Microchip Technology 24LC024T-I/MC

Overview

24LC024T-I/MC 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 (WP pin), 16-byte page write buffer, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It supports up to 400 kHz clock rate, features Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity, and is used in embedded system configuration storage, sensor calibration data retention, and firmware parameter backup.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC024T-I/MC datasheet, 24LC024T-I/MC pinout, 24LC024T-I/MC application, or 24LC024T-I/MC equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC voltage range compatibility (2.5–5.5 V), WP-enabled hardware write protection, 16-byte page write capability, I²C bus timing compliance (100/400 kHz), and TSSOP-8 package footprint suitability for space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The 24LC024T-I/MC implements a standard two-wire I²C interface with open-drain SDA/SCL pins, internal address pointer auto-increment, and cascading support for up to eight devices via A0–A2 address pins. Its write-protect circuitry is hardwired to the WP pin, which must be externally tied to VCC or VSS to enable/disable array writes.

It uses low-power CMOS technology with typical standby current of 1 μA and active read current of 1 mA, and integrates slope-controlled outputs to suppress ground bounce. The device performs self-timed erase/write cycles with maximum 5 ms page write time and guarantees >1 million endurance cycles and >200 years data retention at 25°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC024T-I/MC is packaged in an 8-lead TSSOP (Thin Shrink Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm lead pitch, optimized for automated assembly and moderate-density PCBs. Pin 1 is marked by laser indentation at the top-left corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA024T-I/MC, the 24LC024T-I/MC trades 1.7 V start-up capability for guaranteed 2.5 V minimum operation and integrated WP functionality; versus AT24C02D-SSHM-T, it provides deterministic hardware write lock at the expense of 400 kHz speed ceiling instead of 1 MHz.

Availability

24LC024T-I/MC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, medical device calibration storage, and smart energy meter configuration requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for 24LC024T-I/MC 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, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24LC024T-I/MC belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, I²C-based nonvolatile data storage in industrial, medical, and automotive subsystems where write security and long-term data integrity are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum VCC voltage required for reliable operation of the 24LC024T-I/MC?

The 24LC024T-I/MC requires a minimum VCC of 2.5 V for guaranteed operation across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). Operation below 2.5 V is not specified and may result in unreliable write cycles or loss of hardware write-protection functionality. This differs from the 24AA024 variant, which supports down to 1.7 V.

Does the 24LC024T-I/MC support 400 kHz I²C communication at all VCC levels?

Yes - the 24LC024T-I/MC supports up to 400 kHz I²C clock frequency when VCC is 2.5 V or higher. At VCC < 2.5 V, the maximum clock rate drops to 100 kHz per datasheet Table 1-2. Since the 24LC024T-I/MC is rated for 2.5–5.5 V, 400 kHz operation is fully supported across its entire specified supply range.

How does the WP pin function on the 24LC024T-I/MC, and what happens if it's left floating?

The WP pin on the 24LC024T-I/MC is a dedicated hardware write-protect input: tying it to VCC locks the entire memory array against writes, while tying it to VSS enables normal write access. If left floating, behavior is undefined and may cause intermittent write failures or partial protection - Microchip explicitly requires WP to be hardwired to VCC or VSS for reliable operation.

Can multiple 24LC024T-I/MC devices share the same I²C bus, and how many can be addressed uniquely?

Yes - up to eight 24LC024T-I/MC devices can share one I²C bus using the A0, A1, and A2 address pins to configure unique 3-bit chip select codes. Each pin must be tied to either VSS or VCC to set its logic level, generating a full 3-bit address (1010xxxR/W) that allows distinct addressing without software arbitration.

What is the maximum page write size and timing requirement for the 24LC024T-I/MC?

The 24LC024T-I/MC supports a maximum page write size of 16 bytes within a single physical page boundary (addresses 0x00–0x0F, 0x10–0x1F, etc.). Page write time is self-timed and guaranteed ≤5 ms; during this period, the device does not acknowledge I²C commands, requiring acknowledge polling to detect completion before issuing subsequent operations.