Microchip Technology 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO

Overview

24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO 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/SN16KVAO datasheet, 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO pinout, 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO application, or 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC min (2.5V), page write time (≤5 ms), WP pin behavior, I²C bus timing compliance (THD:STA/TSU:STA), and SOIC-8 package mechanical compatibility.

Technical Context

The 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO 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 supports sequential reads across the full 128Kbit memory space, while cascading up to eight devices via A0–A2 address pins enables scalable storage expansion.

Write operations are self-timed and internally managed: byte writes complete in ≤5 ms, and page writes (up to 64 bytes) use an on-chip latch to minimize host bus occupancy. The WP pin provides hardware-level protection of the entire memory array (0000h–3FFFh), sampled only at the Stop condition - ensuring robustness against accidental overwrites during power transitions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO uses an 8-lead SOIC (SN) package: 3.90 mm body width, 1.27 mm lead pitch, gull-wing leads. Pin 1 is top-left corner (A0), pin 8 is top-right (VCC). Package meets JEDEC MS-012AA standard.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO, the 24AA128T-I/SN offers lower-voltage operation at the cost of automotive qualification, while the AT24C128-10PU-2.7 trades qualification for higher clock rate - making each alternative optimal only under specific voltage, speed, or compliance constraints.

Availability

24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, medical device configuration, automotive body control modules, and smart energy metering requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO 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/SN16KVAO belongs to Microchip's 24XX128 family of I²C EEPROMs, engineered for robust, low-power nonvolatile storage in industrial, automotive, and medical applications where data integrity and long-term reliability are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation of the 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO?

The 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO requires a minimum VCC of 2.5V for guaranteed operation across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). Below 2.5V, functionality is not specified - unlike the 24AA128 variant, which supports down to 1.7V. This makes the 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO ideal for 3.3V and 5V systems but unsuitable for sub-2.5V battery-powered designs.

How does the WP pin function on the 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO during power-up sequences?

The WP pin on the 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO is sampled only at the Stop condition of each write command - not continuously. During power-up, if WP is held high (VCC), all subsequent write attempts will be ignored (though the device still acknowledges the command), preventing unintended writes during voltage ramp-up. This behavior ensures data safety even with uncontrolled power sequencing.

Can the 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO perform sequential reads across the entire 128Kbit memory space?

Yes, the 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO supports true sequential reads across its full address range (0000h–3FFFh). After the first byte is read, the internal address pointer auto-increments, allowing uninterrupted streaming of up to 16,384 bytes in a single I²C transaction - with automatic rollover from 3FFFh back to 0000h upon reaching the end.

What is the maximum number of 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO devices that can share one I²C bus?

Up to eight 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO devices can be cascaded on a single I²C bus using the A0, A1, and A2 address pins to generate unique 3-bit chip select codes (000–111). Each device responds only to its assigned slave address (1010xx0 for writes, 1010xx1 for reads), enabling scalable storage expansion without additional address decoding logic.

Does the 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO support 1 MHz I²C clock frequency?

No, the 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO is rated for a maximum clock frequency of 400 kHz. Only the 24FC128 variant in the same family supports 1 MHz operation. Attempting 1 MHz communication with the 24LC128T-E/SN16KVAO may result in timing violations, failed ACKs, or corrupted data transfers - especially at lower VCC levels or elevated temperatures.