Microchip Technology 24LC02B-E/MS

Overview

24LC02B-E/MS 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 400 kHz max clock frequency, industrial and extended temperature support (–40°C to +125°C), and hardware write-protection via the WP pin. It is used in embedded systems for storing calibration data, configuration settings, and device identifiers.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC02B-E/MS datasheet, 24LC02B-E/MS pinout, 24LC02B-E/MS application, or 24LC02B-E/MS equivalent, key selection considerations include its 8-byte page write buffer, 1 µA standby current (E-temp), Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity, and compatibility with standard I²C bus timing at 400 kHz under extended temperature conditions.

Technical Context

The 24LC02B-E/MS implements a two-wire I²C interface with fixed 7-bit client address (1010xxx) and R/W bit control, supporting byte and page write modes with self-timed erase/write cycles. Its internal Address Pointer enables current-address, random, and sequential read operations without external address latching.

It features Schmitt-trigger inputs on SDA and SCL with 50 ns spike suppression and hysteresis of 0.05 VCC, output slope control to suppress ground bounce, and open-drain I/O requiring external pull-up resistors (2 kΩ typical for 400 kHz). Write protection is implemented via a dedicated WP pin tied to VCC or VSS.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC02B-E/MS is supplied in an 8-lead MSOP package (Microchip package code "MS"), with 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, and exposed pad optional for thermal enhancement. Pin 1 is A0 (NC), pin 8 is VCC.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA02-I/MS and 24FC02-I/MS, the 24LC02B-E/MS uniquely balances extended temperature operation, hardware write-protection, and 400 kHz I²C compatibility without sacrificing low standby current - making it optimal for automotive and industrial edge nodes where environmental robustness and data security are primary.

Availability

24LC02B-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, automotive body control modules, medical device identification, and smart energy meter firmware configuration requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24LC02B-E/MS 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, FPGA, and memory solutions, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and consumer markets with vertically integrated design and manufacturing.

The 24LC02B belongs to Microchip's 24XX02 family of serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, I²C-based nonvolatile storage in space-constrained embedded systems requiring extended temperature operation and hardware-level write protection.

FAQ

What is the minimum VCC required for reliable operation of the 24LC02B-E/MS?

The 24LC02B-E/MS requires a minimum VCC of 2.5V for guaranteed operation across its full extended temperature range (–40°C to +125°C). Operation below 2.5V is not specified and may result in failed writes, corrupted reads, or unpredictable behavior. This distinguishes it from the 24AA02 (1.7V min) and 24FC02 (1.7V min).

Does the 24LC02B-E/MS support 1 MHz I²C communication?

No, the 24LC02B-E/MS does not support 1 MHz I²C. Its maximum clock frequency is 400 kHz under all valid VCC and temperature conditions. The 24FC02 variant supports 1 MHz, but the 24LC02B-E/MS is explicitly rated for 400 kHz only - attempting 1 MHz operation will violate AC timing specifications and cause communication failures.

How does the WP pin function on the 24LC02B-E/MS?

The WP (Write-Protect) pin on the 24LC02B-E/MS is an active-high hardware lock. When tied to VCC, it disables all write operations (byte and page) to the entire memory array (addresses 00h–FFh); read operations remain fully functional. When tied to VSS or left floating (not recommended), write access is enabled. No software command overrides this pin.

What is the purpose of the A0, A1, and A2 pins on the 24LC02B-E/MS?

The A0, A1, and A2 pins on the 24LC02B-E/MS are not internally connected and serve no functional purpose. They may be left floating, tied to VSS, or tied to VCC without affecting device operation or I²C addressing. The 24LC02B-E/MS uses a fixed 7-bit client address (1010xxx), where the three "x" bits are don't-care and do not map to physical pins.

Can the 24LC02B-E/MS be used in automotive applications requiring AEC-Q100 qualification?

Yes, the 24LC02B-E/MS is AEC-Q100 qualified for Grade 1 (–40°C to +125°C), meeting automotive reliability standards for stress testing, failure mechanisms, and lifetime validation. Its extended temperature rating, 1 million endurance cycles, and 200-year data retention make it suitable for body control modules, infotainment configuration storage, and ADAS subsystem logging where nonvolatile memory integrity is critical.