GD25B256EWIGY

Memory IC Overview

The GD25B256EWIGY is a 256M-bit (32M-byte) Serial NOR Flash memory device manufactured by GigaDevice. It supports Standard, Dual, and Quad SPI interfaces with a maximum clock frequency of 133 MHz. The device operates on a single power supply voltage ranging from 2.7V to 3.6V. It features uniform sector architecture with 4K-byte sectors and 32/64K-byte blocks. Key performance metrics include a typical page program time of 0.25ms, sector erase time of 30ms, and block erase times of 0.12s or 0.15s. Data retention is specified at 20 years with a minimum endurance of 100,000 Program/Erase cycles.

Memory IC Feature Summary

• Supports Standard, Dual, and Quad SPI modes for flexible data transfer rates up to 532 Mbits/s in Quad I/O mode.
• Includes advanced security features such as 128-bit Unique ID, software write protection via Block Protect bits, and three 2048-byte Security Registers with OTP locks.
• Features a hardware RESET# pin for immediate device reset and supports Execute In Place (XiP) operation with continuous read wrap capabilities.
• Provides flexible address modes allowing operation in either 3-Byte or 4-Byte addressing depending on the ADP bit configuration.

Memory IC Applications

• Code storage for microcontrollers and system-on-chip (SoC) architectures requiring XIP functionality.
• Firmware storage in consumer electronics and industrial control systems.
• Data logging applications utilizing the device's high endurance and long data retention specifications.
• Secure embedded systems leveraging the integrated unique ID and security register lock mechanisms.

Memory IC Procurement Notes

Verify the specific package variant required, as the GD25B256E series includes WSON8 (6x5mm), WSON8 (8x6mm), SOP16, and TFBGA-24 options. Confirm that the ordering suffix corresponds to the desired physical footprint and lead-free status. Ensure compatibility with the host system's voltage levels, as this component requires a 2.7V to 3.6V supply range. Check for any specific automotive or industrial grade requirements if applicable to your design.

Memory IC Selection Notes

Select this component when a 256M-bit density is required with support for high-speed Quad SPI operations. It is suitable for designs needing uniform sector erasure for consistent wear leveling. Consider the WSON8 or TFBGA packages for space-constrained PCB layouts. Ensure the application does not require low-voltage operation below 2.7V, as this model is strictly within the 2.7V-3.6V range compared to other variants in the family.

Memory IC Part Context

The GD25B256EWIGY belongs to the GD25B256E series of Uniform Sector Dual and Quad Serial Flash memories. This series is designed to offer high performance and reliability for diverse design requirements. It shares architectural similarities with other GD25B series devices but is distinct in its 256M-bit capacity and specific voltage operating range. The 'WIGY' suffix typically denotes the WSON8 package type with specific thermal and electrical characteristics defined by GigaDevice.

Memory IC Replacement Considerations

GD25B256EWIGR

Memory IC FAQ

Can the Quad Enable (QE) bit be disabled after manufacturing?

No, the QE bit is permanently set to 1 by default and cannot be changed. This ensures that IO2 and IO3 pins are always enabled for Quad SPI operations.

What is the function of the Extended Address Register?

The Extended Address Register is used only when the device operates in 3-Byte Address Mode. It allows access to memory regions beyond the 128Mb limit by setting the A24 address bit.

How is the device reset using the hardware pin?

Driving the RESET# pin low for a minimum period of 1μs will reset the flash. After the reset cycle, the device returns to standby mode, and all volatile bits return to their default power-on status.