These tiny chips are like mini SSDs for your electronics. When you don't need as much storage as a micro SD card, but an EEPROM is too small, SPI (or QSPI) Flash chips offer megabytes of storage at low cost and complexity. We frequently use these chips on our CircuitPython boards, allowing users to store code and various assets such as animations, fonts, images, configurations, and audio clips. They're also a great option for adding datalogging storage. This chip features 2 MByte of non-volatile storage (16 mega-bits) and is well-supported by CircuitPython and our Arduino SPI Flash library. The standard SOIC size is easy to solder, and it has a standard FLASH chip pinout, making it suitable for a wide range of FLASH applications, including FPGAs or flash-less microcontrollers. You can solder it onto the back of your QT Py board to add flash, but note that the QT Py will no longer be easily surface-mounted due to the added bulk. You'll need a customized CircuitPython build for it to recognize the flash chip. The Teensy 4.1 can also use an external FLASH chip with pads on the bottom.
Using this GD25Q16 SPI Flash chip is easy. First, if you're using it with a CircuitPython board, it's pre - supported, so you can directly start storing code and assets like animations, fonts, etc. For the QT Py board, solder the chip on the back. But keep in mind, after soldering, the board won't be easy to surface - mount. Also, you need to get a customized CircuitPython build so the board can detect the flash chip. When using it with the Teensy 4.1, connect it to the pads on the bottom. As for maintenance, store the chip in a dry and cool place to avoid damage. And when soldering, make sure your soldering iron is at the right temperature to prevent over - heating the chip.
