Microchip Technology 24AA02/P

Overview

24AA02/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 256 × 8-bit memory with hardware write-protection, 1.7V–5.5V operation, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It supports up to 400 kHz clock frequency, features 8-byte page write buffer, and delivers ≤1 µA standby current - used for secure device identification storage in embedded controllers and sensor modules.

For engineers reviewing the 24AA02/P datasheet, 24AA02/P pinout, 24AA02/P application, or 24AA02/P equivalent, key selection criteria include low-voltage I²C compatibility, factory-programmable MAC address support, WP-pin-based hardware lock, endurance (>1M cycles), and PDIP-8 package suitability for through-hole prototyping and legacy industrial PCBs.

Technical Context

The 24AA02/P implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress ground bounce and bus noise. Its internal architecture includes an 8-byte page latch, EEPROM array with HV generator, and memory control logic that enforces self-timed erase/write cycles.

It uses fixed 7-bit client address '1010xxx' (with A0–A2 unconnected), supports byte and page write modes, and relies on acknowledge polling to detect write completion - no internal address pointer reset occurs during sequential reads, enabling continuous memory dump across all 256 bytes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24AA02/P is supplied in 8-Lead Plastic Dual In-Line Package (PDIP), 300 mil body width, through-hole mountable with 0.100" pitch. Pin 1 is marked by notch or dot; leads are matte tin-plated per JEDEC J-STD-609.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC02B/P and AT24C02-PU, the 24AA02/P uniquely supports 1.7V operation and factory-programmed MAC addresses - making it optimal for battery-constrained, certified-edge devices requiring zero-host identity provisioning.

Availability

24AA02/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, medical instrumentation, and legacy embedded controller applications requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and through-hole assembly compatibility.

Supply support for 24AA02/P 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 components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24AA02/P belongs to Microchip's 24XX02 EEPROM product line, engineered for robust, low-power nonvolatile storage in space-constrained and safety-critical embedded systems - especially where I²C simplicity, hardware write protection, and extended voltage range are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24AA02/P?

The 24AA02/P supports up to 400 kHz when VCC is 2.5V or higher. At 1.7V ≤ VCC < 2.5V, the maximum clock frequency drops to 100 kHz to ensure reliable timing margins. This dual-speed behavior is built into the device's internal timing logic and does not require software configuration. The 24AA02/P automatically adapts to the applied VCC level without external intervention.

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

Yes, the 24AA02/P requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. Typical values are 10 kΩ for 100 kHz operation and 2 kΩ for 400 kHz or 1 MHz (though 1 MHz is not supported by 24AA02/P). These resistors ensure proper signal rise times and bus arbitration - omission will cause communication failure. The 24AA02/P itself does not integrate internal pull-ups.

Can the A0, A1, and A2 pins of the 24AA02/P be used to configure the I²C address?

No - the A0, A1, and A2 pins of the 24AA02/P are not internally connected and serve no address-selection function. The device uses a fixed 7-bit I²C address of 0x50 (1010000b) regardless of how these pins are terminated. They may be left floating, tied to VSS, or tied to VCC without affecting operation. This simplifies layout and eliminates address conflict risks in multi-device I²C buses.

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

Hardware write-protection on the 24AA02/P is controlled solely by the WP pin: when WP is tied to VCC, all write operations (including byte, page, and erase) to the entire 256-byte memory array are inhibited; read operations remain fully functional. When WP is tied to VSS (or left floating, since internal weak pull-down is absent), normal read/write access is enabled. No software command or I²C transaction can override this physical lock.

Is the 24AA02/P qualified for automotive applications?

No - the 24AA02/P 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 in TSSOP), the /P suffix denotes the PDIP package variant, which Microchip does not certify for automotive use. For automotive applications, engineers should select the 24AA02E48 or 24AA025E48 in qualified packages instead of the 24AA02/P.