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Microchip Technology 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO
- Part No.:
- 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
25LC256-E/SN16KVAO.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT SPI 5MHZ 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,827
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Product details
Overview
25LC256-E/SN16KVAO from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 256 Kbit SPI Serial EEPROM with 32,768 × 8-bit organization, 64-byte page size, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It operates from 2.5V to 5.5V, supports up to 10 MHz clock frequency, and delivers 5 mA max write current at 5.5V - used for nonvolatile configuration storage in embedded controllers and sensor nodes.
For engineers reviewing the 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO datasheet, 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO pinout, 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO application, or 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO equivalent, key selection criteria include SPI timing compliance (TCSS, TCSH, TSU), hardware write protection via WP pin and STATUS register, HOLD functionality for interrupt-safe bus arbitration, and AEC-Q100 qualification for automotive subsystems.
Technical Context
The 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 (CPOL=0, CPHA=0) interface with separate SI and SO lines, requiring CS assertion, SCK synchronization, and optional HOLD suspension. Its internal architecture includes a 64-byte page latch, HV generator for EEPROM programming, and dual-level write protection: volatile WEL latch and nonvolatile BP0/BP1 bits controlling 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% array protection.
It features self-timed internal write cycles (≤5 ms), automatic address pointer rollover during sequential reads, and power-on reset behavior that clears the write enable latch and places SO in high-impedance state. The device supports read-while-write status polling via RDSR instruction and enforces strict page-boundary alignment for multi-byte writes.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8-bit) - sufficient for firmware parameter tables, calibration data, or boot configuration in resource-constrained MCUs. |
| Interface | SPI-compatible serial bus (Mode 0,0) - interoperable with PIC, ARM Cortex-M, and ESP32 SPI peripherals without protocol translation. |
| Max Clock Frequency | 10 MHz at VCC ≥ 4.5V - enables ≤1.28 µs per byte read transfer time, supporting real-time logging at >780 kB/s theoretical throughput. |
| Write Cycle Time | ≤5 ms per page or byte - deterministic erase/write latency critical for fail-safe state capture in power-loss scenarios. |
| Endurance & Retention | 1,000,000 write/erase cycles and >200 years data retention - validated for long-life industrial control modules and automotive ECUs. |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5V to 5.5V - compatible with both 3.3V logic systems and legacy 5V microcontroller buses without level shifting. |
| Temperature Range | –40°C to +85°C (Industrial grade) - qualified for operation in engine control units, motor drives, and outdoor IoT gateways. |
Pinout & Package
25LC256-E/SN16KVAO is housed in an 8-lead narrow SOIC package (SN), 3.90 mm body width, JEDEC MS-012 compliant, with 1.27 mm pitch and gull-wing leads. Pin 1 marked by notch or bevel; recommended land pattern per Microchip Drawing C04-2057-SN.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable signal - must remain low throughout instruction/address/data transfer; rising edge initiates internal write cycle. |
| SO | Serial Data Output | Tri-state output - driven after falling edge of SCK during reads; enters high-Z when CS high or HOLD low. |
| WP | Write-Protect Pin | Hardware lock - disables STATUS register writes when WP low and WPEN bit set; no effect on memory array writes unless BP bits configured. |
| VSS | Ground Reference | Primary return path for all I/O and core circuitry - requires low-impedance connection to system GND plane. |
| SI | Serial Data Input | Data/clock-synchronized input - latches instruction, address, and write data on rising edge of SCK. |
| SCK | Serial Clock Input | Master-generated synchronous clock - defines timing for SI sampling and SO updates; must be stable during HOLD assertion. |
| HOLD | Bus Hold Control | Pauses ongoing SPI transaction - transitions ignored except CS; allows host MCU to service higher-priority interrupts without reinitializing sequence. |
| VCC | Supply Voltage | Core power rail - decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF ceramic) required within 10 mm of VCC/VSS pins to suppress switching noise. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Block Write Protection | Configurable via BP0/BP1 bits to protect 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of memory - enables secure partitioning of user data, factory calibration, and firmware update regions. |
| Hardware Write Protection | WP pin + WPEN bit combination provides tamper-resistant lock for STATUS register - prevents accidental corruption of protection settings in field-deployed units. |
| HOLD Functionality | True bus arbitration support - suspends SPI communication mid-sequence without losing state, enabling deterministic response to real-time interrupts in safety-critical systems. |
| Low-Power Operation | 1 µA standby current at 5.5V - extends battery life in always-on sensor nodes and reduces thermal load in dense PCB layouts. |
| AEC-Q100 Qualification | Qualified for Automotive Grade 2 (–40°C to +105°C ambient) per DS20001822H - meets stress test requirements for engine bay and chassis-mounted electronics. |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Configuration Storage | Automotive Body Control Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing I/O mapping, PID tuning parameters, and alarm thresholds in programmable logic controllers operating in factory environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register - retains settings across power cycles and supports field updates via HMI or Modbus interface. Use Value: Enables zero-downtime parameter reconfiguration without firmware reload; 1M endurance ensures >10 years of daily updates at 300 cycles/year. |
Use Scenario: Saving seat position memory, mirror angle presets, and lighting profiles in vehicle door modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: User preference storage peripheral - accessed via LIN-to-SPI bridge or direct MCU SPI during ignition-on initialization. Use Value: AEC-Q100 qualification guarantees reliability under thermal cycling and vibration; WP pin prevents unintended overwrites during ECU firmware updates. |
