Microchip Technology 25LC080AT-E/MS

Overview

25LC080AT-E/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is an 8 Kbit SPI Serial EEPROM with 1024 × 8-bit organization, 16-byte page size, and 2.5–5.5 V supply range. It features hardware write protection via WP pin, HOLD functionality for interrupt-safe bus suspension, and operates across -40°C to +125°C (Automotive E-temp grade) in an 8-lead MSOP package. It is used for nonvolatile parameter storage in automotive engine control units.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC080AT-E/MS datasheet, 25LC080AT-E/MS pinout, 25LC080AT-E/MS application, or 25LC080AT-E/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include its Automotive-grade temperature rating, 16-byte page write capability, WPEN-controlled hardware write protection, and compatibility with standard SPI Mode 0,0 and Mode 1,1 interfaces.

Technical Context

The 25LC080AT-E/MS implements a synchronous SPI interface with separate SI (data-in) and SO (data-out) lines, supporting clock frequencies up to 10 MHz at 4.5–5.5 V. Its internal architecture includes a write-enable latch, status register with WIP/WEL/BP0/BP1 bits, and page latches enabling 16-byte burst writes within a single physical page boundary.

It uses self-timed internal erase/write cycles (max 5 ms), supports sequential read with automatic address increment, and provides three levels of block write protection (none, upper 1/4, upper 1/2, or full array) controlled by BP0/BP1 bits in the nonvolatile status register. The HOLD pin suspends ongoing serial transfers without resetting the sequence, allowing host MCU to service higher-priority interrupts.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-Lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package), 3.0 mm × 4.9 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, Pb-free and RoHS compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25LC080AT-E/MS, the 25LC080AT-I/MS sacrifices automotive temperature qualification for identical functionality at lower cost, while the AT25080B-MAHL-T trades HOLD support and MSOP-8 compatibility for higher clock speed and larger page buffer - both require design validation for timing, protection, and layout impact.

Availability

25LC080AT-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive powertrain systems, industrial programmable logic controllers, and medical infusion devices requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 25LC080AT-E/MS 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.

The 25LC080A/B family is designed specifically for robust, low-power nonvolatile data storage in automotive, industrial, and medical applications where SPI interface simplicity and AEC-Q100-compliant reliability are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC080AT-E/MS?

The 25LC080AT-E/MS supports up to 10 MHz SPI clock frequency when VCC is 4.5–5.5 V. At 2.5–4.5 V, the maximum clock drops to 5 MHz, and at 1.8–2.5 V (not applicable to this part), it would be 3 MHz. These limits are defined in Table 1-2 AC Characteristics and ensure reliable setup/hold timing compliance across voltage and temperature ranges.

Does the 25LC080AT-E/MS support page write operations, and what is the page size?

Yes, the 25LC080AT-E/MS supports page write operations with a fixed 16-byte page size, as confirmed in the Device Selection Table and Section 2.3. Page writes allow up to 16 consecutive bytes to be loaded before triggering the internal 5 ms write cycle, improving efficiency over byte-wise programming - but crossing a 16-byte boundary causes wraparound within the same page.

How does hardware write protection work on the 25LC080AT-E/MS?

Hardware write protection on the 25LC080AT-E/MS requires both the WP pin (Pin 3) to be driven low AND the WPEN bit (Status Register Bit 7) to be set high. When both conditions are met, writes to the nonvolatile status register are blocked. Memory array writes remain enabled unless additionally restricted by BP0/BP1 bits. This dual-control mechanism prevents accidental status register corruption in automotive environments.

What is the purpose of the HOLD pin on the 25LC080AT-E/MS, and how must it be used?

The HOLD pin on the 25LC080AT-E/MS pauses ongoing SPI communication without resetting the internal state, allowing the host MCU to service higher-priority interrupts. To activate HOLD, the pin must be pulled low while SCK is low; resuming requires bringing HOLD high while SCK remains low. During HOLD, SI, SCK, and SO enter high-impedance states and are ignored except for CS.

Is the 25LC080AT-E/MS qualified for automotive applications, and what evidence supports this?

Yes, the 25LC080AT-E/MS is qualified for automotive applications. The "E" suffix in the part number denotes the Automotive temperature grade (-40°C to +125°C), explicitly listed in the Device Selection Table. It meets AEC-Q100 stress test requirements per Microchip's qualification program, and its packaging (MSOP-8) and electrical specs (e.g., 4 kV ESD, 1M-cycle endurance) align with automotive reliability standards.