Microchip Technology 25LC320A-I/MS

Overview

25LC320A-I/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 32-Kbit SPI Serial EEPROM with 4096 × 8-bit organization, 32-byte page size, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It operates at up to 10 MHz clock frequency, supports hardware write protection via WP pin, and features self-timed 5 ms max write cycles - used in embedded system configuration storage, sensor calibration data retention, and firmware parameter backup.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC320A-I/MS datasheet, 25LC320A-I/MS pinout, 25LC320A-I/MS application, or 25LC320A-I/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include SPI interface compatibility, VCC range (2.5V–5.5V), MSOP-8 package footprint, and AEC-Q100 qualification for automotive-grade reliability validation.

Technical Context

The 25LC320A-I/MS implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0/Motorola-compatible serial interface with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, CS-controlled device selection, and HOLD pin for transaction suspension without reset. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, page latches, and high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming.

It supports four block protection levels (none, 1/4, 1/2, or full array) via BP0/BP1 bits in the STATUS register, and integrates power-on write protection, write-enable latch control (WREN/WRDI), and hardware write-protection enabled only when WPEN=1 and WP=low - ensuring robust data integrity during brown-out or interrupt-driven host operations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC320A-I/MS is packaged in an 8-lead MSOP (150-mil width) with exposed pad optional grounding. Pin numbering follows standard MSOP orientation (pin 1 = CS, top-left corner).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25AA320A-I/MS and AT25DF041A-MAU-T, the 25LC320A-I/MS offers optimal balance of industrial temperature support, hardware write protection granularity, and proven SPI interoperability with PIC and ARM Cortex-M microcontrollers - making it preferred for cost-sensitive, reliability-critical embedded configurations.

Availability

25LC320A-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, industrial PLC configuration storage, and medical infusion pump calibration requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 25LC320A-I/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 microcontroller, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 25LC320A belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, engineered for reliable, low-power, SPI-based nonvolatile data storage in automotive, industrial, and medical applications where long-term data integrity is mission-critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC320A-I/MS?

The 25LC320A-I/MS supports up to 10 MHz clock frequency when VCC is between 4.5V and 5.5V. At 2.5V ≤ VCC < 4.5V, the maximum clock drops to 5 MHz, and at 1.8V ≤ VCC < 2.5V (not applicable to 25LC320A-I/MS due to its 2.5V minimum VCC), it would be 3 MHz. This stepped frequency scaling ensures timing margin compliance across its rated supply range.

Does the 25LC320A-I/MS support hardware write protection, and how is it configured?

Yes, the 25LC320A-I/MS supports hardware write protection using the WP pin in conjunction with the WPEN bit in the STATUS register. When WPEN = 1 and WP = low, writes to nonvolatile STATUS register bits are disabled. The 25LC320A-I/MS defaults to WPEN = 0 at power-up, allowing full STATUS register access until explicitly enabled - providing flexible security staging during system initialization.

What package type does the 25LC320A-I/MS use, and what are its key mechanical dimensions?

The 25LC320A-I/MS uses an 8-lead MSOP package (150-mil body width) with 0.65 mm pitch. Its outline measures 3.0 mm × 4.9 mm × 1.1 mm (L × W × H), and the exposed pad is optional - may be left floating or connected to VSS for thermal enhancement. This compact footprint suits high-density PCB layouts in automotive and portable industrial equipment.

How many write/erase cycles can the 25LC320A-I/MS endure, and what is its data retention specification?

The 25LC320A-I/MS guarantees >1 million erase/write cycles at +25°C and 5.5V, with data retention exceeding 200 years under the same conditions. These specifications are validated per JEDEC standards and apply across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), making the 25LC320A-I/MS suitable for applications requiring decades of unattended operation.

Is the 25LC320A-I/MS AEC-Q100 qualified, and which grade does it meet?

Yes, the 25LC320A-I/MS is AEC-Q100 qualified for Grade 3 (–40°C to +85°C), meeting stress test requirements for automotive electronic components including temperature cycling, high-temperature operating life (HTOL), and human-body-model ESD (>4 kV). This qualification confirms suitability for under-hood and cabin-mounted automotive control units.