25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO

Overview

The Microchip Technology 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO 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 4.5V to 5.5V. The device features self-timed erase and write cycles with a maximum duration of 5 ms. It includes block write protection for none, 1/4, 1/2, or all of the array, alongside built-in power-on/off data protection. The component is qualified under AEC-Q100 standards and offers high reliability with over 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and greater than 200 years of data retention.

Feature Summary

• Supports sequential read operations and page writes of up to 64 bytes within a single physical page boundary.
• Includes hardware write-protect functionality controlled by the WP pin and STATUS register bits.
• Features a HOLD input to pause serial communication without resetting the sequence.

Applications

• Embedded systems requiring non-volatile configuration storage
• Calibration parameter persistence in industrial controllers
• Data logging applications in automotive environments

Procurement Notes

Verify that the ordering suffix 'SN' corresponds to the SOIC-8 package and 'E' indicates the extended temperature range (-40°C to +125°C). Confirm the 'T' suffix denotes tape and reel packaging if required for automated assembly. Ensure the '16KVAO' suffix matches specific marking or traceability requirements defined in the official datasheet before finalizing procurement orders.

Selection Notes

Select this part when an SPI interface is preferred over I2C for higher speed access up to 10 MHz. Choose the Extended temperature grade ('E') for applications operating between -40°C and +125°C. The 25LC256 series is suitable for designs requiring robust write protection mechanisms and high endurance compared to standard EEPROM alternatives.

Part Context

This component belongs to the Microchip 25LC256 family of 256 Kbit SPI Serial EEPROMs. It shares functional compatibility with the 25AA256, differing primarily in supply voltage ranges and temperature specifications. The device utilizes a standard 8-pin package format available in various configurations including SOIC, PDIP, TSSOP, and DFN.

Replacement Considerations

Direct substitutes include other 25LC256 variants from Microchip with matching package and temperature grades. Cross-brand replacements must verify SPI command set compatibility and voltage level tolerances.