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Microchip Technology 24LC256-I/SM
- Part No.:
- 24LC256-I/SM
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
24LC256-I/SM.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT I2C 8SOIJ
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:486
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Product details
Overview
24LC256-I/SM from Microchip Technology is a 256-Kbit (32K × 8) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM with hardware write-protection, 64-byte page write buffer, and operation from 2.5V to 5.5V. It supports up to eight devices on one bus via A0–A2 address pins and delivers 400 kHz maximum clock frequency at industrial temperature (−40°C to +85°C). Used in embedded systems for parameter storage, calibration data retention, and firmware configuration.
For engineers reviewing the 24LC256-I/SM datasheet, 24LC256-I/SM pinout, 24LC256-I/SM application, or 24LC256-I/SM equivalent, key selection considerations include VCC range compatibility (2.5–5.5V), I²C timing compliance (400 kHz max), WP-enabled hardware write protection, SOIJ-8 package footprint, and 1 µA standby current for low-power designs.
Technical Context
The 24LC256-I/SM implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. Its internal architecture includes a 64-byte page latch, address pointer, and self-timed erase/write cycle logic that isolates host timing dependencies.
It uses cascaded device addressing via three hardware-configurable chip select pins (A0, A1, A2), enabling up to eight devices on a shared bus - though only two are supported in MSOP and zero in SOT-23 packages. The WP pin provides hardware-level array write inhibition when tied to VCC.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8 bits); supports full 0000h–7FFFh address space with contiguous reads across boundaries |
| VCC range | 2.5V to 5.5V; not operational below 2.5V - distinguishes it from 24AA256 (1.7V min) and 24FC256 (1.7V min, 1 MHz) |
| I²C clock frequency | Up to 400 kHz at VCC ≥ 2.5V; no support for 1 MHz mode - unlike 24FC256 |
| Page write buffer | 64 bytes; enables efficient bulk writes without host intervention during internal programming cycle |
| Write endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles per page; wear leveling must be implemented externally |
| Data retention | Greater than 200 years at +85°C; validated under industrial temperature stress conditions |
| Standby current | 1 µA maximum at 3.6V, I-temp; critical for battery-backed or energy-harvesting applications |
Pinout & Package
24LC256-I/SM is packaged in an 8-lead SOIJ (Small Outline J-bend) package with 5.28 mm body width and standard 1.27 mm pitch. Pin 1 is marked with a notch or dot; leads are matte tin-plated.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A0 | Chip address input | LSB of 3-bit device address; hardwired to VSS or VCC to configure I²C client address (1010xx0) |
| A1 | Chip address input | Middle bit of device address; determines unique I²C address among up to eight devices on same bus |
| A2 | Chip address input | MSB of device address; required for multi-device bus expansion; unconnected in SOT-23 |
| VSS | Ground reference | Return path for all internal circuitry; must be low-impedance connection to system GND plane |
| SDA | Serial data I/O | Open-drain bidirectional bus line; requires external pull-up resistor (2–10 kΩ depending on speed) |
| SCL | Serial clock input | Master-generated clock; rising edge samples data, falling edge allows data change per I²C spec |
| WP | Write-protect control | Active-high enable: tied to VCC disables all writes while permitting unlimited reads |
| VCC | Power supply | Primary power rail; must be stable within 2.5–5.5V; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF) required near pin |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Schmitt-trigger inputs | Input hysteresis ≥0.05×VCC on SDA/SCL - rejects noise spikes <50 ns and improves bus robustness in noisy environments |
| Output slope control | Controlled rise/fall times eliminate ground bounce and EMI during switching - no external series resistors needed |
| Hardware write protection | WP pin directly gates internal write logic - prevents accidental overwrites without software involvement or firmware update |
| Page write capability | 64-byte buffer allows single Stop condition to initiate full-page programming - reduces I²C transaction overhead by >90% vs byte writes |
| ESD protection | Exceeds 4000V HBM - enables safe handling and integration into field-deployable industrial modules without extra protection circuitry |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration | Medical Device Configuration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing factory-calibrated sensor offset/gain coefficients and real-time correction tables in portable gas analyzers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile parameter storage with guaranteed 200-year data retention and hardware write lock during field operation. Use Value: Eliminates recalibration drift over product lifetime; WP pin prevents firmware-induced corruption during power cycling. |
Use Scenario: Holding user-selectable therapy parameters (e.g., infusion rate, alarm thresholds) in battery-powered insulin pumps. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power configuration memory accessed infrequently via I²C; 1 µA standby current extends battery life. Use Value: Enables >5-year shelf life with coin-cell backup; page write minimizes active time during settings save. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | Smart Energy Meter Firmware |