| Medical Infusion Pump Calibration | Smart Energy Meter Firmware Patching |
Use Scenario: Holding flow rate calibration coefficients, dose limits, and error log history in Class II medical devices requiring FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure audit trail storage - write-protected sectors preserve factory calibration data while allowing field-serviceable logs. Use Value: >200-year data retention satisfies long-term traceability mandates; sequential read mode enables fast dump of diagnostic records to USB host. |
Use Scenario: Storing encrypted firmware patches and cryptographic keys for remote OTA updates in utility-grade electricity meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Trusted code repository - accessed only by secure bootloader during verified update sequences; protected via STATUS register locking. Use Value: Dual-layer protection (WEL latch + BP bits) prevents rollback attacks; 10 MHz interface accelerates patch validation and installation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT25SF256A-SSHD-B | Quad SPI interface, 133 MHz DTR mode, 2.7–3.6V only, no HOLD pin | Better throughput for high-speed firmware loading; incompatible voltage range and missing HOLD limits use in mixed-voltage systems | Select when migrating to faster SPI protocols and full 3.3V-only designs; verify absence of HOLD does not impact interrupt handling. |
| BR25L256FJ-WE2 | 1.7–5.5V supply, 20 MHz max clock, built-in error correction (ECC), SOP8 package | Enhanced reliability for mission-critical data logging; ECC adds overhead but improves bit-error resilience in noisy environments | Prefer where data integrity is paramount (e.g., aerospace telemetry); confirm ECC overhead aligns with real-time write latency budgets. |
Compared with AT25SF256A-SSHD-B and BR25L256FJ-WE2, the 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO offers broader voltage compatibility (2.5–5.5V), proven HOLD functionality for deterministic interrupt handling, and direct drop-in replacement for legacy Microchip 25LCxx designs - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, mixed-voltage industrial upgrades.
Availability
25LC256-E/SN16KVAO is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, automotive body electronics, and medical device manufacturing requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, with global manufacturing and quality certifications including ISO 9001 and IATF 16949.
The 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO belongs to Microchip's 25XX256 family of SPI EEPROMs, designed specifically for robust, low-power nonvolatile storage in automotive, industrial, and medical systems demanding AEC-Q100 compliance and long-term data integrity.
FAQ
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO?
The 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO supports up to 10 MHz clock frequency when VCC is 4.5V to 5.5V, 5 MHz at 2.5V to <4.5V, and 3 MHz at 1.8V to <2.5V. This graded specification ensures reliable timing margins across its full 2.5–5.5V operating range. The 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO datasheet (DS20001822H, Table 1-2) defines all AC timing parameters accordingly.
Does the 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO support hardware write protection?
Yes, the 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO supports hardware write protection through the WP pin in conjunction with the WPEN bit in the STATUS register. When WP is low and WPEN is set, writes to nonvolatile STATUS bits are disabled - protecting block protection settings from accidental overwrite. The 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO maintains this function across its full industrial temperature range.
What package type is used for the 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO?
The 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO uses an 8-lead narrow SOIC package (SN), 3.90 mm body width, with 1.27 mm lead pitch and gull-wing leads. This package matches JEDEC MS-012 standards and is compatible with standard SOIC footprints. The "SN" suffix in the part number explicitly denotes this SOIC-N package variant.
How does the HOLD pin function on the 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO?
The HOLD pin on the 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO suspends ongoing SPI communication without resetting the internal state - allowing the host MCU to service higher-priority interrupts and resume transmission from the exact point of suspension. HOLD must be asserted while SCK is low and released under the same condition. The 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO enters high-impedance on SI, SO, and SCK during HOLD.
Is the 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO is AEC-Q100 qualified (Grade 2: –40°C to +105°C ambient) and specified for extended temperature operation up to +125°C. Its qualification covers stress testing for thermal cycling, humidity, and mechanical shock - making it suitable for body control modules, infotainment systems, and ADAS subsystems. The "E" in the part number indicates Extended temperature grade.
25LC256-E/SN16KVAO Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- 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:
- 5 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 5ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q100
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
25LC256-E/SN16KVAO FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO 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/SN16KVAO reliable?
The price and inventory of 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO 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/SN16KVAO is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO?
25LC256-E/SN16KVAO orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO 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/SN16KVAO?
For technical support, including 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO 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/SN16KVAO meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO?
All 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO, 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/SN16KVAO part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 25LC256-E/SN16KVAO:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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