AT25256-10PI Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The AT25256-10PI is a 256Kbit EEPROM memory IC manufactured by Microchip Technology, featuring SPI interface operation at 3 MHz with 8-PDIP through-hole packaging. This device is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally compatible alternatives essential for ongoing system support and component procurement.

The primary reason for identifying substitute parts is the obsolete product status of the AT25256-10PI. Active production alternatives with equivalent or enhanced specifications enable continued system maintenance and new design implementations without redesign constraints.

Substiute Parts

AT25256-10PI

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 1089AT25256-10PI Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

25AA256-I/P

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 172725AA256-I/P Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution compatibility for the AT25256-10PI is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Memory Capacity & Organization: 256Kbit with 32K x 8 organization is mandatory for direct functional equivalence
• Interface Protocol: SPI interface is required for communication compatibility
• Package & Mounting: 8-DIP through-hole package ensures mechanical and electrical pin compatibility
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C ~ 85°C maintains thermal specification alignment
• Write Cycle Time: 5ms write performance must be maintained or improved

The 25AA256-I/P meets all substitution criteria. While it operates at 10 MHz (exceeding the 3 MHz requirement) and supports a wider supply voltage range (1.8V ~ 5.5V), these represent performance enhancements rather than incompatibilities. The identical memory capacity, organization, interface, package, temperature range, and write cycle time establish direct substitutability.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 25AA256-I/P is the direct substitute for the AT25256-10PI based on the following factors:

Product Status: The AT25256-10PI is obsolete, while the 25AA256-I/P maintains active production status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain reliability.

Regulatory Compliance: The 25AA256-I/P is ROHS3 compliant, whereas the AT25256-10PI is non-compliant. For applications subject to RoHS regulations, the 25AA256-I/P satisfies compliance requirements.

Functional Equivalence: Both devices share identical memory capacity, organization, interface protocol, package configuration, and operating temperature specifications. The 25AA256-I/P's enhanced clock frequency (10 MHz vs. 3 MHz) and expanded supply voltage range (1.8V ~ 5.5V vs. 4.5V ~ 5.5V) provide performance headroom without introducing incompatibility.

Electrical Compatibility: Pin configuration and electrical characteristics are compatible for direct substitution in existing circuit designs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 25AA256-I/P directly replace the AT25256-10PI in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both devices feature identical 8-DIP pin configurations, SPI interface protocols, memory capacity, and operating temperature ranges. Direct substitution is electrically and mechanically compatible.

Q: What is the significance of the higher clock frequency in the 25AA256-I/P?

A: The 25AA256-I/P operates at 10 MHz compared to the AT25256-10PI's 3 MHz. This represents enhanced performance capability. Systems designed for 3 MHz operation will function correctly with the faster device, as the substitute operates at the same or faster speeds without introducing timing conflicts in standard SPI implementations.

Q: Does the wider supply voltage range of the 25AA256-I/P affect compatibility?

A: No. The 25AA256-I/P supports 1.8V ~ 5.5V, while the AT25256-10PI requires 4.5V ~ 5.5V. The substitute's expanded range is a superset of the original specification, ensuring compatibility across all original operating voltages.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these devices?

A: No. Both devices use 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm) through-hole packaging with identical pin assignments and mechanical dimensions.

Q: Why is RoHS compliance important for this substitution?

A: The 25AA256-I/P is ROHS3 compliant while the AT25256-10PI is not. For applications subject to RoHS regulations or customer requirements, the substitute meets current environmental and material restriction standards.

Q: Is the write cycle time identical between both devices?

A: Yes. Both the AT25256-10PI and 25AA256-I/P maintain a 5ms write cycle time, ensuring equivalent data programming performance.