Microchip Technology 25LC512-I/P
- Part No.:
- 25LC512-I/P
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
25LC512-I/P.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 512KBIT SPI 20MHZ 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:227
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
25LC512-I/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 512 Kbit (65,536-byte) SPI serial EEPROM with byte- and page-write capability, 128-byte page size, 20 MHz max clock speed, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It supports Page, Sector, and Chip Erase functions and integrates hardware write protection via WP pin and STATUS register control for embedded microcontroller systems requiring nonvolatile parameter storage.
For engineers reviewing the 25LC512-I/P datasheet, 25LC512-I/P pinout, 25LC512-I/P application, or 25LC512-I/P equivalent, this device serves as a drop-in replacement for legacy SPI EEPROMs in firmware configuration, calibration data logging, and boot loader parameter retention - with attention to HOLD functionality, deep power-down current (<1 µA), and sector-level write protection granularity.
Technical Context
The 25LC512-I/P implements an SPI-compatible serial interface with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, CS-controlled selection, and HOLD-driven pause/resume capability. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, page latches, HV generator, and EEPROM array organized into 128-byte pages and 16 KB sectors.
It executes self-timed erase/write cycles (5 ms page write, 10 ms sector/Chip erase) without external erase commands, and features dual-layer write protection: volatile WEL latch control and nonvolatile BP0/BP1 bits enabling selective 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% array protection. The STATUS register is readable during active writes to monitor WIP status.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 512 Kbit (65,536 × 8-bit bytes), organized as 512 pages of 128 bytes each |
| Interface | SPI-compatible 4-wire bus (CS, SCK, SI, SO) with HOLD and WP pins; Mode 0,0 and 1,1 supported |
| Max Clock Frequency | 20 MHz at VCC ≥ 4.5V; 10 MHz at VCC = 2.5V–5.5V - defines maximum data throughput (up to 2.5 MB/s read) |
| Write Cycle Time | 5 ms typical for byte or page write - determines minimum time between successive write operations |
| Endurance & Retention | 1 million erase/write cycles per page; >200 years data retention at 25°C - ensures long-term reliability in infrequent-write applications |
| Power Consumption | 1 µA deep power-down current at 2.5V; 5 mA max write current at 5.5V/20 MHz - enables ultra-low-power battery-backed operation |
| Temperature Range | Industrial grade: –40°C to +85°C - qualified for use in industrial controllers, metering, and automotive body electronics |
Pinout & Package
25LC512-I/P is supplied in an 8-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package) with 0.3-inch body width, lead finish Sn/Pb, and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is marked by notch or dot; pin numbering follows standard DIP convention (counterclockwise from notch).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable: selects device for SPI communication; high state places SO in high-Z to share bus with other peripherals |
| SO (Pin 2) | Serial Data Output | Tri-state output delivering read data MSB-first on falling edge of SCK; enters high-Z when CS high or HOLD low |
| WP (Pin 3) | Write-Protect Input | Hardware lock: when WPEN bit = 1 and WP = low, disables STATUS register writes - prevents accidental configuration changes |
| VSS (Pin 4) | Ground Reference | Primary return path for all digital and analog circuitry; must be connected before VCC during power-up sequencing |
| SI (Pin 5) | Serial Data Input | Accepts instructions, addresses, and write data MSB-first on rising edge of SCK; sampled after CS goes low |
| SCK (Pin 6) | Serial Clock Input | Synchronizes all SPI transfers; timing-critical for setup/hold compliance (min 25 ns high/low time at 20 MHz) |
| HOLD (Pin 7) | Communication Pause Control | Active-low suspend: halts ongoing SPI transfer without resetting address pointer - enables interrupt servicing in real-time systems |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Supply Voltage | 2.5V–5.5V operating range; powers internal charge pump for EEPROM programming; decoupling capacitor required near pin |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Page Write Capability | Up to 128 bytes written in a single transaction - reduces host MCU overhead vs. byte-by-byte writes |
| Deep Power-Down Mode | 1 µA standby current at 2.5V - extends battery life in always-on sensor nodes and portable instrumentation |
| Electronic Signature Readout | RDID command returns fixed 8-bit ID (0x20) - enables automated BOM verification and counterfeit detection |
| Hardware Write Protection | WP pin + WPEN bit combination allows field-programmable, irreversible sector locking - critical for safety-critical firmware parameters |
| ESD Robustness | 4 kV HBM rating on all pins - ensures reliability in handling and assembly environments without special ESD controls |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Configuration Storage | Medical Device Calibration Data Logging |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing I/O mapping, PID tuning constants, and alarm thresholds in programmable logic controllers deployed in factory automation cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory accessed via SPI during boot and runtime reconfiguration; HOLD pin used to pause reads during emergency stop interrupts. Use Value: Enables field-upgradable settings without firmware reflashing; 1M endurance supports decades of maintenance cycles in unattended installations. |
Use Scenario: Recording sensor offset/gain coefficients and patient-specific therapy parameters in portable infusion pumps and diagnostic monitors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure parameter store with hardware write protection (BP1/BP0 = 11) preventing unauthorized calibration changes; RDID used for regulatory audit traceability. Use Value: Meets IEC 62304 Class C software requirements for data integrity; deep power-down mode preserves settings during battery swaps. |
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Smart Energy Meter Firmware Parameters |
Use Scenario: Holding door lock logic states, mirror position presets, and lighting profiles in AEC-Q100 qualified BCMs operating across –40°C to +125°C ambient. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Industrial-temp EEPROM interfaced to 8-bit MCU via SPI; WP pin tied low with WPEN set to protect critical safety-related configuration bits. Use Value: AEC-Q100 qualification ensures reliability under thermal cycling and vibration; sector erase allows safe over-the-air updates to non-safety partitions. |
