Winbond Electronics Corporation W25Q256JVEIM
- Part No.:
- W25Q256JVEIM
- Manufacturer:
- Winbond Electronics Corporation
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-WDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
W25Q256JVEIM.pdf
- Description:
- IC FLASH 256MBIT SPI/QUAD 8WSON
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
W25Q256JVEIM from Winbond is a 256M-bit (32MB) serial NOR flash memory IC supporting standard, dual, and quad SPI interfaces with 4KB uniform sectors, 133MHz clock rate, and 66MB/s continuous read throughput. It operates from 2.7V to 3.6V, supports XIP execution, and features hardware write protection via /WP and /HOLD pins. It is used in embedded boot code storage, firmware update partitions, and parameter retention in industrial controllers.
For engineers reviewing the W25Q256JVEIM datasheet, W25Q256JVEIM pinout, W25Q256JVEIM application, or W25Q256JVEIM equivalent, key selection considerations include 4-byte addressing support, Quad Enable (QE) bit configuration, /RESET pin availability, sector lock granularity, and JEDEC SFDP register compliance for automatic configuration.
Technical Context
The W25Q256JVEIM implements a flexible SPI interface architecture supporting three operational modes: standard (DI/DO), dual (IO0/IO1), and quad (IO0–IO3), with mode selection controlled by instruction opcode and QE bit state. Its memory array is organized into 131,072 pages of 256 bytes each, enabling 1–256 byte page programming and erasure in 4KB sectors, 32KB blocks, or 64KB blocks.
It integrates volatile and non-volatile status registers with configurable protection (BP0–BP3, TB, CMP, SRP), erase/program suspend/resume capability, and three 256-byte OTP-locked security registers. The device supports both 3-byte and 4-byte address modes, with ADP bit determining power-up default addressing mode and B7h/E9h instructions for runtime switching.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Density | 256 M-bit (32 MB) - supports full firmware images for mid-tier microcontrollers and real-time OS kernels. |
| SPI Clock Rate | Up to 133 MHz - enables 532 MHz equivalent quad I/O throughput for low-latency XIP execution. |
| Page Size | 256 bytes - matches typical MCU cache line and DMA burst sizes for efficient programming. |
| Sector Erase Unit | 4 KB uniform sectors - allows fine-grained firmware partitioning (e.g., bootloader + app + config). |
| Data Retention | 20+ years - ensures long-term reliability in unattended industrial and automotive ECUs. |
| Program-Erase Cycles | 100,000 per sector - supports frequent field firmware updates without premature wear-out. |
| Operating Voltage | 2.7 V to 3.6 V - compatible with 3.3 V logic systems and tolerant of brown-out conditions. |
| Temperature Range | −40°C to +85°C - qualified for extended industrial ambient operation without derating. |
Pinout & Package
W25Q256JVEIM uses the 8-pad WSON 8×6-mm package (Package Code E), with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are defined per JEDEC MS-012 and Winbond specification Rev. G.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 /CS | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable; must transition high→low before instruction acceptance; controls DO high-impedance state. |
| 2 DO (IO1) | Serial Data Output / Dual/Quad I/O | Unidirectional output in standard SPI; bidirectional IO1 in dual/quad modes; requires QE=1 for quad use. |
| 3 /WP (IO2) | Write Protect Input / Quad I/O | Active-low hardware lock for status register; becomes IO2 in quad mode when QE=1. |
| 4 GND | Ground Reference | Primary return path for all I/O and core logic; connects to thermal pad for thermal dissipation. |
| 5 DI (IO0) | Serial Data Input / Dual/Quad I/O | Unidirectional input in standard SPI; bidirectional IO0 in dual/quad modes; required for all instructions. |
| 6 CLK | Serial Clock Input | Edge-triggered timing reference; supports SPI Mode 0 and Mode 3; max 133 MHz frequency. |
| 7 /HOLD or /RESET (IO3) | Hold Input / Quad I/O | Pauses ongoing SPI transfer when active low; becomes IO3 in quad mode; no dedicated /RESET in this package. |
