Microchip Technology 24LC02B-I/ST

Overview

24LC02B-I/ST 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 - used for storing calibration data, configuration settings, or device identifiers in embedded control systems.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC02B-I/ST datasheet, 24LC02B-I/ST pinout, 24LC02B-I/ST application, or 24LC02B-I/ST equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package mapping to SOIC-8, I²C timing compliance, endurance (1M cycles), and real-world use context for reliable system-level integration.

Technical Context

The 24LC02B-I/ST implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. It supports standard-mode (100 kHz) and fast-mode (400 kHz) I²C protocols, with self-timed erase/write cycles and an 8-byte page buffer enabling efficient sequential writes within a single physical page boundary.

Its internal architecture includes a 256-word EEPROM array, address pointer logic, page latches, and HV generator for programming - all controlled by I/O logic synchronized to SCL. The A0–A2 pins are unconnected and may be left floating or tied to VSS/VCC without affecting operation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC02B-I/ST is supplied in an 8-lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package with 1.27 mm pitch, 3.90 mm body width, and wettable flank option per JEDEC MS-012. Pin 1 is marked with a notch or dot; orientation follows standard SOIC top-view labeling.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA02-I/ST and AT24C02C-STUM-T, the 24LC02B-I/ST offers optimal balance of industrial-grade reliability, proven 400 kHz performance at 3.3V/5V, and direct drop-in replacement capability in legacy SOIC-8 designs - making it ideal for cost-sensitive, volume-manufactured embedded systems.

Availability

24LC02B-I/ST 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 RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for 24LC02B-I/ST 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 24LC02B belongs to Microchip's 24XX02 family of I²C serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for space-constrained, low-power embedded systems requiring reliable nonvolatile storage with minimal external components and robust noise immunity.

FAQ

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

The 24LC02B-I/ST supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 400 kHz when V_CC is 2.5V or higher. At voltages below 2.5V, the device is not rated for operation - unlike the 24AA02 variant, which supports 100 kHz down to 1.7V. This 400 kHz limit enables efficient data transfer in host systems using standard fast-mode I²C peripherals without requiring protocol adaptation.

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

Yes, the 24LC02B-I/ST requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I/O pins are open-drain. For 400 kHz operation, a typical value is 2.2 kΩ to V_CC; for 100 kHz (if used in compatible systems), 10 kΩ is recommended. The exact value depends on bus capacitance and rise-time requirements, but omission will prevent proper I²C communication - the 24LC02B-I/ST cannot drive the bus high internally.

How does the WP pin function on the 24LC02B-I/ST?

The WP (Write-Protect) pin on the 24LC02B-I/ST is an active-high input that disables all write operations when pulled to V_CC. When tied to V_SS, full read/write access is enabled. This hardware-level protection prevents accidental overwrites during power transitions or firmware errors - a critical safeguard for calibration data or security-critical parameters stored in the 24LC02B-I/ST's 256-byte memory array.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24LC02B-I/ST?

The 24LC02B-I/ST guarantees 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and data retention exceeding 200 years at 25°C. These specifications are validated under industrial temperature conditions (–40°C to +85°C) and apply to both byte and page write operations. Real-world endurance may vary with voltage, temperature, and write pattern - but the 24LC02B-I/ST's endurance supports daily reconfiguration for over 27 years before reaching cycle limit.

Is the 24LC02B-I/ST AEC-Q100 qualified, and what grade does it meet?

Yes, the 24LC02B-I/ST is AEC-Q100 qualified and meets Grade 3 requirements (–40°C to +85°C ambient operating temperature). This qualification confirms reliability for automotive body electronics, infotainment interfaces, and other non-safety-critical ECU applications. While not rated for engine bay temperatures (Grade 1), its qualification ensures robust performance in cabin-mounted modules where the 24LC02B-I/ST stores user preferences and diagnostic logs.