Microchip Technology AT24C128-10PC-1.8

Overview

AT24C128-10PC-1.8 from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 128 Kbit (16,384 × 8) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM optimized for ultra-low-voltage operation at 1.8 V to 3.6 V, featuring 64-byte page write capability, hardware write protection via WP pin, and 100,000 write cycles endurance. It serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in battery-powered IoT sensors, portable medical devices, and industrial control modules requiring reliable data retention over 40 years.

For engineers reviewing the AT24C128-10PC-1.8 datasheet, AT24C128-10PC-1.8 pinout, AT24C128-10PC-1.8 application, or AT24C128-10PC-1.8 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 1.8 V supply compatibility, 100 kHz I²C bus speed limit at low voltage, 8-pin PDIP package with A0/A1 address inputs, and hardware/software write protection behavior tied to the WP pin state.

Technical Context

The AT24C128-10PC-1.8 implements a standard two-wire (I²C) interface with open-drain SDA and edge-triggered SCL, supporting bidirectional data transfer under strict timing constraints: tLOW ≥ 4.7 µs and tHIGH ≥ 4.0 µs at 100 kHz. Its internal architecture organizes memory as 256 pages of 64 bytes each, with automatic address rollover within pages during page writes.

It uses Schmitt-trigger inputs on SCL, SDA, A0, A1, and WP for noise immunity, and features an internally pulled-down WP pin that defaults to write-enable when floating. The device enters standby mode after STOP condition receipt and supports acknowledge polling to detect write completion without fixed delay timing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT24C128-10PC-1.8 is supplied in an 8-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP), 0.300" wide (8P3), with through-hole mounting and JEDEC MS-001 BA compliance. Pin 1 is index-marked; package dimensions are 9.65 mm × 3.94 mm × 4.57 mm (L × W × H).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with M24C128-WMN6TP and BR24G128FJ-WE2, the AT24C128-10PC-1.8 offers proven 8-pin PDIP compatibility, deterministic 100 kHz timing at 1.8 V, and simple hardware write protection - making it optimal for legacy-replacement, prototyping, and cost-sensitive industrial designs where layout stability and ease of validation are prioritized over raw speed or advanced features.

Availability

AT24C128-10PC-1.8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, portable diagnostics, industrial PLC modules, and automotive body control units requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for AT24C128-10PC-1.8 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 nonvolatile memory solutions, with a focus on embedded control and connectivity.

The AT24C128-10PC-1.8 belongs to Microchip's legacy AT24C serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for low-power, low-voltage embedded systems requiring robust, long-life nonvolatile storage in space- and energy-constrained applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by AT24C128-10PC-1.8 at 1.8 V?

The AT24C128-10PC-1.8 supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 100 kHz when operated at 1.8 V. This is specified in the AC Characteristics table under "1.8-volt" column for fSCL. Higher frequencies (up to 400 kHz or 1 MHz) require ≥2.5 V or 5.0 V supply, respectively - attempting 400 kHz at 1.8 V violates timing margins and risks communication failure.

Does AT24C128-10PC-1.8 require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, AT24C128-10PC-1.8 requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. For 1.8 V operation, a 10 kΩ pull-up to VCC is recommended per the AC measurement conditions in the datasheet. Incorrect pull-up values cause timing violations or bus contention.

How does the WP pin function on AT24C128-10PC-1.8, and what happens if it is left unconnected?

On AT24C128-10PC-1.8, the WP pin is active-high: tying it to VCC disables all write operations, while grounding it enables writes. If left unconnected, an internal pull-down asserts logic low, enabling full read/write functionality - no external biasing is required unless hardware write protection is needed.

What package type is used for AT24C128-10PC-1.8, and are there lead-free options available?

AT24C128-10PC-1.8 uses an 8-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP), 0.300" wide (JEDEC MS-001 BA, package code 8P3). It is RoHS-compliant and lead-free per Microchip's standard manufacturing process; the "-10PC" suffix confirms PDIP packaging and 1.8 V operation, with no halogenated materials.

Can AT24C128-10PC-1.8 be used interchangeably with AT24C128-10PI-1.8 in industrial temperature applications?

No - AT24C128-10PC-1.8 is rated for commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C), while AT24C128-10PI-1.8 is specified for industrial range (-40°C to +85°C). Substituting the commercial version in industrial environments risks parametric failure outside its validated operating range, especially for timing, leakage current, and write reliability.