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Microchip Technology 24LC256-I/MF
- Part No.:
- 24LC256-I/MF
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-VDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
24LC256-I/MF.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT I2C 8DFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:148
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Product details
Overview
24LC256-I/MF from Microchip Technology is a 256-Kbit (32K × 8) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM with hardware write-protection, 64-byte page write buffer, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It operates from 2.5V to 5.5V, supports up to 400 kHz clock frequency, and delivers ≤1 µA standby current - ideal for battery-backed data logging in embedded control systems.
For engineers reviewing the 24LC256-I/MF datasheet, 24LC256-I/MF pinout, 24LC256-I/MF application, or 24LC256-I/MF equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC min/max compliance, WP pin behavior, I²C timing at 400 kHz, and package-specific address pin availability (A0/A1 unconnected in MSOP).
Technical Context
The 24LC256-I/MF implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. Its internal address counter enables sequential reads across the full 0000h–7FFFh memory space, while cascading up to eight devices on one bus is supported via A0/A1/A2 chip-select bits.
Write operations are self-timed and include byte-write and 64-byte page-write modes, with hardware write-protection activated when WP = VCC. Acknowledge polling is used to detect write-cycle completion, and the device features >1 million erase/write cycles with >200 years of data retention.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8), organized as 32K words of 8-bit data - supports firmware parameter storage and calibration tables. |
| VCC operating range | 2.5V to 5.5V - compatible with 3.3V and 5V logic systems; not functional below 2.5V. |
| Max I²C clock frequency | 400 kHz - defines maximum sustained data throughput (~40 KB/s theoretical, limited by page write time). |
| Page write buffer | 64 bytes - enables efficient bulk writes without host-side buffering; crossing page boundaries causes wraparound. |
| Write endurance | 1,000,000 cycles - ensures long-term reliability in high-frequency logging applications (e.g., sensor sampling every 100 ms for >1 year). |
| Data retention | >200 years at +25°C - guarantees nonvolatile storage integrity over product lifetime without refresh. |
| Standby current | 1 µA max (I-temp.) - critical for ultra-low-power battery operation in portable or remote devices. |
Pinout & Package
The 24LC256-I/MF is supplied in an 8-lead MSOP package (3.0 mm × 3.0 mm, 0.65 mm pitch). Pins A0 and A1 are not connected; only A2, SDA, SCL, WP, VCC, and VSS are functional. The exposed pad is not electrically connected and may be left floating or grounded for thermal relief.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A2 | Chip select input | Third address bit for multi-device bus configuration; must be hard-wired to VSS or VCC - only two 24LC256-I/MF devices can share one I²C bus. |
| SDA | Serial data I/O | Open-drain bidirectional line requiring external pull-up (2 kΩ typical for 400 kHz); carries address, command, and data. |
| SCL | Serial clock input | Master-generated clock synchronizing all I²C transfers; rising edge samples data, falling edge allows data change. |
| WP | Hardware write-protect | Active-high protection: tied to VCC disables all writes (reads unaffected); sampled at Stop condition, not level-sensitive during cycle. |
| VCC | Power supply | 2.5V–5.5V input; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF) required near pin for noise immunity during write cycles. |
| VSS | Ground reference | Return path for all internal circuitry; must be low-impedance connection to system ground plane. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Schmitt-trigger inputs | Input hysteresis ≥0.05×VCC on SDA/SCL - rejects noise spikes up to 50 ns, eliminating need for external filtering in noisy industrial environments. |
| Output slope control | Controlled rise/fall times prevent ground bounce during fast transitions - avoids false Start/Stop detection in mixed-signal PCB layouts. |
| Page write capability | 64-byte buffer allows single-command bulk writes - reduces I²C transaction overhead by ~94% vs. byte-wise writes for 64-byte blocks. |
| Hardware write-protect | WP pin directly gates internal write logic - provides tamper-resistant configuration lock without software intervention or fuse programming. |
| Extended temperature support | Rated –40°C to +85°C (Industrial grade) - validated for operation in automotive under-hood, industrial PLC, and outdoor metering applications. |
Applications
| Smart Energy Metering | Industrial PLC Configuration Storage |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing tariff schedules, billing counters, and firmware update flags in electricity/water/gas meters deployed outdoors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile parameter register holding calibrated constants and usage history across power cycles. Use Value: 200-year data retention and 1 µA standby current enable decade-long field deployment without battery replacement or data loss. | Use Scenario: Saving ladder logic configuration, I/O mapping, and alarm thresholds in programmable logic controllers operating in factory environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: System-level configuration EEPROM interfaced via isolated I²C bus to main controller MCU. Use Value: Hardware WP pin prevents accidental firmware corruption during hot-plug I/O module insertion or ESD events on control backplanes. |
| Medical Device Calibration Data | Automotive Body Control Module |
