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Microchip Technology 25LC256T-I/MF
- Part No.:
- 25LC256T-I/MF
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-VDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
25LC256T-I/MF.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT SPI 10MHZ 8DFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,734
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Product details
Overview
25LC256T-I/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 supports Industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C) in an 8-lead DFN package. Used for nonvolatile configuration storage in microcontroller-based systems requiring robust data retention and hardware write protection.
For engineers reviewing the 25LC256T-I/MF datasheet, 25LC256T-I/MF pinout, 25LC256T-I/MF application, or 25LC256T-I/MF equivalent, key selection criteria include SPI timing compliance at 10 MHz, 1 μA standby current, block-level write protection (BP0/BP1), HOLD functionality for interrupt-safe bus arbitration, and AEC-Q100 qualification for automotive-grade reliability.
Technical Context
The 25LC256T-I/MF implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, CS-controlled selection, and SCK-synchronized serial communication. Its internal architecture includes a status register with WIP and WEL flags, programmable BP0/BP1 bits for 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% array protection, and a dedicated WP pin enabled only when WPEN=1.
It features self-timed internal write cycles (≤5 ms), sequential read with automatic address wraparound, and hardware-assisted hold functionality that suspends ongoing transfers without resetting the command sequence. The device resets its write enable latch on power-up, after WRDI/WRSR execution, or post-write completion - enforcing explicit WREN before each write operation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 32,768 × 8-bit (256 Kbit) nonvolatile EEPROM array |
| Interface | SPI-compatible serial bus (Mode 0,0), no shared MISO/MOSI - requires discrete SI/SO lines |
| Max Clock Frequency | 10 MHz at VCC ≥ 4.5V; enables high-speed configuration loading in real-time systems |
| Page Size | 64 bytes - defines maximum contiguous write length without crossing physical boundaries |
| Write Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - supports frequent field updates in telemetry or calibration applications |
| Data Retention | >200 years at +25°C - ensures long-term validity of stored firmware parameters or calibration constants |
| Standby Current | 1 μA at 5.5V - minimizes quiescent power in battery-backed or energy-harvesting designs |
Pinout & Package
25LC256T-I/MF is housed in an 8-lead DFN (Dual Flat No-lead) package, 2 mm × 3 mm body, 0.5 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad. Pin 1 is marked by chamfered corner; orientation follows JEDEC MO-229 standard.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable; must be low for instruction/address/data transfer; rising edge initiates internal write cycle |
| SO | Serial Data Output | Tri-state output; data shifted out MSB-first on falling edge of SCK during READ/RDSR |
| WP | Write-Protect Pin | Hardware lock for STATUS register when WPEN=1; low = protection active; high = fully functional |
| VSS | Ground | Reference return path for all digital and analog circuitry; must be low-impedance connection |
| SI | Serial Data Input | Instruction, address, and data input latched on rising edge of SCK; MSB-first protocol |
| SCK | Serial Clock Input | Master-generated clock; defines timing for SI sampling and SO update; supports up to 10 MHz |
| HOLD | Hold Input | Pauses ongoing SPI transaction while CS remains low; allows host to service higher-priority interrupts |
| VCC | Supply Voltage | 2.5–5.5V operating range; powers internal HV generator for EEPROM programming |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Block Write Protection | Configurable via BP0/BP1 bits to protect 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of memory - prevents accidental overwrites in critical sectors |
| HOLD Functionality | Halts serial communication mid-sequence without losing state - eliminates need to retransmit commands after interrupt handling |
| Power-On Write Disable | Write enable latch resets automatically at power-up - prevents spurious writes during brown-out or reset conditions |
| Hardware Write-Protect Pin | WP pin + WPEN bit combination enables system-level physical lockout of STATUS register writes - enhances security in deployed units |
| AEC-Q100 Qualified | Qualified for Automotive Grade 3 (−40°C to +85°C); validated for vibration, thermal cycling, and ESD (>4 kV HBM) |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module | Industrial PLC Configuration Storage |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Storing calibrated sensor offsets, actuator limits, and user-defined operational modes in a vehicle door module. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory interfaced directly to PIC MCU's SPI port; accessed during boot and runtime parameter updates. Use Value: 1 μA standby current extends battery life in always-on modules; AEC-Q100 qualification ensures reliability under under-hood thermal stress. |
Use Scenario: Holding I/O mapping tables, PID tuning constants, and firmware revision metadata in modular industrial controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI EEPROM used as persistent BOM-managed configuration store; updated via field service tools using standardized command set. Use Value: 64-byte page writes enable efficient partial updates; BP0/BP1 bits isolate factory-set parameters from field-modifiable fields. |
| Medical Infusion Pump Calibration | Smart Energy Meter Firmware Parameters |
|