| 8 VCC | Power Supply | 2.7–3.6 V supply; decoupling capacitor required within 5 mm for stable high-speed operation. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Quad Enable (QE) Bit | Non-volatile bit in Status Register-2 that permanently reassigns /WP and /HOLD to IO2/IO3, enabling true quad I/O operation without external muxing. |
| Erase/Program Suspend | Allows pausing a sector erase or page program to service time-critical interrupts, then resuming - critical for deterministic real-time firmware updates. |
| JEDEC SFDP Register | Standardized 64-byte flash parameter table readable via 5Ah command - enables automatic driver configuration in Linux MTD and U-Boot without hard-coded timings. |
| 64-Bit Unique ID | Factory-programmed immutable serial number accessible via 4Bh command - supports secure device binding, anti-cloning, and firmware licensing enforcement. |
| Individual Block Lock | Per-sector lock bits (set via 36h/39h) allow independent read/write protection of bootloader, app, and config regions - eliminates need for external security ICs. |
| 4-Byte Address Mode | Enabled via B7h command; extends addressing beyond 16MB limit - required for full 32MB access without Extended Address Register management overhead. |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Firmware Storage | Automotive Infotainment Boot Memory |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Storing boot loader, RTOS kernel, and application binaries in a DIN-rail mounted programmable logic controller with field-upgrade capability. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary non-volatile code storage with XIP support; provides deterministic 4KB sector erase for atomic firmware patching. Use Value: Enables zero-downtime firmware updates via dual-erase buffering and 100K-cycle endurance - avoids costly hardware recalls. |
Use Scenario: Holding boot code and UI assets for head-unit SoCs requiring fast cold-boot (<500 ms) and secure over-the-air (OTA) updates. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-throughput quad-SPI boot memory; leverages 66MB/s read speed and 4-byte addressing for >16MB image loading. Use Value: Reduces boot latency by 40% vs. parallel NOR; unique ID and security registers enforce signed OTA validation. |
| Medical Device Configuration Archive | Smart Energy Meter Parameter Log |
|
Use Scenario: Retaining calibration coefficients, user preferences, and audit logs across power cycles in Class II portable diagnostic equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parameter storage with hardware write protection (/WP pin); uses 4KB sectors to isolate safety-critical calibration data. Use Value: Prevents accidental overwrite during field servicing; 20-year data retention meets IEC 62304 software lifecycle requirements. |
Use Scenario: Logging hourly energy consumption, tamper events, and firmware version history in ANSI C12.22-compliant utility meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Wear-leveling–agnostic log buffer; leverages individual sector lock (36h) to protect regulatory compliance records. Use Value: Ensures audit trail integrity without MCU-side wear leveling; 100K erase cycles exceed 15-year meter lifetime. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial NOR flash memory applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MX25L25645GMI-10G | Same density (256Mb), 104MHz max clock, no /RESET pin in 8-pin SOIC, lacks SFDP register and 4-byte addressing support. | Requires manual timing configuration; unsuitable for Linux auto-probe or >16MB contiguous images. | Select only if legacy SPI driver compatibility is prioritized over future-proofing and XIP performance. |
| S25FL256SAGMFI000 | 256Mb with 80MHz clock, integrated ECC, 1.8V/3.3V dual supply, includes configurable reset pin in all packages. | Higher reliability for safety-critical logging; supports voltage-flexible designs but lower throughput than W25Q256JVEIM. | Prefer when functional safety (IEC 61508) or mixed-voltage system integration is required. |
Compared with MX25L25645GMI-10G and S25FL256SAGMFI000, W25Q256JVEIM delivers superior random-read bandwidth (532MHz quad I/O), standardized SFDP auto-configuration, and seamless 4-byte addressing - making it optimal for modern XIP-capable SoCs and OTA-updatable embedded systems.
