Microchip Technology 24LC024/SN

Overview

24LC024/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2 Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 256 × 8-bit memory, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V with hardware write-protection via the WP pin. It supports up to 400 kHz clock rate, features 16-byte page write buffer, and delivers ≤5 ms write cycle time. It is widely used in industrial sensor calibration storage and embedded system configuration retention.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC024/SN datasheet, 24LC024/SN pinout, 24LC024/SN application, or 24LC024/SN equivalent, key selection considerations include its 2.5–5.5 V supply range, hardware write-protect capability, I²C bus compatibility up to eight devices, and industrial temperature rating (–40°C to +85°C) in SOIC-8 package.

Technical Context

The 24LC024/SN implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. Its internal address pointer enables sequential, random, and current-address read modes, while the 16-byte page buffer allows efficient burst writes within physical page boundaries (0x00–0x0F, 0x10–0x1F, etc.).

Hardware write protection is active when the WP pin is tied to V_CC, disabling all array writes; the pin is unconnected on non-24XX024 variants. The device uses self-timed erase/write cycles and supports acknowledge polling to detect write completion without fixed delay timing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC024/SN is packaged in 8-pin SOIC (3.90 mm), with lead-free, RoHS-compliant construction. Pin 1 is marked by laser indentation; package outline conforms to Microchip drawing C04-037.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA024/SN and AT24C02-PU, the 24LC024/SN uniquely balances industrial-grade temperature support, hardware write protection, and 2.5–5.5 V compatibility - making it optimal for robust embedded systems where both reliability and supply flexibility matter.

Availability

24LC024/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, embedded system configuration, and power meter firmware metadata requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for 24LC024/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 operations.

The 24LC024/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, I²C-based nonvolatile storage in industrial, automotive, and consumer applications demanding proven endurance and data retention.

FAQ

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

The 24LC024/SN supports up to 400 kHz I²C clock frequency when V_CC ≥ 1.8 V. At V_CC < 2.5 V, maximum clock rate drops to 100 kHz per Microchip DS21210N specification. This dual-speed capability ensures interoperability with both legacy and high-throughput I²C masters while maintaining signal integrity under varying supply conditions. The 24LC024/SN does not require external clock conditioning circuitry.

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

Yes, the 24LC024/SN includes a dedicated WP (Write-Protect) pin that enables hardware-level memory lock. When WP is tied to V_CC, the entire 2 Kbit array becomes read-only; tying WP to V_SS enables normal write access. This feature is intrinsic to the 24LC024/SN silicon and operates independently of software commands - ensuring protection even during brown-out or reset events. The 24LC024/SN datasheet confirms WP is present and functional in all 8-pin packages including SOIC-8.

What package type is used for the 24LC024/SN part number?

The 24LC024/SN is supplied in an 8-pin SOIC package with 3.90 mm body width (Microchip package code SN). It is Pb-free and RoHS compliant, with marking "4L24I" and date code "0519" per DS21210N-page 12. This package is distinct from PDIP, TSSOP, DFN, or SOT-23 variants - the /SN suffix explicitly denotes the SOIC-8 industrial-temperature variant. Thermal and mechanical characteristics match JEDEC MS-012AC standards.

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

Up to eight 24LC024/SN devices can be cascaded on a single I²C bus using the A0, A1, and A2 address pins to generate unique 3-bit chip select codes (1010xxxR/W). Each device must have a distinct combination of A0–A2 tied to V_SS or V_CC. This allows up to 16 Kbits of contiguous EEPROM space in systems requiring distributed storage - such as multi-sensor nodes or modular industrial controllers. The 24LC024/SN implements full I²C arbitration and acknowledges only its assigned address.

What is the write cycle time specification for the 24LC024/SN?

The 24LC024/SN specifies a maximum write cycle time of 5 ms for both byte and page writes, as confirmed in DS21210N-table 1-2, parameter TWC. This is a self-timed internal operation - no external wait states are required. Applications may use acknowledge polling (repeated START + control byte) to detect completion, enabling optimal bus utilization. The 5 ms value holds across the full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and 2.5–5.5 V supply range.