25AA256-I/MF

Memory IC Overview

The Microchip Technology 25AA256-I/MF is a 256 Kbit Serial Electrically Erasable PROM featuring a 32,768 x 8-bit organization. It operates via an SPI-compatible serial bus with a maximum clock frequency of 10 MHz and supports supply voltages from 1.8V to 5.5V. The device utilizes low-power CMOS technology and includes self-timed erase/write cycles with a maximum duration of 5 ms. It offers block write protection capabilities and built-in power-on/off data protection circuitry. The component is housed in an 8-lead DFN package and supports industrial temperature ranges.

Memory IC Feature Summary

• Supports high-speed SPI communication with up to 10 MHz clock frequency
• Includes programmable block write protection for specific memory segments
• Features hardware write-protect pin controlled by status register bits
• Provides automatic address pointer incrementation during sequential reads

Memory IC Applications

• Microcontroller system configuration storage
• Data logging applications requiring non-volatile retention
• Parameter storage in embedded control systems
• Device identification and calibration data recording

Memory IC Procurement Notes

Verify the suffix 'I' confirms the industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) and 'MF' specifies the 8-lead DFN package. Confirm the voltage range matches the 1.8V to 5.5V specification required for your system design. Ensure compatibility with standard SPI protocols before integration.

Memory IC Selection Notes

Select this part when a 256 Kbit capacity is needed with SPI interface compatibility. The 1.8V minimum operating voltage makes it suitable for low-voltage logic systems compared to 2.5V variants. The DFN package is appropriate for space-constrained surface-mount designs requiring robust thermal performance.

Memory IC Part Context

This component belongs to the 25XX256 family of Serial EEPROMs manufactured by Microchip Technology. It shares functional similarities with the 25LC256 but differs in its lower minimum operating voltage specification. The device is designed for general-purpose non-volatile memory applications where moderate speed and reliability are prioritized.

Memory IC Replacement Considerations

The 25LC256 serves as a direct functional substitute within the same family, though it requires a higher minimum supply voltage of 2.5V. Verify that the target application can accommodate the voltage difference if substituting between these variants.

Memory IC FAQ

How does the HOLD pin function during serial communication?

The HOLD pin allows the host to pause serial communication without resetting the sequence. When pulled low while SCK is low, the SO pin enters a high-impedance state until the HOLD pin is released.

What happens if a page write crosses a physical page boundary?

If a page write command attempts to cross a physical page boundary, the data wraps around to the beginning of the current page instead of writing to the next page.

Can the STATUS register be read during a write cycle?

Yes, the STATUS register can be read at any time, even during a write cycle, to check the Write-In-Process (WIP) bit status.