Microchip Technology 25LC320AT-I/MNY

Overview

25LC320AT-I/MNY from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 32-Kbit SPI Serial EEPROM with 4096 × 8-bit organization, 32-byte page size, and automotive-grade AEC-Q100 qualification for 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 STATUS register, and delivers 5 µA standby current at 5.5V - ideal for battery-backed data logging in automotive control modules.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC320AT-I/MNY datasheet, 25LC320AT-I/MNY pinout, 25LC320AT-I/MNY application, or 25LC320AT-I/MNY equivalent, key selection criteria include SPI interface timing compliance (T_CSS, T_CSH, T_SU), V_CC range (2.5V–5.5V), endurance (>1M cycles), and package-specific thermal performance in MSOP-8 (MNY).

Technical Context

The 25LC320AT-I/MNY implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0/1,1 interface with separate SI (data-in) and SO (data-out) lines, requiring CS, SCK, and HOLD for full protocol support. Its internal architecture includes a 32-byte page latch, HV generator for EEPROM programming, and status register with WIP, WEL, BP0/BP1, and WPEN bits.

Write operations are self-timed (≤5 ms), require explicit WREN instruction before WRITE, and enforce page-boundary alignment - crossing a 32-byte boundary wraps data within the same page. Hardware write protection engages only when WP = low AND WPEN = 1, enabling selective block protection (none/1/2/all quadrants) without affecting read or status access.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC320AT-I/MNY is packaged in an 8-lead MSOP (MNY), measuring 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm × 1.0 mm with exposed pad (optional V_SS connection). Pin numbering follows standard MSOP orientation (pin 1 top-left, counterclockwise).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25AA320AT-I/MNY and AT25DF321A-MAU-T, the 25LC320AT-I/MNY provides optimal balance of AEC-Q100 compliance, deterministic 5 ms write latency, and hardware write protection - making it the preferred choice for safety-critical parameter storage where predictability and security outweigh raw speed or density.

Availability

25LC320AT-I/MNY is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU design, industrial PLC configuration, and medical device calibration requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 25LC320AT-I/MNY 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, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets with vertically integrated silicon and development tools.

The 25LC320A family was designed specifically for reliable, low-power, SPI-based nonvolatile storage in harsh environments - emphasizing AEC-Q100 qualification, robust write-protection, and seamless integration with PIC® and dsPIC® microcontrollers.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating clock frequency for the 25LC320AT-I/MNY?

The 25LC320AT-I/MNY supports up to 10 MHz clock frequency when V_CC is 4.5V to 5.5V, 5 MHz at 2.5V ≤ V_CC < 4.5V, and 3 MHz at 1.8V ≤ V_CC < 2.5V. These AC timing limits are defined in Table 1-2 of the DS20001828H datasheet and must be verified per actual V_CC in the target design. The 25LC320AT-I/MNY does not operate above 10 MHz under any condition.

Does the 25LC320AT-I/MNY support hardware write protection independent of software commands?

Yes - the 25LC320AT-I/MNY supports hardware write protection via the WP pin when the WPEN bit in the STATUS register is set to 1. With WP = low and WPEN = 1, writes to nonvolatile STATUS register bits are blocked, while reads and memory writes remain functional. This protection persists across power cycles and is enforced by on-chip logic - no software intervention required. The 25LC320AT-I/MNY behavior is fully documented in Section 2.3 and Table 3-4 of DS20001828H.

What package type does the 25LC320AT-I/MNY use, and what are its key mechanical dimensions?

The 25LC320AT-I/MNY uses an 8-lead MSOP package designated "MNY", with body dimensions of 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm × 1.0 mm and pitch of 0.5 mm. It features an exposed thermal pad (optional V_SS connection) and complies with JEDEC MO-187AC. Full mechanical drawings are in Microchip Drawing No. C04-057-MS Rev G, referenced in DS20001828H-page 16. The 25LC320AT-I/MNY footprint matches standard MSOP-8 land patterns.

How does the HOLD function behave during an active SPI transaction on the 25LC320AT-I/MNY?

When HOLD is pulled low during an active SPI sequence, the 25LC320AT-I/MNY immediately tri-states SO and ignores further SI/SCK transitions until HOLD returns high - resuming communication from the exact bit position where it paused. HOLD must be asserted while SCK is low to guarantee clean entry; otherwise, it takes effect at the next SCK high-to-low transition. This behavior is electrically characterized in Table 1-2 (THS, THH, THZ, THV) and illustrated in Figure 1-1 of DS20001828H. The 25LC320AT-I/MNY maintains internal state throughout hold duration.

Is the 25LC320AT-I/MNY pin-compatible with other members of the 25XX320A family, such as the 25AA320A?

Yes - the 25LC320AT-I/MNY shares identical pinout, package outline, and SPI command set with all 25XX320A variants (e.g., 25AA320A, 25LC320A), including CS, SO, WP, V_SS, SI, SCK, HOLD, and V_CC. However, V_CC ranges differ: 25LC320AT-I/MNY requires 2.5–5.5V, whereas 25AA320AT-I/MNY supports 1.8–5.5V. Interchangeability is valid only within matching voltage constraints and temperature grades. The 25LC320AT-I/MNY datasheet confirms this in the Device Selection Table on page 1.