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Home > Products > Integrated Circuits (ICs) > Memory > Memory

Microchip Technology 25LC256-E/MF

Name: 25LC256-E/MF
Brand: Microchip Technology
SKU: 25LC256-E/MF
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

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Part No.:: 25LC256-E/MF

Manufacturer:: Microchip Technology

Category:: Memory

Package:: 8-VDFN Exposed Pad

Datasheet:: 25LC256-E/MF.pdf

Description:: IC EEPROM 256KBIT SPI 10MHZ 8DFN

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Inventory:4,470

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Product details

Overview

25LC256-E/MF from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 256 Kbit SPI Serial EEPROM with 32,768 × 8-bit organization, 64-byte page size, and 10 MHz max clock frequency. It operates across 2.5–5.5V supply and -40°C to +125°C (Extended temperature range), featuring hardware write protection via WP pin and STATUS register control, and self-timed 5 ms write cycles. It serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in automotive engine control units requiring AEC-Q100 compliance.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC256-E/MF datasheet, 25LC256-E/MF pinout, 25LC256-E/MF application, or 25LC256-E/MF equivalent, key selection considerations include its 8-lead DFN (MF) package, SPI Mode 0/1 compatibility, block-level write protection (BP0/BP1), endurance of 1 million erase/write cycles, and support for HOLD suspend functionality during interrupt servicing.

Technical Context

The 25LC256-E/MF implements a standard SPI interface with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, CS-controlled device selection, and SCK-synchronized communication. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, page latches, and high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming.

It supports two SPI modes (0,0 and 1,1), features a dedicated HOLD pin to pause ongoing transfers without resetting the sequence, and uses a write enable latch (WEL) that must be set via WREN before any WRITE or WRSR command executes. The STATUS register provides real-time WIP and BP status with nonvolatile BP0/BP1 bits controlling 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% array protection.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
Memory Size	256 Kbit (32,768 × 8-bit), enabling storage of firmware parameters or calibration data for mid-complexity embedded systems.
Interface	SPI-compatible serial bus (Mode 0,0 and Mode 1,1), allowing direct connection to microcontroller SPI peripherals without protocol translation.
Max Clock Frequency	10 MHz at VCC ≥ 4.5V, supporting high-speed read/write in time-critical applications like real-time sensor logging.
Page Size	64 bytes - defines maximum contiguous write length per command; crossing page boundaries wraps data within the same page.
Write Cycle Time	5 ms max internal write time - determines minimum delay between write commands and impacts system responsiveness during configuration updates.
Endurance & Retention	1,000,000 erase/write cycles and >200 years data retention - ensures long-term reliability in automotive and industrial deployments.
Supply Voltage Range	2.5V to 5.5V - compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic domains, simplifying integration into mixed-voltage designs.
Temperature Range	-40°C to +125°C (Extended grade) - qualified per AEC-Q100, suitable for under-hood automotive electronics.

Pinout & Package

25LC256-E/MF is housed in an 8-lead DFN (Dual Flat No-lead) package, designated "MF" per Microchip's packaging nomenclature. This leadless surface-mount package measures 2 mm × 3 mm with exposed thermal pad, optimized for space-constrained PCB layouts and thermal performance in automotive modules.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
CS	Chip Select Input	Active-low enable signal; selects device on shared SPI bus and initiates internal write cycle on rising edge after valid write sequence.
SO	Serial Data Output	Tri-state output delivering memory contents on falling edge of SCK; enters high-impedance state when CS is high or HOLD is asserted.
WP	Write-Protect Pin	Hardware lock for STATUS register writes when WPEN bit = 1; low level blocks nonvolatile BP/WPEN changes but allows normal reads and data writes.
VSS	Ground Reference	Primary return path for all internal circuitry and I/O signals; requires low-impedance PCB connection to minimize noise coupling.
SI	Serial Data Input	Accepts instructions, addresses, and data on rising edge of SCK; latched synchronously to ensure reliable command parsing.
SCK	Serial Clock Input	Master-generated clock synchronizing all SPI transactions; timing constraints (e.g., THI/TLO ≥ 50 ns @ 4.5–5.5V) define maximum operational speed.
HOLD	Hold Input	Pauses active SPI transfer without resetting state; must be driven low while SCK is low to avoid metastability; tri-states SO immediately.
VCC	Supply Voltage	Power input for core logic and EEPROM array; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF) required near pin to suppress switching noise during write operations.

