Microchip Technology 24LC16B/ST

Overview

24LC16B/ST from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as eight 256 × 8-bit memory blocks, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V with 400 kHz max clock frequency, 5 ms max page write time, and industrial/extended temperature support (–40°C to +125°C). It serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in microcontroller-based systems requiring low-power, noise-immune bus interfacing.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC16B/ST datasheet, 24LC16B/ST pinout, 24LC16B/ST application, or 24LC16B/ST equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, SOIC-8 package details, I²C timing constraints, hardware write-protection behavior, and real-world use cases for embedded firmware storage, sensor calibration data retention, and power-fail-safe parameter logging.

Technical Context

The 24LC16B/ST functions as an I²C slave device with fixed 4-bit control code '1010' and 3-bit block-select addressing, enabling access to eight 256-byte memory blocks. Its internal Address Pointer auto-increments during sequential reads and supports current address, random, and sequential read modes.

It implements Schmitt-trigger inputs and output slope control on SDA/SCL pins to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. Write protection is controlled solely by the WP pin state-tied to VCC for full-array lockout, VSS for normal operation-with no internal A0–A2 connections used.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC16B/ST is supplied in 8-Lead SOIC (SN) package per Microchip drawing C04-057-SN, with standard 150-mil body width, 1.27 mm pitch, and exposed pad not present. Pin 1 is marked via notch or bevel; pin 1 corner is top-left when notch faces up.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC16B/ST, the 24AA16-I/P enables sub-2.5V operation at reduced speed, while AT24C16C-SSHM-T offers lower standby current but no automotive qualification-making 24LC16B/ST the sole choice for extended-temp, AEC-Q100-compliant deployments requiring guaranteed 400 kHz performance above 2.5V.

Availability

24LC16B/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, automotive body control modules, medical infusion pumps, and smart energy meters requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24LC16B/ST 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 U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog, and memory products, with global design centers and ISO 9001-certified manufacturing.

The 24LC16B belongs to Microchip's legacy 24XX16 EEPROM family, engineered for robust I²C-based nonvolatile storage in space-constrained, noise-prone embedded systems where reliability and qualification matter more than raw speed.

FAQ

What is the minimum V_CC required for reliable operation of the 24LC16B/ST?

The 24LC16B/ST requires a minimum V_CC of 2.5V for guaranteed operation across its full temperature range (–40°C to +125°C). Unlike the 24AA16, it does not support 1.7V–2.49V operation. Below 2.5V, the device may fail to respond to I²C commands or exhibit unpredictable write behavior. Always verify supply rail stability during startup and brownout conditions when deploying 24LC16B/ST in systems with variable input voltage.

Does the 24LC16B/ST support multi-master I²C bus configurations?

Yes, the 24LC16B/ST fully supports multi-master I²C buses as a slave-only device. It adheres to standard I²C arbitration rules and generates ACK/NACK responses per protocol. However, it does not implement clock stretching or bus contention recovery-those responsibilities reside with the master controller. The 24LC16B/ST will correctly respond to its assigned slave address (1010xxxR/W) regardless of which master initiates communication, provided bus timing (e.g., THD:STA ≥600 ns) is met.

Can the A0, A1, and A2 pins on the 24LC16B/ST be used to configure the I²C slave address?

No-the A0, A1, and A2 pins on the 24LC16B/ST are not internally connected and serve no function in slave address configuration. The device uses a fixed 4-bit control code '1010' followed by three hardwired block-select bits (B2–B0), resulting in a static 7-bit slave address. These pins may be left floating or tied to VSS/VCC without affecting operation. This differs from higher-density Microchip EEPROMs (e.g., 24LC256) that use A0–A2 for address extension.

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

Hardware write-protection on the 24LC16B/ST is controlled exclusively by the WP pin: when tied to VCC, all write operations (byte, page, and erase) are inhibited while read operations remain fully functional; when tied to VSS, full read/write access is enabled. No software command or internal register controls this feature-it is purely level-sensitive and active immediately upon power-up. This provides deterministic, glitch-immune protection against accidental or malicious firmware overwrites.

Is the 24LC16B/ST pin-compatible with other packages like MSOP or TSSOP?

Yes-the 24LC16B/ST shares identical pinout and signal mapping across all supported 8-lead packages (SOIC, MSOP, TSSOP, PDIP, DFN, etc.), as confirmed in Table 2-1 of DS20001703M. Pin 1 (VSS) through Pin 8 (VCC) maintain consistent function and order. However, mechanical dimensions, thermal characteristics, and soldering profiles differ significantly; PCB layout must match the specific package variant ordered (e.g., /ST = SOIC-8, /MS = MSOP-8).