Microchip Technology 24LC025-I/P

Overview

24LC025-I/P 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 industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It features 16-byte page write buffer, 400 kHz max clock speed, and 1 μA typical standby current. Used for storing calibration data, configuration settings, or device identifiers in embedded control systems.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC025-I/P datasheet, 24LC025-I/P pinout, 24LC025-I/P application, or 24LC025-I/P equivalent, key selection considerations include its 6-lead SOT-23 package, absence of hardware write-protect (WP) pin, I²C bus timing compliance at 2.5V+, and cascading support for up to four devices on one bus.

Technical Context

The 24LC025-I/P implements a standard two-wire I²C interface with open-drain SDA/SCL pins requiring external pull-ups. Its internal address pointer auto-increments during sequential reads and wraps from 0xFF to 0x00. The device uses Schmitt-trigger inputs and input filtering (50 ns spike suppression) for robust noise immunity on shared buses.

It supports byte and page write operations with self-timed erase/write cycles (max 5 ms), and employs a threshold detector disabling write logic below 1.5V VCC. Unlike 24LC024, the 24LC025-I/P omits internal connection of the WP pin-no hardware write protection is available.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC025-I/P is supplied in a 6-lead SOT-23 package (JEDEC MO-178AA), measuring 2.9 mm × 1.6 mm × 1.1 mm, optimized for space-constrained PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC024-I/P and AT24C02D-SSHM-T, the 24LC025-I/P trades hardware write protection and wider voltage range for minimal 6-pin SOT-23 packaging-ideal when board area is critical and write-lock is managed in software or system architecture.

Availability

24LC025-I/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control, medical diagnostics, and consumer appliance applications requiring stable component supply, long-life data retention, and compact surface-mount packaging.

Supply support for 24LC025-I/P 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 24LC025-I/P belongs to Microchip's legacy 24XX02X serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for reliable, low-power nonvolatile storage in cost-sensitive embedded systems where I²C interface simplicity and long-term data integrity are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24LC025-I/P?

The 24LC025-I/P supports up to 400 kHz I²C clock frequency when VCC is 2.5V or higher. At voltages below 2.5V, the maximum clock rate drops to 100 kHz per datasheet specifications. This dual-speed capability ensures compatibility with both legacy and high-speed I²C masters while maintaining timing margin across its operating voltage range. The 24LC025-I/P does not require external clock conditioning circuitry.

Does the 24LC025-I/P have a hardware write-protect feature?

No, the 24LC025-I/P does not implement hardware write protection. The WP pin is not internally connected, as explicitly stated in the datasheet: "Note: WP pin is not internally connected on the 24XX025." Write protection must be implemented in software via access control or by omitting the WP signal from the PCB layout. In contrast, the pin-compatible 24LC024-I/P includes a functional WP pin.

How many 24LC025-I/P devices can be connected on a single I²C bus?

Up to four 24LC025-I/P devices can share one I²C bus. This limit arises because the SOT-23 package lacks the A2 address pin-only A0 and A1 are bonded out-yielding 2² = 4 unique slave addresses (1010_00, 1010_01, 1010_10, 1010_11). Each device must have distinct A0/A1 logic levels tied to VSS or VCC to avoid address collisions.

What is the page write size and timing for the 24LC025-I/P?

The 24LC025-I/P has a 16-byte page write buffer. A single page write operation-transferring up to 16 bytes before issuing a STOP condition-completes in a maximum of 5 ms. During this self-timed cycle, the device does not acknowledge I²C commands. Host systems must use acknowledge polling (repeated START + control byte) to detect completion before initiating subsequent operations.

Is the 24LC025-I/P RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the 24LC025-I/P is Pb-free and RoHS compliant, as confirmed in the "Features" section of the official Microchip datasheet DS21210N. The "I/P" suffix denotes Industrial temperature grade in plastic DIP packaging, and all variants in this family meet JEDEC J-STD-609A Class 1 marking requirements for matte tin (Sn) finish.