In the world of commercial electronics, memory becomes obsolete in months. In the world of Military and Avionics, memory must last for decades.
The EDI8L32512C15AC is a prime example of such a component.
Originally designed by Electronic Designs Inc (EDI)—which later morphed into White Electronic Designs (WEDC), then Microsemi, and now Mercury Systems—this chip is a high-performance Static RAM (SRAM) module. It was the backbone of 1990s and 2000s mission-critical computing, often found in radar systems, flight computers, and rugged industrial controllers.
If you are looking for this part today, you are likely maintaining a legacy system where "redesign" is not an option. This guide details the specs you need to verify your replacement parts.
Table of Contents
- 1. Decoding the Part Number
- 2. Technical Specifications: The Power of MCM
- 3. Package & Pinout: The 66-Pin PGA
- 4. Sourcing & Obsolescence
- 5. Conclusion
1. Decoding the Part Number
Understanding the alphanumerics is crucial to avoiding counterfeit or incompatible stock.
| Segment | Code | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| EDI | Manufacturer | Electronic Designs Inc. (Indicates an older date code, usually pre-2000s). Newer parts might say WEDC or Microsemi. |
| 8L | Family | SRAM Module. |
| 32 | Width | x32 Bits. The data bus width. |
| 512 | Depth | 512K. (512,000 addresses). |
| C | Package | Ceramic. Essential for high-reliability/temperature tolerance. |
| 15 | Speed | 15ns. (Access Time). Very fast. |
| AC | Pinout | Specific Pinout/Temperature Grade (Often Commercial or Industrial). Check specific datasheet for "C" vs "I" temp ranges usually denoted nearby. |
Total Density: $512K \times 32 = 16 \text{ Megabits}$.
2. Technical Specifications: The Power of MCM
The EDI8L32512 is not a standard monolithic chip. It is a Multi-Chip Module (MCM).
- Structure: Inside that ceramic square, there are likely four individual 512Kx8 SRAM dies wired together on a miniature substrate.
- The Advantage: In the era before ultra-dense integration, this allowed engineers to pack 16 Megabits of fast memory into a small footprint without routing complex traces on the main PCB.
- 32-Bit Bus: It connects directly to 32-bit processors (like the Motorola 68040 or PowerPC 603) without needing multiple memory banks.
- Zero Wait States: The 15ns speed means the processor doesn't have to pause and wait for data, which is critical for real-time fire control or flight stability systems.
3. Package & Pinout: The 66-Pin PGA
Most versions of the EDI8L32512 come in a 66-Pin PGA (Pin Grid Array) package.
- Why PGA? The pins are robust and plug into sockets or are soldered through-hole. This is far more vibration-resistant than modern BGA (Ball Grid Array) packages, which can crack under G-force stress.
- Dimensions: typically ~1.08" square or similar (depending on the specific revision).
- Thermal: The ceramic body excels at dissipating heat in sealed avionics bays where airflow is limited.
4. Sourcing & Obsolescence
Since this part is End of Life (EOL), buying it carries risks.
- Brand Confusion: You might search for "EDI" but find parts labeled "White Electronic Designs" or "Microsemi". These are functionally identical if the specs match. They are just the same product line changing hands over acquisitions.
- Date Codes: Parts marked "EDI" are likely New Old Stock (NOS) from the 90s. Parts marked "WEDC" are likely from the 2000s. Ensure solderability (leads are not oxidized) before buying.
- Verification: Always ask for a datasheet to confirm the "AC" suffix pinout matches your socket. There were several variations of pinouts (JEDEC vs. Custom).
5. Conclusion
The EDI8L32512C15AC is a legend of military computing. While it has been surpassed by DDR4 in capacity, nothing beats the latency and ruggedness of a ceramic SRAM module for specific legacy applications. Replacing it requires careful attention to the manufacturer history and speed grade.
Sourcing Obsolete Military SRAM? Struggling to find verified stock of EDI/White Electronic Designs memory? Visit Aichiplink.com to search for EDI8L32512C15AC and compatible replacements.
Written by Jack Elliott from AIChipLink.
AIChipLink, one of the fastest-growing global independent electronic components distributors in the world, offers millions of products from thousands of manufacturers, and many of our in-stock parts is available to ship same day.
We mainly source and distribute integrated circuit (IC) products of brands such as Broadcom, Microchip, Texas Instruments, Infineon, NXP, Analog Devices, Qualcomm, Intel, etc., which are widely used in communication & network, telecom, industrial control, new energy and automotive electronics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is EDI8L32512C15AC?
It is a 512K × 32-bit military-grade SRAM module used in legacy avionics and defense systems.
2. What does the 15ns speed mean?
15ns is the access time, enabling high-speed, zero wait-state operation.
3. Is EDI8L32512C15AC a monolithic SRAM chip?
No, it is a multi-chip module (MCM) combining multiple SRAM dies internally.
4. What package does EDI8L32512C15AC use?
It uses a 66-pin ceramic PGA package, designed for vibration and high-temperature environments.
5. Is EDI8L32512C15AC still in production?
No, it is obsolete (EOL) and typically sourced as new old stock or surplus.
