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Winbond Electronics Corporation W25Q257FVFIQ
- Part No.:
- W25Q257FVFIQ
- Manufacturer:
- Winbond Electronics Corporation
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 16-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
W25Q257FVFIQ.pdf
- Description:
- IC FLASH 256MBIT SPI/QUAD 16SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,928
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Product details
Overview
W25Q257FVFIQ from Winbond is a 256M-bit (32MB) serial NOR flash memory IC supporting Standard/Dual/Quad SPI and QPI interfaces, operating at up to 104MHz clock frequency with 50MB/s continuous read throughput. It features uniform 4KB sectors (8,192 total), 32KB/64KB blocks, 1–256 byte page programming, and supports execute-in-place (XIP) operation for code storage in embedded microcontrollers and SoCs.
For engineers reviewing the W25Q257FVFIQ datasheet, W25Q257FVFIQ pinout, W25Q257FVFIQ application, or W25Q257FVFIQ equivalent, key selection considerations include 4-byte addressing support, Quad Enable (QE) bit configuration, /HOLD vs /RESET pin behavior in SOIC vs WSON packages, and JEDEC SFDP register compatibility for auto-configuration.
Technical Context
The W25Q257FVFIQ implements a flexible SPI command architecture supporting three address modes (3-byte default, 4-byte enabled via B7h/E9h), with QPI mode entered via 38h instruction and exited via FFh. Its status register set includes volatile/non-volatile BP3–BP0, TB, CMP, SRP0/SRP1, QE, ADS/ADP, and HOLD/RST control bits - enabling fine-grained hardware/software write protection and interface mode persistence across power cycles.
It integrates dual I/O and quad I/O data paths with shared bidirectional pins (IO0–IO3), where /WP and /HOLD become IO2 and IO3 only when QE=1; in standard SPI, those pins retain dedicated protection functions. The device supports erase/program suspend/resume, 64-bit unique ID, and three 256-byte OTP-lockable security registers for firmware integrity.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Density | 256 M-bit (32 MB), organized as 131,072 × 256-byte pages |
| Interface Modes | Standard SPI (4-wire), Dual SPI (2 I/O), Quad SPI (4 I/O), QPI (4-wire, reduced instruction overhead) |
| Max Clock Frequency | 104 MHz - enables 208 MB/s (Dual I/O) or 416 MB/s (Quad I/O) effective throughput |
| Erase Granularity | 4 KB sector (8,192 units), 32 KB block (4,096 units), 64 KB block (2,048 units), full chip |
| Write Endurance | ≥100,000 program/erase cycles per sector - suitable for firmware update logging |
| Data Retention | ≥20 years at +25°C - meets industrial long-term storage requirements |
| Supply Voltage | 2.7 V to 3.6 V - compatible with 3.3 V logic systems without level shifting |
| Power-Down Current | 1 µA typical - enables ultra-low-power standby in battery-backed applications |
Pinout & Package
W25Q257FVFIQ uses the 8-pad WSON 8×6-mm package (Package Code E), with exposed pad for thermal dissipation. Pin functions are defined per JEDEC-standard SPI/QPI protocol mapping and depend on QE bit state.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| /CS | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable; high-impedance DO/IOx outputs when deasserted; required high→low transition before first instruction |
| DO (IO1) | Bidirectional Data I/O | Output in Standard SPI; becomes IO1 in Dual/Quad modes; used for Fast Read Dual Output (3Bh) and Dual I/O (BBh) |
| /WP (IO2) | Hardware Write Protect / IO2 | Active-low protection of status register when QE=0; repurposed as IO2 in Quad mode (QE=1) |
| GND | Ground Reference | Primary return path for VCC and all I/O signals; must be low-impedance for timing stability |
| DI (IO0) | Bidirectional Data I/O | Input in Standard SPI; becomes IO0 in Dual/Quad modes; used for all instruction/address/data input |
| CLK | Serial Clock Input | Edge-triggered timing reference; supports SPI Mode 0 and Mode 3; max 104 MHz |
| /HOLD or /RESET (IO3) | Hold Control / Reset Input / IO3 | Hold function active-low when QE=0; /RESET available only in SOIC-16; becomes IO3 in Quad mode (QE=1) |
| VCC | Power Supply | 2.7–3.6 V supply; decoupling capacitor required near pin for noise immunity during fast reads/writes |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Quad Peripheral Interface (QPI) | Reduces instruction overhead to 2 clocks per command, enabling true XIP with minimal CPU intervention |
| Erase/Program Suspend & Resume | Allows background execution while flash operations pause - critical for real-time interrupt handling |
| JEDEC SFDP Register | Enables automatic detection of memory geometry, timing parameters, and feature set by host bootloader |
| 64-bit Unique Serial Number | Provides hardware-rooted device identity for secure boot, licensing, and field firmware traceability |
| Three 256-byte Security Registers | OTP-lockable storage for cryptographic keys, calibration data, or secure boot manifests - isolated from main array |
| 4-byte Addressing Mode | Required for >16MB addressing; enabled via B7h instruction and persisted via ADP bit in Status Register-2 |
Applications
| Boot Code Storage | Firmware Over-the-Air (OTA) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing primary bootloader and application firmware for ARM Cortex-M or RISC-V microcontrollers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Non-volatile code storage with XIP capability via Quad SPI, reducing RAM footprint and boot latency. Use Value: 104MHz Quad I/O read speed delivers >40MB/s effective bandwidth, enabling sub-100ms firmware load times from cold start. | Use Scenario: Secure storage and atomic update of field-deployed firmware images in IoT gateways and edge nodes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-bank emulation using sector locking and erase suspend to guarantee atomic rollback on failure. Use Value: ≥100,000 erase cycles and 20-year retention ensure 10+ years of reliable OTA updates without wear-out risk. |
| Industrial HMI Configuration | Automotive Infotainment Cache |
