• 32,768 x 8-bit (256 Kbit)
• Supports SPI modes 0 and 3
• Up to 10 MHz clock frequency
• Self-Timed Erase and Write Cycles (5 ms max.)
• Read current: 6mA (Max) at 10 MHz
• Write current: 5 mA (Max) at 5.5 V
• Standby current: 5 μA (Max) at 5.5 V
• Block Write Protection: Protect 1/4, 1/2 or Entire Array
• More than 1 million erase/write cycles
• Data retention > 200 years
• Industrial (I): -40°C to 85°C
• Extended (E): -40°C to +125°C
• Automotive AECQ-100 Qualified1
• Factory Programming Available
• Available in standard packages including 8-lead PDIP, SOIC, SOIJ, and TSSOP, as well as 5x6mm DFN

The Microchip 25LC256 is a 256 Kb Serial EEPROM utilizing the industry standard Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) compatible serial bus. The device is organized as one block of 32,768 x 8-bit and is optimized for use in consumer electronics, industrial, medical, and automotive applications where reliable and dependable nonvolatile memory storage is essential. Software write protection allows the user to protect ¼, ½, or the entire memory array. A hardware write protect pin is also provided, which additionally protects against inadvertent writes to the status register. The EEPROM is available in a variety of space-saving packaging options.