MICROCHIP 25LC256 256Kbit Serial EEPROM, SOIC-8

The MICROCHIP 25LC256-I/SN is a high-performance 256Kbit serial EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Memory) supplied in an 8-pin SOIC package. It provides reliable non-volatile memory storage for a wide range of electronic designs, accessed via a straightforward Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) compatible serial bus.

Featuring a simple three-wire interface consisting of a clock input (SCK), separate data in (SI), and data out (SO) lines, device access is controlled through a chip select input. A dedicated hold pin allows communication to be paused, enabling the host microcontroller to service higher-priority interrupts without losing the communication state—only the chip select signal is recognised during the hold period.

This memory IC is engineered for endurance and longevity, supporting more than 1 million erase/write cycles and boasting a data retention period exceeding 200 years. It operates across a broad supply voltage range from 2.5V to 5.5V, making it highly versatile for both 3.3V and 5V systems. Built with low-power CMOS technology, it offers a maximum clock speed of 10MHz.

Key Features & Specifications

• High Reliability: Features built-in write protection and self-timed erase/write cycles with a maximum duration of 5ms.
• Efficient Organisation: 32,768 x 8-bit memory configuration.
• Page Write Capability: Supports efficient 64-byte page writes.
• Power Efficient: Maximum write current is just 5mA at 5.5V and 10MHz.
• Robust Operating Range: Suitable for industrial and automotive applications with an operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.
• Surface Mount Design: Supplied in a compact SOIC-8 package for streamlined PCB integration.

Ideal for developers and engineers, this serial EEPROM is a trusted solution for storing configuration data, calibration settings, and other critical parameters in embedded systems.