Microchip Technology 24LC02B/P

Overview

24LC02B/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 256 × 8-bit memory with hardware write-protection, 400 kHz max clock frequency, and operation from 2.5V to 5.5V. It supports page writes (up to 8 bytes), features Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs, and is used for storing calibration data, configuration settings, and device identifiers in embedded control modules.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC02B/P datasheet, 24LC02B/P pinout, 24LC02B/P application, or 24LC02B/P equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package-specific terminal mapping, real-world use cases, and validated alternative parts - all confirmed against Microchip's DS20001709N datasheet and official packaging documentation.

Technical Context

The 24LC02B/P 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 integrates Schmitt-trigger inputs and output slope control to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce on shared buses. Write protection is implemented via a dedicated WP pin tied to VCC (full-array lock) or VSS (enabled), independent of I²C commands.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC02B/P is supplied in an 8-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual In-Line Package) with 300-mil body width. Pin 1 is located at the left end of the top row when viewing the top marking side, with notch or dot orientation indicator.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC02B/P, the 24AA02-I/P extends voltage flexibility but sacrifices automotive qualification, while the AT24C02-PU offers higher speed at the expense of tighter leakage control and no AEC-Q100 support - making 24LC02B/P the optimal choice for industrial and automotive designs demanding guaranteed 2.5V+ operation and automotive-grade reliability.

Availability

24LC02B/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, automotive body controllers, and medical infusion pumps requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for 24LC02B/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 U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory products, with global manufacturing and quality certifications including ISO/TS 16949 and AEC-Q200.

The 24LC02B belongs to Microchip's 24XX02 EEPROM family, designed specifically for reliable, low-power nonvolatile storage in space-constrained embedded systems where I²C simplicity and hardware write-protection are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 24LC02B/P?

The 24LC02B/P supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 400 kHz when VCC 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 ensures timing margin compliance across the full industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) and extended range (-40°C to +125°C).

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

Yes, the 24LC02B/P requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. Typical values are 10 kΩ for 100 kHz operation and 2 kΩ for 400 kHz. The exact value depends on bus capacitance and rise-time requirements specified in the I²C standard - the 24LC02B/P's output slope control ensures compatibility with these standard pull-up configurations.

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

Hardware write-protection on the 24LC02B/P is controlled by the WP pin: when tied to VCC, the entire 256-byte memory array (addresses 00h–FFh) is locked against write and page-write commands, though read operations remain fully functional. When WP is tied to VSS, full read/write access is enabled. This is a physical, non-volatile lock - no I²C command can override it, making it ideal for protecting bootloader configuration or safety-critical parameters.

What is the page size and write buffer depth of the 24LC02B/P?

The 24LC02B/P has a page size of 8 bytes and an on-chip page write buffer that holds up to 8 bytes. Page writes must stay within a single physical page boundary (e.g., addresses 00h–07h, 08h–0Fh); crossing boundaries causes wraparound within the current page. This architecture reduces I²C transaction count - eight bytes can be written with one Start condition, one address byte, eight data bytes, and one Stop condition - improving system-level throughput.

Is the 24LC02B/P qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, the 24LC02B/P is AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive applications. It is rated for both Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) and Extended (-40°C to +125°C) temperature ranges, and its construction meets stress-test requirements for humidity, thermal cycling, and mechanical shock defined in AEC-Q100 Rev G. This qualification applies specifically to the 24LC02B variant - the 24AA02 and 24FC02 variants are not AEC-Q100 qualified.