Getting Started with Serial SRAM

Introduction:

Microchip’s serial SRAM product line represents a new way to add RAM to an application. With small, 8-pin packages and the SPI interface (which only requires 4 I/Os) these devices give designers added flexibility.

RAM Expansion Options:

There have traditionally been two ways to increase an application’s RAM:

1. Use a larger microcontroller. This option is less attractive if you must buy a large micro just to get more RAM.
2. Use external parallel RAM. But, parallel RAM uses large packages and typically requires 16-20 I/Os.

Serial SRAM now offers the flexibility to add RAM to a design without the disadvantages of a large micro or parallel RAM.

Serial SRAM Options:

Microchip serial SRAM products have the following features:

• 64 and 256 Kbit options (8 and 32 Kbyte)
• 20 MHz maximum speed
• 1.8 and 3V options
• Low power consumption
• Word, page, and sequential modes

For more information:

We have several on-line resources available:

Brochure
Overview web seminar
Best practices web seminar
App notes