Microchip Technology 24AA02-I/SN

Overview

24AA02-I/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 256 × 8-bit memory, operating from 1.7V to 5.5V with 400 kHz max clock frequency, 5 ms max page write time, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It supports hardware write-protection via the WP pin and is commonly used for storing MAC addresses, calibration data, and configuration parameters in networked embedded systems.

For engineers reviewing the 24AA02-I/SN datasheet, 24AA02-I/SN pinout, 24AA02-I/SN application, or 24AA02-I/SN equivalent, key selection considerations include its 1.7V low-voltage operation, 8-byte page buffer, Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity, self-timed erase/write cycle, and compatibility with standard I²C bus timing at 400 kHz under industrial conditions.

Technical Context

The 24AA02-I/SN implements a two-wire I²C interface with fixed 7-bit device address (1010xxx) and R/W bit control, supporting byte and page write modes. Its internal architecture includes an 8-byte page latch, address pointer auto-increment, and HV generator for EEPROM programming.

It features Schmitt-trigger inputs on SDA and SCL for robust noise suppression, output slope control to minimize ground bounce, and ACK polling capability to detect write completion without fixed delay timing - enabling efficient bus utilization in real-time systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24AA02-I/SN is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) with 150 mil body width, surface-mount footprint, and industry-standard pin spacing (1.27 mm pitch). The package is RoHS-compliant and rated for industrial temperature operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.

Compared with 24LC02B-I/SN, the 24AA02-I/SN enables lower-voltage operation critical for battery-powered designs, while AT24C02C-SSHM-T offers higher clock rate but requires validation of I²C address allocation and timing margins in the target system.

Availability

24AA02-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation controllers, medical instrumentation, automotive telematics modules, and network infrastructure equipment requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24AA02-I/SN includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24AA02 belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, I²C-based nonvolatile data storage in space- and power-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 24AA02-I/SN?

The 24AA02-I/SN supports up to 400 kHz when VCC is 2.5V or higher. At VCC between 1.7V and 2.5V, the maximum clock frequency is reduced to 100 kHz to ensure reliable timing margins. This dual-speed capability allows seamless integration across diverse supply voltage domains without redesigning the I²C bus interface. The 24AA02-I/SN datasheet specifies these limits in Table 1-2 under AC Characteristics.

Does the 24AA02-I/SN require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24AA02-I/SN requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL because its I²C pins are open-drain outputs. Typical values are 2 kΩ for 400 kHz operation and 10 kΩ for 100 kHz. The exact value depends on bus capacitance and rise-time requirements defined by I²C specification. Pull-ups must connect to the same VCC rail as the 24AA02-I/SN to maintain valid logic levels. This requirement is documented in Section 2.2 of the 24AA02-I/SN datasheet.

Can the A0, A1, and A2 pins of the 24AA02-I/SN be left unconnected?

Yes, the A0, A1, and A2 pins of the 24AA02-I/SN have no internal connection and may be left floating, tied to VSS, or tied to VCC without affecting device functionality. These pins are reserved for higher-density variants (e.g., 24AA04/08) and are explicitly marked "Not Connected" in the Pin Function Table. This simplifies PCB layout and reduces BOM count when only a single 2-Kbit EEPROM is required on the bus. The 24AA02-I/SN datasheet confirms this in Section 2.1 and Table 2-1.

How does hardware write-protection work on the 24AA02-I/SN?

Hardware write-protection on the 24AA02-I/SN is controlled by the WP (Write-Protect) pin: when WP is driven high (VCC), all write operations to the entire memory array (addresses 00h–FFh) are inhibited, though read operations remain fully functional. When WP is low (VSS), normal read/write access is enabled. This protection is active immediately and requires no software command - making it ideal for safeguarding immutable configuration data. The behavior is specified in Section 2.4 and Figure 6-3 of the 24AA02-I/SN datasheet.

Is the 24AA02-I/SN qualified for automotive applications?

No, the 24AA02-I/SN is rated for industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and is not AEC-Q100 qualified. While the broader 24XX02 family includes AEC-Q100-qualified variants (e.g., 24AA02E48), the 24AA02-I/SN variant is intended for industrial and commercial applications. For automotive use, designers should select the explicitly qualified 24AA02E48 or equivalent AEC-Q100 parts. This distinction is clearly stated in the Device Selection Table and Features section of the 24AA02-I/SN datasheet.