25LC020A-I/SN

Overview

The Microchip Technology 25LC020A-I/SN is a 2 Kbit (256 x 8-bit) Serial Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM). It interfaces via a standard SPI-compatible serial bus with a maximum clock frequency of 10 MHz. The device operates within a supply voltage range of 2.5 V to 5.5 V and supports industrial temperature ranges from -40°C to +85°C. Key electrical characteristics include a standby current of 5 µA at 5.5 V, read/write currents up to 5 mA, and self-timed erase/write cycles with a maximum duration of 5 ms.

Feature Summary

• Supports sequential read operations and page write modes allowing up to 16 bytes per cycle.
• Includes built-in hardware write protection mechanisms such as power-on/off data protection and a dedicated write-protect pin.
• Features block write protection capabilities enabling selective protection of none, one-quarter, one-half, or the entire memory array.

Applications

• Storing device unique identification numbers and production batch codes
• Saving calibration parameters and user configuration settings
• Recording operational logs and fault history data

Procurement Notes

Verify that the ordering suffix matches the required package type, specifically SN for SOIC-8. Confirm the temperature grade suffix corresponds to the intended operating environment. Ensure the component meets RoHS compliance requirements if mandated by the design specifications. Cross-reference the manufacturer part number against official datasheets to validate authenticity before integration.

Selection Notes

Select this component when an SPI interface is preferred over I2C due to its simpler protocol and higher potential throughput. Choose the 25LC020A variant specifically for designs requiring a minimum operating voltage of 2.5 V, distinguishing it from the 25AA020A which supports lower voltages down to 1.8 V. Consider the SOIC-8 package for surface mount assembly compatibility.

Part Context

This component belongs to the 25XX020A family of 2 Kbit SPI EEPROMs manufactured by Microchip Technology. The 'LC' designation indicates a specific voltage range starting at 2.5 V, while the '-I' suffix denotes industrial temperature rating. The '/SN' suffix identifies the 8-lead Small Outline Integrated Circuit (SOIC) package format used for surface mounting.

Replacement Considerations

The 25LC020A-I/ST serves as a direct functional replacement offering identical specifications in a TSSOP-8 package. Other variants within the 25LC020A series may be substituted provided the package footprint and voltage tolerances align with the existing circuit design constraints.

FAQ

How does the HOLD pin function during SPI communication?

The HOLD pin allows the host to pause serial communication without resetting the sequence. When pulled low while SCK is low, inputs are ignored and outputs go high-impedance until the pin is released.

What happens if a page write crosses a physical page boundary?

If a page write operation attempts to cross a boundary, the data wraps around to the beginning of the current page, overwriting existing data instead of proceeding to the next page.