Microchip Technology AT25256A-10CI-2.7
- Part No.:
- AT25256A-10CI-2.7
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TDFN
- Datasheet:
-
AT25256A-10CI-2.7.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT SPI 20MHZ 8LAP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,368
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Product details
Overview
AT25256A-10CI-2.7 from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 256 Kbit serial SPI EEPROM organized as 32,768 × 8-bit words, operating from 2.7V to 5.5V, supporting 20 MHz clock rate at 5V, with 64-byte page write and hardware/software write protection. It serves as nonvolatile data storage in microcontroller-based industrial control modules requiring reliable low-voltage operation.
For engineers reviewing the AT25256A-10CI-2.7 datasheet, AT25256A-10CI-2.7 pinout, AT25256A-10CI-2.7 application, or AT25256A-10CI-2.7 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 8-lead Leadless Array (LAP) package, 100,000 write endurance, >100-year data retention, and support for SPI Modes 0 and 3 in extended temperature range (–40°C to +85°C).
Technical Context
The AT25256A-10CI-2.7 implements a synchronous serial peripheral interface (SPI) slave architecture with dedicated SI (input) and SO (output) pins, enabling full-duplex communication without bus contention. Its internal instruction register accepts op-codes including WREN, WRITE, RDSR, and WRSR, with MSB-first transmission following CS assertion.
Block write protection is configured via nonvolatile BP0/BP1 bits in the status register, allowing selective locking of top 1/4, top 1/2, or entire memory array (0000–7FFFh). Hardware protection is enabled when WPEN = 1 and WP pin is low; HOLD pin suspends ongoing transfers without resetting sequence state.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8-bit words), sufficient for firmware parameter tables or calibration data in embedded systems |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.7V to 5.5V - compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic domains without level shifting |
| Max Clock Frequency | 20 MHz at VCC = 5V - enables fast bulk reads/writes in time-critical logging applications |
| Write Cycle Time | 5 ms maximum - defines minimum interval between consecutive page writes |
| Endurance | 100,000 write cycles - supports frequent configuration updates in field-deployed equipment |
| Data Retention | >100 years at 25°C - ensures long-term validity of stored calibration or security keys |
| Operating Temperature | –40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial-grade environmental stress without derating |
Pinout & Package
AT25256A-10CI-2.7 uses an 8-lead Leadless Array Package (LAP), 6 × 5 × 1.04 mm body, 1.27 mm lead pitch, surface-mount with exposed pad-compatible footprint (8CN3 designation). Pin 1 is marked by corner chamfer.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select | Active-low enable signal; initiates SPI transaction and places SO in high-impedance when high |
| SO | Serial Data Output | Tri-state output delivering read data or status bits; high-impedance when CS high or during HOLD |
| WP | Write Protect | Hardware lock for status register and protected memory blocks when WPEN = 1 and WP = low |
| GND | Ground Reference | Primary return path for VCC current and digital I/O reference; must be low-impedance for noise immunity |
| VCC | Power Supply | Single supply input (2.7–5.5V); powers internal logic, charge pump, and I/O buffers |
| HOLD | Communication Suspend | Pauses ongoing SPI transfer without losing address/state; requires SCK low during assertion |
| SCK | Serial Clock Input | Master-generated edge-triggered clock synchronizing all SI/SO bit transfers |
| SI | Serial Data Input | Accepts op-codes, addresses, and write data; ignored during HOLD or when CS high |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| SPI Mode Compatibility | Supports Modes 0 (CPOL=0, CPHA=0) and 3 (CPOL=1, CPHA=1), ensuring interoperability with diverse MCU SPI peripherals |
| Page Write Capability | 64-byte burst writes reduce total programming time vs. byte-by-byte writes - critical for efficient firmware update staging |
| Multi-level Block Protection | Configurable via status register to lock top 1/4 (6000–7FFFh), top 1/2 (4000–7FFFh), or full array (0000–7FFFh) |
| Hardware + Software Protection | WP pin and WRSR instruction jointly enforce write security - prevents accidental overwrites during power transitions or debug sessions |
| Self-timed Internal Write | No external erase cycle required; tWC ≤ 5 ms guarantees predictable latency and simplifies host timing logic |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Configuration Storage | Automotive ECU Calibration Data |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing I/O mapping, PID tuning parameters, and alarm thresholds in programmable logic controllers deployed in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory accessed via SPI during boot and runtime reconfiguration. Use Value: Enables field-upgradable settings without firmware reflashing; 100K endurance supports daily parameter adjustments over 10+ years. | Use Scenario: Holding sensor offset corrections, fuel trim maps, and diagnostic trouble code (DTC) history in engine control units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI-connected data logger with deterministic 5 ms write latency for real-time calibration updates. Use Value: >100-year retention preserves vehicle-specific calibrations across ownership; –40°C to +85°C rating matches under-hood thermal envelope. |
| Medical Device Audit Logs | Smart Meter Firmware Parameters |
