23A640-I/ST

Memory IC Overview

The Microchip Technology 23A640-I/ST is a 64 Kbit (8192 x 8-bit) Serial SRAM device designed for low-power applications. It operates within a supply voltage range of 1.5 V to 1.95 V and supports industrial temperature ranges from -40°C to +85°C. The memory interface utilizes a standard SPI-compatible serial bus with SCK, SI, SO, and CS pins. Key electrical characteristics include a maximum clock frequency of 20 MHz at 3.0 V and standby currents as low as 4 µA. The device features a 32-byte page size and includes a HOLD pin for pausing communication.

Memory IC Feature Summary

• Supports flexible operating modes including Byte, Page, and Sequential read/write operations via the STATUS register.
• Includes a dedicated HOLD input pin that allows suspension of serial communication without resetting the internal address pointer.
• Utilizes low-power CMOS technology suitable for battery-operated systems requiring minimal active and standby current consumption.

Memory IC Applications

• Microcontroller-based systems requiring non-volatile-like data retention during power cycles
• Industrial control devices operating in harsh environments
• Portable electronic equipment with strict power budget constraints

Memory IC Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix matches the required package type, as the base part number covers multiple physical packages. Confirm the temperature grade corresponds to the intended operational environment. Ensure the supply voltage provided by the system falls strictly within the 1.5 V to 1.95 V range specified for this variant. Check for RoHS compliance status if required by regulatory standards.

Memory IC Selection Notes

Select this component when a small footprint serial SRAM is needed for temporary data storage in low-voltage designs. Compare against the 23K640 if a wider voltage range up to 3.6 V is required instead of the 1.95 V limit. Consider the TSSOP-8 package for surface mount assembly requirements. Evaluate the 20 MHz clock speed against the master controller's SPI capabilities to ensure timing compatibility.

Memory IC Part Context

This device belongs to the 23X640 family of 64 Kbit Serial SRAMs manufactured by Microchip Technology. It shares functional similarities with the 23K640 but differs primarily in its lower operating voltage specification. The family is designed to interface directly with popular microcontroller families, including PIC® microcontrollers, offering a simple serial interface solution for data buffering.

Memory IC Replacement Considerations

The 23K640 series serves as a functional alternative if the application requires a higher supply voltage range up to 3.6 V. Verify that the replacement part's voltage specifications align with the system power rails before substitution.