Microchip Technology 24LC16BH-I/MS

Overview

24LC16BH-I/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 serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in embedded controllers, sensor nodes, and power management ICs.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC16BH-I/MS datasheet, 24LC16BH-I/MS pinout, 24LC16BH-I/MS application, or 24LC16BH-I/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include its industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), MSOP-8 package footprint, I²C bus timing compliance at 400 kHz, and half-array write-protection logic tied to the WP pin.

Technical Context

The 24LC16BH-I/MS 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 16-byte page write buffer, self-timed erase/write cycle, and address pointer that auto-increments during sequential reads.

It supports three read modes-current address, random, and sequential-and uses acknowledge polling to detect write completion. The WP pin enables selective protection of memory addresses 400h–7FFh when pulled high, while A0–A2 pins are unconnected and may be left floating or tied to VSS/VCC.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC16BH-I/MS is supplied in an 8-lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm pitch, 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm body, and exposed pad optionally connected to VSS. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; pin numbering follows standard MSOP convention (counterclockwise from top-left).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA16HT-I/MS, the 24LC16BH-I/MS trades 1.7V operation for stricter voltage regulation assurance, while versus AT24C16D-MAHM-T it prioritizes endurance and industrial temperature stability over raw speed-making it optimal for mission-critical configuration storage where reliability outweighs marginal timing gains.

Availability

24LC16BH-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, embedded controller configuration, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended lifecycle programs.

Supply support for 24LC16BH-I/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, engineered for robust nonvolatile data storage in space-constrained, noise-prone embedded systems where write endurance, data retention, and hardware-level security (via WP) are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24LC16BH-I/MS?

The 24LC16BH-I/MS supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 400 kHz across its full 2.5V–5.5V V_CC range. It is not rated for 1 MHz operation-that specification applies only to the 24FC16H variant. At V_CC < 2.5V, the device is not operational; therefore, no 100 kHz fallback mode applies to the 24LC16BH-I/MS.

How does the WP pin function on the 24LC16BH-I/MS?

On the 24LC16BH-I/MS, the WP pin provides hardware-level write protection. When tied to VCC, writes to memory addresses 400h–7FFh (upper half-array) are inhibited while reads remain fully functional. When tied to VSS, full read/write access to the entire 16 Kbit array is enabled. The pin has no effect on addresses 000h–3FFh.

Is the 24LC16BH-I/MS qualified for automotive applications?

Yes-the 24LC16BH-I/MS is AEC-Q100 qualified and rated for industrial temperature (–40°C to +85°C), making it suitable for automotive body electronics, infotainment subsystems, and powertrain auxiliary modules where extended temperature operation and reliability are required.

What package type is used for the 24LC16BH-I/MS?

The 24LC16BH-I/MS uses an 8-lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm lead pitch, 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm body dimensions, and an exposed pad that may be connected to VSS or left floating. This compact footprint supports high-density PCB layouts in space-constrained designs.

Can the A0, A1, and A2 pins on the 24LC16BH-I/MS be used for device addressing?

No-the A0, A1, and A2 pins on the 24LC16BH-I/MS are not internally connected and serve no addressing function. They may be left floating or tied to VSS or VCC without affecting device operation. Device addressing is fixed via the 4-bit control code '1010' and 3-bit block-select bits in the I²C control byte.