Microchip Technology 24LC128T-E/MF

Overview

24LC128T-E/MF from Microchip Technology is a 128 Kbit (16K × 8) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM with hardware write-protection, 64-byte page buffer, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It operates from 2.5V to 5.5V, supports up to 400 kHz clock frequency, and delivers ≤1 µA standby current - enabling low-power data logging in embedded sensor nodes and industrial controllers.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC128T-E/MF datasheet, 24LC128T-E/MF pinout, 24LC128T-E/MF application, or 24LC128T-E/MF equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC min (2.5V), I²C speed grade (400 kHz), WP pin behavior, 8-lead TDFN package footprint, and page-write timing (≤5 ms).

Technical Context

The 24LC128T-E/MF implements a two-wire I²C slave interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs on SDA/SCL for noise immunity and slope-controlled outputs to suppress ground bounce. Its internal address pointer enables sequential reads across the full 128Kbit memory space without wrap-around limitation within a single device.

It uses cascaded chip-select addressing via A0–A2 pins to support up to eight devices on one bus (two for MSOP), with hardware write-protection activated by tying WP to VCC. The device employs self-timed erase/write cycles and includes an on-chip 64-byte page latch for efficient bulk writes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC128T-E/MF is housed in an 8-lead TDFN (Thin Dual Flat No-lead) package with 2 mm × 3 mm body and exposed thermal pad (optional VSS connection). Pinout matches standard 8-lead SOIC/TSSOP but with bottom-side terminations.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC128T-E/MF, the 24AA128T-I/MF extends voltage flexibility for battery-powered designs, while the AT24C128-10TU-2.7 trades noise immunity for lower cost in benign environments - neither offers pin-to-pin compatibility due to differing package markings and thermal pad handling.

Availability

24LC128T-E/MF 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 24LC128T-E/MF 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 24LC128T-E/MF belongs to Microchip's 24XX128 family of I²C EEPROMs, engineered for high-reliability data storage in industrial, automotive, and medical systems where write endurance, data retention, and noise immunity are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation of the 24LC128T-E/MF?

The 24LC128T-E/MF requires a minimum VCC of 2.5V for guaranteed functionality across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). Operation below 2.5V is not specified and may result in incomplete writes, read errors, or failure to acknowledge I²C commands. This distinguishes it from the 24AA128 variant, which supports down to 1.7V.

Does the 24LC128T-E/MF support 1 MHz I²C communication?

No, the 24LC128T-E/MF does not support 1 MHz I²C. Its maximum clock frequency is 400 kHz at VCC ≥ 2.5V. The 1 MHz capability is exclusive to the 24FC128 variant within the same family. Attempting 1 MHz operation on the 24LC128T-E/MF will cause timing violations and communication failures.

How does the WP pin function on the 24LC128T-E/MF?

The WP (Write-Protect) pin on the 24LC128T-E/MF is an active-high hardware lock. When tied to VCC, it disables all write operations (byte and page) while permitting unrestricted reads. When tied to VSS, full read/write access is enabled. The pin state is sampled at each Stop condition, so toggling WP mid-operation has no effect.

What package type is used for the 24LC128T-E/MF, and what are its key mechanical features?

The 24LC128T-E/MF uses an 8-lead TDFN (Thin Dual Flat No-lead) package with 2 mm × 3 mm body size and 0.5 mm pitch. It includes an exposed thermal pad on the underside, which may be connected to VSS for improved thermal performance or left floating per Microchip's recommendation for this variant.

Can multiple 24LC128T-E/MF devices share the same I²C bus, and how is addressing managed?

Yes, up to eight 24LC128T-E/MF devices can share one I²C bus using hardware-configurable slave addresses. Pins A0, A1, and A2 set the three LSBs of the 7-bit address (base 0x50). Each device must have a unique A0–A2 combination; for example, grounding all three yields address 0x50, while tying A0 high gives 0x51.