Availability
W25Q256JVEIM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, automotive infotainment units, and medical diagnostics equipment requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceability.
Supply support for W25Q256JVEIM 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
Winbond Electronics is a Taiwan-based semiconductor company specializing in specialty memory solutions, including serial NOR/NAND flash, RAM, and mobile DRAM, serving industrial, automotive, and consumer markets since 1987.
The W25Q series was designed specifically for high-reliability embedded code storage and XIP execution, emphasizing fast quad-SPI throughput, robust data retention, and hardware-assisted security features like individual sector lock and unique ID.
FAQ
What is the package type and pin count of W25Q256JVEIM?
W25Q256JVEIM uses the 8-pad WSON 8×6-mm package (Package Code E) with no dedicated /RESET pin. Pin functions include /CS, CLK, DI (IO0), DO (IO1), /WP (IO2), /HOLD (IO3), VCC, and GND. This compact footprint supports high-density PCB layouts while maintaining full quad-SPI functionality via QE bit configuration.
Does W25Q256JVEIM support 4-byte addressing, and how is it enabled?
Yes, W25Q256JVEIM supports 4-byte addressing to access its full 32MB capacity. It is enabled by issuing the Enter 4-Byte Address Mode command (B7h). The ADP bit in Status Register-2 determines whether 4-byte mode is active after power-up; B7h activates it immediately, and E9h disables it. This eliminates reliance on Extended Address Register management.
How does the Quad Enable (QE) bit affect pin functionality on W25Q256JVEIM?
The QE bit (bit 1 of Status Register-2) must be set to 1 to enable quad-SPI mode on W25Q256JVEIM. When QE=1, the /WP pin becomes IO2 and the /HOLD pin becomes IO3. In standard/dual mode (QE=0), those pins retain their hardware protection functions. QE is non-volatile and persists across power cycles once written.
What security features does W25Q256JVEIM provide for firmware protection?
W25Q256JVEIM provides multiple hardware-enforced security layers: individual 4KB sector lock/unlock (36h/39h), top/bottom/complement array protection (BP/TB/CMP bits), 64-bit unique ID (4Bh), three 256-byte OTP-locked security registers (42h/44h/48h), and SFDP-based parameter discovery. These eliminate need for external secure elements in many cost-sensitive designs.
Can W25Q256JVEIM be used for execute-in-place (XIP) applications?
Yes, W25Q256JVEIM is explicitly optimized for XIP operation via fast quad-SPI read commands (6Bh, 6Ch, EBh, ECh) delivering up to 66MB/s continuous throughput. Its uniform 4KB sectors, erase/program suspend/resume, and 133MHz clock support deterministic code fetch latency - making it suitable for direct execution by ARM Cortex-M7/M33 or RISC-V cores.
W25Q256JVEIM Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Winbond Electronics Corporation
- Series:
- SpiFlash®
- Package/Case:
- 8-WDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- FLASH
- Technology:
- FLASH - NOR
- Memory Size:
- 256Mbit
- Memory Organization:
- 32M x 8
- Memory Interface:
- SPI - Quad I/O
- Clock Frequency:
- 133 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 3ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 3.6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-WSON (8x6)
W25Q256JVEIM FAQ
1.How can I place an order for W25Q256JVEIM through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for W25Q256JVEIM 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 W25Q256JVEIM reliable?
The price and inventory of W25Q256JVEIM are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for W25Q256JVEIM is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for W25Q256JVEIM?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for W25Q256JVEIM transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for W25Q256JVEIM?
W25Q256JVEIM orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your W25Q256JVEIM 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 W25Q256JVEIM?
For technical support, including W25Q256JVEIM datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your W25Q256JVEIM requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that W25Q256JVEIM is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All W25Q256JVEIM 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 W25Q256JVEIM meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of W25Q256JVEIM?
All W25Q256JVEIM units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with W25Q256JVEIM, 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 W25Q256JVEIM part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for W25Q256JVEIM:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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