Microchip Technology 24LC32AT/SN

Overview

24LC32AT/SN from Microchip Technology is a 32-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 4K × 8-bit memory, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V with 400 kHz max clock frequency and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It features hardware write-protection via the WP pin, 32-byte page write buffer, and Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity - deployed in embedded system configuration storage, sensor calibration data retention, and power-management parameter backup.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC32AT/SN datasheet, 24LC32AT/SN pinout, 24LC32AT/SN application, or 24LC32AT/SN equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package-confirmed pin functions, real-world use cases, and two validated alternative parts for design flexibility under voltage, timing, and endurance constraints.

Technical Context

The 24LC32AT/SN implements a two-wire I²C interface with fixed 7-bit client address prefix '1010', where A2/A1/A0 pins define device addressing on shared buses - supporting up to eight devices for 256 Kbit aggregate capacity. Its internal address pointer auto-increments during sequential reads and wraps from FFFh to 000h.

Write operations are self-timed: byte writes complete in ≤5 ms; page writes (up to 32 bytes) also require ≤5 ms. During active programming, the device inhibits ACK responses - enabling reliable acknowledge polling to detect write completion without fixed delay loops.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC32AT/SN is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) with 150 mil body width, JEDEC MS-012AC compliant, and 1.27 mm pitch. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot; leads are matte tin-plated.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA32AT/SN and AT24C32D-SSHM-T, the 24LC32AT/SN provides deterministic 400 kHz performance across its full 2.5V–5.5V range and proven AEC-Q100 qualification - making it optimal for industrial and automotive applications where timing stability and qualification evidence outweigh raw speed or ultra-low-voltage support.

Availability

24LC32AT/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC configuration storage, medical device calibration data retention, and automotive body control module applications requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and AEC-Q100 compliance.

Supply support for 24LC32AT/SN 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 microcontroller, analog, FPGA, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24LC32A family is designed for robust, low-power nonvolatile data storage in embedded systems - emphasizing I²C interoperability, extended temperature operation, and high endurance for mission-critical configuration and calibration tasks.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 24LC32AT/SN?

The 24LC32AT/SN supports up to 400 kHz I²C clock frequency when VCC is between 2.5V and 5.5V. This is confirmed in the Device Selection Table and AC Characteristics section of the DS20001713P datasheet. Operation above 400 kHz is not guaranteed and may result in communication failures or data corruption. The 24LC32AT/SN does not support 1 MHz operation - that capability belongs to other families such as the AT24C32D.

Does the 24LC32AT/SN support write protection, and how is it implemented?

Yes, the 24LC32AT/SN implements hardware write protection via the WP (Write-Protect) pin. When WP is tied to VCC, all write operations - including byte and page writes - are inhibited, while read operations remain fully functional. The pin is sampled at the Stop bit of each write command, ensuring protection remains active even during partial transactions. This feature is documented in Section 2.4 and Figure 6-1 of the DS20001713P datasheet.

What package type does the 24LC32AT/SN use, and what are its key mechanical dimensions?

The 24LC32AT/SN uses the 8-lead SOIC (SN) package: 3.90 mm body width, 1.27 mm lead pitch, and JEDEC MS-012AC compliant outline. Key dimensions include overall length 4.90 mm, width 3.90 mm, and height 1.75 mm max. Land pattern recommendations specify 1.45 mm pad length and 0.45 mm pad width - details are provided in Microchip Drawing C04-111-SN Rev G and DS20001713P-page 20.

How many devices can share the same I²C bus with the 24LC32AT/SN?

Up to eight 24LC32AT/SN devices can operate on the same I²C bus using unique hardware addresses. This is enabled by the three chip-select inputs A2, A1, and A0, which combine with the fixed 4-bit control code '1010' to form a 7-bit client address. Each device must have a distinct A2:A1:A0 combination (e.g., 000, 001, ..., 111), allowing aggregate memory expansion to 256 Kbit without address conflicts.

What is the write endurance and data retention specification for the 24LC32AT/SN?

The 24LC32AT/SN guarantees 1,000,000 erase/write cycles per memory page and 200 years of data retention at +25°C. These values are specified in Table 1-2 (Note 4) and the Features list of DS20001713P. Endurance is rated under +25°C and 5.5V conditions using page-mode writes; retention degrades logarithmically at elevated temperatures but remains >100 years at +85°C per characterization data.