Microchip Technology 25LC1024-E/MF

Overview

25LC1024-E/MF from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1-Mbit (131,072-byte) SPI serial EEPROM with byte/page write, page/sector/chip erase, and deep power-down mode. It operates at up to 20 MHz clock speed (at 4.5–5.5 V), supports 2.5–5.5 V supply, features 256-byte page size, 1 µA deep power-down current at 2.5 V, and AEC-Q100 qualification for automotive use.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC1024-E/MF datasheet, 25LC1024-E/MF pinout, 25LC1024-E/MF application, or 25LC1024-E/MF equivalent, this device serves as a high-reliability, SPI-compatible nonvolatile memory for firmware storage, calibration data retention, and configuration parameter backup in constrained-power embedded systems.

Technical Context

The 25LC1024-E/MF implements a full SPI Mode 0,0 and Mode 1,1 interface with separate SI/SO lines, CS-controlled selection, and HOLD pin for transaction suspension without reset. Its internal architecture includes a 256-byte page latch, status register with WIP/WEL/BP0/BP1 bits, and hardware write protection enabled via WP pin and WPEN bit.

It supports self-timed erase/write cycles - 6 ms max for page write/erase, 10 ms for sector/chip erase - with no pre-erase required for byte/page writes. The device uses CMOS EEPROM technology with 1 million endurance cycles and >200-year data retention, validated across -40°C to +125°C (Extended temperature grade).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC1024-E/MF is housed in an 8-lead DFN-S package (3×3 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed pad (optional VSS connection). Pin functions are electrically identical across SOIJ and PDIP variants but physically mapped to DFN-S layout.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT25DF041A-SSH-T and M95M02-DRMN6TP/K, the 25LC1024-E/MF uniquely combines AEC-Q100 qualification, 125°C operation, byte/page write flexibility, and deep power-down - making it the only choice for safety-critical automotive and high-reliability industrial firmware storage where partial updates and ultra-low standby power are mandatory.

Availability

25LC1024-E/MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU design, industrial PLC configuration storage, medical device calibration retention, and smart meter firmware backup requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 25LC1024-E/MF 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, with emphasis on embedded control and automotive-grade reliability.

The 25LC1024-E/MF belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for SPI-based nonvolatile data storage in automotive, industrial, and medical systems demanding extended temperature operation and high endurance.

FAQ

What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the 25LC1024-E/MF?

The 25LC1024-E/MF supports up to 20 MHz SPI clock frequency when VCC is 4.5–5.5 V and ambient temperature is within the Industrial or Extended range. At 2.5–5.5 V, the maximum clock drops to 10 MHz to ensure timing compliance across voltage and temperature extremes. This specification is confirmed in Table 1-2 of the DS20002064E datasheet and applies directly to the 25LC1024-E/MF variant.

Does the 25LC1024-E/MF require external erase before writing new data?

No, the 25LC1024-E/MF does not require external erase before byte or page writes - its EEPROM architecture performs automatic self-timed erase during the write cycle. Erase instructions (PE/SE/CE) are optional and provided for Flash-like flexibility, but are not needed for standard write operations. This behavior is explicitly stated in the device description on DS20002064E-page 1 and confirmed in Section 3.3.

How does the HOLD pin function during an active SPI transfer on the 25LC1024-E/MF?

The HOLD pin on the 25LC1024-E/MF suspends an ongoing SPI sequence without resetting the internal address pointer or command state. When pulled low while SCK is low, it places SO in high-impedance and ignores SI/SCK transitions until HOLD is returned high (also while SCK is low). This allows host MCUs to service higher-priority interrupts mid-transfer. The timing requirements are detailed in Figure 1-1 and Section 2.6 of DS20002064E.

What is the purpose of the electronic signature (RDID) command in the 25LC1024-E/MF?

The RDID command (0xAB) in the 25LC1024-E/MF releases the device from Deep Power-Down mode and outputs an 8-bit factory-programmed electronic signature on the SO pin. It serves dual purposes: enabling power-state recovery and providing a hardware-verified part identity for anti-counterfeit checking and automated BOM validation. This functionality is documented in Section 3.11 and Table 3-1 of DS20002064E.

Is the 25LC1024-E/MF pin-compatible with other Microchip 25-series EEPROMs like the 25LC256?

No, the 25LC1024-E/MF is not pin-compatible with smaller-density 25-series EEPROMs such as the 25LC256. While both share identical 8-pin SPI pinout (CS/SO/WP/VSS/SI/SCK/HOLD/VCC), the 25LC1024-E/MF uses the DFN-S package (MF suffix), whereas the 25LC256 is commonly offered in PDIP or SOIJ. Physical package dimensions and thermal characteristics differ, requiring PCB layout changes - confirmed by Microchip's Device Selection Table on DS20002064E-page 1.