onsemi CAT25256YI-G
- Part No.:
- CAT25256YI-G
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
CAT25256YI-G.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT SPI 8TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,584
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Product details
Overview
CAT25256YI-G from onsemi is a 256-Kb SPI serial EEPROM organized as 32K × 8 bits, featuring a 64-byte page write buffer, hardware/software write protection, and on-chip ECC for error correction. It operates across 1.8 V to 5.5 V, supports SPI modes (0,0) and (1,1), and is qualified for industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C). It is used in embedded systems for firmware storage, calibration data retention, and configuration parameter backup.
For engineers reviewing the CAT25256YI-G datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its 20 MHz max clock frequency at 5 V, 1,000,000 program/erase cycles, 100-year data retention, TSSOP-8 package with NiPdAu finish, and support for partial array block protection via BP0/BP1 bits.
Technical Context
The CAT25256YI-G implements a standard SPI interface with dedicated CS, SCK, SI, and SO lines, plus HOLD and WP control inputs. Its internal architecture includes a volatile status register with RDY, WEL, BP0/BP1, WPEN, IPL, and LIP bits - enabling flexible write-enable sequencing, quarter/half/full memory array protection, and optional identification page access.
It features self-timed write cycles with 5 ms typical duration, on-chip ECC logic (6 bits per 4 data bytes) correcting single-bit errors in the new Rev E silicon, and dual-voltage input thresholds (VIL/VIH) optimized for both 1.8 V and 5.5 V operation. The device powers up in write-disabled standby mode and requires explicit WREN before any WRITE or WRSR command.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 256 Kb (32K × 8 bits) - supports firmware image storage or multi-parameter configuration tables |
| Interface | SPI (modes 0,0 and 1,1) - compatible with standard microcontroller SPI peripherals without protocol translation |
| Max Clock Frequency | 20 MHz at VCC = 5 V - enables fast read/write throughput up to 2.5 MB/s effective data rate |
| Write Endurance | 1,000,000 program/erase cycles - suitable for logging applications with frequent updates |
| Data Retention | 100 years at +25°C - ensures long-term reliability in unpowered storage scenarios |
| Supply Voltage | 1.8 V to 5.5 V - interoperable with both low-voltage MCUs and legacy 5 V systems |
| Operating Temperature | −40°C to +85°C - certified for industrial-grade deployment in harsh environments |
Pinout & Package
Package: 8-pin TSSOP (Case 948AL), body size 3.0 mm × 4.4 mm × 1.2 mm, lead pitch 0.65 mm, NiPdAu finish, RoHS-compliant.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select | Active-low enable; must transition high→low to initiate communication and low→high to latch write commands |
| SCK | Serial Clock | Host-provided synchronous clock; timing defines setup/hold windows for SI/SO data sampling |
| SI | Serial Data Input | Latches opcodes, addresses, and data on rising SCK edge in SPI modes (0,0)/(1,1) |
| SO | Serial Data Output | Drives read data on falling SCK edge; tri-stated when CS is high or HOLD is active |
| WP | Write Protect | Hardware lock: disables status register writes and protected memory blocks when WP = low & WPEN = 1 |
| HOLD | Hold Transmission | Pauses ongoing SPI transfer without losing internal state; requires SCK = low during assertion/deassertion |
| VCC | Power Supply | 1.8–5.5 V supply; internal POR circuit ensures safe power-up into standby mode |
| VSS | Ground | Reference return path; must be low-impedance to maintain signal integrity and ECC reliability |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| On-chip ECC | 6-bit correction per 4-byte group - recovers from single-bit errors in memory array without host intervention |
| 64-byte page write buffer | Enables burst programming of up to 64 bytes per CS cycle - reduces total write time vs. byte-by-byte writes |
| Block write protection | Configurable via BP0/BP1 bits to protect 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of memory - prevents accidental firmware overwrite |
| Identification Page | 64-byte user-accessible area with IPL/LIP bits - stores immutable device ID or calibration constants when permanently locked |
| Low-power standby | 1 µA max ISB1 current at 5.5 V - minimizes system power draw during idle periods |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Configuration Storage | Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing calibrated sensor offsets, actuator limits, and network node IDs in programmable logic controllers deployed in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register - retains settings across power cycles and supports field updates via SPI. Use Value: Enables plug-and-play replacement of I/O modules without manual reconfiguration; ECC prevents corruption from EMI in noisy plant environments. |
Use Scenario: Holding door lock logic states, mirror position presets, and lighting profiles in automotive BCMs operating over extended temperature range. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-critical parameter store - accessed during boot and runtime for feature personalization and fault recovery. Use Value: 100-year data retention ensures lifetime validity of user preferences; WP/HOLD pins allow secure, interruptible updates during vehicle service. |
| Medical Infusion Pump Calibration | Smart Energy Meter Firmware Backup |
Use Scenario: Archiving flow-rate calibration coefficients, dose history logs, and safety interlock thresholds in Class II medical devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Regulatory-compliant data vault - provides tamper-resistant, traceable storage meeting IEC 62304 requirements. Use Value: Block protection prevents unauthorized modification of calibration data; 1M endurance supports daily recalibration cycles over 10+ years. |
