In the world of DDR4 memory, massive 16Gb server chips often get the spotlight. But for the vast majority of consumer electronics and embedded systems, the workhorse is the 4Gb x16 component.
The Micron MT40A256M16LY-062E is one of the most widely used chips in this category.
It provides a perfect balance of density (512MB per chip) and bandwidth (3200 MT/s), making it the go-to choice for everything from WiFi 6 routers to automotive dashboard displays.
If you are designing a new board or sourcing components for repair, understanding the specific codes in this part number is critical. This guide breaks it down.
Table of Contents
- 1. Decoding the Part Number: What "256M16LY" Means
- 2. Technical Specifications Overview
- 3. The "x16" Advantage in Embedded Design
- 4. Applications & Use Cases
- 5. Conclusion
1. Decoding the Part Number: What "256M16LY" Means
Micron part numbers are dense with data. Here is the translation for MT40A256M16LY-062E:
The Breakdown Matrix
| Code Segment | Meaning | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| MT | Micron Technology | Manufacturer. |
| 40A | DDR4 SDRAM | 1.2V Core Voltage (VDD). |
| 256M16 | Organization | 256 Meg x 16. Total Density = 4Gb. |
| LY | Package | 96-ball FBGA (7.5mm x 13.5mm). |
| -062E | Speed Grade | $t_{CK} = 0.625ns$ $\rightarrow$ 3200 MT/s (CL=22). |
Note on Die Revisions
You will often see a letter after the colon in the full order code, such as :F. This indicates the Die Revision.
- :F (Revision F) is a common, mature 1x nm process node for this density.
- Compatibility: Generally, newer revisions are backward compatible, but mixing different die revisions on the same PCB is not recommended due to slight timing variances.
Price Analysis & Stock Availability
4Gb DDR4 is a commodity item, but supply fluctuates.
Procurement Tip: [Check Stock for MT40A256M16LY-062E at Aichiplink] to find inventory from verified distributors.
2. Technical Specifications Overview
This chip is a discrete DRAM component, not a finished module (DIMM).
- Density: 4 Gigabits (512 Megabytes).
- Data Rate: 3200 MT/s (PC4-25600).
- Clock Frequency: 1600 MHz.
- Voltage: 1.2V (Standard DDR4).
- Operating Temp: 0°C to 95°C (Commercial).
- Banks: 8 Banks (2 Bank Groups x 4 Banks).
- Package: 96-ball FBGA (RoHS Compliant).
3. The "x16" Advantage in Embedded Design
Why choose a x16 (16-bit wide) chip over a standard x8 chip?
Fewer Chips Required
If your processor (CPU/SoC) has a 32-bit data bus, you only need two x16 chips to fill the bus.
- If you used x8 chips, you would need four chips to achieve the same bus width.
- Benefit: Saves PCB space, reduces routing complexity, and significantly lowers the Bill of Materials (BOM) cost.
Space Efficiency
The LY package (96-ball FBGA) is compact (7.5mm x 13.5mm). By using fewer chips, you can fit significant memory (e.g., 1GB total using two chips) into small form factors like smart speakers, IP cameras, or dashcams.
4. Applications & Use Cases
The MT40A256M16LY-062E is ideal for systems that need reasonable performance but don't need the massive capacity of a server or high-end PC.
- Consumer Electronics:
- WiFi 6 Routers: Used for packet buffering and running the OS.
- Smart Speakers: Handling voice processing.
- Set-Top Boxes: Video buffering.
- Automotive (Infotainment):
- Dashboard displays and basic navigation units often use 4Gb chips.
- Industrial:
- Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) panels.
- PLC Controllers.
5. Conclusion
The Micron MT40A256M16LY-062E is the definition of a "standard" component. It isn't the biggest or the fastest, but its 4Gb density and x16 width make it the most versatile choice for cost-effective embedded designs. Whether you are building the next smart home device or maintaining industrial controllers, this chip is likely on your BOM.
Sourcing Memory Components Need high-quality DRAM for your production line? Visit Aichiplink.com to search for MT40A256M16LY-062E and other Micron memory solutions.
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
What is the capacity of MT40A256M16LY-062E?
It is a 4Gb (512MB) DDR4 SDRAM organized as 256M × 16.
What speed does the “-062E” suffix indicate?
The -062E speed grade supports DDR4-3200 (3200 MT/s) with a typical CAS latency of CL22.
Is MT40A256M16LY-062E backward compatible with slower DDR4 speeds?
Yes. It can operate at 2933, 2666, or 2400 MT/s depending on the memory controller.
Why is x16 DDR4 commonly used in embedded systems?
x16 devices reduce chip count, simplify routing, and lower BOM cost for 32-bit or 64-bit memory buses.
What voltage does this DDR4 chip require?
The operating voltage is 1.2V, which is standard for DDR4 SDRAM.
