Microchip Technology AT25256W-10SC
- Part No.:
- AT25256W-10SC
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
AT25256W-10SC.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT SPI 3MHZ 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,651
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Product details
Overview
AT25256W-10SC from Atmel (now Microchip Technology) is a 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8) serial SPI EEPROM optimized for low-voltage embedded systems. It operates across 2.7V–5.5V, supports 3 MHz clock rate, features hardware/software write protection via WP and HOLD pins, and delivers 100,000 write cycles with >200-year data retention - used in industrial sensor calibration storage and firmware parameter backup.
For engineers reviewing the AT25256W-10SC datasheet, AT25256W-10SC pinout, AT25256W-10SC application, or AT25256W-10SC equivalent, key selection criteria include its 8-pin EIAJ SOIC package, SPI Mode 0/3 compatibility, 64-byte page write capability, block-level write protection (1/4, 1/2, or full array), and industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C).
Technical Context
The AT25256W-10SC functions exclusively as an SPI slave device with separate SI (input) and SO (output) lines, requiring CS assertion and MSB-first 8-bit op-code transmission. Its internal status register controls write enable (WEN), ready/busy (RDY), and nonvolatile block protection bits (BP0/BP1) plus WPEN for hardware lockout.
It implements self-timed internal write cycles (5 ms typical), supports suspend/resume via HOLD pin without sequence reset, and enforces write inhibition when WP is low and WPEN=1 - all while maintaining high-impedance SO during CS high or HOLD active states.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8 bytes), sufficient for storing configuration tables or boot parameters in resource-constrained microcontrollers. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.7V to 5.5V - enables direct interface with both 3.3V and 5V logic systems without level shifting. |
| Max Clock Frequency | 3 MHz - supports fast read/write throughput compatible with mid-speed MCU SPI peripherals. |
| Write Endurance | 100,000 cycles - ensures reliable field updates for calibration data or user settings over product lifetime. |
| Data Retention | >200 years at 25°C - guarantees long-term integrity of stored firmware metadata or security keys. |
| Operating Temperature | −40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial automation, automotive body control, and outdoor IoT edge nodes. |
| Package | 8-pin EIAJ SOIC (8S2), 0.200" wide - standard footprint compatible with automated PCB assembly and legacy board layouts. |
Pinout & Package
AT25256W-10SC uses an 8-pin EIAJ SOIC (8S2) package with 0.200" body width and 1.27 mm lead pitch. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; leads are gull-wing shaped for surface-mount reflow soldering.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (CS) | Chip Select | Active-low enable: pulls device into SPI communication mode; SO goes high-Z when CS high. |
| 2 (SCK) | Serial Clock Input | Synchronizes all data transfers; must be low during HOLD assertion and CS transitions. |
| 3 (SI) | Serial Data Input | Receives op-codes, addresses, and write data; ignored during HOLD or when CS is high. |
| 4 (SO) | Serial Data Output | Drives read data; enters high-impedance state during CS high, HOLD active, or internal write cycle. |
| 5 (WP) | Write Protect Input | Hardware lock: disables status register writes when WP=low and WPEN=1 - prevents accidental firmware corruption. |
| 6 (HOLD) | Communication Suspend | Pauses ongoing SPI transfer without resetting address counter; resumes on rising edge while SCK low. |
| 7 (GND) | Ground Reference | Return path for VCC and all I/O signals; requires low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling. |
| 8 (VCC) | Power Supply | Single supply input (2.7–5.5V); decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF) required near pin for stable operation. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| SPI Mode 0 & 3 Support | Interoperates with diverse MCUs including ARM Cortex-M, PIC, and STM32 without custom timing adjustments. |
| 64-byte Page Write | Reduces write time per sector vs. byte-write; enables efficient bulk parameter updates in sensor node configurations. |
| Block Write Protection | Configurable via status register to lock top 1/4 (6000–7FFFh), top 1/2 (4000–7FFFh), or entire array (0000–7FFFh). |
| Self-timed Write Cycle | No external erase step needed; internal timing eliminates host MCU polling overhead beyond RDSR status check. |
| ESD Robustness | >4000V HBM - withstands handling and board-level electrostatic discharge in manufacturing and field service. |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration | Automotive Body Control Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing factory-calibrated ADC offset/gain coefficients and temperature compensation tables in pressure or humidity sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile parameter storage accessed during power-up initialization and runtime correction routines. Use Value: Eliminates need for external calibration EEPROM; retains accuracy across thermal cycling and 10+ year deployments. |
Use Scenario: Holding seat position memory, mirror angle presets, and lighting configuration profiles in vehicle door modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI-configurable persistent storage interfaced directly with 8-bit/16-bit automotive MCUs. Use Value: Survives battery disconnect events and meets AEC-Q100 Grade 2 temperature requirements (−40°C to +105°C derated). |
| Medical Device Configuration | Smart Energy Meter Firmware Backup |
