOS inputs with no internal pull-ups. However, CS, WP, and HOLD should be externally pulled high (typically to VCC) unless actively driven low by the host controller to ensure defined states at power-up and during reset. This behavior is confirmed in the DC Characteristics table and Power-On State section of the 25LC020AT-I/MC datasheet.

How does the HOLD function work on the 25LC020AT-I/MC during an ongoing SPI transaction?

The HOLD pin on the 25LC020AT-I/MC suspends serial communication mid-sequence: when pulled low while SCK is low, SI/SO/SCK inputs are ignored, SO enters high-impedance, and the internal state (address counter, instruction decode) is preserved. Resuming requires bringing HOLD high while SCK remains low. This allows the host MCU to service urgent interrupts without losing context. The 25LC020AT-I/MC timing diagrams (Figures 1-1 and 2-1) confirm HOLD assertion does not reset the serial interface-unlike deasserting CS.

Can the 25LC020AT-I/MC be used in a 1.8V system?

No, the 25LC020AT-I/MC is not rated for 1.8V operation. Its specified VCC range is 2.5V to 5.5V. Attempting to power it at 1.8V may result in unreliable read/write behavior, excessive current draw, or failure to complete internal write cycles. For 1.8V systems, Microchip recommends the pin-compatible 25AA020AT-I/MC, which shares identical package, pinout, and feature set but supports 1.8V–5.5V. This distinction is explicitly stated in the Device Selection Table of the 25LC020AT-I/MC datasheet.

What happens to the write enable latch after a successful write operation on the 25LC020AT-I/MC?

After a successful WRITE or WRSR instruction completes (i.e., internal write cycle finishes), the write enable latch (WEL bit in STATUS register) is automatically reset to '0'. This prevents unintended subsequent writes unless WREN is reissued. The latch is also cleared on power-up, WRDI execution, or when the WP pin is driven low. This behavior is documented in Section 2.4 and Table 2-4 of the 25LC020AT-I/MC datasheet and ensures fail-safe write protection by default.