Use Scenario: Storing UI assets, language packs, and runtime configuration profiles in programmable logic controllers and HMIs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parameter and data storage with hardware write protection (BP/TB bits) to prevent accidental corruption. Use Value: Uniform 4KB sectors allow independent update of UI elements without disturbing firmware or calibration data. | Use Scenario: Caching map tiles, voice prompts, and UI assets in automotive infotainment head units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-bandwidth read cache interfaced via QPI to reduce SoC memory bus loading. Use Value: 50MB/s continuous read rate exceeds eMMC UHS-I speeds for burst asset delivery during navigation transitions. |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MX25L25735FMI-10G | 256Mb density, 104MHz max clock, but lacks QPI mode and SFDP register; uses legacy instruction set | No auto-configuration support; requires fixed driver integration; no 4-byte addressing in standard mode | Choose when QPI/XIP and SFDP are unnecessary and legacy toolchain compatibility is prioritized |
| S25FL256SAGMFI200 | 256Mb, 133MHz, supports Octal DTR mode; includes on-die ECC and configurable latency; larger 16-pin SOIC only | Higher bandwidth and built-in error correction; suited for safety-critical automotive use cases requiring ASIL-B compliance | Choose when ECC, higher clock rate, or Octal interface are required - not drop-in compatible due to pin count and command set |
Compared with MX25L25735FMI-10G, W25Q257FVFIQ offers QPI, SFDP, and 4-byte addressing for modern bootloaders; versus S25FL256SAGMFI200, it trades off ECC and Octal speed for lower cost, smaller WSON packaging, and broader ecosystem support in consumer and industrial designs.
Availability
W25Q257FVFIQ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for boot code storage, firmware OTA updates, and industrial HMI configuration requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle availability, and consistent parametric performance across temperature ranges.
Supply support for W25Q257FVFIQ 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 NOR/NAND flash, RAM, and mobile DRAM.
The W25Q series targets high-performance embedded systems requiring fast, reliable, and secure non-volatile code and data storage - optimized for XIP, OTA, and industrial-grade reliability.
FAQ
What is the difference between W25Q257FVFIQ and W25Q257FVIQ?
The W25Q257FVFIQ uses an 8-pad WSON 8×6-mm package (Package Code E) with /HOLD and /WP pins that double as IO2/IO3 in Quad mode. The W25Q257FVIQ is the 16-pin SOIC 300-mil variant (Package Code F) featuring a dedicated /RESET pin and NC pads. Both share identical electrical specs and instruction sets, but pinout, thermal profile, and reset functionality differ.
Does W25Q257FVFIQ support 4-byte addressing, and how is it enabled?
Yes, W25Q257FVFIQ supports 4-byte addressing for access beyond 16MB. It is enabled by issuing the Enter 4-Byte Address Mode instruction (B7h). The ADP bit in Status Register-2 controls power-up default mode: ADP=1 (default) starts in 3-byte mode; ADP=0 persists 4-byte mode after reset. The setting is non-volatile.
How does the Quad Enable (QE) bit affect pin functionality on W25Q257FVFIQ?
When QE=0 in Status Register-2, pins /WP and /HOLD retain their dedicated hardware protection roles. When QE=1, those pins become IO2 and IO3 for Quad SPI operation. This reconfiguration is mandatory for Quad I/O instructions like 6Bh or EBh; attempting Quad commands with QE=0 results in undefined behavior.
Can W25Q257FVFIQ be used for Execute-in-Place (XIP) applications?
Yes, W25Q257FVFIQ supports true XIP via its Continuous Read Mode and Quad I/O interface. With Fast Read Quad I/O (EBh) and wrap-length configuration, it delivers deterministic latency and >40MB/s sustained throughput - enabling direct CPU instruction fetch without intermediate RAM buffering in Cortex-M7/M33 and RISC-V SoCs.
What security features does W25Q257FVFIQ provide for firmware protection?
W25Q257FVFIQ provides layered security: hardware write protection via /WP pin and BP/TB/CMP bits; 64-bit unique ID for device binding; three 256-byte OTP-lockable security registers for keys or certificates; and SFDP-based parameter discovery to prevent misconfiguration. All status register bits support volatile/non-volatile write protection via SRP0/SRP1.
W25Q257FVFIQ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Winbond Electronics Corporation
- Series:
- SpiFlash®
- Package/Case:
- 16-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- 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, QPI
- Clock Frequency:
- 104 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 50µs, 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:
- 16-SOIC
W25Q257FVFIQ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for W25Q257FVFIQ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for W25Q257FVFIQ 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 W25Q257FVFIQ reliable?
The price and inventory of W25Q257FVFIQ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for W25Q257FVFIQ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for W25Q257FVFIQ?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for W25Q257FVFIQ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for W25Q257FVFIQ?
W25Q257FVFIQ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your W25Q257FVFIQ 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 W25Q257FVFIQ?
For technical support, including W25Q257FVFIQ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your W25Q257FVFIQ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that W25Q257FVFIQ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All W25Q257FVFIQ 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 W25Q257FVFIQ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of W25Q257FVFIQ?
All W25Q257FVFIQ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with W25Q257FVFIQ, 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 W25Q257FVFIQ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for W25Q257FVFIQ:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
W25Q257FVFIQ Tags
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