Microchip Technology AT24C16C-PUM

Overview

AT24C16C-PUM from Microchip Technology is a 16-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 2,048 × 8 bits, operating from 1.7V to 5.5V across -40°C to +85°C. It supports Standard (100 kHz), Fast (400 kHz), and Fast Mode Plus (1 MHz) I²C speeds, features hardware write protection via WP pin, and delivers ultra-low standby current (6 μA max) for battery-backed data logging in industrial controllers.

For engineers reviewing the AT24C16C-PUM datasheet, AT24C16C-PUM pinout, AT24C16C-PUM application, or AT24C16C-PUM equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 1.7V operation, 16-byte page write capability with ≤5 ms self-timed write cycle, Schmitt-triggered noise-immune inputs, and RoHS-compliant 8-lead PDIP packaging with verified pin mapping.

Technical Context

The AT24C16C-PUM implements a true I²C slave interface with open-drain SDA/SCL pins requiring external pull-ups, integrated spike suppression filters and Schmitt triggers on both inputs, and a dedicated WP pin that disables all writes when pulled high. Its memory array is partitioned into 128 pages of 16 bytes each, enabling partial-page writes without address rollover beyond page boundaries.

Internally, it uses a high-voltage generation circuit for EEPROM programming, a POR circuit enforcing 100 µs minimum tPUP after stable VCC ≥1.7V, and automatic ACK/NACK handshaking per byte transfer - all compliant with I²C bus timing requirements including tLOW/tHIGH, tSU.STA, and tHD.DAT at 1.7V–5.5V supply ranges.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT24C16C-PUM is supplied in an 8-lead PDIP package with 0.3-inch body width, lead finish matte tin, and RoHS-compliant green material. Pin 1 is top-left corner with notch orientation marking.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with M24C16-WMN6TP and CAT24C16WI-GT3, the AT24C16C-PUM uniquely supports 1 MHz Fast Mode Plus for faster configuration loading, features an active-high WP pin simplifying hardware lockout design, and guarantees 6 μA standby current - making it optimal for battery-critical, high-speed, or safety-parameter applications.

Availability

AT24C16C-PUM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, portable medical devices, smart energy meters, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and multi-decade data retention.

Supply support for AT24C16C-PUM 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, with ISO 9001-certified manufacturing and global distribution.

The AT24C16C-PUM belongs to Microchip's AT24Cxx family of I²C EEPROMs engineered for robust, low-voltage, high-reliability nonvolatile storage in industrial, medical, and automotive systems where data integrity and long-term retention are mission-critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum VCC voltage required for reliable operation of the AT24C16C-PUM?

The AT24C16C-PUM operates reliably down to 1.7V across its full industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C). Below this threshold, the device may fail to acknowledge I²C commands or corrupt write operations. The Power-on Reset circuit enforces a minimum VPOR of 1.5V, and tPUP timing (100 µs after stable VCC) must be observed before issuing the first command. This 1.7V specification enables direct integration with 1.8V microcontrollers without level-shifting circuitry.

How does the Write-Protect (WP) pin function on the AT24C16C-PUM?

The WP pin on the AT24C16C-PUM is an active-high hardware lock: when driven to VCC, it inhibits all write operations to the entire 16-Kbit memory array; when tied to GND, normal writes are enabled. If left floating, an internal strong pull-down defaults it to GND - but Microchip recommends explicit connection due to capacitive coupling risks. Unlike some alternatives, AT24C16C-PUM uses active-high WP logic, simplifying interface with GPIOs that default high during reset.

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the AT24C16C-PUM?

The AT24C16C-PUM supports three I²C speed grades: Standard mode up to 100 kHz (1.7–5.5V), Fast mode up to 400 kHz (1.7–5.5V), and Fast Mode Plus (FM+) up to 1 MHz (2.5–5.5V). The 1 MHz capability requires VCC ≥2.5V and is validated with CL = 100 pF and RPUP = 1.3 kΩ. This FM+ support enables 10× faster configuration loading versus Standard mode, critical for time-sensitive firmware patching in industrial gateways.

Can the AT24C16C-PUM perform partial page writes, and what is the page size?

Yes, the AT24C16C-PUM supports partial page writes within its 16-byte pages. The memory is organized into 128 pages of 16 bytes each (2,048 × 8 bits total), and writes can span 1–16 contiguous bytes per transaction as long as they reside within the same physical page (address bits A10–A4 unchanged). This eliminates the need to read-modify-write entire pages, reducing bus traffic and write time in applications updating sparse configuration fields.

What is the guaranteed data retention period for the AT24C16C-PUM under industrial conditions?

The AT24C16C-PUM guarantees 100 years of data retention at 55°C case temperature, validated through accelerated qualification testing per JEDEC standards. At lower temperatures (e.g., 25°C), retention exceeds 200 years. This specification applies to data written under rated conditions (VCC = 1.7–5.5V, tWR ≤5 ms) and accounts for 1,000,000 write cycles - making it suitable for applications where field replacement is impractical, such as implanted medical devices or remote infrastructure sensors.