Microchip Technology AT24C16-10PC

Overview

AT24C16-10PC from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 16-kbit (2048 × 8) two-wire serial EEPROM with 2.7V to 5.5V supply operation, 100 kHz I²C bus compatibility, 16-byte page write capability, and hardware write protection via the WP pin. It operates in commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C) and is used for nonvolatile parameter storage in embedded control systems, sensor calibration data retention, and configuration memory in industrial HMI modules.

For engineers reviewing the AT24C16-10PC datasheet, AT24C16-10PC pinout, AT24C16-10PC application, or AT24C16-10PC equivalent, key selection considerations include its 16K-bit density, low-voltage 2.7V operation, 10 ms max self-timed write cycle, and absence of device address pins (A0–A2 = NC), limiting bus topology to one device per I²C segment.

Technical Context

The AT24C16-10PC 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 128 pages of 16 bytes each, requiring an 11-bit word address for random access.

Unlike smaller family members (e.g., AT24C01A/02), the AT24C16-10PC disables A0–A2 pins (no-connect), eliminating device addressing-only one AT24C16-10PC can reside on a given I²C bus. Write protection is enforced solely by the WP pin state, with full-array lockout when pulled high.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT24C16-10PC uses an 8-lead JEDEC SOIC package (package code 8S1), measuring 3.99 mm × 4.98 mm × 1.75 mm, with gull-wing leads and 1.27 mm pitch. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT24C16-10PI, the AT24C16-10PC offers lower cost and sufficient reliability for indoor commercial equipment, while M24C16-WMN6TP provides speed flexibility at the expense of different manufacturer qualification and minor timing parameter variances.

Availability

AT24C16-10PC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, embedded HMI configuration, and power meter firmware storage requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for AT24C16-10PC 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 acquired Atmel in 2016 and maintains full support for the AT24Cxx EEPROM family, delivering high-reliability nonvolatile memory solutions for industrial and commercial markets.

The AT24Cxx series was designed specifically for low-power, space-constrained embedded systems needing robust, pin-efficient I²C-based configuration storage - emphasizing endurance, data retention, and voltage flexibility.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the AT24C16-10PC?

The AT24C16-10PC supports up to 100 kHz I²C clock frequency under its 2.7V–5.5V supply condition. This limit ensures timing margin compliance across the full commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C) and accounts for bus capacitance and noise immunity requirements. The AT24C16-10PC does not support 400 kHz operation - that capability is reserved for 5.0V-only variants like AT24C16-10PC (blank suffix), which are not applicable to this specific -2.7 variant.

Are the A0, A1, and A2 pins functional on the AT24C16-10PC?

No - the A0, A1, and A2 pins on the AT24C16-10PC are designated as no-connect (NC) and must remain unconnected. Unlike smaller family members (e.g., AT24C02), the AT24C16-10PC uses all three address bits for internal memory page addressing, eliminating device addressing capability. This means only one AT24C16-10PC can operate on a given I²C bus segment.

How does the Write Protect (WP) pin function on the AT24C16-10PC?

When the WP pin is pulled high to VCC, the AT24C16-10PC disables all write operations across the entire 16K-bit array - including byte, page, and sequential writes - while permitting unrestricted reads. When WP is grounded, full read/write functionality is restored. This hardware-level protection operates independently of I²C commands and remains active during power transitions, making it ideal for safeguarding critical calibration data.

What is the typical write cycle time for the AT24C16-10PC?

The AT24C16-10PC has a maximum write cycle time of 10 ms, which is the duration required for an internally timed erase-and-program operation to complete after a valid STOP condition. During this period, the device does not acknowledge I²C addresses. Applications must either wait the full 10 ms or implement acknowledge polling (repeated START + device address) to detect completion before issuing subsequent commands. This value applies across the full 2.7V–5.5V supply range.

Which packages are available for the AT24C16-10PC?

The AT24C16-10PC is offered exclusively in the 8-lead JEDEC SOIC package (package code 8S1), with 3.99 mm × 4.98 mm body dimensions and 1.27 mm lead pitch. While the broader AT24C16 family includes PDIP (8P3) and TSSOP (8T) variants, the -10PC suffix specifically denotes the SOIC package in commercial temperature grade. No PDIP or TSSOP versions carry the -10PC ordering code.