Use Scenario: Securing user-defined alarm thresholds, dosage limits, and audit log timestamps in portable infusion pumps. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Tamper-resistant storage with hardware WP pin tied to system security controller. Use Value: Prevents unauthorized parameter modification; supports FDA 21 CFR Part 11 electronic record integrity requirements. |
Use Scenario: Backing up metering firmware patches and tariff schedule updates during OTA upgrades in AMI smart meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability shadow storage synchronized with main flash to prevent bricking on power loss. Use Value: Guarantees atomic update success with 100K endurance - critical for utility-grade field deployment longevity. |
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 and 8-pin SOIC package; operates at 2.5–5.5V; max clock 20 MHz; built-in write protection via software only (no dedicated WP/HOLD pins). | Lacks hardware suspend (HOLD) and dual-mode write protect (WP + WPEN), limiting use in real-time deterministic systems. | Select when higher speed (20 MHz) is prioritized over hardware safety features and industrial temp range is not required. |
| BR25L256FJ-WE2 | 256 Kbit SPI EEPROM in 8-pin SOP; 1.7–5.5V operation; 10 MHz max clock; includes built-in error detection (ECC) and enhanced ESD (8 kV HBM). | Supports ECC-based data integrity verification - beneficial for safety-critical medical or rail applications where bit errors must be detected. | Choose when functional safety compliance (IEC 61508 SIL-2) or extended voltage margin below 2.5V is mandatory. |
Compared with M95256-WDW6TP and BR25L256FJ-WE2, AT25256W-10SC provides deterministic hardware-level write suspension and dual-layer (pin + register) protection ideal for industrial control loops, whereas alternatives trade those features for speed or ECC - requiring careful evaluation of system-level fault tolerance needs.
Availability
AT25256W-10SC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, automotive body control modules, and medical device configuration storage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for AT25256W-10SC 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
Atmel Corporation, now part of Microchip Technology, designs high-reliability nonvolatile memory and microcontroller solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.
The AT25xxx SPI EEPROM family was engineered for robust, low-power serial data storage in space-constrained embedded systems - emphasizing write endurance, voltage flexibility, and hardware-assisted data integrity.
FAQ
What is the operating voltage range for AT25256W-10SC?
The AT25256W-10SC operates from 2.7V to 5.5V, supporting both 3.3V and 5V system rails without level shifters. This dual-voltage capability is confirmed in the DC Characteristics table (VCC2 min/max) and explicitly designated by the "-2.7" suffix in the ordering code AT25256W-10SC-2.7.
Does AT25256W-10SC support SPI Mode 3 (CPOL=1, CPHA=1)?
Yes, AT25256W-10SC supports both SPI Mode 0 (CPOL=0, CPHA=0) and Mode 3 (CPOL=1, CPHA=1), as stated in the Features section. This dual-mode compatibility allows seamless integration with MCUs like certain Renesas RX series or NXP S32K that default to Mode 3 for noise immunity.
How does the HOLD pin function during an active SPI transaction on AT25256W-10SC?
When asserted low during an active SPI sequence with SCK low, the HOLD pin suspends communication without resetting the internal address counter or command state. The SO pin enters high-impedance, and SI inputs are ignored until HOLD returns high - enabling priority interrupt handling in real-time systems using AT25256W-10SC.
What is the maximum write cycle time for AT25256W-10SC?
The maximum write cycle time for AT25256W-10SC is 10 ms, with a typical value of 5 ms. This self-timed duration covers both byte and page writes and is specified in the AC Characteristics table under tWC (Write Cycle Time) for the 2.7–5.5V voltage range.
Can AT25256W-10SC be used in automotive applications?
Yes, AT25256W-10SC is rated for −40°C to +85°C operation and is listed in Atmel's documentation as available in automotive-grade variants. Its 100,000 write cycles, >200-year data retention, and hardware write protection make it suitable for body control, infotainment configuration, and ADAS sensor calibration storage.
AT25256W-10SC Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- 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:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
AT25256W-10SC FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT25256W-10SC through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT25256W-10SC 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 AT25256W-10SC reliable?
The price and inventory of AT25256W-10SC are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT25256W-10SC is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT25256W-10SC?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT25256W-10SC transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT25256W-10SC?
AT25256W-10SC orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT25256W-10SC 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 AT25256W-10SC?
For technical support, including AT25256W-10SC datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT25256W-10SC requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT25256W-10SC is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT25256W-10SC 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 AT25256W-10SC meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT25256W-10SC?
All AT25256W-10SC units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT25256W-10SC, 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 AT25256W-10SC part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT25256W-10SC:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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