Microchip Technology 24LC024T-E/SN

Overview

24LC024T-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, offers >1 million erase/write cycles, and is used for configuration storage in industrial sensor nodes and embedded control modules.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC024T-E/SN datasheet, 24LC024T-E/SN pinout, 24LC024T-E/SN application, or 24LC024T-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range compatibility (2.5–5.5 V), WP-enabled hardware protection, I²C bus scalability (up to eight devices), and industrial-temperature operation (−40°C to +85°C).

Technical Context

The 24LC024T-E/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 auto-increments during sequential reads and wraps from 0xFF to 0x00.

Write operations are self-timed with a maximum 5 ms cycle time; page writes support up to 16 bytes within a single 16-byte physical page boundary. Hardware write-protection is active when the WP pin is tied to VCC, disabling all array writes regardless of command.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC024T-E/SN is housed in an 8-lead SOIC package (3.90 mm body width, JEDEC MS-012). Pin 1 is marked by laser dot; pin 4 is VSS (ground); pin 8 is VCC (power supply); pin 7 is WP (hardware write-protect input); pins 5 and 6 are bidirectional SDA and SCL, respectively; pins 1–3 are address inputs A0–A2.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC024T-E/SN, the 24AA024T-I/SN extends low-voltage operation to 1.7 V while retaining WP functionality, whereas AT24C02-SSHM-T eliminates hardware write protection entirely-making it unsuitable where fail-safe configuration integrity is mandatory.

Availability

24LC024T-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration storage, embedded controller configuration memory, and medical device serial number registry requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for 24LC024T-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 U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and nonvolatile memory solutions with broad industrial and automotive qualifications.

The 24LC024T-E/SN belongs to Microchip's 24LCxx family of I²C EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, hardware-protected data storage in mission-critical embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the function of the WP pin on the 24LC024T-E/SN?

The WP (Write-Protect) pin on the 24LC024T-E/SN is a hardware-level enable/disable control for memory writes. When tied to VCC, it locks the entire 2 Kbit array against all write operations-including byte, page, and erase commands-regardless of I²C address or data content. This feature prevents accidental overwrites during power-up, reset, or firmware errors. The 24LC024T-E/SN requires WP to be externally connected to either VCC or VSS; floating is not permitted. This behavior is confirmed in DS21210N, Section 2.4.

Does the 24LC024T-E/SN support 100 kHz and 400 kHz I²C clock speeds?

Yes, the 24LC024T-E/SN supports both 100 kHz and 400 kHz I²C clock frequencies. According to DS21210N Table 1-2, it operates at 400 kHz when VCC ≥ 1.8 V, and falls back to 100 kHz only when VCC < 1.8 V-which is outside its specified 2.5–5.5 V operating range. Therefore, in all valid operating conditions, the device fully supports 400 kHz mode. This enables faster configuration loading and reduces bus occupancy time in time-sensitive applications.

What is the maximum page write size for the 24LC024T-E/SN?

The 24LC024T-E/SN has a fixed 16-byte page write buffer. A single page write operation can transfer up to 16 bytes of data in one I²C transaction, provided all addresses fall within the same physical 16-byte page boundary (e.g., 0x00–0x0F, 0x10–0x1F). Attempting to cross a page boundary causes wraparound within the current page-not continuation into the next. This constraint is documented in DS21210N Section 6.2 and Figure 6-2, and directly impacts firmware design for bulk data updates.

Is the 24LC024T-E/SN rated for automotive temperature range?

No, the 24LC024T-E/SN is rated for Industrial temperature range only: −40°C to +85°C. Although the base 24LC024 part number includes an Automotive (E) grade variant (e.g., 24LC024-E/P), the specific suffix "T-E/SN" denotes Tape-and-Reel packaging (T) and SOIC-8 package (SN), with "E" indicating Industrial grade-not Automotive. DS21210N Device Selection Table explicitly lists 24LC024 with Temp. Range "I, E", but the marking code "4L24T" and package "SN" correspond to Industrial grade per Page 13 marking table.

How many 24LC024T-E/SN devices can share the same I²C bus?

Up to eight 24LC024T-E/SN devices can be cascaded on a single I²C bus using the A0, A1, and A2 address pins. Each device is assigned a unique 3-bit chip select code (000–111), resulting in slave addresses from 0x50 to 0x57. This allows up to 16 Kbit of contiguous EEPROM space when combined. The SOIC-8 package provides full access to all three address pins, unlike the SOT-23 variant where A2 is omitted. This capability is defined in DS21210N Section 5.0 and confirmed in the Pin Function Table.