25LC256T-E/SM16KVAO

Overview

The Microchip Technology 25LC256T-E/SM16KVAO is a 256 Kbit (32,768 x 8-bit) Serial Electrically Erasable PROM accessed via an SPI-compatible serial bus. It operates within a voltage range of 2.5V to 5.5V and supports clock frequencies up to 10 MHz at 5.5V. The device features a 64-byte page size, self-timed erase/write cycles with a maximum duration of 5 ms, and high reliability including 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and data retention exceeding 200 years. It is qualified under the AEC-Q100 automotive standard and supports extended temperature ranges from -40°C to +125°C.

Feature Summary

• Supports block write protection for none, 1/4, 1/2, or all of the memory array.
• Includes built-in power-on/off data protection circuitry and a write enable latch.
• Features a hold pin to pause serial communication without resetting the sequence.

Applications

• Automotive electronic systems requiring AEC-Q100 qualification
• Industrial sensor nodes storing calibration parameters
• Microcontroller-based systems needing non-volatile configuration storage

Procurement Notes

Verify that the ordering suffix 'T' corresponds to tape-and-reel packaging and '16KVAO' matches the specific reel quantity or variant designation provided by the manufacturer. Confirm the 'E' suffix indicates the extended temperature grade (-40°C to +125°C). Ensure the package type 'SM' aligns with the required surface-mount footprint for your PCB design.

Selection Notes

Select this component when an SPI interface is preferred over I2C for higher speed access up to 10 MHz. Choose the Extended temperature grade ('E') for environments exceeding 85°C. The 64-byte page size requires software management to prevent data wrap-around during page writes across physical boundaries.

Part Context

This part belongs to the 25XX256 family of 256 Kbit Serial EEPROMs from Microchip Technology. It shares functional similarities with the 25AA256 but differs in operating voltage requirements. The family utilizes a standard 8-pin SOIC/TSSOP package and is designed for direct interfacing with microcontrollers lacking dedicated hardware SPI peripherals through GPIO bit-banging.

Replacement Considerations

Direct substitutes include other 25LC256 variants from Microchip such as 25LC256-I/SM or 25LC256-E/SN, ensuring compatible package and temperature ratings are matched.