Microchip Technology 24LC024-E/SN

Overview

24LC024-E/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2 Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 256 × 8-bit memory, featuring hardware write-protection (WP pin), 16-byte page write buffer, and operation from 2.5V to 5.5V. It supports up to 400 kHz clock rate, delivers ≤5 ms page write time, and is rated for industrial and automotive temperature ranges (–40°C to +125°C). It is used in embedded systems for storing calibration data, configuration settings, and device identifiers.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC024-E/SN datasheet, 24LC024-E/SN pinout, 24LC024-E/SN application, or 24LC024-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its hardware write-protect capability, automotive-grade temperature support, I²C bus compatibility up to eight devices, low standby current (≤1 μA), and 8-lead SOIC package with verified pin mapping.

Technical Context

The 24LC024-E/SN implements a standard two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. Its internal address counter enables sequential reads across the full 256-byte memory space with automatic rollover from 0xFF to 0x00.

It uses an on-chip high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming and includes a VCC threshold detector that disables write operations below 1.5V. The WP pin provides hardware-level protection of the entire memory array when tied to VCC - a feature exclusive to the 24XX024 family and absent in 24XX025 variants.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC024-E/SN is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (3.90 mm) with gull-wing leads, RoHS-compliant matte tin plating, and JEDEC-standard footprint. Pin 1 is marked by laser indentation per Microchip's marking specification "4L24I SN YYWW".

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA024-I/SN, the 24LC024-E/SN trades lower-voltage operation for extended temperature range and automotive qualification; compared with AT24C02D-SSHM-T, it adds hardware write protection at the cost of vendor-specific design assurance and tighter VCC constraints.

Availability

24LC024-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive control modules, industrial programmable logic controllers, and smart metering systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24LC024-E/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 components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing infrastructure.

The 24LC024-E/SN belongs to Microchip's 24XX024/24XX025 EEPROM family, designed specifically for robust, low-power, I²C-based nonvolatile storage in automotive, industrial, and consumer applications where data integrity and long-term reliability are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24LC024-E/SN?

The 24LC024-E/SN supports up to 400 kHz I²C clock frequency when VCC is ≥2.5V. At lower voltages (not applicable here, since 24LC024 requires min. 2.5V), the max clock drops to 100 kHz. This 400 kHz capability enables faster configuration writes than legacy 100 kHz EEPROMs, reducing system initialization time in automotive and industrial controllers. The 24LC024-E/SN maintains full timing compliance per Table 1-2 in DS21210N.

Does the 24LC024-E/SN have hardware write protection, and how is it implemented?

Yes, the 24LC024-E/SN includes a dedicated WP (Write-Protect) pin that enables hardware-level memory locking. When WP is tied to VCC, the entire 256-byte array becomes read-only; tying WP to VSS enables full read/write access. This feature is confirmed in Section 2.4 and the Device Selection Table of DS21210N. Unlike the 24LC025, the 24LC024-E/SN retains this pin - a key differentiator for safety-critical applications.

What package type is used for the 24LC024-E/SN, and what are its key mechanical features?

The 24LC024-E/SN uses an 8-lead SOIC package (3.90 mm body width) with gull-wing leads, RoHS-compliant matte tin finish, and JEDEC MS-012AC standard footprint. Pin 1 is laser-marked per Microchip's marking convention "4L24I SN YYWW". This package is compatible with standard reflow profiles and supports automated optical inspection (AOI) due to its defined lead geometry and coplanarity specs in DS21210N-page 14.

How many devices can be connected on the same I²C bus using the 24LC024-E/SN?

Up to eight 24LC024-E/SN devices can share a single I²C bus using the A0, A1, and A2 address pins to configure unique 3-bit chip select codes (0x50–0x57). This is explicitly stated in the Device Selection Table and Section 2.3 of DS21210N. Each device responds only to its assigned address, enabling scalable memory expansion - e.g., aggregating 16 Kbits across eight units without additional address decoding logic.

What is the guaranteed data retention period for the 24LC024-E/SN at operating temperature?

The 24LC024-E/SN guarantees ≥200 years of data retention at +25°C ambient, as specified in the Features section and Table 1-1 of DS21210N. While retention decreases at elevated temperatures, Microchip's characterization data confirms usable retention exceeding 10 years even at +125°C - sufficient for automotive and industrial deployments. This value reflects actual accelerated life testing, not theoretical projection.