Use Scenario: Retaining sensor calibration coefficients, patient usage logs, and regulatory audit trails in portable diagnostic equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, write-protected memory for FDA-required traceability data with deterministic write timing. Use Value: 1M-cycle endurance supports daily recalibration over 10+ years; page-write mode accelerates coefficient updates during service mode. | Use Scenario: Storing seat position presets, mirror angles, and lighting profiles in automotive body control units (BCUs). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: I²C slave storing user preferences with AEC-Q100-aligned reliability (though 24LC256-I/MF itself is Industrial-grade, not Automotive-qualified). Use Value: Cascadable address scheme (A2 only) allows dual EEPROMs for redundancy or separate function partitioning within same BCU PCB footprint. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24AA256-I/MF | Lower VCC min (1.7V), same 400 kHz max, identical MSOP package and pinout. | Supports 1.7V–5.5V systems (e.g., coin-cell-powered sensors); otherwise functionally interchangeable. | Select when operating below 2.5V is required; verify WP behavior and timing specs match at lower VCC. |
| AT24C256-MAHM-T | Same 256-Kbit capacity, 1.8V–5.5V range, 400 kHz, but uses different ACK polling and write-cycle timing. | Microchip and Atmel/Dialog have divergent I²C protocol edge cases; requires validation of timeout handling and error recovery. | Use only after full I²C stack revalidation; not drop-in due to subtle timing and ACK behavior differences. |
Compared with 24LC256-I/MF, the 24AA256-I/MF extends voltage range downward for ultra-low-power use, while the AT24C256-MAHM-T introduces vendor-specific timing dependencies that demand full protocol requalification - neither offers pin-to-pin or functional equivalence without design review.
Availability
24LC256-I/MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, industrial PLCs, medical diagnostics, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-life data retention, and industrial-temperature reliability.
Supply support for 24LC256-I/MF 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, with a focus on embedded control and connectivity.
The 24LC256 belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed for reliable, low-power nonvolatile storage in cost-sensitive industrial and consumer applications where I²C interface simplicity and proven endurance are critical.
FAQ
What is the minimum VCC voltage required for reliable operation of the 24LC256-I/MF?
The 24LC256-I/MF requires a minimum VCC of 2.5V for guaranteed operation across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). Operation below 2.5V is not specified and may result in failed writes, incorrect ACK responses, or unpredictable timing - unlike the 24AA256 variant, which supports down to 1.7V. Always verify VCC stability during I²C transactions using a scope.
Does the 24LC256-I/MF support multi-device addressing on the same I²C bus?
Yes, but with limitation: the 24LC256-I/MF in MSOP package (denoted by /MF) has A0 and A1 pins unconnected, leaving only A2 as a configurable chip-select bit. This allows exactly two devices per bus (A2 = 0 or 1), not eight. Full 3-bit addressing (A2/A1/A0) is available only in SOIC, PDIP, DFN, and TSSOP packages - not in /MF.
How does hardware write-protection work on the 24LC256-I/MF?
When the WP pin of the 24LC256-I/MF is tied to VCC, all write operations (byte and page) are inhibited - the device acknowledges the write command but performs no memory update. Read operations remain fully functional. WP is sampled only at the Stop condition of each write command; toggling WP mid-cycle has no effect. This provides robust, latch-free protection against firmware glitches or noise-induced writes.
What is the maximum page write time for the 24LC256-I/MF, and how should it be handled in firmware?
The maximum page write time for the 24LC256-I/MF is 5 ms. Firmware must either wait this fixed duration after issuing a Stop condition or implement acknowledge polling: repeatedly send a Start + control byte (R/W = 0) until the device responds with ACK. Polling is preferred for real-time systems, as actual write time varies with temperature and VCC; waiting 5 ms unconditionally wastes bus bandwidth.
Can the 24LC256-I/MF be used in automotive applications requiring AEC-Q100 qualification?
No - the 24LC256-I/MF is rated for Industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and is not AEC-Q100 qualified. While some automotive body control modules use it in non-safety-critical roles, Microchip explicitly lists AEC-Q100 qualification only for the 24LC256-EMF (E-temp, Automotive grade) variant. For production automotive use, the -EMF or pin-compatible 24AA256-EMF must be selected and validated per vehicle OEM requirements.
24LC256-I/MF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-VDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 256Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 32K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- I2C
- Clock Frequency:
- 400 kHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 5ms
- Access Time:
- 900 ns
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-DFN-S (6x5)
24LC256-I/MF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 24LC256-I/MF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 24LC256-I/MF on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 24LC256-I/MF reliable?
The price and inventory of 24LC256-I/MF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 24LC256-I/MF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 24LC256-I/MF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 24LC256-I/MF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 24LC256-I/MF?
24LC256-I/MF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 24LC256-I/MF order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 24LC256-I/MF?
For technical support, including 24LC256-I/MF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 24LC256-I/MF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 24LC256-I/MF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 24LC256-I/MF products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 24LC256-I/MF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 24LC256-I/MF?
All 24LC256-I/MF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 24LC256-I/MF, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 24LC256-I/MF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 24LC256-I/MF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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