Microchip Technology AT25256-10PC-2.7
- Part No.:
- AT25256-10PC-2.7
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
AT25256-10PC-2.7.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT SPI 3MHZ 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,587
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Product details
Overview
AT25256-10PC-2.7 from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 256 Kbit SPI serial EEPROM organized as 32,768 × 8-bit words, operating from 2.7V to 5.5V, supporting 3 MHz clock rate, 64-byte page write, and hardware/software write protection via WP/HOLD pins. It is used in industrial control systems for nonvolatile parameter storage with high reliability.
For engineers reviewing the AT25256-10PC-2.7 datasheet, AT25256-10PC-2.7 pinout, AT25256-10PC-2.7 application, or AT25256-10PC-2.7 equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range compatibility (2.7–5.5 V), SOIC-8 package footprint, SPI Mode 0/3 support, 5 ms typical write cycle time, and block-level write protection granularity (1/4, 1/2, or full array).
Technical Context
The AT25256-10PC-2.7 implements a synchronous SPI slave interface with separate SI (input) and SO (output) lines, requiring CS activation and MSB-first data framing. It uses an 8-bit instruction register with op-codes for READ, WRITE, WREN, WRDI, RDSR, and WRSR.
Internal architecture includes a nonvolatile status register with BP0/BP1 bits controlling block protection, WPEN enabling hardware write protect, and RDY/WEN flags indicating write progress and enable state. All programming cycles are self-timed; no erase step is required prior to write.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8-bit words) - supports firmware configuration storage in resource-constrained embedded hosts. |
| Supply Voltage | 2.7 V to 5.5 V - enables direct interfacing with 3.3 V and 5 V microcontrollers without level-shifting. |
| Max Clock Frequency | 3 MHz - allows fast read/write throughput up to ~300 kB/s in page mode, suitable for real-time calibration data logging. |
| Write Cycle Time | 5 ms typical - defines minimum interval between write commands; impacts system responsiveness during parameter updates. |
| Endurance | 100,000 write cycles - ensures long-term reliability in applications requiring frequent field-updatable settings. |
| Data Retention | >200 years - guarantees persistent storage of critical calibration or security keys across product lifetime. |
| ESD Protection | >4000 V HBM - provides robust handling during board assembly and field service without additional protection circuitry. |
Pinout & Package
AT25256-10PC-2.7 is housed in an 8-pin EIAJ SOIC (0.200" wide) package, pin-compatible with JEDEC SOIC-8 footprints and optimized for automated PCB assembly.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (CS) | Chip Select | Active-low enable signal; must be low to accept SPI commands; high-Z output when deasserted. |
| 2 (SCK) | Serial Clock Input | Master-generated clock synchronizing all data transfers; supports SPI Modes 0 and 3 only. |
| 3 (SI) | Serial Data Input | Receives op-code, address, and write data; latched on SCK rising edge in Mode 0. |
| 4 (SO) | Serial Data Output | Drives read data and status bits; high-impedance when CS high or HOLD active. |
| 5 (WP) | Write Protect Input | Hardware lock for status register and protected memory blocks when WPEN=1 and WP=low. |
| 6 (HOLD) | Communication Suspend | Pauses ongoing SPI transfer without resetting internal state; requires SCK low to assert/deassert. |
| 7 (GND) | Ground Reference | Return path for all I/O and supply currents; must be low-impedance to minimize noise coupling. |
| 8 (VCC) | Power Supply | Primary power input; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF) required within 10 mm of pin for stable operation. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| SPI Mode 0 & 3 Support | Ensures interoperability with diverse microcontrollers including ARM Cortex-M, PIC, and MSP430 families without protocol translation. |
| 64-byte Page Write | Reduces average write latency by 64× vs. byte-write; enables efficient bulk updates of configuration tables or lookup data. |
| Block Write Protection | Allows selective locking of top ¼, top ½, or entire memory array-critical for safeguarding bootloader or security keys. |
| Self-timed Write Cycle | Eliminates need for external timing control or polling overhead; host can execute other tasks during 5 ms internal write. |
| Hardware + Software Protection | Combines WP pin control and WRSR-configurable BP bits to enforce layered data integrity policies in safety-critical systems. |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Configuration Storage | Medical Device Calibration Data |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing I/O mapping, scaling factors, and alarm thresholds in programmable logic controllers deployed in factory automation environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile parameter repository accessed via SPI during boot and runtime reconfiguration; RDY flag used to synchronize writes. Use Value: Enables field-upgradable machine behavior without firmware reflashing; 100K endurance supports decades of maintenance cycles. | Use Scenario: Retaining sensor offset/gain coefficients and patient-specific therapy parameters in portable infusion pumps and diagnostic monitors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant memory for FDA-regulated calibration data; WP pin tied low during production to prevent accidental overwrite. Use Value: Meets IEC 62304 data integrity requirements; >200-year retention ensures device accuracy over full service life. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | Smart Energy Meter Firmware Settings |
