Microchip Technology 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO

Overview

24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO from Microchip Technology is a 256-Kbit (32K × 8) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM with hardware write-protection, 64-byte page write buffer, and operation across 2.5V–5.5V supply. It supports up to 400 kHz clock frequency, offers >1 million erase/write cycles, and retains data for >200 years. Used in embedded systems for parameter storage, calibration data logging, and configuration backup.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO datasheet, 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO pinout, 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO application, or 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, SOIC-8 package mapping, I²C timing constraints, and real-world use cases aligned to industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and RoHS compliance.

Technical Context

The 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs on SDA/SCL for noise immunity and slope-controlled outputs to suppress ground bounce. Its internal address counter enables sequential reads across the full 0000h–7FFFh memory space, and cascading up to eight devices is supported via A0–A2 address pins.

Write operations are self-timed with a maximum 5 ms byte/page cycle; acknowledge polling is used to detect completion. The WP pin provides hardware-level write protection for the entire 256-Kbit array when tied to VCC, and the device features 1 µA standby current at I-temp, meeting low-power design requirements for battery-backed and energy-conscious applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) with 150 mil body width and standard 1.27 mm pitch. Pin 1 is marked with a beveled corner or dot; the package is RoHS-compliant and lead-free.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT24C256-10PU-2.7 and BR24G256FJ-WE2, the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO provides deterministic hardware write-protection via dedicated WP pin, guaranteed 400 kHz I²C timing at 2.5V, and industrial-grade temperature validation - making it optimal for safety- and reliability-critical embedded systems where firmware simplicity and failure-mode predictability are prioritized.

Availability

24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, automotive body control, industrial PLC expansion, and medical device calibration requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO 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 devices, and memory solutions, serving industrial, automotive, and communications markets with vertically integrated silicon and development tools.

The 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO belongs to Microchip's 24XX256 family of I²C EEPROMs, designed specifically for low-power, high-reliability nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems where deterministic write behavior and long-term data integrity are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO?

The 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO supports up to 400 kHz I²C clock frequency across its full 2.5V–5.5V supply range. At VCC < 2.5V, the maximum clock rate drops to 100 kHz. This specification is confirmed in the AC Characteristics table (Table 1-2) of the official DS20001203Y datasheet and applies directly to the 24LC256 variant, including the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO SOIC-8 package.

Does the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO have hardware write protection?

Yes, the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO includes a dedicated Write-Protect (WP) pin that, when tied to VCC, disables all write operations (byte and page) while allowing unrestricted read access. This hardware-level protection is active regardless of I²C command state and is sampled at the Stop bit of each write command, as documented in Section 6.3 of the DS20001203Y datasheet.

What package type is used for the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO?

The 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO uses an 8-lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package with 150 mil body width and standard 1.27 mm lead pitch. This is confirmed by the "SN" suffix in the part number and the "SOIC" entry under "Available Packages" for 24LC256 in the Device Selection Table on page 1 of DS20001203Y.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO?

The 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO guarantees more than one million erase/write cycles and data retention exceeding 200 years at +85°C. These values are specified in the Features section (page 1) and Table 1-2 (AC Characteristics) of DS20001203Y and apply to the entire 24LC256 family, including the 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO variant.

Can multiple 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO devices share the same I²C bus?

Yes, up to eight 24LC256T-E/SN16KVAO devices can be cascaded on a single I²C bus using the A0, A1, and A2 address pins to configure unique 3-bit device addresses (000–111). Each pin must be hardwired to VSS or VCC; floating connections are not permitted, as stated in Section 2.1 and Figure 5-1 of DS20001203Y.