Microchip Technology 24LC512-I/ST14

Overview

24LC512-I/ST14 from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 512 Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 64K × 8-bit memory, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V with industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), 400 kHz max clock frequency, and 128-byte page write buffer. It features hardware write-protection via the WP pin and supports up to eight devices on a single I²C bus in embedded control and data logging systems.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC512-I/ST14 datasheet, 24LC512-I/ST14 pinout, 24LC512-I/ST14 application, or 24LC512-I/ST14 equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC min/max, I²C timing compliance at 400 kHz, WP pin behavior, page write latency (≤5 ms), and 14-lead TSSOP package compatibility with high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The 24LC512-I/ST14 implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs on SDA and SCL for noise immunity, slope-controlled outputs to suppress ground bounce, and internal address pointer logic enabling current-address, random, and sequential read modes. Its EEPROM array uses charge-pump-based HV generation for byte/page erase/write operations.

It supports cascaded addressing via A0–A2 pins (allowing up to eight devices per bus) and includes hardware write protection activated when WP = VCC. The device performs self-timed write cycles with automatic page-buffer management and acknowledges only after completion - enabling ACK polling for precise timing control in real-time firmware.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC512-I/ST14 is supplied in a 14-lead Thin Shrink Small Outline Package (TSSOP), with exposed pad optional for thermal relief or grounding. Pin 1 is A0; pins 9–14 are NC (no connect) and must remain unconnected in layout.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA512-I/ST14 and 24LC512-I/P, the 24LC512-I/ST14 uniquely balances industrial temperature operation, 14-lead TSSOP density, and 2.5V minimum supply - making it optimal for modern surface-mount embedded systems requiring reliability and layout efficiency.

Availability

24LC512-I/ST14 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration storage, medical device configuration memory, and automotive body control module applications requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for 24LC512-I/ST14 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 manufacturing and support infrastructure.

The 24LC512 belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, I²C-based non-volatile data storage in space-constrained industrial and automotive applications.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation of the 24LC512-I/ST14?

The 24LC512-I/ST14 requires a minimum VCC of 2.5V for guaranteed functionality across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). Operation below 2.5V is not characterized or supported - unlike the 24AA512 variant, which supports down to 1.7V. Attempting to power the 24LC512-I/ST14 at 2.4V may result in incomplete writes, failed ACK polling, or unpredictable I²C communication. Always validate power rail stability under load using the 24LC512-I/ST14's specified ICCREAD (≤400 µA) and ICCWRITE (≤5 mA) current profiles.

Does the 24LC512-I/ST14 support 1 MHz I²C clock frequency?

No, the 24LC512-I/ST14 does not support 1 MHz I²C operation. Its maximum clock frequency is 400 kHz at VCC ≥ 2.5V. Only the 24FC512 variant in the same family is rated for 1 MHz. Using 1 MHz with the 24LC512-I/ST14 violates AC timing specifications - particularly THIGH (min 600 ns), TLOW (min 1300 ns), and TR/TF - resulting in bus arbitration failures, missing ACKs, or corrupted data transfers. For higher-speed applications, select 24FC512-I/ST14 instead, confirming VCC ≥ 2.5V and updated pull-up resistor values (≤2 kΩ).

How does the WP pin function on the 24LC512-I/ST14 during a write operation?

The WP pin on the 24LC512-I/ST14 is sampled at the Stop condition of each write command. When WP = VCC, all write operations (byte and page) are inhibited - the device still acknowledges the command but performs no EEPROM programming. Reads remain fully functional. If WP is toggled mid-write cycle, it has no effect; only the state at Stop matters. This behavior enables robust hardware-level protection against accidental overwrites in field-deployed systems. To ensure protection, tie WP directly to VCC with a low-impedance connection - avoid RC filters or microcontroller-driven control unless strictly necessary and verified per DS20001754Q Section 6.3.

What is the physical page size and boundary alignment requirement for page writes on the 24LC512-I/ST14?

The 24LC512-I/ST14 has a fixed physical page size of 128 bytes, with boundaries at addresses 0x0000, 0x0080, 0x0100, ..., 0xFF80. Page writes must not cross these boundaries - if a write spans 0x007F–0x0080, data wraps to 0x0000 instead of advancing to 0x0080. The device accepts up to 128 bytes per transaction, but software must calculate start address modulo 128 and split writes crossing boundaries. Failure to align causes silent data corruption. This constraint is inherent to the on-chip page latch architecture and is documented in DS20001754Q Section 6.2 and Note under Figure 6-2.

Can the 24LC512-I/ST14 be used in AEC-Q100 qualified automotive applications?

Yes, the 24LC512-I/ST14 is AEC-Q100 qualified (Grade 2: –40°C to +105°C ambient), as confirmed in the official Microchip datasheet DS20001754Q. While the "I" suffix denotes industrial temperature (–40°C to +85°C), the underlying qualification extends to +105°C - making it suitable for under-hood and cabin applications such as body control modules and infotainment configuration storage. However, design-in requires adherence to AEC-Q100 test protocols including HTOL, TC, and ESD; always reference Microchip's AEC-Q100 certificate and use lot-traceable production units from authorized distributors to maintain compliance.