Use Scenario: Recording user actions, calibration events, and error timestamps in FDA-regulated diagnostic instruments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant audit trail storage with hardware write lock on critical log segments. Use Value: WP-enabled protection prevents unauthorized log erasure; 256 Kbit capacity stores ≥10,000 timestamped entries with metadata. | Use Scenario: Storing tariff schedules, metering constants, and communication keys in ANSI C12.22-compliant utility meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power, high-reliability memory interfaced to metrology SoC via SPI at 3.3V. Use Value: 2.7–5.5V operation accommodates battery-backed and line-powered modes; 8-lead LAP package saves PCB area in compact meter designs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| M95256-WDW6TP | Same 256 Kbit density, 8-lead SOIC package, but rated only to 85°C (not extended temp); max clock 20 MHz at 5V | Lacks HOLD pin and top-1/4 block protection; supports only WP hardware lock | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs need for HOLD functionality and finer-grained memory protection |
| CAT25256VI-GT3 | Identical 256 Kbit, 8-lead SOIC, 2.5–5.5V supply; 20 MHz max clock; includes HOLD and WP pins | Only supports top-1/2 and full-array protection (no top-1/4 option); endurance rated at 1M cycles | Prefer for high-write-frequency applications where extended protection granularity is not required |
Compared with M95256-WDW6TP and CAT25256VI-GT3, AT25256A-10CI-2.7 uniquely offers top-1/4 block protection, –40°C to +85°C operation in a space-saving LAP package, and guaranteed 100K endurance with >100-year retention - making it optimal for compact, thermally demanding industrial nodes.
Availability
AT25256A-10CI-2.7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, automotive ECUs, medical audit loggers, and smart meter firmware storage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.
Supply support for AT25256A-10CI-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 broad industrial and automotive qualification expertise.
The AT25256A-10CI-2.7 belongs to Microchip's legacy Atmel SPI EEPROM product line, engineered for robust, low-power nonvolatile storage in space-constrained, thermally aggressive embedded systems.
FAQ
What is the package type and dimensions of AT25256A-10CI-2.7?
AT25256A-10CI-2.7 uses an 8-lead Leadless Array Package (LAP), designated 8CN3, measuring 6.0 × 5.0 × 1.04 mm with 1.27 mm pitch. It features a chamfered Pin 1 corner and is RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, and suitable for automated SMT assembly.
Does AT25256A-10CI-2.7 support both SPI Mode 0 and Mode 3?
Yes, AT25256A-10CI-2.7 explicitly supports SPI Modes 0 (CPOL = 0, CPHA = 0) and 3 (CPOL = 1, CPHA = 1), as confirmed in the device's Features section and Functional Description. This dual-mode compatibility ensures seamless integration with a wide range of microcontroller SPI peripherals.
How does the HOLD pin function in AT25256A-10CI-2.7?
The HOLD pin in AT25256A-10CI-2.7 suspends ongoing SPI communication without resetting the internal address counter or command state. It must be asserted low while SCK is low; resuming requires bringing HOLD high while SCK remains low. During HOLD, SI is ignored and SO enters high-impedance.
What memory protection options are available on AT25256A-10CI-2.7?
AT25256A-10CI-2.7 provides four block protection levels via BP1/BP0 bits: none, top 1/4 (6000–7FFFh), top 1/2 (4000–7FFFh), or full array (0000–7FFFh). Protection is enforced by both software (WRSR) and hardware (WP pin when WPEN = 1), preventing writes to locked regions.
Is AT25256A-10CI-2.7 qualified for automotive applications?
AT25256A-10CI-2.7 is specified for industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and carries Automotive Grade qualification per the datasheet's Features section. While not AEC-Q100 certified, its extended temp rating and reliability specs (100K cycles, >100-year retention) support under-hood and chassis-mounted use cases.
AT25256A-10CI-2.7 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TDFN
- 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:
- 20 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 5ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-LAP (5x6)
AT25256A-10CI-2.7 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT25256A-10CI-2.7 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT25256A-10CI-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 AT25256A-10CI-2.7 reliable?
The price and inventory of AT25256A-10CI-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 AT25256A-10CI-2.7 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT25256A-10CI-2.7?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT25256A-10CI-2.7 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT25256A-10CI-2.7?
AT25256A-10CI-2.7 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT25256A-10CI-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 AT25256A-10CI-2.7?
For technical support, including AT25256A-10CI-2.7 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT25256A-10CI-2.7 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT25256A-10CI-2.7 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT25256A-10CI-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 AT25256A-10CI-2.7 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT25256A-10CI-2.7?
All AT25256A-10CI-2.7 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT25256A-10CI-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 AT25256A-10CI-2.7 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT25256A-10CI-2.7:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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