The Microchip 24LC256T-I/MS: A Deep Dive into a High-Density Serial EEPROM Solution

In the realm of embedded systems and electronics design, the need for reliable, non-volatile memory for data storage and configuration settings is paramount. The Microchip 24LC256T-I/MS stands out as a premier solution, offering designers a robust and highly versatile 256 Kbit serial EEPROM memory chip. This device exemplifies the critical balance of capacity, performance, and integration that modern applications demand.

Housed in a compact 8-pin MSOP package, this chip is an ideal choice for space-constrained PCB designs, from consumer electronics to industrial automation systems. Its I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) serial interface is a significant advantage, requiring only two bidirectional lines (SDA and SCL) for communication. This drastically reduces the number of GPIO pins required from the host microcontroller, simplifying board layout and freeing up valuable MCU resources for other critical functions.

The 24LC256T provides a massive 256 Kbit (32 Kbyte) array of memory, organized as 512 pages of 64 bytes each. This substantial capacity allows for the storage of extensive datasets, calibration constants, or event logging information. A key feature of this EEPROM is its hardware write-protect (WP) pin. When asserted, this pin prevents any write operations to the entire memory array, safeguarding critical data from accidental corruption or overwrite by errant software.

Performance-wise, the chip supports a clock frequency of up to 400 kHz for standard operation and 1 MHz for Fast-mode Plus, enabling rapid data transfer. It is built for endurance, rated for 1,000,000 erase/write cycles per byte and offering data retention of over 200 years. This ensures data integrity and device longevity even in the most demanding applications operating over long periods.

Operating from a wide voltage range of 1.7V to 5.5V, the 24LC256T-I/MS is perfectly suited for both 3.3V and 5V systems, making it an excellent choice for battery-powered devices where power supply voltages can fluctuate. Its industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) guarantees reliable performance across a vast spectrum of environmental conditions.

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip 24LC256T-I/MS is a high-density, highly reliable serial EEPROM that combines a large memory capacity with the pin-saving benefits of the I2C interface. Its robust feature set, including hardware write-protection and exceptional endurance, makes it an indispensable component for designers seeking a proven non-volatile memory solution for a wide array of applications.

Keywords:

1. I2C Interface

2. Non-Volatile Memory

3. 256 Kbit

4. Hardware Write-Protect

5. MSOP Package