Microchip 24LC256T-I/SM 256K I2C Serial EEPROM: Features and Applications

The Microchip 24LC256T-I/SM is a 256 Kbit (32 Kbyte) serial Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM) that utilizes the ubiquitous I²C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) protocol for communication. This device is engineered for reliability and ease of use, making it a cornerstone component in countless electronic systems requiring non-volatile data storage. Its small form factor, low power consumption, and robust feature set have secured its place across a wide range of applications, from consumer electronics to industrial systems.

Key Features

The 24LC256T-I/SM stands out due to a combination of several critical attributes:

High-Density Storage: With a capacity of 256 Kbits organized as 32,768 words of 8 bits each, it provides ample space for storing system parameters, user data, calibration constants, and event logs.

I2C Serial Interface: It communicates via a simple, two-wire I²C bus (SDA and SCL), supporting speeds up to 400 kHz for fast data transfer. This drastically reduces the number of I/O pins required from the host microcontroller, simplifying board design and layout.

Low Power Consumption: Designed for power-sensitive applications, it features a low standby current and active current, making it ideal for battery-powered and portable devices.

Wide Voltage Operation: It operates across a broad voltage range (1.7V to 5.5V), ensuring compatibility with various logic levels, from modern low-voltage microcontrollers to legacy 5V systems.

Page Write Capability: The device supports 64-byte page write operations, allowing for more efficient programming of sequential data blocks and reducing overall write time.

Hardware Write-Protect: A dedicated WP (Write-Protect) pin allows the host system to disable all write operations to the memory array, safeguarding critical data from accidental corruption.

High Reliability: The 24LC256T-I/SM is specified for over 1 million erase/write cycles per cell and offers data retention greater than 200 years, ensuring data integrity over the product's lifetime.

Extended Temperature Range: The -I suffix denotes an industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, guaranteeing stable operation in harsh environmental conditions.

Primary Applications

The versatility of the 24LC256T-I/SM makes it suitable for a diverse set of applications:

Data Logging: Used to store sensor readings, event histories, and operational logs in systems like environmental monitors, GPS trackers, and industrial equipment.

Parameter Storage: Ideal for holding system configuration settings, calibration data, and user preferences in appliances, medical devices, and test & measurement instruments.

Consumer Electronics: Commonly found in smart TVs, set-top boxes, audio equipment, and gaming peripherals to store firmware updates and user data.

Automotive Systems: Employed in non-critical automotive modules for storing VIN numbers, mileage data, and other calibration codes, thanks to its robust performance.

Industrial Control: Used in PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), sensors, and actuators to maintain operational state and parameters through power cycles.

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip 24LC256T-I/SM is a highly reliable and versatile I²C EEPROM solution. Its optimal blend of substantial memory capacity, extremely low power consumption, and a simple two-wire interface solidifies its status as a fundamental component for designers seeking efficient and dependable non-volatile memory across a vast spectrum of modern electronic applications.

Keywords: I2C EEPROM, Non-volatile Memory, Low Power Consumption, Data Storage, Serial Memory.