Use Scenario: Storing tariff schedules, pulse calibration factors, and tamper-event logs in ANSI C12.20-certified electricity meters with 15+ year service life. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Long-retention data vault accessed during meter initialization and periodic firmware validation; CE/SE commands used for secure field updates. Use Value: >200-year data retention eliminates need for battery-backed SRAM; 16 KB sector granularity enables atomic update of billing logic without corrupting metering counters. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25AA512-I/P | Same pinout and instruction set; uses 1.8V–5.5V supply (vs. 2.5V–5.5V); lower ICC write current (3 mA typ) | Better suited for mixed-voltage systems with 1.8V logic; not AEC-Q100 qualified | Select for cost-sensitive consumer designs where extended voltage range and lower power are prioritized over automotive qualification |
| AT25DF512A-SSH-T | Dual/quad SPI interface; 512 Kbit flash memory with 4-KB sector erase; no built-in HOLD pin; requires explicit erase before write | Larger erase granularity (4 KB vs. 128 B); lacks hardware write protection and deep power-down mode | Choose only if migrating to flash-based architecture with faster random reads; requires firmware redesign to handle erase-before-write and lack of HOLD |
Compared with 25LC512-I/P, the 25AA512-I/P offers wider VCC flexibility and lower active power but omits automotive qualification, while the AT25DF512A-SSH-T trades EEPROM simplicity for flash density and speed at the cost of deterministic write latency and robustness in parameter storage.
Availability
25LC512-I/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, medical instrumentation, automotive body electronics, and smart metering applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for 25LC512-I/P 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 products, with global design centers and ISO 9001-certified manufacturing.
The 25LCxx family was designed specifically for reliable, low-power, SPI-based nonvolatile data storage in resource-constrained embedded systems - emphasizing ease of integration, write endurance, and industrial-grade environmental resilience.
FAQ
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC512-I/P?
The 25LC512-I/P supports up to 20 MHz clock frequency when VCC is 4.5V–5.5V, and 10 MHz when VCC is 2.5V–5.5V. This is specified in Table 1-2 of the DS20002065D datasheet. The actual achievable speed depends on signal integrity, PCB layout, and load capacitance - exceeding AC timing limits may cause read corruption or failed writes. Always verify SCK rise/fall times remain ≤20 ns.
Does the 25LC512-I/P require an external erase step before writing new data?
No, the 25LC512-I/P does not require external erase before write. Its internal write cycle includes automatic self-timed erase - whether performing byte, page, or sector writes. This eliminates firmware complexity associated with pre-erase management. However, explicit Page Erase (PE), Sector Erase (SE), or Chip Erase (CE) commands are available for bulk reinitialization or secure data deletion.
How does the HOLD pin function during an active SPI transaction on the 25LC512-I/P?
The HOLD pin on the 25LC512-I/P suspends ongoing SPI communication without resetting the internal address pointer or instruction state. When pulled low while SCK is low, it immediately tri-states SO and ignores SI/SCK transitions until HOLD is returned high (also while SCK is low). This allows host MCUs to service higher-priority interrupts and resume exactly where the transfer left off - critical for deterministic real-time systems.
Can the 25LC512-I/P be used in automotive applications?
Yes, the 25LC512-I/P is AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive applications and rated for extended temperature operation (–40°C to +125°C). Its industrial-grade variant (25LC512-I/P) meets the –40°C to +85°C range and is widely deployed in body control modules, infotainment systems, and ADAS subsystems where EEPROM reliability and write protection are essential. Always confirm final system-level qualification testing per vehicle OEM requirements.
What is the purpose of the RDID command in the 25LC512-I/P?
The RDID (Read Electronic Signature) command (0xAB) serves two purposes in the 25LC512-I/P: (1) it releases the device from Deep Power-Down mode, and (2) it outputs the fixed 8-bit electronic signature (0x20) on the SO line. This enables both low-power state recovery and automated device identification during system startup or field service - supporting anti-counterfeit verification and BOM validation workflows.
25LC512-I/P Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 512Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 64K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- SPI
- Clock Frequency:
- 20 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 5ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
25LC512-I/P FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 25LC512-I/P through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 25LC512-I/P on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 25LC512-I/P reliable?
The price and inventory of 25LC512-I/P are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 25LC512-I/P is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 25LC512-I/P?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 25LC512-I/P transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 25LC512-I/P?
25LC512-I/P orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 25LC512-I/P order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 25LC512-I/P?
For technical support, including 25LC512-I/P datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 25LC512-I/P requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 25LC512-I/P is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 25LC512-I/P products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 25LC512-I/P meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 25LC512-I/P?
All 25LC512-I/P units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 25LC512-I/P, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 25LC512-I/P part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 25LC512-I/P:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
25LC512-I/P Tags

-
M24C02-WMN6TP
STMicroelectronics
-
AT24C02C-XHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
AT21CS01-STUM10-T
Microchip Technology

-
AT24C02C-SSHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
24LC01BT-I/OT
Microchip Technology
-
M24C02-FMC6TG
STMicroelectronics

-
AT24CS02-SSHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
93LC46BT-I/OT
Microchip Technology

-
AT24C04C-SSHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
24LC01BT-I/SN
Microchip Technology

-
24AA02UIDT-I/OT
Microchip Technology

-
AT24C08C-STUM-T
Microchip Technology
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…

