Microchip Technology 24LC1026-I/SM

Overview

24LC1026-I/SM from Microchip Technology is a 128K × 8 (1024 Kbit) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM with industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C), 2.5V–5.5V supply voltage, and 400 kHz maximum clock frequency. It features 128-byte page write buffer, hardware write-protection via WP pin, and Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity - deployed in embedded systems requiring nonvolatile parameter storage, calibration data retention, or firmware configuration backup.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC1026-I/SM datasheet, 24LC1026-I/SM pinout, 24LC1026-I/SM application, or 24LC1026-I/SM equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC operating range compatibility, I²C bus timing compliance at target clock speed, page boundary handling in firmware, and WP pin control logic for secure write-locking during power-up or fault conditions.

Technical Context

The 24LC1026-I/SM implements a two-wire I²C slave interface with fixed 7-bit address prefix '1010' and user-configurable A1/A2 bits enabling up to four devices on one bus. Its internal memory is split into two 512 Kbit blocks (00000h–0FFFFh and 10000h–1FFFFh), selected by the B0 bit in the control byte.

Write operations support both byte and page modes; page writes accept up to 128 bytes before triggering a self-timed 3 ms typical erase/write cycle. Read operations support current-address, random, and sequential modes - with automatic address pointer wraparound within each 512 Kbit block.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC1026-I/SM is housed in an 8-lead SOIC package (3.90 mm width), RoHS-compliant, with standard gull-wing lead form and 1.27 mm pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA1026-I/SM and AT24C1024-MAHM-T, the 24LC1026-I/SM delivers optimal balance of industrial-grade reliability, hardware-enforced write security, and proven interoperability with legacy I²C masters - making it preferred for safety-critical or long-lifecycle deployments where deterministic protection and thermal stability are prioritized over ultra-low-voltage operation or maximum clock speed.

Availability

24LC1026-I/SM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, medical instrumentation, and automotive body electronics requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and guaranteed RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for 24LC1026-I/SM 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 infrastructure.

The 24LC1026-I/SM belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, engineered specifically for robust, low-power nonvolatile data storage in harsh industrial and automotive environments where reliability, endurance, and ease of I²C integration are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24LC1026-I/SM?

The 24LC1026-I/SM supports up to 400 kHz when VCC is 2.5V or higher. At VCC < 2.5V, the maximum clock frequency drops to 100 kHz. This behavior is explicitly defined in the Device Selection Table and confirmed in AC Characteristics Table 1-2 - ensuring timing compliance without external clock scaling logic.

Does the 24LC1026-I/SM require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24LC1026-I/SM requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. For 400 kHz operation, a 2 kΩ pull-up to VCC is recommended; for 100 kHz, 10 kΩ is typical. These values ensure proper rise time and bus noise margin per I²C specification.

How does the WP pin function on the 24LC1026-I/SM?

The WP (Write-Protect) pin on the 24LC1026-I/SM is active-high: when tied to VCC, all write operations (byte and page) are inhibited while read operations remain fully functional. The pin state is sampled at the Stop condition of each write command - toggling WP mid-cycle has no effect, ensuring deterministic protection during power transitions.

Can the 24LC1026-I/SM be used in automotive applications?

The 24LC1026-I/SM is rated for industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C). While it appears in some automotive body electronics, Microchip explicitly lists the 24LC1026-E/SM variant for automotive qualification (−40°C to +125°C). For under-hood or safety-critical automotive use, the E-temp version is required - the 24LC1026-I/SM is intended for cabin, infotainment, or chassis modules meeting industrial specs.

What happens if a page write crosses a 128-byte boundary on the 24LC1026-I/SM?

If a page write command attempts to cross a 128-byte physical page boundary, the address counter wraps within the current page - overwriting previously loaded data instead of advancing to the next page. This behavior is documented in Section 6.2 and Note under Page Write. Firmware must validate address alignment before initiating multi-byte writes to prevent unintended data corruption.