Microchip Technology 25LC320AT-I/MS

Overview

25LC320AT-I/MS from Microchip Technology 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 delivers 5 µA standby current at 5.5V - used for nonvolatile configuration storage in microcontroller-based embedded systems.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC320AT-I/MS datasheet, 25LC320AT-I/MS pinout, 25LC320AT-I/MS application, or 25LC320AT-I/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include SPI timing compliance at 2.5–5.5V V_CC, page-write endurance (>1M cycles), hold-pin suspend capability, and MSOP-8 package compatibility with space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The 25LC320AT-I/MS implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface with separate SI/SO lines, CS-controlled device selection, and HOLD pin for mid-sequence pause/resume without reinitialization. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, status register with WIP/WEL/BP bits, and high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming.

It supports four block-protection configurations (none, 1/4, 1/2, or full array) via BP0/BP1 bits in the STATUS register, and integrates power-on data protection, write-enable latch control, and automatic self-timed erase/write cycles completing in ≤5 ms.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-Lead MSOP (150-mil body, 3.0 mm × 4.9 mm footprint) with exposed pad optionally connected to VSS.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25AA320AT-I/MS and AT25DF321A-MAU-T, the 25LC320AT-I/MS offers optimal balance of industrial temperature support, hardware write protection, HOLD functionality, and proven interoperability with legacy PIC® and 8-bit MCU SPI peripherals - making it preferred for cost-sensitive, reliability-critical embedded configuration storage.

Availability

25LC320AT-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, medical device calibration storage, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for 25LC320AT-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 microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 25LC320A family was designed specifically for reliable, low-power nonvolatile data storage in resource-constrained embedded systems - emphasizing SPI simplicity, industrial temperature resilience, and robust write-protection features.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC320AT-I/MS?

The 25LC320AT-I/MS supports up to 10 MHz clock frequency when V_CC is 4.5V to 5.5V. At 2.5V ≤ V_CC < 4.5V, maximum clock is 5 MHz; below 2.5V, it drops to 3 MHz. These limits are defined in Table 1-2 AC Characteristics and ensure setup/hold timing margins across voltage and temperature ranges. The 25LC320AT-I/MS must be operated within these bounds to guarantee reliable SPI communication.

Does the 25LC320AT-I/MS support hardware write protection?

Yes, the 25LC320AT-I/MS supports hardware write protection using the WP pin in conjunction with the WPEN bit in the STATUS register. When WP is low and WPEN = 1, writes to nonvolatile STATUS register bits are disabled. The 25LC320AT-I/MS also supports block protection of memory segments (none, 1/4, 1/2, or full array) via BP0/BP1 bits, configurable through the WRSR instruction.

What package type does the 25LC320AT-I/MS use?

The 25LC320AT-I/MS uses an 8-Lead MSOP package (150-mil body width, 3.0 mm × 4.9 mm footprint) with exposed pad. This compact surface-mount package is optimized for space-constrained PCB layouts and supports reflow soldering. Pin 1 marking is a laser-etched dot or notch, and the device marking includes "5LBAI" per Microchip's package marking standard.

How many write/erase cycles can the 25LC320AT-I/MS endure?

The 25LC320AT-I/MS is rated for >1 million erase/write cycles at +25°C and 5.5V, as specified in Table 1-2. This endurance applies to both byte and page write operations and is validated across the industrial temperature range. Real-world wear leveling is unnecessary due to the high cycle count, making the 25LC320AT-I/MS suitable for applications with frequent parameter updates.

Is the 25LC320AT-I/MS AEC-Q100 qualified?

Yes, the 25LC320AT-I/MS is AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive applications. Per the Device Selection Table and Features section, it meets Grade 3 (−40°C to +85°C) requirements and carries the "AEC-Q100 Qualified" designation. This qualification covers stress testing for temperature cycling, humidity bias, ESD, and other automotive reliability standards - confirming suitability for body electronics and infotainment subsystems.