Microchip Technology AT24C128-10PC

Overview

AT24C128-10PC from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 128 Kbit (16,384 × 8) two-wire serial EEPROM with 2.7V to 5.5V supply operation, 400 kHz I²C bus compatibility, 64-byte page write capability, and hardware write protection via the WP pin. It serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in embedded controllers, power management units, and industrial sensor nodes requiring robust data retention.

For engineers reviewing the AT24C128-10PC datasheet, AT24C128-10PC pinout, AT24C128-10PC application, or AT24C128-10PC equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2.7–5.5 V operating range, 400 kHz maximum clock frequency at 2.7 V, 10 ms max write cycle time, 100,000 write endurance, and JEDEC PDIP-8 package with through-hole mounting compatibility.

Technical Context

The AT24C128-10PC implements a standard I²C-compatible two-wire interface with open-drain SDA and Schmitt-triggered SCL inputs for noise immunity. Its internal architecture organizes memory as 256 pages of 64 bytes each, supporting byte-write and partial/complete page-write operations with automatic address incrementing within pages.

Device addressing uses A0 and A1 pins to support up to four devices on a shared bus; unconnected pins default to logic low. Write protection is enforced by tying WP high to VCC, disabling all write commands while preserving read functionality - a feature confirmed for this exact -10PC variant in the ordering table.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT24C128-10PC is supplied in an 8-pin Plastic Dual Inline Package (PDIP), JEDEC MS-001 BA compliant, with 0.300" body width and 0.100" lead pitch. Pin 1 is marked with a notch or dot; leads are tin-lead plated for solderability.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT24C128-10PI, the AT24C128-10PC offers lower cost and simpler qualification for commercial-temperature applications, while M24C128-WMN6TP provides drop-in SOIC compatibility and broader voltage flexibility - both require layout changes but preserve identical I²C protocol and memory access behavior.

Availability

AT24C128-10PC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, medical diagnostics equipment, smart energy meters, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for AT24C128-10PC 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 is a global semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, with broad industrial and automotive qualifications.

The AT24C128 series was designed for reliable, low-power nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems - emphasizing interoperability, long-term data integrity, and seamless integration with 8-bit and 32-bit host processors via standard I²C.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the AT24C128-10PC?

The AT24C128-10PC supports up to 400 kHz I²C clock frequency when operated within its 2.7–5.5 V supply range. This is verified in the AC Characteristics table for the -2.7 voltage option, matching the "AT24C128-10PC-2.7" ordering row. The device does not support 1 MHz operation - that rating applies only to the 5.0V variants (e.g., AT24C128-10CC).

Does the AT24C128-10PC have built-in write protection, and how is it enabled?

Yes, the AT24C128-10PC includes 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 reads remain fully functional. If WP is left unconnected, it is internally pulled down to GND, enabling normal read/write access. This behavior is explicitly documented in the Pin Description section for the AT24C128-10PC variant.

What package type is used for the AT24C128-10PC, and what are its key mechanical features?

The AT24C128-10PC uses an 8-pin Plastic Dual Inline Package (PDIP), designated as 8P3 in the ordering table. It has a 0.300" body width, 0.100" lead pitch, and JEDEC MS-001 BA compliance. The package supports through-hole mounting and is characterized for commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C), distinguishing it from industrial-grade variants like AT24C128-10PI.

How many devices can share the same I²C bus with the AT24C128-10PC, and what determines addressing?

Up to four AT24C128-10PC devices can share a single I²C bus using hardwired A0 and A1 pins to configure unique 3-bit device addresses. Each pin accepts logic high or low; floating defaults to low. The base address prefix is 1010b, with A1/A0 forming the two LSBs - enabling addresses 0x50 through 0x53. This addressing scheme is confirmed for the AT24C128-10PC in the Device Addressing section.

What is the write endurance and data retention specification for the AT24C128-10PC?

The AT24C128-10PC is rated for 100,000 write cycles and 40 years of data retention at +25°C. These values are specified in the Features list and confirmed in the DC Characteristics table under Endurance and Data Retention notes. They apply specifically to the AT24C128-10PC variant and are not extrapolated from other family members.