Part A
25LC256T-E/SN
Tecnologia Microchip
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 2848 PCS
- Package
- SOIC-8
- Series
- Memória
Replacement verdict
Compatible functional replacement candidate
The 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN are functionally equivalent 256 Kbit SPI serial EEPROM devices from the same manufacturer, sharing identical memory density, interface, voltage range, and temperature grade. The only distinction is the packaging format: the 25LC256-E/SN is supplied in standard tube packaging, while the 25LC256T-E/SN is the tape-and-reel variant. Both parts are drop-in compatible for design purposes, and the choice between them is driven solely by assembly and procurement requirements.
Memory Density
High match
Interface Type
High match
Package Type
High match
Operating Temperature
High match
Parts at a glance
Part B
25LC256-E/SN
Tecnologia Microchip
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 6149 PCS
- Package
- SOIC-8
- Series
- Memória
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | 25LC256-E/SN | 25LC256T-E/SN | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memory Type | Non-Volatile EEPROM | Non-Volatile EEPROM | Both devices use the same EEPROM technology, ensuring identical data retention and endurance behavior. |
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit (32K x 8) | 256 Kbit (32K x 8) | Identical storage capacity means either part can hold the same amount of configuration or data. |
| Interface | SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) | SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) | Same communication protocol allows drop-in compatibility with existing SPI bus designs. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | Matching voltage ranges ensure both parts operate in the same system power environment. |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 10 MHz | 10 MHz | Identical maximum clock speed means equivalent read/write throughput and timing compatibility. |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +125°C | -40°C to +125°C | Same extended temperature rating qualifies both parts for automotive and industrial applications. |
| Package / Mounting | 8-SOIC (Surface Mount) | 8-SOIC (Surface Mount) | Identical package and footprint allow either part to be placed on the same PCB pad layout. |
| Packaging / Delivery Form | Tube | Tape & Reel | Different delivery formats affect assembly line feeding; tape and reel suits automated pick-and-place, while tubes suit manual or low-volume production. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 Write Cycles | 1,000,000 Write Cycles | Equal endurance ratings indicate the same expected lifetime under repeated write operations. |
| Data Retention | >200 Years | >200 Years | Identical retention guarantees long-term data integrity for both variants. |
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Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | 25LC256T-E/SN | 25LC256-E/SN |
|---|---|---|
| Part Status | Active | Active |
| Memory Type | Non-Volatile | Non-Volatile |
| Memory Format | EEPROM | EEPROM |
| Technology | EEPROM | EEPROM |
| Memory Size | 256Kb (32K x 8) | 256Kb (32K x 8) |
| Memory Interface | SPI | SPI |
| Clock Frequency | 10 MHz | 10 MHz |
| Write Cycle Time - Word Page | 5ms | 5ms |
| Voltage - Supply | 2.5V ~ 5.5V | 2.5V ~ 5.5V |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 125°C (TA) | -40°C ~ 125°C (TA) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | Surface Mount |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the 25LC256-E/SN and the 25LC256T-E/SN?
The 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN are functionally identical 256 Kbit SPI serial EEPROM devices from Microchip Technology. The primary difference is the packaging format: the 25LC256-E/SN is supplied in standard tube packaging, while the 25LC256T-E/SN is supplied in tape and reel packaging. Both use the same 8-lead SOIC (SN) package and share identical electrical and functional specifications.
Are the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN electrically and functionally interchangeable?
Yes. Both devices share the same datasheet specifications, including 256 Kbit (32,768 x 8) memory organization, SPI bus interface, 2.5V to 5.5V operating voltage range, 10 MHz maximum clock frequency, and the same 8-lead SOIC package. The only difference is the shipping packaging (tube vs. tape and reel), so they are interchangeable in circuit design and application.
What is the operating temperature range for the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN?
Both the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN are specified for the extended industrial temperature range of -40°C to +125°C, as indicated by the "E" in the part number suffix. This makes them suitable for automotive, industrial, and other harsh-environment applications.
What package type do the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN use?
Both devices use the 8-lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package, denoted by the "SN" suffix in the part number. The package is compliant with standard SOIC-8 footprint and land pattern requirements, allowing direct PCB layout compatibility between the two variants.
What is the difference in packaging between the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN?
The 25LC256-E/SN is delivered in standard tube (rail) packaging, which is typically used for manual assembly or small-volume production. The 25LC256T-E/SN is delivered in tape and reel packaging, which is designed for automated pick-and-place assembly equipment used in high-volume manufacturing. The "T" in the part number indicates tape and reel.
What is the memory organization and interface of the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN?
Both devices provide 256 Kbit of serial EEPROM memory organized as 32,768 bytes (32,768 x 8 bits). They communicate via the SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) bus with support for SPI modes 0 and 3, and operate at clock frequencies up to 10 MHz. They also feature a page size of 64 bytes and support byte write, page write, and sequential read operations.
What is the operating voltage range for the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN?
Both the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN operate over a voltage range of 2.5V to 5.5V, making them compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic systems. This wide operating voltage range is consistent across both packaging variants.
Can the 25LC256T-E/SN be used as a direct drop-in replacement for the 25LC256-E/SN in an existing design?
Yes. Because both devices share the same die, electrical specifications, pinout, and 8-lead SOIC package, the 25LC256T-E/SN can be used as a direct drop-in replacement for the 25LC256-E/SN in any existing design. The only consideration is the assembly process, since tape and reel packaging is intended for automated placement equipment rather than manual handling.