Microchip Technology 25LC1024T-E/MF

Overview

25LC1024T-E/MF from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1-Mbit (131,072-byte) SPI serial EEPROM with byte/page write capability, 256-byte page size, 6 ms max internal write cycle time, and deep power-down current of 1 µA at 2.5V. It operates across -40°C to +125°C and supports hardware write protection via WP pin and STATUS register bits.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC1024T-E/MF datasheet, 25LC1024T-E/MF pinout, 25LC1024T-E/MF application, or 25LC1024T-E/MF equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability embedded systems requiring nonvolatile storage with sector-level erase, automotive-grade temperature tolerance, and SPI bus compatibility without external erase circuitry.

Technical Context

The 25LC1024T-E/MF implements a full SPI Mode 0,0/1,1 interface with separate SI/SO lines, CS-controlled selection, and HOLD pin for transaction suspension. Its memory array is organized into 512 pages of 256 bytes each, supporting byte, page, sector (32 KB), and chip erase - all self-timed and requiring no pre-erase.

It integrates a nonvolatile STATUS register with BP0/BP1 block protection bits, WPEN enable control, WEL latch, and WIP busy flag. Write operations require explicit WREN instruction and CS high-to-low edge triggering; read operations support continuous address increment and wraparound at 1FFFFh.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC1024T-E/MF is housed in an 8-lead DFN-S package (3×2 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed pad (optional VSS connection). Pin numbering follows standard top-view orientation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT25DF041A-MAU-T and BR24G128FJ-WE2, the 25LC1024T-E/MF uniquely combines 1-Mbit SPI density, true byte-write flexibility, automotive temperature range, and integrated deep power-down - making it optimal for mixed-signal embedded systems demanding both configurability and ultra-low quiescent power.

Availability

25LC1024T-E/MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, automotive ECUs, medical calibration archives, and smart meter firmware parameter storage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 25LC1024T-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 manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The 25LC1024T-E/MF belongs to Microchip's SPI serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for robust, low-power nonvolatile storage in harsh environments where reliability, AEC-Q100 compliance, and flexible erase granularity are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the 25LC1024T-E/MF?

The 25LC1024T-E/MF supports up to 20 MHz SPI clock frequency when VCC is 4.5V–5.5V and ambient temperature is within the Industrial range (-40°C to +85°C). At lower supply voltages (2.5V–5.5V), the maximum clock rate drops to 10 MHz across both Industrial and Extended temperature grades. These limits are defined in Table 1-2 of the DS20002064E datasheet and reflect guaranteed timing margins for reliable data capture and setup/hold compliance.

Does the 25LC1024T-E/MF require external erase circuitry before writing?

No, the 25LC1024T-E/MF does not require external erase circuitry. All erase and write operations - including byte, page, sector, and chip erase - are fully self-timed and internally managed. The device incorporates an on-chip high-voltage generator that automatically applies appropriate programming pulses. Users only need to issue the corresponding SPI command (e.g., WRITE, PE, SE, CE) after enabling writes via WREN.

How does hardware write protection work on the 25LC1024T-E/MF?

Hardware write protection on the 25LC1024T-E/MF is controlled jointly by the WP pin (Pin 3) and the WPEN bit (bit 7) in the STATUS register. When WPEN = 1 and WP is driven low, writes to nonvolatile STATUS register bits (BP0, BP1, WPEN) are disabled - preventing accidental changes to memory protection settings. This configuration leaves array writes functional unless BP0/BP1 are set to protect specific sectors. The WP pin has no effect when WPEN = 0.

What is the purpose of the HOLD pin on the 25LC1024T-E/MF?

The HOLD pin (Pin 7) on the 25LC1024T-E/MF allows a host microcontroller to temporarily suspend an ongoing SPI transaction without aborting or restarting it. When pulled low while SCK is low, the device halts communication, tri-states SO, and ignores SI/SCK transitions - enabling the host to service higher-priority interrupts. Resuming requires bringing HOLD high while SCK remains low, after which transmission continues from the exact point of suspension.

Is the 25LC1024T-E/MF compatible with standard SPI Mode 0,0 and Mode 1,1?

Yes, the 25LC1024T-E/MF is fully compatible with both SPI Mode 0,0 (CPOL = 0, CPHA = 0) and Mode 1,1 (CPOL = 1, CPHA = 1). Data is sampled on the rising edge of SCK (SI) and output on the falling edge (SO) in Mode 0,0; timing diagrams in Figures 1-2 and 1-3 of DS20002064E confirm this behavior. The device does not support Mode 0,1 or Mode 1,0 due to fixed sampling/launch edges relative to clock polarity.