Microchip Technology 24LC16B-E/P

Overview

24LC16B-E/P 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 8-lead PDIP packaging and is used for configuration storage in embedded controllers and power management systems.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC16B-E/P datasheet, 24LC16B-E/P pinout, 24LC16B-E/P application, or 24LC16B-E/P equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range compatibility (2.5V–5.5V), I²C timing compliance at 400 kHz, WP-enabled hardware write protection, endurance (>1 million cycles), and data retention (>200 years) under extended temperature conditions.

Technical Context

The 24LC16B-E/P functions as an I²C slave device with fixed 4-bit control code '1010' and 3-bit block-select addressing, enabling access to eight 256-word memory blocks. Its internal Address Pointer supports current-address, random, and sequential read modes, while Schmitt-trigger inputs and output slope control suppress bus noise and ground bounce.

Write operations include byte-write and 16-byte page-write modes with self-timed erase/write cycles; acknowledge polling allows host software to detect write completion. The WP pin provides hardware-level write inhibition when tied to VCC, protecting the full 000h–7FFh address space without firmware intervention.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC16B-E/P is supplied in an 8-lead plastic dual in-line package (PDIP) with 300-mil body width and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; A0–A2 pins are unconnected and may be left floating or tied to VSS/VCC without functional impact.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC16B-E/P, the 24AA16-I/P offers broader voltage flexibility but sacrifices extended temperature capability, while the AT24C16C-PU removes hardware write protection-making 24LC16B-E/P the preferred choice for safety-critical or thermally demanding applications requiring guaranteed write lock.

Availability

24LC16B-E/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, automotive body control modules, medical infusion pumps, and smart energy meters requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long-lifecycle programs.

Supply support for 24LC16B-E/P 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 devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24LC16B belongs to Microchip's legacy serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained embedded systems requiring reliable nonvolatile storage with minimal external components and robust I²C interoperability.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24LC16B-E/P?

The 24LC16B-E/P 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 at 100 kHz is not required or guaranteed below 2.5V since the 24LC16B-E/P has a minimum VCC of 2.5V.

Does the 24LC16B-E/P require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24LC16B-E/P requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. The datasheet recommends 10 kΩ for 100 kHz, 2 kΩ for 400 kHz, and 1 kΩ for 1 MHz operation-though 2 kΩ is typical for reliable 400 kHz performance with standard bus capacitance.

How does the WP pin function on the 24LC16B-E/P?

The WP (Write-Protect) pin on the 24LC16B-E/P is a hardware enable/disable control: when tied to VCC, all write operations to the entire memory array (000h–7FFh) are inhibited while reads remain fully functional; when tied to VSS, full read/write access is enabled. This behavior is documented in Section 2.4 and Figure 6-3 of the datasheet.

Is the 24LC16B-E/P qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, the 24LC16B-E/P is AEC-Q100 qualified and rated for extended temperature operation from –40°C to +125°C, making it suitable for automotive body control modules, infotainment subsystems, and other under-hood or cabin applications where thermal robustness and qualification compliance are mandatory.

What is the page write buffer size of the 24LC16B-E/P?

The 24LC16B-E/P features a 16-byte page write buffer, allowing up to 16 contiguous bytes to be loaded into the on-chip latch before initiating a self-timed write cycle. This is explicitly stated in the Features list and confirmed in Section 6.2 (Page Write) and Figure 6-2 of the datasheet.