Microchip Technology AT24C16C-SSHM-T

Overview

AT24C16C-SSHM-T 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 and configuration storage in industrial controllers.

For engineers reviewing the AT24C16C-SSHM-T datasheet, AT24C16C-SSHM-T pinout, AT24C16C-SSHM-T application, or AT24C16C-SSHM-T equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 1.7V operation, 16-byte page write capability with ≤5 ms self-timed write cycle, 1,000,000 write endurance, and RoHS-compliant 8-lead SOIC package with exposed pad grounded per Microchip's recommended layout.

Technical Context

The AT24C16C-SSHM-T implements a true I²C slave interface with open-drain SDA/SCL pins, integrated Schmitt triggers and noise filters on both inputs, and internal pull-down on WP pin. Its memory array is partitioned into 128 pages of 16 bytes each, enabling partial-page writes without address rollover beyond page boundaries.

It incorporates a Power-on Reset (POR) circuit with 1.5 V threshold and requires ≥100 µs delay after VCC stabilization before first command. Communication follows strict I²C timing: data latched on SCL rising edge, output on falling edge, ACK/NACK on ninth clock cycle, and no data changes during SCL high periods.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT24C16C-SSHM-T is supplied in an 8-lead SOIC package (SOIC-8, 150 mil width) with exposed thermal pad connected to GND per Microchip layout guidance. Pin 1 is top-left corner, pin numbering counterclockwise.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with M24C16-WMN6TP, AT24C16C-SSHM-T adds 1 MHz FM+ support for faster firmware updates; compared with CAT24C16WI-GT3, it achieves 60% lower standby current for battery-critical designs while trading off 37°C max operating temperature.

Availability

AT24C16C-SSHM-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, medical device calibration storage, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for AT24C16C-SSHM-T 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 nonvolatile memory solutions, with ISO 9001-certified manufacturing and global distribution.

The AT24C16C-SSHM-T belongs to Microchip's AT24Cxx family of I²C EEPROMs designed specifically for low-voltage, low-power embedded systems requiring robust, pin-compatible memory expansion across voltage and temperature grades.

FAQ

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

The AT24C16C-SSHM-T supports three I²C speed modes: 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 per Microchip DS20006051A, Table 4-3. This allows AT24C16C-SSHM-T to accelerate configuration loads in time-sensitive applications without changing hardware.

Does the AT24C16C-SSHM-T require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the AT24C16C-SSHM-T requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I/O pins are open-drain. Microchip specifies maximum pull-up values of 10 kΩ for 100 kHz, 4 kΩ for 400 kHz, and 1.3 kΩ for 1 MHz operation. The AT24C16C-SSHM-T itself does not integrate pull-ups; omitting them will prevent proper bus arbitration and ACK generation.

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

The WP pin on the AT24C16C-SSHM-T is internally pulled down to GND, enabling writes by default. When driven to VCC, it disables all write operations to the entire memory array. If left floating, the internal pull-down dominates, but Microchip recommends tying WP to a defined logic level to avoid noise-induced protection glitches. This behavior is documented in DS20006051A, Section 2.4 and Table 2-2 - a key safety feature of the AT24C16C-SSHM-T.

What is the memory organization of the AT24C16C-SSHM-T and how does page writing work?

The AT24C16C-SSHM-T organizes its 16 Kbit as 128 pages of 16 bytes each (2,048 × 8). Page writes allow up to 16 sequential bytes within the same page (same A10–A4 address bits) to be written in one I²C transaction. The AT24C16C-SSHM-T automatically increments the lower 4 address bits (A3–A0) after each byte, wrapping within the page boundary - enabling efficient burst writes without host-side address management.

Is the AT24C16C-SSHM-T compatible with standard I²C protocol and what are its timing requirements?

Yes, the AT24C16C-SSHM-T is fully compliant with standard I²C protocol, including Start/Stop conditions, ACK/NACK handshaking, and 7-bit addressing with R/W bit. Its AC timing (e.g., tLOW = 500 ns min at 2.5V+, tHD.STA = 250 ns min) is specified in DS20006051A Table 4-3 and aligns with I²C-bus specification UM10204. The AT24C16C-SSHM-T also includes integrated Schmitt triggers and spike filters to tolerate marginal timing margins in noisy systems.