Part A
25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO
Tecnologia Microchip
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 1838 PCS
- Package
- SOIC-8
- Series
- Memória
Replacement verdict
Compatible functional replacement candidate
The 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO is a functionally compatible replacement candidate for the 25LC256-E/SN, sharing identical memory density, interface protocol, and supply voltage range. Both devices are 256 Kbit SPI serial EEPROMs in the same SOIC-8 package, with the automotive-grade variant offering extended qualification. Designers should validate the temperature grade and automotive qualification requirements against their specific application before substituting.
Memory Density
High match
Interface Protocol
High match
Package Type
High match
Operating Temperature
Validation required
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/SN16KVAO | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memory Type | EEPROM | EEPROM | Both are serial EEPROM devices, so the fundamental memory technology is the same. |
| Memory Organization | 32K x 8 | 32K x 8 | Identical organization means the same address space and byte-level access behavior. |
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit | 256 Kbit | Equal density ensures the same storage capacity for firmware, calibration, or data logging. |
| Interface | SPI | SPI | Both use SPI, so they are compatible with the same host controller interface. |
| Clock Frequency | 10 MHz | 10 MHz | Same maximum clock rate means comparable read/write throughput and timing requirements. |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | Identical operating voltage range allows use in the same power architecture. |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +125°C | -40°C to +125°C | Same temperature grade supports equivalent environmental robustness. |
| Package / Case | 8-SOIC | 8-SOIC | Same package footprint enables drop-in board replacement without layout changes. |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | Surface Mount | Both are surface-mount devices, so assembly processes remain the same. |
| Automotive Qualification | Not AEC-Q100 Qualified | AEC-Q100 Qualified | The automotive-qualified variant is required for automotive applications, while the standard part is not. |
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Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO | 25LC256-E/SN |
|---|---|---|
| Series | Automotive, AEC-Q100 | - |
| 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 | 5 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 are the key differences between the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO?
The 25LC256-E/SN is a standard 256 Kbit SPI serial EEPROM in an 8-lead SOIC package with a tube packaging option, while the 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO is the same 256 Kbit SPI serial EEPROM die in an 8-lead SOIC package supplied on tape and reel and qualified to the automotive AEC-Q100 standard. The core memory density, interface, and voltage range are identical; the differences are packaging format and automotive qualification.
Are the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO functionally interchangeable?
Yes, both devices are 256 Kbit SPI serial EEPROMs with the same pinout, command set, and operating voltage range, so they are functionally interchangeable in a design that does not require the specific automotive qualification or tape-and-reel packaging of the 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO. The 25LC256-E/SN is an industrial-grade part, while the 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO carries automotive AEC-Q100 qualification.
What is the memory organization of the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO?
Both devices provide 256 Kbit of serial EEPROM organized as 32,768 bytes (32 K x 8). They support byte-level and page-level writes with a 64-byte page size and are accessed via the SPI bus in modes 0 and 3.
What supply voltage range do the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO support?
Both devices operate from a single supply voltage of 2.5 V to 5.5 V, making them suitable for mixed 3.3 V and 5 V logic systems. The maximum clock frequency is 10 MHz at 4.5 V to 5.5 V and 5 MHz at 2.5 V to 4.5 V.
What is the difference in temperature grade between the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO?
The 25LC256-E/SN is specified for the extended industrial temperature range of -40°C to +125°C. The 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO is also specified for -40°C to +125°C but is additionally qualified to the AEC-Q100 automotive standard, which imposes stricter testing and documentation requirements for automotive applications.
What package and pinout do the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO use?
Both devices are offered in an 8-lead SOIC (150 mil) package with the standard SPI EEPROM pinout: CS, SO, WP, VSS, SI, SCK, HOLD, and VCC. The 25LC256-E/SN is supplied in tubes, while the 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO is supplied in tape and reel for automated assembly.
Can the 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO be used in non-automotive applications?
Yes, the 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO is functionally identical to the 25LC256-E/SN and can be used in non-automotive applications. However, because it carries automotive AEC-Q100 qualification and tape-and-reel packaging, it may have a higher cost and different minimum order quantity than the standard 25LC256-E/SN.
What are the endurance and data retention specifications for these devices?
Both the 25LC256-E/SN and 25LC256T-E/SN16KVAO are specified for 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and a data retention of greater than 200 years, as stated in the Microchip 25LC256 datasheet. These specifications apply over the full operating temperature range.