Use Scenario: Archiving dose calibration coefficients, maintenance logs, and safety-critical fault history in Class II medical devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Trusted nonvolatile memory holding FDA-required traceability data; accessed via isolated SPI bus with CRC-checked reads. Use Value: >200-year data retention meets regulatory archival requirements; 1M endurance supports lifetime recalibration cycles. |
Use Scenario: Storing tariff schedules, metering calibration factors, and secure key material in ANSI C12.22-compliant smart meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure configuration store with hardware WP pin tied to tamper-detection circuitry to prevent unauthorized reprogramming. Use Value: WPEN+WP hardware lock prevents remote firmware corruption attempts; RoHS-compliant DFN package suits compact meter PCB layouts. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25AA256T-I/MF | Wider VCC range (1.8–5.5V); identical pinout, timing, and instruction set; same DFN package | Better suited for 1.8V/3.3V-only systems; not rated for 5V operation above 85°C | Select when primary system rail is ≤3.3V and extended low-voltage operation is required |
| AT25DF256A-MHN-T | Dual/quad SPI interface; 2.7–3.6V only; 256 Mbit density; different command set and status register layout | Designed for high-speed code shadowing or firmware XIP; lacks HOLD and hardware WP pin | Choose only if migrating to faster quad-SPI boot memory; not drop-in compatible due to interface and voltage mismatch |
Compared with 25LC256T-I/MF, the 25AA256T-I/MF offers broader voltage flexibility but reduced 5V thermal margin, while the AT25DF256A-MHN-T provides higher density and speed at the cost of SPI compatibility, HOLD support, and hardware write protection - making it unsuitable for direct replacement in legacy EEPROM-based designs.
Availability
25LC256T-I/MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, industrial PLC configuration storage, medical infusion pump calibration, and smart energy meter firmware parameter retention requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100 compliance.
Supply support for 25LC256T-I/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 25LC256T-I/MF belongs to Microchip's 25XX256 family of SPI Serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, pin-efficient nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems across automotive, industrial, and medical markets.
FAQ
What is the supply voltage range for the 25LC256T-I/MF?
The 25LC256T-I/MF operates across a supply voltage range of 2.5V to 5.5V. This range is specified for both Industrial (−40°C to +85°C) and Extended (−40°C to +125°C) temperature grades. Operation outside this window may result in undefined behavior or failure to meet AC timing specifications. The 25LC256T-I/MF does not support 1.8V operation - for that, the 25AA256T-I/MF variant is recommended.
Does the 25LC256T-I/MF support SPI Mode 0,0 exclusively?
Yes, the 25LC256T-I/MF supports only SPI Mode 0,0 (CPOL = 0, CPHA = 0), where data is sampled on the rising edge of SCK and output on the falling edge. It does not support Mode 1,1 or dual/quad SPI variants. The SI and SO lines are unidirectional, requiring separate pins - unlike some newer SPI flash devices that use bidirectional IO pins.
How does the HOLD function work on the 25LC256T-I/MF?
The HOLD pin on the 25LC256T-I/MF suspends an ongoing SPI transaction while CS remains low. When pulled low during valid SCK low time, it places SI, SCK, and SO in high-impedance state and ignores further input transitions except CS. Resuming requires bringing HOLD high while SCK is low. This preserves command state - eliminating retransmission overhead when servicing interrupts.
What package type is used for the 25LC256T-I/MF?
The 25LC256T-I/MF uses an 8-lead DFN (Dual Flat No-lead) package, 2 mm × 3 mm body, 0.5 mm pitch, with an exposed thermal pad. The "MF" suffix in the part number explicitly denotes this DFN variant. It is not offered in PDIP, SOIC, or TSSOP packages - those are designated by "P", "SN", "SM", or "ST" suffixes respectively.
Is the 25LC256T-I/MF qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the 25LC256T-I/MF is AEC-Q100 qualified for Automotive Grade 3 (−40°C to +85°C). It undergoes stress testing for thermal cycling, humidity, mechanical shock, and ESD (>4 kV HBM), and is rated for use in body electronics, infotainment, and chassis subsystems. The "I" in the part number confirms Industrial/Automotive temperature grade compliance.
25LC256T-I/MF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-VDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- 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 ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-DFN-S (6x5)
25LC256T-I/MF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 25LC256T-I/MF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 25LC256T-I/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 25LC256T-I/MF reliable?
The price and inventory of 25LC256T-I/MF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 25LC256T-I/MF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 25LC256T-I/MF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 25LC256T-I/MF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 25LC256T-I/MF?
25LC256T-I/MF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 25LC256T-I/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 25LC256T-I/MF?
For technical support, including 25LC256T-I/MF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 25LC256T-I/MF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 25LC256T-I/MF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 25LC256T-I/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 25LC256T-I/MF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 25LC256T-I/MF?
All 25LC256T-I/MF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 25LC256T-I/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 25LC256T-I/MF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 25LC256T-I/MF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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