Microchip Technology 24LC16B-E/MS

Overview

24LC16B-E/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as eight 256 × 8-bit blocks, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V with 400 kHz max clock frequency, 5 ms max page write time, and hardware write-protection via the WP pin. It supports industrial (–40°C to +85°C) and extended (–40°C to +125°C) temperature ranges in an 8-lead MSOP package.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC16B-E/MS datasheet, 24LC16B-E/MS pinout, 24LC16B-E/MS application, or 24LC16B-E/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range compatibility (2.5–5.5V), I²C timing compliance at 400 kHz, WP-enabled hardware write protection, 16-byte page buffer capability, and extended-temperature operation up to +125°C.

Technical Context

The 24LC16B-E/MS functions as a slave device on a two-wire I²C bus, using Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs for noise immunity and ground-bounce suppression. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit address pointer, 16-byte page latches, and a high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming.

It implements standard I²C protocol with Start/Stop condition detection, 7-bit slave addressing (1010xxxR/W), and acknowledge polling to determine write-cycle completion. The device does not use A0–A2 pins-these are unconnected and may be left floating or tied to VSS/VCC without effect.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC16B-E/MS is supplied in an 8-lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm pitch, body size 3.0 × 3.0 mm, and exposed pad option (not electrically connected). Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; 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 24AA16-I/MS and 24FC16-I/MS, the 24LC16B-E/MS trades voltage flexibility and speed for guaranteed 400 kHz performance across its specified 2.5–5.5V range and extended-temperature qualification-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, thermally demanding industrial and automotive designs where 2.5V minimum supply is assured.

Availability

24LC16B-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, automotive body control modules, medical infusion pump settings, and smart energy meter firmware patch storage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24LC16B-E/MS 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 24LC16B belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, I²C-based nonvolatile storage in space-constrained and thermally demanding embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the minimum VCC voltage required for reliable operation of the 24LC16B-E/MS?

The 24LC16B-E/MS requires a minimum VCC of 2.5V for guaranteed operation across its full temperature range (–40°C to +125°C). Unlike the 24AA16 or 24FC16, it is not rated for operation below 2.5V-even at room temperature-due to internal voltage threshold design. Operating below 2.5V may result in incomplete writes, read errors, or loss of WP functionality.

Does the 24LC16B-E/MS support 1 MHz I²C communication?

No, the 24LC16B-E/MS supports a maximum clock frequency of 400 kHz. It is not compatible with fast-mode plus (1 MHz) I²C. The 24FC16 variant is the family member that supports 1 MHz operation; attempting 1 MHz signaling on the 24LC16B-E/MS will cause timing violations, failed acknowledges, and unreliable data transfer.

Are the A0, A1, and A2 pins functional on the 24LC16B-E/MS?

No-the A0, A1, and A2 pins on the 24LC16B-E/MS are not internally connected and serve no functional purpose. They may be left floating, tied to VSS, or tied to VCC without affecting device behavior. Addressing is fixed via the hard-coded 1010xxx slave address prefix, with block selection handled by B2–B0 bits in the control byte-not by external pins.

How does hardware write-protection work on the 24LC16B-E/MS?

Hardware write-protection on the 24LC16B-E/MS is controlled solely by the WP pin: when pulled to VCC, all write operations (byte and page) to the entire 16 Kbit array are inhibited, while read operations remain fully functional. When WP is pulled to VSS (or grounded), full read/write access is enabled. No software command or register setting overrides this pin-driven protection.

What is the maximum number of bytes that can be written in a single page write operation on the 24LC16B-E/MS?

The 24LC16B-E/MS supports a maximum of 16 bytes per page write operation. This matches its internal page buffer size. Attempting to write more than 16 bytes before issuing a Stop condition causes the address pointer to roll over within the current page, overwriting earlier bytes in that same 16-byte boundary-never crossing into the next physical page.