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Microchip Technology 24LC256T-I/MS
- Part No.:
- 24LC256T-I/MS
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
24LC256T-I/MS.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT I2C 8MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:62,880
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Product details
Overview
24LC256T-I/MS from Microchip Technology is a 256-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM in an 8-lead MSOP package, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V with 400 kHz max clock frequency and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It features 64-byte page write buffer, hardware write-protection via WP pin, and >1 million erase/write cycles. Used for parameter storage in embedded controllers, sensor calibration data retention, and configuration memory in industrial PLC modules.
For engineers reviewing the 24LC256T-I/MS datasheet, 24LC256T-I/MS pinout, 24LC256T-I/MS application, or 24LC256T-I/MS equivalent, key selection considerations include VCC voltage compatibility (2.5V min), I²C timing constraints at 400 kHz, MSOP package footprint and thermal profile, and hardware write-protect implementation using the WP pin.
Technical Context
The 24LC256T-I/MS 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 pointer supports sequential, random, and current-address read modes across the full 32K × 8 memory array.
Write operations are self-timed with maximum 5 ms byte/page cycle duration; acknowledge polling is supported to detect completion. The device uses a 64-byte page latch and enforces physical page boundaries-cross-boundary writes wrap within the current page, requiring software-level boundary management.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit (32K × 8) - provides sufficient nonvolatile storage for firmware configuration, calibration coefficients, or event logs in space-constrained designs. |
| VCC Range | 2.5V to 5.5V - compatible with standard 3.3V and 5V logic domains; not operable below 2.5V unlike 24AA256/24FC256 variants. |
| Max Clock Frequency | 400 kHz - defines maximum I²C bus throughput; requires SCL low/high times ≥600 ns at VCC ≥2.5V per AC specs. |
| Page Write Buffer | 64 bytes - enables efficient bulk writes; exceeding this triggers wraparound within the same physical page (addresses 0x0000–0x003F, etc.). |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 write cycles - ensures long-term reliability for frequently updated fields like runtime counters or status flags. |
| Data Retention | 200 years - guarantees data integrity over product lifetime without refresh, critical for unattended or maintenance-free systems. |
| Write-Protect | Hardware-enabled via WP pin - tied to VCC disables all writes while permitting reads; eliminates need for software lock mechanisms. |
Pinout & Package
8-lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm lead pitch and exposed pad option; pins A0 and A1 are not connected per datasheet Note on page 7.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A2 | Chip Address Input | Configures one of eight possible I²C client addresses (A2/A1/A0); for MSOP, only A2 is functional - limits bus scalability to two devices. |
| VSS | Ground Reference | Primary return path for all internal circuitry; must be low-impedance connection to system ground plane. |
| SDA | Serial Data I/O | Open-drain bidirectional bus line; requires external pull-up resistor (2 kΩ typical for 400 kHz operation). |
| SCL | Serial Clock Input | Master-generated clock synchronizing all I²C transfers; edge-sensitive timing requires strict adherence to THIGH/TLOW specs. |
| WP | Write-Protect Control | Active-high enable: tied to VCC blocks all write commands but allows unlimited reads; sampled at Stop condition. |
| VCC | Power Supply | Single 2.5–5.5V supply; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF ceramic) required near pin for noise suppression during write cycles. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Schmitt-trigger inputs | Input hysteresis ≥0.05×VCC on SDA/SCL - rejects fast transients and improves noise margin in electrically noisy industrial environments. |
| Output slope control | Controlled rise/fall times eliminate ground bounce during switching - prevents false logic transitions in shared power domains. |
| Page write capability | 64-byte buffer reduces I²C transaction overhead by up to 64× vs. byte-write mode - accelerates firmware update or log flush operations. |
| Hardware write protection | WP pin directly gates internal write logic - provides fail-safe, zero-software-dependency protection against accidental or malicious corruption. |
| I²C bus cascading | Supports up to eight devices on one bus (two for MSOP) via A2/A1/A0 addressing - simplifies multi-sensor or modular system architecture. |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Node | Medical Device Calibration |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Storing temperature-compensated offset/gain coefficients for analog front-end sensors in field-deployed environmental monitors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory accessed during power-up initialization; I²C read occurs once per boot before ADC sampling begins. Use Value: Enables field recalibration without firmware reflash; 200-year data retention ensures accuracy across product lifetime without battery-backed SRAM. |
Use Scenario: Holding factory-trimmed calibration constants for ECG amplifier gain stages and ADC reference offsets in portable diagnostic equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant storage for regulatory-critical parameters; WP pin hardwired to VCC after calibration to prevent runtime modification. Use Value: Meets IEC 62304 traceability requirements; hardware write-lock eliminates risk of software-induced calibration drift during clinical use. |
| PLC Configuration Module | Smart Energy Meter Firmware Settings |
|
