Microchip Technology 25LC320-E/SN

Overview

25LC320-E/SN from Microchip Technology is a 32 Kbit SPI serial EEPROM with 4096 × 8-bit organization, 2.5–5.5 V supply range, and 2 MHz max clock frequency. It features hardware write protection (WP pin), HOLD suspend functionality, and 32-byte page write capability. It is used for nonvolatile parameter storage in industrial control modules requiring reliable data retention over 200 years.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC320-E/SN datasheet, 25LC320-E/SN pinout, 25LC320-E/SN application, or 25LC320-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2 MHz SPI interface speed at 2.5 V, industrial/automotive temperature support (−40°C to +125°C), block write protection configuration (BP0/BP1), and SOIC-8 package compatibility with legacy board layouts.

Technical Context

The 25LC320-E/SN implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, CS-controlled device selection, and SCK-synchronized transfers. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, auto-incrementing address pointer for sequential reads, and a STATUS register with WIP, WEL, BP0, BP1, and WPEN bits.

Write operations require explicit WREN instruction before WRITE or WRSR commands, and are self-timed with ≤5 ms internal write cycle time. Hardware write protection is enabled only when WP = low and WPEN = 1; otherwise, all functions-including STATUS register writes-remain fully accessible.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC320-E/SN is housed in an 8-pin plastic SOIC (150 mil body) package, pin-compatible with industry-standard SOIC-8 footprints. The device uses a standard SPI bus interface with dedicated control pins for chip select, hold, and write protection.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25LC320-E/SN, the 25AA320-I/SN enables lower-voltage operation but sacrifices automotive temperature range and clock speed, while the 25LC320A-E/SN offers identical functionality with enhanced ESD immunity and full backward compatibility-making it the preferred upgrade path.

Availability

25LC320-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC configuration storage, automotive ECU calibration data, and medical device setup profiles requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 25LC320-E/SN 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, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 25LC320-E/SN belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-power nonvolatile data storage in industrial, automotive, and medical applications where SPI interface simplicity and long-term data integrity are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC320-E/SN?

The 25LC320-E/SN supports a maximum SPI clock frequency of 2 MHz when operated within its specified VCC range of 2.5–5.5 V and temperature range of −40°C to +125°C. This value is confirmed in the Device Selection Table and AC Characteristics section of the DS21227F datasheet. The 25LC320-E/SN achieves this speed while maintaining full timing compliance for setup, hold, and propagation delays across the full operating range.

Does the 25LC320-E/SN support hardware write protection?

Yes, the 25LC320-E/SN 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. All other operations-including memory array reads and writes-function normally. This dual-condition requirement prevents accidental lockout and allows flexible system-level protection schemes.

What package type is used for the 25LC320-E/SN?

The 25LC320-E/SN uses an 8-pin plastic SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package with 150 mil body width, designated by the "SN" suffix in the part number. This package is RoHS-compliant, surface-mountable, and pin-compatible with standard SOIC-8 footprints used across industrial and automotive PCB designs.

How many write/erase cycles does the 25LC320-E/SN guarantee?

The 25LC320-E/SN guarantees 1 million write/erase cycles per memory location, as stated in the Electrical Characteristics table (Note 2) and confirmed in the Revision History (Revision E). This endurance rating is established by characterization and applies across the full operating temperature range, making it suitable for applications requiring frequent data updates such as event logging or usage counters.

What is the purpose of the HOLD pin on the 25LC320-E/SN?

The HOLD pin on the 25LC320-E/SN suspends ongoing SPI communication without resetting the internal address pointer or command state. When asserted (low) while SCK is low, it places SI, SCK, and SO in high-impedance states, allowing the host microcontroller to service higher-priority interrupts and resume transmission from the exact point of suspension-enabling deterministic real-time system response.