Microchip Technology 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO
- Part No.:
- 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT I2C 8TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO from Microchip Technology is a 256-Kbit (32K × 8) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM with 1.7V–5.5V single-supply operation, 1 MHz maximum clock frequency at VCC ≥ 2.5V, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It features a 64-byte page write buffer, hardware write-protection via the WP pin, and Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity-used in embedded system configuration storage, sensor calibration data retention, and firmware parameter backup.
For engineers reviewing the 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO datasheet, 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO pinout, 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO application, or 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package mapping to 8-lead SOIC, functional pin roles, real-world use cases, and two validated alternative parts with documented technical and application differences.
Technical Context
The 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO implements a two-wire I²C interface with full compatibility up to 1 MHz (at VCC ≥ 2.5V), supporting standard-mode (100 kHz), fast-mode (400 kHz), and fast-mode plus (1 MHz) timing. Its internal architecture includes a 64-byte page latch, address pointer auto-increment logic, and on-chip high-voltage generator for self-timed erase/write cycles.
It uses three hardware address pins (A0–A2) to support up to eight devices on one bus (two for MSOP, zero for SOT-23), with device addressing based on the fixed control code '1010' followed by A2/A1/A0 bits. Write protection is implemented via a dedicated WP input sampled at the Stop bit of each write command.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 256 Kbit (32K × 8) - supports storage of up to 32,768 bytes of nonvolatile configuration or calibration data |
| Supply voltage | 1.7V–5.5V - enables direct interfacing with low-voltage microcontrollers (e.g., 1.8V I/O domains) without level shifting |
| Max clock frequency | 1 MHz at VCC ≥ 2.5V - reduces I²C transaction time by ~2.5× vs. 400 kHz parts, improving system boot or update latency |
| Page write buffer | 64 bytes - allows burst writes within a single page boundary, minimizing host CPU overhead and bus occupancy |
| Write endurance | 1,000,000 cycles - ensures reliable field updates over product lifetime in applications like metering or industrial logging |
| Data retention | >200 years - guarantees long-term integrity of stored parameters without refresh, critical for unattended systems |
| Standby current | 1 µA max (I-temp.) - minimizes quiescent power draw in battery-backed or energy-harvesting designs |
Pinout & Package
24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) with 3.90 mm body width and standard JEDEC MS-012AC footprint. Pin 1 is marked with a beveled corner or dot; pin numbering follows counterclockwise convention from pin 1.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A0 | Chip address input | Configures LSB of 3-bit device address; tied to VSS or VCC to select one of eight possible I²C addresses on shared bus |
| A1 | Chip address input | Configures middle bit of device address; required for multi-device cascading in systems with >1 EEPROM |
| A2 | Chip address input | Configures MSB of device address; enables up to eight 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO units on same I²C bus |
| VSS | Ground reference | Return path for all internal circuitry; must be connected to system ground plane with low-impedance trace |
| SDA | Serial data I/O | Open-drain bidirectional bus line; requires external pull-up resistor (2 kΩ typical for 1 MHz operation) |
| SCL | Serial clock input | Master-generated clock signal synchronizing all data transfers; edge-triggered, Schmitt-triggered for noise rejection |
| WP | Hardware write-protect | Active-high input disabling all write operations when pulled to VCC; sampled only at Stop condition |
| VCC | Power supply | Single 1.7–5.5V supply powering EEPROM core and interface; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF) required near pin |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 1 MHz I²C interface | Enables faster firmware parameter loading during boot, reducing system initialization time by up to 60% vs. 400 kHz EEPROMs |
| Schmitt-trigger inputs (SDA/SCL) | Provides 50 ns spike suppression and 0.05×VCC hysteresis, eliminating need for external RC filtering in noisy industrial environments |
| Self-timed write cycle | Removes requirement for host to manage write timing; ACK polling replaces fixed delays, maximizing I²C bus utilization |
| Hardware write-protect (WP) | Prevents accidental overwrites during power transitions or firmware glitches-no software lock required |
| 64-byte page buffer | Reduces number of I²C transactions needed to store sensor calibration tables, cutting bus traffic and CPU intervention |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Node | Medical Device Calibration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing factory-calibrated offset/gain coefficients for analog front-end sensors in remote environmental monitors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory holding persistent calibration data accessed at power-on reset. Use Value: Eliminates recalibration after power loss; 200-year data retention ensures accuracy across product lifecycle without maintenance. |
Use Scenario: Retaining patient-specific therapy parameters and usage logs in portable infusion pumps. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant storage for safety-critical settings, protected by hardware WP during normal operation. Use Value: Meets IEC 62304 Class B requirements for data integrity; 1M-cycle endurance supports daily log updates for 27+ years. |