Use Scenario: Retaining seat/mirror position presets and lighting profiles in AEC-Q100-compliant BCMs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Industrial-temp EEPROM interfaced to MCU over 400 kHz I²C bus; withstands −40°C to +85°C ambient. Use Value: Meets automotive qualification requirements; hardware WP ensures safety-critical settings remain immutable during CAN firmware updates. |
Use Scenario: Storing tariff schedules, meter ID, and cryptographic keys in utility-grade smart meters with 15+ year field deployment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, long-life nonvolatile memory with 1M-cycle endurance - supports daily firmware patch logging. Use Value: Data integrity verified across thermal cycling and voltage brownouts; no external error correction required. |
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/SM | Wider VCC range (1.7–5.5V); identical pinout and timing at 400 kHz but supports 100 kHz down to 1.7V | Better suited for ultra-low-voltage systems (e.g., energy harvesting, coin-cell IoT nodes) | Select 24AA256-I/SM if supply can dip below 2.5V; otherwise 24LC256-I/SM offers tighter VCC specification and cost optimization |
| AT24C256-10PU-2.7 | Same 256-Kbit capacity, SOIC-8 package, and 400 kHz I²C; rated for 1.8–5.5V; 1M endurance; no AEC-Q100 qualification | Lacks automotive qualification and has different WP behavior (active-low on some variants) | Use AT24C256-10PU-2.7 only in commercial-grade applications where AEC-Q100 is not required and voltage margin is ≥1.8V |
Compared with 24AA256-I/SM and AT24C256-10PU-2.7, the 24LC256-I/SM provides stricter 2.5V minimum VCC assurance, industrial temperature validation, and seamless drop-in compatibility in existing SOIJ-8 layouts - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, automotive-adjacent, and legacy 5V designs requiring guaranteed write stability.
Availability
24LC256-I/SM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, medical device configuration, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-term data retention, and hardware write protection.
Supply support for 24LC256-I/SM 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, serving industrial, automotive, and consumer markets with vertically integrated silicon and development tools.
The 24LC256 belongs to Microchip's 24XX256 family of I²C serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, multi-device nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems.
FAQ
What is the minimum operating voltage for the 24LC256-I/SM?
The 24LC256-I/SM requires a minimum VCC of 2.5V and operates up to 5.5V. Unlike the 24AA256 variant, it is not specified for operation below 2.5V - attempting to power it at 1.8V will result in undefined behavior or failure to respond on the I²C bus. This threshold is confirmed in the Device Selection Table and Electrical Characteristics section of DS20001203Y.
Does the 24LC256-I/SM support 1 MHz I²C communication?
No, the 24LC256-I/SM does not support 1 MHz I²C. Its maximum clock frequency is 400 kHz at VCC ≥ 2.5V. Only the 24FC256 variant in the same family supports 1 MHz operation. Attempting 1 MHz signaling with the 24LC256-I/SM will violate AC timing parameters including THIGH, TLOW, and TR, causing communication failures.
How many devices can be connected on the same I²C bus using the 24LC256-I/SM?
Up to eight 24LC256-I/SM devices can share one I²C bus using unique combinations of A0, A1, and A2 address pins. Each pin must be hardwired to VSS or VCC to set a 3-bit chip address (1010xx0). The SOIJ-8 package fully supports all three address pins, enabling full 8-device scalability as documented in the Device Addressing section.
What happens when the WP pin is tied to VCC on the 24LC256-I/SM?
When WP is tied to VCC on the 24LC256-I/SM, all write operations (byte and page) to the EEPROM array are inhibited - the device acknowledges write commands but performs no internal programming. Reads remain fully functional. This hardware lock is sampled at the Stop bit of each command and provides immunity against firmware bugs or voltage glitches corrupting stored data.
Is the 24LC256-I/SM AEC-Q100 qualified?
No, the 24LC256-I/SM is not AEC-Q100 qualified. While it is rated for Industrial temperature (−40°C to +85°C), only the 24AA256 and 24FC256 variants in this family carry AEC-Q100 qualification. The 24LC256-I/SM is intended for industrial and commercial applications where automotive-grade reliability certification is not mandated.
24LC256-I/SM Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- 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-SOIJ
24LC256-I/SM FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 24LC256-I/SM through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 24LC256-I/SM 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/SM reliable?
The price and inventory of 24LC256-I/SM 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/SM is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 24LC256-I/SM?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 24LC256-I/SM transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 24LC256-I/SM?
24LC256-I/SM orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 24LC256-I/SM 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/SM?
For technical support, including 24LC256-I/SM datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 24LC256-I/SM requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 24LC256-I/SM is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 24LC256-I/SM 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/SM meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 24LC256-I/SM?
All 24LC256-I/SM units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 24LC256-I/SM, 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/SM part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 24LC256-I/SM:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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