Use Scenario: Backing up meter firmware images and tariff tables during OTA updates in utility-grade smart meters exposed to wide ambient swings. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-role memory - stores active firmware and holds fallback version for safe rollback after failed update. Use Value: ECC guarantees integrity of critical billing algorithms; TSSOP-8 package fits constrained PCB layouts while maintaining thermal stability at +85°C. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT25DF256A-SSH-T | 256 Mb NOR flash with SPI interface; no built-in ECC; sector erase required before write | Higher density but slower write latency; lacks page buffer and hardware write protection granularity | Choose only if >256 Kb capacity needed and host can manage erase-before-write overhead |
| M95256-DRMN6TP/K | 256 Kb SPI EEPROM; same 8-pin TSSOP package; no on-chip ECC; max 10 MHz clock at 5 V | Lower speed and no error correction; identical block protection and 1M endurance spec | Acceptable where cost sensitivity outweighs ECC requirement and 10 MHz bandwidth suffices |
Compared with AT25DF256A-SSH-T and M95256-DRMN6TP/K, the CAT25256YI-G delivers faster 20 MHz operation, integrated ECC for mission-critical data integrity, and finer-grained 64-byte page writes - making it optimal for real-time embedded systems requiring robust, low-latency nonvolatile storage.
Availability
CAT25256YI-G is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, automotive body control modules, medical infusion pumps, and smart energy meters requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for CAT25256YI-G 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
onsemi (formerly ON Semiconductor) is a global semiconductor supplier focused on energy-efficient innovation for automotive, industrial, cloud, and IoT applications.
The CAT25256YI-G belongs to onsemi's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for high-reliability, low-power embedded systems needing guaranteed data integrity, long-term retention, and seamless SPI integration.
FAQ
What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the CAT25256YI-G?
The CAT25256YI-G supports up to 20 MHz SPI clock frequency when operated at VCC = 5.0 V. At lower supply voltages (e.g., 1.8 V), the maximum rated frequency drops to 5 MHz per the AC characteristics table for the new Rev E silicon. This ensures reliable timing margin across voltage and temperature ranges specified in the datasheet.
Does the CAT25256YI-G include error correction capability?
Yes, the CAT25256YI-G (Rev E) includes on-chip Error Correction Code (ECC) logic using 6 ECC bits to correct single-bit errors within every 4-byte data group. This feature enhances data reliability in electrically noisy environments and extends usable lifetime in high-radiation or long-retention applications without requiring host-side correction routines.
How does write protection work on the CAT25256YI-G?
Write protection on the CAT25256YI-G is implemented through three mechanisms: software-controlled BP0/BP1 bits (enabling quarter/half/full array lock), hardware WP pin activation (when WPEN = 1), and volatile IPL/LIP bits for identification page locking. These layers allow selective, persistent, or temporary protection of memory regions without disabling full device access.
What package type is used for the CAT25256YI-G?
The CAT25256YI-G uses an 8-pin TSSOP package (Case 948AL), measuring 3.0 mm × 4.4 mm with 0.65 mm lead pitch. It features NiPdAu lead finish, RoHS compliance, and is rated for industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C). This compact surface-mount package supports automated assembly and offers better thermal performance than SOIC variants.
Can the CAT25256YI-G be used in automotive applications?
The CAT25256YI-G is qualified for industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C) and meets AEC-Q100 stress test requirements per its reliability characterization. While not AEC-Q100 Grade 1 or 2 certified out-of-box, it has been deployed in automotive body control modules and infotainment subsystems where extended temperature operation and ECC-enhanced data integrity are prioritized over full automotive qualification.
CAT25256YI-G Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- 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:
- 1.8V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-TSSOP
CAT25256YI-G FAQ
1.How can I place an order for CAT25256YI-G through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for CAT25256YI-G 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 CAT25256YI-G reliable?
The price and inventory of CAT25256YI-G are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for CAT25256YI-G is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for CAT25256YI-G?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for CAT25256YI-G transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for CAT25256YI-G?
CAT25256YI-G orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your CAT25256YI-G 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 CAT25256YI-G?
For technical support, including CAT25256YI-G datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your CAT25256YI-G requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that CAT25256YI-G is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All CAT25256YI-G 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 CAT25256YI-G meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of CAT25256YI-G?
All CAT25256YI-G units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with CAT25256YI-G, 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 CAT25256YI-G part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for CAT25256YI-G:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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