Use Scenario: Saving seat/mirror position presets, lighting profiles, and door lock configurations in 12 V automotive ECUs operating across -40°C to +85°C. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-voltage EEPROM interfaced directly to 3.3 V MCU; HOLD pin used to pause communication during CAN bus arbitration delays. Use Value: 2.7–5.5 V operation eliminates need for dedicated LDO; extended temperature rating avoids derating in under-hood locations. | Use Scenario: Holding tariff schedules, meter ID, and cryptographic keys in ANSI C12.22-compliant smart meters exposed to wide ambient temperature swings. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Trusted storage for utility-grade secure boot parameters; status register monitored to verify write completion before power-down. Use Value: Block protection prevents unauthorized modification of billing logic; ESD immunity reduces field failure rates in unshielded meter enclosures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| M95256-DW | Same 256 Kbit density, 3 MHz max clock, but supports 1.8–5.5 V range and offers additional 1.8 V variant; different status register bit layout. | Broader voltage flexibility suits battery-powered IoT nodes; not drop-in due to differing WPEN implementation and timing specs. | Select M95256-DW only if 1.8 V operation or STMicroelectronics supply chain alignment is required. |
| BR25L256F | 256 Kbit SPI EEPROM with 20 MHz max clock, 1.7–5.5 V range, and built-in error correction; pinout matches SOIC-8 but differs in HOLD functionality. | Higher speed and ECC support benefit high-integrity data loggers; HOLD pin operates asynchronously, unlike AT25256-10PC-2.7's synchronous requirement. | Choose BR25L256F when faster write throughput or enhanced data integrity is prioritized over strict timing compatibility. |
Compared with M95256-DW and BR25L256F, AT25256-10PC-2.7 delivers proven industrial reliability at 3 MHz with deterministic HOLD/SO timing-ideal for legacy MCU platforms where timing margin is constrained and voltage stability is assured at 2.7–5.5 V.
Availability
AT25256-10PC-2.7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, medical instrumentation, automotive body electronics, and smart energy metering requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.
Supply support for AT25256-10PC-2.7 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 is a global semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, with deep expertise in embedded control and nonvolatile storage.
AT25256-10PC-2.7 belongs to Microchip's legacy SPI serial EEPROM family designed for cost-sensitive, space-constrained applications demanding high endurance, long data retention, and robust industrial-grade operation.
FAQ
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by AT25256-10PC-2.7?
The AT25256-10PC-2.7 supports a maximum SCK clock frequency of 3 MHz across its full 2.7–5.5 V operating range. This value is specified under AC characteristics for VCC = 2.7–5.5 V and applies to both read and write operations. Exceeding this limit may result in command rejection or data corruption, as timing margins for tSU, tH, and tWH become violated.
Does AT25256-10PC-2.7 require an external erase cycle before writing?
No, AT25256-10PC-2.7 does not require a separate erase cycle. Each write operation automatically erases the target byte or page before programming. The device uses floating-gate technology that integrates erase and program into a single self-timed internal cycle, simplifying firmware design and reducing host processor overhead.
How is write protection implemented on AT25256-10PC-2.7?
AT25256-10PC-2.7 implements dual-layer write protection: software-based via BP0/BP1 bits in the status register (set using WRSR instruction), and hardware-based via the WP pin when WPEN=1. Protection levels include top ¼, top ½, or full memory array. WP pin function is disabled if WPEN=0, allowing flexible system-level security policies.
What package type is used for AT25256-10PC-2.7?
AT25256-10PC-2.7 uses an 8-pin EIAJ SOIC package (0.200" wide), designated as "8P3" in Microchip's ordering guide. It features gull-wing leads, standard 1.27 mm pitch, and is compatible with JEDEC SOIC-8 footprints. This package supports automated pick-and-place and reflow soldering per IPC-J-STD-020.
Can AT25256-10PC-2.7 operate at 1.8 V?
No, AT25256-10PC-2.7 is rated for 2.7 V to 5.5 V operation only. For 1.8 V systems, Microchip offers the AT25256-10PC-1.8 variant, which has distinct DC and AC specifications-including lower max clock (0.5 MHz) and different VIH/VIL thresholds. Using AT25256-10PC-2.7 below 2.7 V risks unreliable read/write behavior and violates absolute maximum ratings.
AT25256-10PC-2.7 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- 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:
- 3 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 5ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
AT25256-10PC-2.7 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT25256-10PC-2.7 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT25256-10PC-2.7 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 AT25256-10PC-2.7 reliable?
The price and inventory of AT25256-10PC-2.7 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT25256-10PC-2.7 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT25256-10PC-2.7?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT25256-10PC-2.7 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT25256-10PC-2.7?
AT25256-10PC-2.7 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT25256-10PC-2.7 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 AT25256-10PC-2.7?
For technical support, including AT25256-10PC-2.7 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT25256-10PC-2.7 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT25256-10PC-2.7 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT25256-10PC-2.7 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 AT25256-10PC-2.7 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT25256-10PC-2.7?
All AT25256-10PC-2.7 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT25256-10PC-2.7, 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 AT25256-10PC-2.7 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT25256-10PC-2.7:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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