Microchip Technology 24LC16BH-E/MS

Overview

24LC16BH-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-protect for half-array (400h–7FFh). 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 24LC16BH-E/MS datasheet, 24LC16BH-E/MS pinout, 24LC16BH-E/MS application, or 24LC16BH-E/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range compatibility (2.5V–5.5V), half-array write-protection via WP pin, 16-byte page buffer capability, I²C timing compliance at 400 kHz, and MSOP packaging for space-constrained embedded systems.

Technical Context

The 24LC16BH-E/MS 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 auto-increments during sequential reads and page writes, supporting current address, random, and sequential read modes.

It implements Schmitt-trigger inputs and output slope control to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. Write protection is controlled solely by the WP pin state: tied to VSS enables full-array write, while tied to VCC protects addresses 400h–7FFh - no A0/A1/A2 pins are connected internally.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-Lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package) with exposed pad optional for thermal relief or grounding; body dimensions 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm × 1.0 mm (L × W × H), pitch 0.5 mm.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA16H-E/MS, the 24LC16BH-E/MS trades low-voltage operation for guaranteed 400 kHz performance across its full 2.5V–5.5V range and extended temperature qualification; versus 24LC16B-I/MS, it adds +125°C capability essential for automotive and harsh-environment deployments.

Availability

24LC16BH-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, industrial PLC configuration storage, medical infusion pump calibration, and smart energy meter firmware logs requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for 24LC16BH-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 24LC16BH belongs to Microchip's 24XX16H family of I²C serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-power nonvolatile data storage in automotive, industrial, and medical systems requiring extended temperature operation and hardware write protection.

FAQ

What is the minimum VCC voltage required for reliable operation of the 24LC16BH-E/MS?

The 24LC16BH-E/MS requires a minimum VCC of 2.5V for guaranteed operation across its full temperature range and I²C timing specifications. Unlike the 24AA16H variant, it is not characterized below 2.5V - attempting operation at 1.8V or 2.2V may result in failed writes, invalid ACK responses, or unpredictable timing behavior. Always maintain VCC ≥2.5V in designs using 24LC16BH-E/MS.

How does the WP pin function on the 24LC16BH-E/MS, and what memory regions does it protect?

On the 24LC16BH-E/MS, the WP pin is a dedicated hardware write-protect input: when tied to VCC, writes to memory addresses 400h–7FFh (upper half of the 2048-byte array) are inhibited, while reads remain fully functional; when tied to VSS, full-array write access is enabled. Addresses 000h–3FFh remain writable regardless of WP state. This behavior is implemented entirely in silicon and requires no software configuration. The 24LC16BH-E/MS does not use A0/A1/A2 pins.

Can the 24LC16BH-E/MS perform page writes across physical page boundaries?

No, the 24LC16BH-E/MS cannot perform page writes across physical page boundaries. Its 16-byte page buffer wraps around within the same 16-byte-aligned page (e.g., writing 20 bytes starting at address 00Fh will overwrite bytes 00Fh–012h, then wrap to 000h–002h). Crossing a boundary (e.g., starting at 00Fh and writing 16 bytes) causes unintended overwrite of earlier data in the page. Application firmware must enforce page-aligned start addresses and limit writes to ≤16 bytes per transaction to avoid corruption. This constraint applies identically to all 24XX16H family members including the 24LC16BH-E/MS.

Is the 24LC16BH-E/MS pin-compatible with other packages in the 24XX16H family, such as SOIC or TSSOP?

Yes, the 24LC16BH-E/MS in 8-lead MSOP shares identical pin numbering, pin functions, and electrical characteristics with the 24LC16BH in 8-lead SOIC (SN), TSSOP (ST), PDIP (P), and TDFN (MNY) packages. All variants use the same VSS–SDA–SCL–WP–VCC pinout sequence on leads 1–5 (with A0/A1/A2 unconnected). Layout migration between MSOP and SOIC/TSSOP is feasible with footprint adaptation, though thermal and mechanical mounting differ. The 24LC16BH-E/MS remains electrically and functionally identical across these packages.

Does the 24LC16BH-E/MS support 1 MHz I²C communication?

No, the 24LC16BH-E/MS is rated for a maximum clock frequency of 400 kHz under all valid operating conditions (2.5V–5.5V, –40°C to +125°C). It does not support 1 MHz operation - that capability is exclusive to the 24FC16H variant in the same family. Attempting 1 MHz clocking on the 24LC16BH-E/MS will violate AC timing parameters (e.g., THIGH, TLOW, TR), resulting in missed ACKs, bus lockups, or incomplete writes. For 1 MHz designs, select 24FC16H-E/SN or equivalent, not 24LC16BH-E/MS.