Microchip Technology 24LC16B-E/MC

Overview

24LC16B-E/MC from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as eight 256 × 8-bit memory blocks. It operates from 2.5V to 5.5V, supports up to 400 kHz clock frequency, features hardware write-protection via the WP pin, and delivers ≤1 μA standby current at industrial and extended temperature ranges (–40°C to +125°C). It is used in embedded systems for storing calibration data, configuration settings, and firmware parameters.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC16B-E/MC datasheet, 24LC16B-E/MC pinout, 24LC16B-E/MC application, or 24LC16B-E/MC equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specifications, package mapping for the 8-lead DFN (MC), I²C timing constraints, endurance (1M cycles), and real-world use cases in automotive and industrial control modules.

Technical Context

The 24LC16B-E/MC implements a two-wire I²C slave interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit address pointer, 16-byte page write buffer, and on-chip HV generator for EEPROM programming.

It supports byte and page write operations with self-timed erase/write cycles (≤5 ms), acknowledges only after successful address/data reception, and disables ACK during internal write cycles-enabling reliable acknowledge polling for bus efficiency.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The 24LC16B-E/MC is packaged in an 8-lead DFN (Microchip package code "MC") with exposed pad. Pin 1 is top-left corner (marking dot), and the exposed pad may be connected to VSS or left floating per layout requirements.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC16B-E/MC, the 24AA16-I/MC offers broader voltage flexibility but lacks extended temperature support, while the AT24C16C-MAHM-T trades +125°C qualification and hardware write-protection for smaller footprint and lower unit cost in less demanding thermal environments.

Availability

24LC16B-E/MC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLCs, and medical device calibration storage requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and AEC-Q100-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for 24LC16B-E/MC 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, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets with vertically integrated design and manufacturing.

The 24LC16B belongs to Microchip's 24XX16 family of I²C EEPROMs, engineered for robust, low-power nonvolatile storage in space-constrained and thermally demanding embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 24LC16B-E/MC?

The 24LC16B-E/MC supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 400 kHz when VCC is between 2.5V and 5.5V. This is specified in the Device Selection Table and confirmed in AC Characteristics (Table 1-2, Param. No. 1). Operation above 400 kHz is not guaranteed and may result in timing violations or failed ACK responses. The 24LC16B-E/MC does not support the 1 MHz mode available in the 24FC16 variant.

Does the 24LC16B-E/MC have built-in write protection, and how is it enabled?

Yes, the 24LC16B-E/MC includes hardware write-protection via the WP (Write-Protect) pin. When WP is tied to VCC, the entire memory array (addresses 000h–7FFh) is locked against write operations; read access remains fully functional. When WP is connected to VSS (or left floating, though not recommended), normal read/write operation is enabled. This behavior is documented in Section 2.4 and Figure 6-3 of the datasheet.

What package type does the 24LC16B-E/MC use, and what are its key mechanical features?

The 24LC16B-E/MC uses Microchip's 8-lead DFN package (package code "MC"), measuring 2 mm × 3 mm with an exposed thermal pad. Per Drawing No. C04-057-MC, it features a 0.5 mm pitch, 0.75 mm nominal height, and RoHS-compliant matte tin finish. The exposed pad may be soldered to a thermal pad on the PCB for improved heat dissipation or left unconnected per layout requirements.

How many erase/write cycles can the 24LC16B-E/MC endure, and under what conditions is this rated?

The 24LC16B-E/MC is rated for 1,000,000 erase/write cycles at 25°C and 5.5V, measured in page mode (Table 1-2, Param. No. 18). Endurance decreases with elevated temperature and reduced VCC; Microchip's Total Endurance™ Model (available on microchip.com) provides application-specific estimates. Data retention remains ≥200 years at +25°C, degrading logarithmically with temperature stress.

Is the 24LC16B-E/MC AEC-Q100 qualified, and which grade does it meet?

Yes, the 24LC16B-E/MC is AEC-Q100 qualified and certified for Grade 1 (–40°C to +125°C), as explicitly stated in the Features section of the datasheet. This qualification covers stress testing for accelerated environmental, thermal, and reliability conditions required for automotive electronic components, including humidity, temperature cycling, and ESD robustness.