Microchip Technology 25LC020AT-I/SN

Overview

25LC020AT-I/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2 Kbit (256 × 8) SPI Serial EEPROM with 16-byte page write capability, 10 MHz max clock frequency at 4.5–5.5 V, and industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C). It features hardware write protection (WP pin), HOLD functionality for interrupt-safe bus suspension, and block-level write protection (none/¼/½/all array). Used in embedded system configuration storage, sensor calibration data retention, and firmware parameter backup.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC020AT-I/SN datasheet, 25LC020AT-I/SN pinout, 25LC020AT-I/SN application, or 25LC020AT-I/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range (2.5–5.5 V), page write timing (≤5 ms), endurance (1 million cycles), data retention (>200 years), and SOIC-8 (SN) package compatibility with SPI-based microcontroller interfaces.

Technical Context

The 25LC020AT-I/SN implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 / Mode 1,1 interface with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, requiring CS, SCK, WP, HOLD, VCC, and VSS. It uses an internal high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming and includes a nonvolatile STATUS register with WIP, WEL, BP0, and BP1 bits for real-time write status and configurable block protection.

Write operations require explicit WREN instruction followed by CS high-to-low transition to initiate self-timed internal write cycle (TWC ≤ 5 ms). Page writes are bounded to 16-byte physical pages (e.g., 0x00–0x0F), with wraparound behavior on boundary crossing - software must enforce page alignment. HOLD suspends serial communication while preserving internal state, enabling host CPU to service higher-priority interrupts without sequence restart.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC020AT-I/SN is packaged in 8-lead SOIC (SN), with 1.27 mm pitch, 4.9 mm × 3.9 mm body size, and Pb-free/RoHS-compliant finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25LC020AT-I/SN, the 25AA020AT-I/SN extends voltage flexibility downward to 1.8 V for battery-sensitive designs, while the AT25020B-SSHL-T trades marginal power efficiency for higher bandwidth - both require validation of write-protection behavior and hold timing in target systems.

Availability

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

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

The 25LC020A family is designed for reliable, low-power nonvolatile data storage in embedded systems where SPI interface simplicity, industrial temperature operation, and hardware write protection are essential.

FAQ

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

The 25LC020AT-I/SN supports up to 10 MHz clock frequency when VCC is between 4.5 V and 5.5 V. At lower VCC (2.5–4.5 V), the maximum clock frequency reduces to 5 MHz. These limits ensure reliable setup/hold timing for SI and SO signals across the specified industrial temperature range.

Does the 25LC020AT-I/SN support page write operations, and what is the page size?

Yes, the 25LC020AT-I/SN supports page write mode with a fixed page size of 16 bytes. This allows up to 16 consecutive bytes to be loaded into the page buffer and written in a single internal cycle (≤5 ms), improving write efficiency compared to individual byte writes.

How does the WP (Write-Protect) pin function on the 25LC020AT-I/SN?

The WP pin on the 25LC020AT-I/SN provides hardware-level write inhibition: when pulled low, it disables all write operations to both memory array and STATUS register, regardless of WEL state. This offers fail-safe protection during power transitions or system initialization sequences.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 25LC020AT-I/SN?

The 25LC020AT-I/SN guarantees 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and greater than 200 years of data retention at 25°C. These specifications are validated per JEDEC standards and apply across the full industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C) under rated VCC conditions.

Is the 25LC020AT-I/SN pin-compatible with other members of the 25XX020A family?

Yes, the 25LC020AT-I/SN is pin-compatible with all 25XX020A variants in the same package (e.g., 25AA020AT-I/SN, 25LC020A-I/P), sharing identical SOIC-8 pinout, signal definitions, and AC/DC electrical characteristics - enabling direct substitution where VCC and temp range align.