Encyclopedia Entry: 25AA256-I/SN

Product Overview

Category

The 25AA256-I/SN belongs to the category of Serial EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) chips.

Use

This product is commonly used for non-volatile data storage in various electronic devices, such as microcontrollers, computers, and consumer electronics.

Characteristics

• Non-volatile memory: Retains data even when power is disconnected.
• High storage capacity: The 25AA256-I/SN has a capacity of 256 kilobits (32 kilobytes).
• Serial interface: Communicates using the Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) protocol.
• Low power consumption: Operates at low voltage levels, making it suitable for battery-powered devices.

Package

The 25AA256-I/SN is available in an 8-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package. This package offers compactness and ease of integration into circuit boards.

Essence

The essence of the 25AA256-I/SN lies in its ability to provide reliable and non-volatile data storage in a compact form factor, making it ideal for embedded systems and other applications requiring persistent memory.

Packaging/Quantity

The 25AA256-I/SN is typically sold in reels containing multiple units. The exact quantity may vary depending on the manufacturer and distributor.

Specifications

• Memory Capacity: 256 kilobits (32 kilobytes)
• Interface: Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI)
• Operating Voltage: 2.5V - 5.5V
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C
• Write Endurance: 1,000,000 cycles
• Data Retention: 200 years

Detailed Pin Configuration

The 25AA256-I/SN features the following pin configuration:

1. Chip Select (/CS)
2. Serial Clock (SCK)
3. Serial Data Input/Output (SI/O)
4. Ground (GND)
5. Write Protect (/WP)
6. Hold (/HOLD)
7. VCC (Power Supply)
8. Not Connected (NC)

Functional Features

• Byte-level Read and Write Operations: Allows individual bytes to be read from or written to the memory.
• Block Write Protection: Provides the ability to protect specific blocks of memory from being overwritten.
• Software and Hardware Write Protection: Supports both software and hardware methods for write protection, ensuring data integrity.
• Sequential Read Mode: Enables efficient reading of consecutive memory locations without the need for repeated address commands.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• Non-volatile storage ensures data retention even during power loss.
• Compact package size facilitates integration into space-constrained designs.
• Wide operating voltage range allows compatibility with various systems.
• High write endurance and long data retention period ensure reliability.

Disadvantages

• Limited storage capacity compared to other memory technologies.
• Slower write speeds compared to volatile memory types.
• Requires additional circuitry for interfacing with microcontrollers or other devices.

Working Principles

The 25AA256-I/SN utilizes EEPROM technology, which allows for electrically erasing and reprogramming of data. It stores information in a grid of memory cells that can be individually addressed and modified using the SPI interface. The memory cells consist of floating-gate transistors that trap charges to represent binary data.

During write operations, the desired data is sent serially through the SI/O pin and stored in the appropriate memory location. Reading involves sending an address command followed by receiving the data serially. The chip select (/CS) pin enables communication between the device and the host system.

Detailed Application Field Plans

The 25AA256-I/SN finds applications in various fields, including:

1. Embedded Systems: Used for storing configuration data, firmware updates, and user settings in microcontroller-based systems.
2. Industrial Automation: Enables non-volatile storage of critical parameters, calibration data, and event logs in industrial control systems.
3. Automotive Electronics: Provides reliable storage for vehicle diagnostics, mileage records, and other essential data.
4. Consumer Electronics: Utilized in devices such as smart TVs, set-top boxes, and gaming consoles for storing user preferences, application data, and system configurations.

Detailed and Complete Alternative Models

• 25AA512-I/SN: Offers double the storage capacity (512 kilobits) compared to the 25AA256-I/SN.
• 25LC640-I/SN: Provides a larger memory capacity (64 kilobytes) with similar characteristics and package options.
• 25LC1024-I/SN: Features a higher storage capacity (1 megabit) while maintaining compatibility with the SPI interface.

Note: The alternative models listed above are just a few examples. There are several other EEPROM chips available in the market with varying capacities and features.

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