Use Scenario: Persisting user-defined I/O mapping, scan rates, and alarm thresholds in programmable logic controller backplane modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Runtime-configurable parameter store; accessed via I²C during configuration download or hot-swap module insertion. Use Value: Supports field-upgradable logic configurations without PCB redesign; 1M-cycle endurance accommodates frequent commissioning updates. |
Use Scenario: Storing tariff schedules, metering constants, and communication protocol settings in ANSI C12.22-compliant smart electricity meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, low-power nonvolatile memory for utility-controlled parameters; accessed during meter wake-up or firmware OTA update handshake. Use Value: 2.5V minimum VCC allows direct connection to meter's 3.3V rail; hardware WP prevents unauthorized tariff manipulation via compromised host MCU. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24AA256T-I/MS | Wider VCC range (1.7–5.5V); supports 100 kHz at VCC < 2.5V; identical MSOP package and pinout. | Enables single-supply operation in 1.8V microcontroller systems where 24LC256T-I/MS cannot function. | Select when interfacing with sub-2.5V hosts or mixed-voltage boards requiring backward compatibility with legacy 1.8V logic. |
| AT24C256-MSH-T | Same 256-Kbit capacity and MSOP-8 package; operates at 1.7–5.5V; supports 400 kHz I²C; no A0/A1 pins in MSOP variant. | Pinout matches 24LC256T-I/MS except A0/A1 are NC (same as Microchip MSOP); identical WP/SDA/SCL/VCC/VSS layout. | Drop-in alternative with identical footprint and electrical behavior; suitable for dual-sourcing or lifecycle risk mitigation. |
Compared with 24LC256T-I/MS, the 24AA256T-I/MS extends voltage flexibility for low-power hosts, while the AT24C256-MSH-T offers second-source availability with identical mechanical and functional integration-both require no PCB changes but differ in qualification scope and long-term supply assurance.
Availability
24LC256T-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, medical calibration modules, PLC configuration storage, and smart energy meter firmware settings requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for 24LC256T-I/MS 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, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 24LC256T-I/MS belongs to Microchip's 24XX256 family of I²C serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-power nonvolatile data storage in industrial, automotive, and medical applications demanding high endurance and long-term data integrity.
FAQ
What is the minimum operating voltage for the 24LC256T-I/MS?
The 24LC256T-I/MS requires a minimum VCC of 2.5V, as specified in the Device Selection Table on page 1 of DS20001203Y. Unlike the 24AA256 or 24FC256 variants, it is not rated for operation below 2.5V - attempting to power the 24LC256T-I/MS at 1.8V will result in undefined behavior or failure to respond on the I²C bus.
Does the 24LC256T-I/MS support 1 MHz I²C operation?
No, the 24LC256T-I/MS supports a maximum clock frequency of 400 kHz across its full 2.5V–5.5V VCC range. The 1 MHz capability is exclusive to the 24FC256 variant; using 1 MHz with the 24LC256T-I/MS violates AC timing specifications and may cause communication failures or data corruption.
How many devices can be connected to the same I²C bus using the 24LC256T-I/MS in MSOP package?
Only two 24LC256T-I/MS devices can share the same I²C bus in MSOP package because pins A0 and A1 are not connected - only A2 remains functional for chip addressing. This limits the usable address bits to one (A2), yielding two unique client addresses (0b1010_000 and 0b1010_100) per the control byte format in Figure 5-1.
What happens if a page write crosses a 64-byte boundary on the 24LC256T-I/MS?
If a page write command attempts to cross a 64-byte physical page boundary (e.g., writing from address 0x003E to 0x0042), the 24LC256T-I/MS wraps the excess bytes to the start of the same page (0x0000–0x003F). Data intended for the next page is overwritten at the beginning of the current page - software must enforce boundary alignment to avoid unintended data loss.
Is the 24LC256T-I/MS qualified for automotive applications?
No, the 24LC256T-I/MS carries the "I" temperature grade (–40°C to +85°C) and is not AEC-Q100 qualified. While the broader 24XX256 family includes automotive-grade variants (e.g., 24LC256-E/MS), the "I" suffix in 24LC256T-I/MS explicitly denotes industrial qualification only - it lacks the stress testing and documentation required for automotive use cases.
24LC256T-I/MS Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- 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-MSOP
24LC256T-I/MS FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 24LC256T-I/MS through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 24LC256T-I/MS 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 24LC256T-I/MS reliable?
The price and inventory of 24LC256T-I/MS are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 24LC256T-I/MS is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 24LC256T-I/MS?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 24LC256T-I/MS transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 24LC256T-I/MS?
24LC256T-I/MS orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 24LC256T-I/MS 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 24LC256T-I/MS?
For technical support, including 24LC256T-I/MS datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 24LC256T-I/MS requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 24LC256T-I/MS is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 24LC256T-I/MS 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 24LC256T-I/MS meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 24LC256T-I/MS?
All 24LC256T-I/MS units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 24LC256T-I/MS, 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 24LC256T-I/MS part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 24LC256T-I/MS:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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