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
Block Write Protection	Selectable via BP0/BP1 bits: protects 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of memory array - enables secure partitioning of critical vs. user-modifiable data regions.
Hardware Write Protection	WP pin + WPEN bit combination provides physical lock against accidental STATUS register corruption - essential for safety-critical automotive configurations.
HOLD Functionality	Enables host MCU to suspend EEPROM communication mid-transfer to service higher-priority interrupts - eliminates need for full retransmission.
Low-Power Operation	Standby current ≤ 1 µA at 5.5V and 125°C - extends battery life in always-on telematics or sensor nodes.
Robust ESD Rating	≥ 4 kV HBM - improves manufacturing yield and field reliability in handling-sensitive automotive assembly environments.
AEC-Q100 Qualification	Qualified for Extended temperature range (-40°C to +125°C) - meets automotive component stress test requirements for engine control, ADAS, and body electronics.

Applications

Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU)	Industrial PLC Configuration Storage
Use Scenario: Storing fuel map calibration tables, fault codes, and adaptive learning parameters subject to frequent updates during vehicle operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory interfacing directly with PIC® MCU SPI port; accessed during boot and runtime via READ/WRITE sequences. Use Value: AEC-Q100 qualification and 1M-cycle endurance ensure data integrity over 15+ year vehicle lifetimes despite repeated reprogramming events.	Use Scenario: Retaining I/O mapping, ladder logic settings, and network parameters across power cycles in modular automation controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI EEPROM providing persistent storage for user-defined control logic; accessed during initialization and maintenance mode. Use Value: Block protection (BP0/BP1) isolates factory-default firmware from user-modifiable parameters, preventing accidental overwrite of critical control algorithms.
Medical Diagnostic Device Calibration	Smart Energy Meter Firmware Backup
Use Scenario: Holding sensor offset/gain coefficients and regulatory compliance logs updated during periodic recalibration in portable ultrasound units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, low-power memory storing traceable calibration records; accessed via SPI during startup and service mode. Use Value: >200-year data retention guarantees audit trail validity across device lifetime without battery-backed SRAM maintenance overhead.	Use Scenario: Backing up metering firmware and tariff schedules in utility-grade electricity meters deployed in outdoor substations. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability nonvolatile storage operating at extended temperature range; withstands thermal cycling in uncontrolled environments. Use Value: 125°C rating and RoHS-compliant DFN package enable direct mounting on high-temperature PCBs near power converters without derating.

Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU)

Industrial PLC Configuration Storage

Use Scenario: Storing fuel map calibration tables, fault codes, and adaptive learning parameters subject to frequent updates during vehicle operation.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory interfacing directly with PIC® MCU SPI port; accessed during boot and runtime via READ/WRITE sequences.

Use Value: AEC-Q100 qualification and 1M-cycle endurance ensure data integrity over 15+ year vehicle lifetimes despite repeated reprogramming events.

Use Scenario: Retaining I/O mapping, ladder logic settings, and network parameters across power cycles in modular automation controllers.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI EEPROM providing persistent storage for user-defined control logic; accessed during initialization and maintenance mode.

Use Value: Block protection (BP0/BP1) isolates factory-default firmware from user-modifiable parameters, preventing accidental overwrite of critical control algorithms.

Medical Diagnostic Device Calibration

Smart Energy Meter Firmware Backup

Use Scenario: Holding sensor offset/gain coefficients and regulatory compliance logs updated during periodic recalibration in portable ultrasound units.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, low-power memory storing traceable calibration records; accessed via SPI during startup and service mode.

Use Value: >200-year data retention guarantees audit trail validity across device lifetime without battery-backed SRAM maintenance overhead.

Use Scenario: Backing up metering firmware and tariff schedules in utility-grade electricity meters deployed in outdoor substations.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability nonvolatile storage operating at extended temperature range; withstands thermal cycling in uncontrolled environments.

Use Value: 125°C rating and RoHS-compliant DFN package enable direct mounting on high-temperature PCBs near power converters without derating.

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar SPI EEPROM applications.

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
AT25DF256A-MHN-T	32 Mbit density, quad SPI interface, 85 MHz max clock; no HOLD pin; different STATUS register layout.	Higher throughput for firmware storage; lacks HOLD suspend and hardware WP pin - unsuitable where interrupt latency must be minimized.	Choose only if bandwidth >10 MB/s is required and HOLD/WP functionality is unnecessary.
BR25L256FJ-WE2	256 Kbit, SPI interface, 20 MHz max clock; built-in error correction (ECC); -40°C to +105°C rating (not AEC-Q100).	Enhanced data integrity via ECC for mission-critical logging; lower max temperature limits out automotive under-hood use.	Select when bit-error resilience is prioritized over automotive qualification and extended temperature operation.

Compared with AT25DF256A-MHN-T and BR25L256FJ-WE2, the 25LC256-E/MF uniquely balances AEC-Q100 compliance, HOLD suspend capability, hardware WP pin, and proven 1M-cycle endurance - making it the optimal choice for automotive and industrial systems demanding robustness, deterministic timing, and long-term reliability.

