Microchip Technology 24LC024-E/ST

Overview

24LC024-E/ST from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2 Kbit (256 × 8) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM with hardware write-protection, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V across industrial and automotive temperature ranges (–40°C to +125°C). It features 16-byte page write buffer, 400 kHz max clock speed, Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity, and >1 million erase/write cycles. Used in automotive body control modules for storing calibration data and configuration parameters.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC024-E/ST datasheet, 24LC024-E/ST pinout, 24LC024-E/ST application, or 24LC024-E/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range compatibility (2.5–5.5 V), WP pin availability for hardware write protection, automotive-grade temperature support (–40°C to +125°C), and 8-lead SOIC package footprint with standard I²C timing compliance.

Technical Context

The 24LC024-E/ST implements a two-wire I²C interface with slave address decoding via A0–A2 pins, supporting up to eight devices on one bus. Its internal architecture includes a 16-byte page write buffer, self-timed erase/write cycle, and dedicated hardware write-protect logic tied to the WP pin.

It integrates Schmitt-trigger inputs on SDA and SCL with 50 ns spike suppression and hysteresis (0.05 × VCC), enabling robust operation on noisy automotive buses. The device uses an internal high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming and includes VCC threshold detection to disable writes below 1.5 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC024-E/ST is supplied in an 8-lead SOIC (3.90 mm) package with standard JEDEC MS-012AC outline. Pin 1 is marked by laser dot; pin 1 corner is indicated by beveled edge or notch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC024-E/ST, the 24AA024-I/ST offers broader supply flexibility but sacrifices automotive qualification, while the AT24C02-SSHM-T provides faster clocking but removes hardware-level write security-making 24LC024-E/ST optimal for safety-critical automotive EEPROM use cases requiring guaranteed write lock at power-on.

Availability

24LC024-E/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLCs, and medical calibration systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long-life product programs.

Supply support for 24LC024-E/ST 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 manufacturing and support infrastructure.

The 24LC024-E/ST belongs to Microchip's automotive-qualified serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable nonvolatile data storage in harsh environments where voltage transients, temperature extremes, and long-term data integrity are critical.

FAQ

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

The 24LC024-E/ST supports up to 400 kHz I²C clock frequency when VCC ≥ 1.8 V. At lower voltages (e.g., 2.5 V), it remains fully compliant with standard-mode I²C timing. This enables fast configuration reads in automotive ECUs without violating bus timing margins. The 24LC024-E/ST does not support Fast Mode Plus (1 MHz) - that capability is found in other families like the 24AA02E48.

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

Yes, the 24LC024-E/ST includes a dedicated hardware write-protect (WP) pin. When WP is tied to VCC, all write operations-including byte, page, and sequential writes-are disabled at the silicon level. This feature is active regardless of I²C command state and persists through power cycles. The 24LC024-E/ST implements this function internally; no firmware intervention is required to enforce protection.

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

The 24LC024-E/ST is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) with 3.90 mm body width per JEDEC MS-012AC. Its lead pitch is 1.27 mm, overall length is 4.90 mm, and height is 1.75 mm. This footprint is compatible with standard automated PCB assembly processes and matches legacy 24C02 designs, enabling drop-in replacement in existing layouts.

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

Up to eight 24LC024-E/ST devices can share a single I²C bus using the A0, A1, and A2 address pins to generate unique 3-bit chip select codes (0x50–0x57). Each device responds only when its assigned address matches the transmitted control byte. This allows scalable memory expansion to 16 Kbits total without additional address decoding logic.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24LC024-E/ST?

The 24LC024-E/ST is rated for more than 1 million erase/write cycles and guarantees data retention exceeding 200 years at 25°C. These specifications are validated per AEC-Q100 stress testing for automotive-grade reliability. Real-world retention remains >100 years even at +105°C, making the 24LC024-E/ST suitable for automotive modules with 15+ year service lifetimes.