Microchip Technology 24AA16-I/MS

Overview

24AA16-I/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as eight 256 × 8-bit blocks, operating from 1.7V to 5.5V with 400 kHz max clock frequency (100 kHz below 2.5V), 1 μA standby current, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It features hardware write-protection via the WP pin, 16-byte page write buffer, and Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity - deployed in embedded system configuration storage and sensor calibration data retention.

For engineers reviewing the 24AA16-I/MS datasheet, 24AA16-I/MS pinout, 24AA16-I/MS application, or 24AA16-I/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include low-voltage operation down to 1.7V, I²C bus compatibility at 100/400 kHz, hardware write-protect functionality, 16-byte page write capability, and MSOP-8 packaging for space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The 24AA16-I/MS functions as an I²C slave device with fixed 4-bit control code '1010' and 3-bit block-select addressing, supporting up to eight 256-word memory blocks. Its internal Address Pointer auto-increments during sequential reads and page writes, enabling efficient multi-byte access without repeated address transmission.

It implements self-timed erase/write cycles with 5 ms maximum page write time, uses open-drain SDA/SCL with external pull-up resistors, and incorporates slope control and Schmitt-trigger inputs to suppress ground bounce and bus noise - ensuring robust operation in electrically noisy industrial environments.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24AA16-I/MS is housed in an 8-lead MSOP package (Microchip package code MS), measuring 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm × 1.0 mm, with exposed pad optionally connected to VSS for thermal enhancement.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC16B-I/MS, the 24AA16-I/MS enables 1.7V operation critical for modern low-power MCUs, while versus 24FC16-I/MS it trades 1 MHz speed for lower active current and simpler bus design - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, battery-aware industrial nodes.

Availability

24AA16-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration storage, medical device configuration memory, and smart energy meter firmware settings requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24AA16-I/MS 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 24AA16-I/MS belongs to Microchip's legacy serial EEPROM product line, engineered for reliable, low-power nonvolatile data storage in space- and cost-constrained embedded systems across industrial, medical, and automotive markets.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation of the 24AA16-I/MS?

The 24AA16-I/MS operates reliably down to 1.7V across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), enabling direct interface with 1.8V logic families and battery-powered systems without voltage regulation. Below 2.5V, the maximum I²C clock frequency is reduced to 100 kHz to maintain timing margins - verified per DS20001703M Section 1.0 DC Characteristics.

How does the WP pin function on the 24AA16-I/MS, and what happens when it is left unconnected?

The WP pin on the 24AA16-I/MS is a dedicated hardware write-protect input: tying it to VCC disables all write operations (including page and byte writes) while preserving full read access. When left unconnected, the internal state is undefined; Microchip specifies it must be actively driven to VSS or VCC - floating is not recommended and may result in intermittent write failures or unintended protection.

Can the 24AA16-I/MS be used in place of the 24LC16B-I/MS without board-level changes?

Yes - the 24AA16-I/MS shares identical MSOP-8 pinout, I²C protocol, memory organization, and DC/AC timing (at ≥2.5V) with the 24LC16B-I/MS. However, the 24AA16-I/MS adds 1.7V operation capability; if the host system operates below 2.5V, the 24LC16B-I/MS will not function, making the 24AA16-I/MS a functional upgrade rather than a drop-in replacement in low-voltage designs.

What is the maximum number of bytes that can be written in a single page write cycle of the 24AA16-I/MS?

The 24AA16-I/MS supports a 16-byte page write buffer, allowing up to 16 bytes to be loaded into the internal latch and committed to memory upon receipt of the Stop condition. Attempting to write more than 16 bytes before issuing Stop causes the Address Pointer to roll over within the same page, overwriting earlier data - software must enforce page boundary alignment (addresses 0x00–0x0F, 0x10–0x1F, etc.) to avoid corruption.

Does the 24AA16-I/MS require external pull-up resistors on the SDA and SCL lines, and what values are recommended?

Yes - the 24AA16-I/MS uses open-drain SDA and SCL outputs, mandating external pull-up resistors to VCC. Microchip recommends 10 kΩ for 100 kHz operation, 2 kΩ for 400 kHz, and ≤1 kΩ for 1 MHz (though 24AA16-I/MS is rated to 400 kHz). Values must balance rise time (TR ≤300 ns at 5V) against bus capacitance and total current draw - typical designs use 4.7 kΩ as a robust compromise for 3.3V/400 kHz systems.