Part A
24LC256T-E/SN
Mikrochip-Technologie
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 5813 Stückzahl
- Package
- SOIC-8
- Series
- Speicher
Replacement verdict
Compatible functional replacement candidate
The 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO is a functionally compatible replacement candidate for the 24LC256T-E/SN, sharing identical memory density, interface protocol, and supply voltage range. Both devices are I²C serial EEPROMs with 256 Kbit capacity in SOIC-8 packages, and the automotive-qualified variant can serve as a drop-in substitute in most applications where AEC-Q100 compliance is required or preferred.
Memory Density
High match
Interface Protocol
High match
Supply Voltage Range
High match
Operating Temperature Grade
Validation required
Parts at a glance
Part B
24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO
Mikrochip-Technologie
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 8061 Stückzahl
- Package
- SOIC-8
- Series
- Speicher
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | 24LC256T-E/SN | 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memory Type | EEPROM | EEPROM | Both are electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, ensuring the same fundamental storage technology and behavior. |
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit (32K x 8) | 256 Kbit (32K x 8) | Identical storage capacity means the same amount of data can be stored, allowing direct substitution without memory constraints. |
| Interface | I2C (2-wire) | I2C (2-wire) | Both use the same I2C serial interface, so they are compatible with the same host controllers and bus wiring. |
| 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 power environment without level shifting. |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 400 kHz (standard) / 1 MHz (high-speed) | 400 kHz (standard) / 1 MHz (high-speed) | Identical maximum clock speeds mean the same data transfer rates are achievable, preserving system timing. |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +125°C | -40°C to +125°C | Both rated for the same extended temperature range, making them suitable for the same harsh environments. |
| Package / Case | 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width) | 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width) | Same package footprint ensures pin-to-pin compatibility and identical PCB layout requirements. |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | Surface Mount | Both are surface-mount devices, so they share the same assembly process and board space. |
| Write Cycle Time (Max) | 5 ms | 5 ms | Identical write cycle times mean the same write throughput and timing margins in the application. |
| Endurance (Write Cycles) | 1,000,000 | 1,000,000 | Same endurance rating ensures equivalent long-term reliability for frequent write applications. |
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Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | 24LC256T-E/SN | 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO |
|---|---|---|
| Supplier | - | Microchip Technology |
| 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 | I²C | I²C |
| Clock Frequency | 400 kHz | 400 kHz |
| Write Cycle Time - Word Page | 5ms | 5ms |
| Access Time | 900 ns | 900 ns |
| 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 24LC256T-E/SN and 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO?
Both are 256 Kbit (32 Kbyte) I2C serial EEPROM devices from Microchip Technology. The 24LC256T-E/SN is the standard automotive-qualified variant in an 8-lead SOIC package, while the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO is a specific ordering variant of the same device family, typically carrying an AEC-Q100 qualification identifier and a distinct Microchip ordering code for automotive or high-reliability applications.
Are the 24LC256T-E/SN and 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO functionally identical?
Yes. Both devices share the same 256 Kbit density, I2C interface, 1.7 V to 5.5 V operating voltage range, 400 kHz maximum clock frequency at 2.5 V and above, page write buffer, and 8-lead SOIC package. The functional silicon and datasheet parameters are the same; the difference lies in the ordering code, qualification documentation, and traceability associated with the 16KVAO suffix.
What does the "16KVAO" suffix indicate on the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO?
The "16KVAO" suffix is a Microchip ordering-code extension that identifies a specific automotive-qualified or high-reliability variant of the 24LC256T-E/SN. It is associated with AEC-Q100 qualification and a defined production flow. Designers should confirm the exact qualification level and documentation package with Microchip's ordering guide or the device datasheet before selecting this variant.
Can the 24LC256T-E/SN and 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO be used interchangeably in a design?
In most cases, yes, because both share the same die, pinout, package, and electrical specifications. However, the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO may carry stricter qualification requirements, different traceability, or a different temperature grade. A direct substitution should only be made after verifying that the qualification level and operating temperature range of the chosen variant meet the target application's requirements.
What is the operating temperature range for these devices?
The "E" in both part numbers denotes the extended automotive temperature range of -40 °C to +125 °C, as specified in the Microchip 24LC256 datasheet. Both the 24LC256T-E/SN and 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO are rated for this range, making them suitable for automotive and industrial applications requiring extended temperature operation.
What package and pin configuration do these devices use?
Both devices are offered in the 8-lead SOIC (150 mil) package, denoted by the "SN" suffix. The pinout follows the standard 24LC256 configuration: pins 1–3 are A0–A2 address inputs, pin 4 is VSS, pin 5 is SDA, pin 6 is SCL, pin 7 is WP (write protect), and pin 8 is VCC. The package and pinout are identical between the two ordering variants.
What is the maximum clock frequency and supply voltage for these EEPROMs?
Per the Microchip 24LC256 datasheet, both devices operate from 1.7 V to 5.5 V and support I2C clock frequencies up to 400 kHz for VCC ≥ 2.5 V, and up to 100 kHz for VCC < 2.5 V. These parameters are identical for the 24LC256T-E/SN and 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO because they share the same silicon design.
Which variant should be selected for automotive production programs?
The 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO is typically the preferred choice for automotive production programs because its ordering code is associated with AEC-Q100 qualification and automotive-grade documentation. The 24LC256T-E/SN is also extended-temperature rated but may not carry the same automotive qualification identifier. Final selection should be based on the OEM's qualification and traceability requirements.