Unlocking High-Density Data Storage with the Microchip 25LC640AT-I/ST 64K SPI Serial EEPROM

In the realm of embedded systems and data storage, serial EEPROMs play a pivotal role in storing critical configuration parameters, calibration data, and user settings. The Microchip 25LC640AT-I/ST stands out as a robust and reliable solution, offering 64 kilobits (8 KB) of non-volatile memory accessible via the ubiquitous Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) bus. This device exemplifies efficiency, durability, and ease of integration, making it a preferred choice for designers across industries.

Housed in a compact TSSOP-8 package, the 25LC640AT-I/ST operates over an industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C), ensuring performance in harsh environments. Its SPI interface supports clock speeds up to 10 MHz, enabling rapid data transfer and efficient communication with microcontrollers (MCUs). The EEPROM organizes its memory as 8192 x 8 bits, providing ample space for small to medium-sized datasets without the complexity of larger memory chips.

A key feature of this EEPROM is its hardware write-protection via a dedicated pin (WP), which safeguards memory contents from accidental overwrites. Additionally, it employs built-in software protection through writable status register bits, allowing users to lock portions of or the entire memory array. This dual-layer security ensures data integrity in critical applications.

The device supports low-power operation with an active current of 3 mA (max) and a standby current of just 1 µA (typical), making it ideal for battery-powered systems. It also boasts a endurance of 1,000,000 erase/write cycles per sector and a data retention period of over 200 years, underscoring its reliability for long-term deployments.

Integration is straightforward: the SPI bus requires only four pins (CS, SCK, SI, SO) for full-duplex communication, reducing MCU pin overhead. The 25LC640AT-I/ST also includes page write capability (32-byte pages) and a sequential read function, streamlining data handling routines in firmware.

ICGOOODFIND: The Microchip 25LC640AT-I/ST merges high density, robust security, and SPI simplicity, offering an optimal balance of performance and practicality for modern embedded storage needs.

Keywords:

SPI EEPROM

Non-volatile Memory

Data Storage

Write Protection

Low Power Consumption