Availability

25LC256-E/MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control units, industrial programmable logic controllers, and medical diagnostic calibration systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 25LC256-E/MF includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 25LC256-E/MF belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for automotive, industrial, and medical applications requiring high reliability, extended temperature operation, and SPI-compatible nonvolatile storage with configurable write protection.

FAQ

What is the operating voltage range for the 25LC256-E/MF?

The 25LC256-E/MF operates from 2.5V to 5.5V. This dual-voltage compatibility allows seamless integration into both 3.3V and 5V system designs without level-shifting circuitry. Performance specifications-including 10 MHz max clock speed and 1 µA standby current-are guaranteed across this full range, with AC timing parameters adjusted per VCC tier (e.g., 10 MHz only at VCC ≥ 4.5V). The 25LC256-E/MF maintains functional integrity down to 2.5V, supporting brown-out tolerant applications.

Does the 25LC256-E/MF support SPI Mode 0,0 and Mode 1,1?

Yes, the 25LC256-E/MF supports both SPI Mode 0,0 (CPOL = 0, CPHA = 0) and Mode 1,1 (CPOL = 1, CPHA = 1), as confirmed by timing diagrams in DS20001822H. Data is sampled on the rising edge of SCK in Mode 0,0 and on the falling edge in Mode 1,1, while SO output is updated after the falling edge in both modes. This dual-mode capability ensures interoperability with diverse microcontrollers, including PIC®, ARM Cortex-M, and RISC-V families, without requiring firmware workarounds.

How does the HOLD function work on the 25LC256-E/MF?

The HOLD pin on the 25LC256-E/MF suspends ongoing SPI communication without resetting the internal state. When asserted low while SCK is low, it places SI, SCK, and SO in high-impedance and ignores further input transitions-except CS-allowing the host MCU to service urgent interrupts. Resuming requires bringing HOLD high while SCK remains low. This behavior is fully documented in Figure 1-1 and Section 2.1 of DS20001822H, and is critical for deterministic real-time response in automotive and industrial systems using the 25LC256-E/MF.

What write protection mechanisms does the 25LC256-E/MF provide?

The 25LC256-E/MF implements three layered write protections: (1) a volatile write enable latch (WEL) reset on power-up or WRDI; (2) nonvolatile BP0/BP1 bits controlling 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% array protection; and (3) hardware WP pin + WPEN bit enabling physical lock of STATUS register writes. These are detailed in Tables 2-2, 2-3, and the Write-Protect Functionality Matrix. Together, they prevent accidental overwrites in the 25LC256-E/MF during development, deployment, or field updates.

Is the 25LC256-E/MF qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, the 25LC256-E/MF is explicitly AEC-Q100 Qualified for Extended temperature range (-40°C to +125°C), as stated in the Device Selection Table and Section 1.0 of DS20001822H. It undergoes stress testing for temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock per AEC-Q100 Rev G. This qualification, combined with 1M-cycle endurance and >200-year data retention, makes the 25LC256-E/MF suitable for engine control, transmission, and ADAS modules where long-term reliability under harsh conditions is mandatory.

25LC256-E/MF Specifications

Product attributes: Attribute value

Manufacturer:: Microchip Technology

Series:: -

Package/Case:: 8-VDFN Exposed Pad

Packaging:: Tube

Product Status:: Active

Programmable:: Not Verified

Memory Type:: Non-Volatile

Memory Format:: EEPROM

Technology:: EEPROM

Memory Size:: 256Kbit

Memory Organization:: 32K x 8

Memory Interface:: SPI

Clock Frequency:: 10 MHz

Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:: 5ms

Access Time:: -

Voltage - Supply:: 2.5V ~ 5.5V

Operating Temperature:: -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)

Grade:: -

Qualification:: -

Mounting Type:: Surface Mount

Supplier Device Package:: 8-DFN-S (6x5)

25LC256-E/MF FAQ

1.How can I place an order for 25LC256-E/MF through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 25LC256-E/MF on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.

2.Are the price and stock information for 25LC256-E/MF reliable?

The price and inventory of 25LC256-E/MF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 25LC256-E/MF is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for 25LC256-E/MF?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 25LC256-E/MF transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for 25LC256-E/MF?

25LC256-E/MF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your 25LC256-E/MF order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.

Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.

5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 25LC256-E/MF?

For technical support, including 25LC256-E/MF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 25LC256-E/MF requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that 25LC256-E/MF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All 25LC256-E/MF products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 25LC256-E/MF meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of 25LC256-E/MF?

All 25LC256-E/MF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 25LC256-E/MF, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:

1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.

2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.

3.The 25LC256-E/MF part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for 25LC256-E/MF:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.

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