Microchip Technology 24LC02B-I/MS

Overview

24LC02B-I/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 temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), and hardware write-protection via the WP pin. It supports byte and 8-byte page writes with 5 ms max write cycle time and is commonly used for configuration storage in embedded microcontroller systems.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC02B-I/MS datasheet, 24LC02B-I/MS pinout, 24LC02B-I/MS application, or 24LC02B-I/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range compatibility (2.5–5.5V), I²C timing compliance at 400 kHz, MSOP-8 package footprint, WP-enabled hardware protection, and endurance of 1 million write cycles with 200-year data retention.

Technical Context

The 24LC02B-I/MS 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 current-address, random, and sequential read modes, while ACK polling allows host-driven write-cycle completion detection without fixed delays.

It uses an on-chip HV generator for EEPROM programming and features a dedicated 8-byte page write buffer. The device does not use A0–A2 pins - they are unconnected and may be left floating or tied to VSS/VCC - simplifying PCB layout and eliminating external address strapping components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC02B-I/MS is supplied in an 8-lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm pitch, 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm body, and exposed pad option (not electrically connected). Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; orientation follows JEDEC MO-187.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC02B-I/MS, the 24AA02-I/MS extends low-voltage operation but sacrifices automotive qualification, while the AT24C02D-MAHM-T offers faster I²C timing at the cost of qualification and exact parametric alignment - making 24LC02B-I/MS optimal for cost-sensitive, industrial-grade, and AEC-Q100-compliant 400 kHz I²C storage.

Availability

24LC02B-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, medical device configuration, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-compliant nonvolatile memory.

Supply support for 24LC02B-I/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, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global manufacturing and support infrastructure.

The 24LC02B belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, I²C-based configuration and parameter storage in industrial, automotive, and consumer applications where endurance, data retention, and hardware write protection are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24LC02B-I/MS?

The 24LC02B-I/MS supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 400 kHz across its full VCC range of 2.5V to 5.5V. Unlike the 24AA02 or 24FC02 variants, it does not support 1 MHz operation or sub-2.5V 100 kHz modes. This 400 kHz limit ensures robust timing margins and noise immunity in industrial environments where signal integrity is critical for the 24LC02B-I/MS.

Does the 24LC02B-I/MS require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24LC02B-I/MS requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. For reliable 400 kHz operation, a 2 kΩ pull-up to VCC is recommended. The 24LC02B-I/MS datasheet specifies this requirement explicitly, and omitting pull-ups will prevent proper bus communication and cause the 24LC02B-I/MS to remain non-responsive.

Can the A0, A1, and A2 pins of the 24LC02B-I/MS be left unconnected?

Yes, the A0, A1, and A2 pins of the 24LC02B-I/MS have no internal connection and may be left floating, tied to VSS, or tied to VCC without affecting functionality. This is confirmed in the official Microchip datasheet DS20001709N, Section 2.1. Leaving them unconnected simplifies layout and avoids unintended address conflicts - a key design advantage of the 24LC02B-I/MS over addressable EEPROMs.

How does hardware write protection work on the 24LC02B-I/MS?

Hardware write protection on the 24LC02B-I/MS is controlled by the WP (Write-Protect) pin: when tied to VCC, all write operations (byte and page) are inhibited while reads remain fully functional; when tied to VSS, full read/write access is enabled. This feature is implemented entirely in hardware and requires no firmware interaction - a critical safety mechanism for protecting calibration data in the 24LC02B-I/MS.

Is the 24LC02B-I/MS qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, the 24LC02B-I/MS is AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive applications, specifically rated for the Industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). This qualification covers stress testing for temperature cycling, humidity, and electrical robustness - confirming suitability for body control modules, infotainment systems, and other non-powertrain automotive subsystems using the 24LC02B-I/MS.