| Smart Energy Meter | Automotive Body Control Module |
Use Scenario: Recording tariff schedules, billing cycles, and tamper-event timestamps in DIN-rail electricity meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability data logger interfaced via I²C to metrology MCU, operating across –40°C to +85°C. Use Value: 1.7V operation allows direct connection to meter's 1.8V auxiliary rail; 1 µA standby current extends battery backup life. |
Use Scenario: Storing seat position memory, mirror presets, and lighting profiles in vehicle door modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Configuration storage accessible during ignition-on sequence; WP pin tied to MCU-controlled enable signal. Use Value: 1 MHz I²C speed enables full profile load in <10 ms, meeting automotive startup timing constraints. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24AA256T-I/ST | Max clock = 400 kHz; same 1.7–5.5V range, 64-byte page, and pinout; lower AC performance limits throughput. | Preferred where cost sensitivity outweighs speed needs; suitable for legacy designs or slower MCUs without 1 MHz I²C support. | Select when system clock budget is constrained or when interoperability with existing 400 kHz EEPROM infrastructure is required. |
| AT24C256-10PU-2.7 | Max clock = 1 MHz but only at VCC ≥ 2.7V; no 1.7V operation; different A0/A1/A2 pin behavior; not AEC-Q100 qualified. | Used in commercial-grade consumer electronics; lacks extended voltage range and automotive qualification of 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO. | Choose only if design operates strictly above 2.7V and does not require industrial temperature or automotive reliability certification. |
Compared with 24AA256T-I/ST and AT24C256-10PU-2.7, the 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO uniquely combines 1 MHz operation down to 1.7V, industrial temperature rating, and AEC-Q100 readiness-making it the sole choice for high-speed, low-voltage, mission-critical embedded systems.
Availability
24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, medical device calibration, smart energy meters, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO 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 microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and consumer markets with high-reliability semiconductor products.
The 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO belongs to Microchip's 24XX256 family of I²C EEPROMs, designed specifically for low-power, wide-voltage-range nonvolatile data storage in space-constrained embedded systems demanding robustness and long-term data integrity.
FAQ
What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO?
The 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency when VCC is 2.5V or higher. At VCC < 2.5V, the maximum clock rate drops to 400 kHz. This dual-speed capability ensures compatibility with both legacy and high-performance I²C masters while maintaining low-voltage operation down to 1.7V.
Does the 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO support hardware write protection?
Yes, the 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO includes a dedicated Write-Protect (WP) pin. When WP is tied to VCC, all write operations-including byte and page writes-are inhibited, while read operations remain fully functional. The WP state is sampled at the Stop condition of each write command, providing deterministic protection against unintended writes.
What package type is used for the 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO?
The 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO is supplied in an 8-lead SOIC package (3.90 mm body width, JEDEC MS-012AC compliant) with standard pinout: A0, A1, A2, VSS, SDA, SCL, WP, VCC. This package is compatible with automated PCB assembly and offers proven thermal and mechanical reliability in industrial environments.
How many devices can be connected on the same I²C bus using the 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO?
Up to eight 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO devices can share one I²C bus using the A0, A1, and A2 address pins to configure unique 3-bit device addresses. Each pin must be hard-wired to either VSS or VCC. The base I²C address is 0x50, with A2/A1/A0 bits forming the LSBs-enabling addresses from 0x50 to 0x57.
What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO?
The 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO guarantees 1,000,000 erase/write cycles per memory location and greater than 200 years of data retention at +25°C. These specifications are validated under worst-case conditions (5.5V, +25°C) and apply to both byte and page write modes, ensuring long-term reliability in field-deployed equipment.
24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 256Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 32K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- I2C
- Clock Frequency:
- 1 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 5ms
- Access Time:
- 400 ns
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.7V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q100
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-TSSOP
24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO reliable?
The price and inventory of 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO?
24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO?
For technical support, including 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO?
All 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 24FC256T-E/ST16KVAO:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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