Microchip Technology 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO

Overview

24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO from Microchip Technology is an AEC-Q100 Grade 0 automotive-qualified 16-Kbit I²C serial EEPROM in 5-lead SOT-23 package, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V with 400 kHz clock support, 16-byte page write buffer, and hardware write-protection via WP pin - deployed in engine control units for calibration storage.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO datasheet, 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO pinout, 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO application, or 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO equivalent, key selection criteria include high-temp endurance (–40°C to +150°C), I²C bus noise immunity (Schmitt-trigger inputs, 50 ns spike suppression), page write timing (≤5 ms), and automotive traceability (16KVAO variant).

Technical Context

The 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO implements a two-wire I²C interface with fixed 7-bit client address prefix '1010' and 3-bit block-select bits (B2–B0), enabling access to eight 256-word memory blocks. It uses open-drain SDA/SCL with external pull-ups and supports Start/Stop condition generation only during SCL low.

Internally, it features a 16-byte page write buffer, self-timed erase/write cycles, and an Address Pointer that auto-increments on sequential reads. Write protection is enforced by tying WP to VCC, disabling all write operations while permitting full read access across the 000–7FF address space.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

5-lead SOT-23 package (Microchip designation OT), 2.9 mm × 1.6 mm footprint, 1.1 mm max height, gull-wing leads. Pin 1 = WP, Pin 2 = V_CC, Pin 3 = SDA, Pin 4 = V_SS, Pin 5 = SCL - no internal connection to A0/A1/A2 (not present in SOT-23 variant).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar I²C EEPROM applications.

Compared with AT24C16D-SSHM-T and ST24C16-WDT6-TR, the 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO uniquely delivers Grade 0 qualification, hardware WP, and verified 200-year data retention at +150°C - making it the only option for powertrain ECU calibration storage requiring zero runtime write capability after commissioning.

Availability

24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, transmission control modules, exhaust aftertreatment systems, and brake control modules requiring stable component supply across automotive production lifecycles.

Supply support for 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO 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 devices, and memory solutions, with global design centers and wafer fabs.

The 24LC16B product line delivers automotive-grade serial EEPROMs optimized for calibration, configuration, and diagnostic data storage in harsh-temperature environments - designed specifically for AEC-Q100-compliant powertrain and chassis systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO?

The 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO supports up to 400 kHz clock frequency across its full operating temperature range (–40°C to +150°C). This is specified in Table 1-2 of the DS20006054B datasheet under parameter FCLK. The device does not support fast-mode plus (1 MHz) operation, and exceeding 400 kHz may result in timing violations or failed ACK responses during read/write sequences.

Does the 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because these pins are open-drain. For 400 kHz operation, a 2 kΩ pull-up to V_CC is recommended per the datasheet (Section 2.2). Using higher resistance values may cause rise time violations (>300 ns), leading to communication failures in noisy automotive environments.

How does hardware write-protection work on the 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO?

Hardware write-protection on the 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO is controlled by the WP pin: when tied to V_CC, all write operations (byte and page) are inhibited while read operations remain fully functional. This is a physical gate-level disable - no firmware or I²C command can override it. The 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO implements this feature with zero latency and no current draw penalty.

Is the 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO pin-compatible with other 24LC16B variants in SOIC packages?

No - the 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO uses a 5-lead SOT-23 package (OT), whereas SOIC variants (e.g., 24LC16BT-H/SN) use an 8-lead SOIC (SN) package. Pin count, layout, and thermal characteristics differ significantly. While electrical functionality and I²C protocol are identical, PCB redesign is required to substitute between OT and SN packages.

What is the purpose of the "16KVAO" suffix in the 24LC16BT-H/OT16KVAO part number?

The "16KVAO" suffix identifies the automotive-specific variant qualified to AEC-Q100 Grade 0 (–40°C to +150°C) with full PPAP documentation support. It denotes Microchip's 16K process node, automotive test flow, and traceability coding - distinguishing it from commercial-grade 24LC16B parts. This suffix is mandatory for OEM automotive sourcing and appears only on tape-and-reel packaging labels.