Microchip Technology 24LC16BHT-E/MS

Overview

24LC16BHT-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 the upper half-array (400h–7FFh). It is used in embedded systems for storing calibration data, configuration parameters, and firmware boot flags.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC16BHT-E/MS datasheet, 24LC16BHT-E/MS pinout, 24LC16BHT-E/MS application, or 24LC16BHT-E/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include its extended temperature range (–40°C to +125°C), MSOP-8 package footprint, half-array write-protection logic, and compatibility with standard I²C bus timing at 400 kHz under 2.5V–5.5V supply.

Technical Context

The 24LC16BHT-E/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 8-bit address pointer, 16-byte page write buffer, and HV generator for EEPROM programming.

It supports byte and page write operations, current/random/sequential read modes, and acknowledge polling to detect write completion. The WP pin enables hardware-level protection of addresses 400h–7FFh when tied to VCC, while A0–A2 pins are unconnected and may be left floating.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-Lead MSOP package (3.0 mm × 3.0 mm × 1.0 mm body height) with exposed pad optional for thermal relief or grounding. Pin 1 marked by 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-E/MS and AT24C16C-MAHM-T, the 24LC16BHT-E/MS delivers deterministic 400 kHz performance across its full 2.5V–5.5V range and a dedicated hardware write-protect pin-making it optimal for industrial and automotive designs requiring guaranteed timing and physical-layer security without firmware dependency.

Availability

24LC16BHT-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, automotive body control modules, medical diagnostic device settings, and smart energy meter firmware bootloader applications requiring stable component supply and extended temperature reliability.

Supply support for 24LC16BHT-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, FPGA, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24LC16BHT-E/MS belongs to Microchip's 24XX16H family of I²C EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-power nonvolatile data storage in space-constrained, thermally demanding embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24LC16BHT-E/MS?

The 24LC16BHT-E/MS supports up to 400 kHz I²C clock frequency when operated within its specified VCC range of 2.5V to 5.5V. This is confirmed in the Device Selection Table and AC Characteristics section of DS20002118B. At voltages below 2.5V, the device is not rated - unlike the 24AA16H variant, which supports 100 kHz down to 1.7V. The 24LC16BHT-E/MS does not support 1 MHz operation.

How does the hardware write-protect feature work on the 24LC16BHT-E/MS?

When the WP pin of the 24LC16BHT-E/MS is tied to VCC, write operations to memory addresses 400h–7FFh (upper 8 Kbit) are inhibited; reads remain fully functional. Tying WP to VSS enables full-array read/write access. This hardware-level protection is active immediately on power-up and requires no firmware initialization - a key differentiator from software-lock EEPROMs like the AT24C16C.

Is the 24LC16BHT-E/MS pin-compatible with other packages in the 24XX16H family?

Yes - the 24LC16BHT-E/MS uses the standard 8-pin MSOP footprint defined in Microchip Drawing C04-057-MS, matching pin functions (VSS, WP, SCL, SDA, VCC, and NC for A0–A2) across all 8-lead variants including SOIC, TSSOP, and PDIP. However, physical dimensions and thermal characteristics differ; board layout must match the MSOP-8 mechanical outline and land pattern.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24LC16BHT-E/MS?

The 24LC16BHT-E/MS is rated for 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and 200 years of data retention at 25°C, as specified in Table 1-2 (Endurance) and Section 1.0 of DS20002118B. These values are characterized and ensured by Microchip's Total Endurance™ model - not just typical estimates - making it suitable for applications requiring decades of field reliability without data refresh.

Does the 24LC16BHT-E/MS require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes - the 24LC16BHT-E/MS has open-drain SDA and SCL pins and requires external pull-up resistors to VCC. Microchip recommends 2 kΩ for 400 kHz operation (as stated in Section 2.2), 10 kΩ for 100 kHz, and proportionally lower values for higher bus capacitance. No internal pull-ups are present; omission will result in bus failure.