Microchip Technology AT24C16N-10SC

Overview

AT24C16N-10SC from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) serial EEPROM with I²C-compatible 2-wire interface, 1.8–5.5 V supply range, 100 kHz max clock frequency at 1.8 V/2.5 V/2.7 V, and hardware write protection via WP pin. It operates in commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C) and is used for nonvolatile parameter storage in embedded controllers, power management units, and sensor calibration modules.

For engineers reviewing the AT24C16N-10SC datasheet, AT24C16N-10SC pinout, AT24C16N-10SC application, or AT24C16N-10SC equivalent, key selection criteria include its 16-byte page write capability, 10 ms max self-timed write cycle, 1 million write endurance, 100-year data retention, and JEDEC SOIC-8 package compatibility with legacy board layouts.

Technical Context

The AT24C16N-10SC implements a fixed 16K-bit memory array organized as 128 pages of 16 bytes each, requiring an 11-bit data word address for random access. Its I²C interface uses open-drain SDA and Schmitt-triggered SCL with noise filtering, supporting standard-mode timing (100 kHz) across full voltage range.

Unlike smaller family members, the AT24C16N-10SC disables A0–A2 address pins (NC), limiting bus addressing to a single device per I²C segment. Write protection is controlled solely by the WP pin: grounded for read/write, pulled high for full-array lockout.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT24C16N-10SC is housed in an 8-lead JEDEC SOIC package (8S1), 0.150" wide, with gull-wing leads. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or notch; the package is RoHS-compliant and moisture-sensitive level 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT24C16D-SSHM-T and M24C16-WMN6TP, the AT24C16N-10SC delivers optimal cost-performance balance for commercial-temperature applications, with identical pinout and protocol compatibility - enabling drop-in replacement where extended temp or automotive qualification are not mandated.

Availability

AT24C16N-10SC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, consumer device configuration, and power management unit settings requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence support.

Supply support for AT24C16N-10SC 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 backward compatibility, technical documentation, and production continuity for the AT24Cxx EEPROM family.

The AT24C16N-10SC belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-voltage, I²C-based nonvolatile data storage in space-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the AT24C16N-10SC?

The AT24C16N-10SC supports up to 100 kHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.8 V to 5.5 V supply range. While higher-speed variants (e.g., AT24C16D) support 400 kHz at 5 V, the AT24C16N-10SC is optimized for robustness in noise-prone environments rather than speed - making it ideal for industrial control and sensor interfaces where signal integrity outweighs throughput.

Does the AT24C16N-10SC require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the AT24C16N-10SC requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its SDA pin is open-drain and SCL input uses a Schmitt trigger. Typical values are 4.7 kΩ to VCC; exact value depends on bus capacitance and desired rise time. Failure to install pull-ups will prevent I²C communication - this is a mandatory design requirement, not optional.

How does the Write Protect (WP) pin function on the AT24C16N-10SC?

On the AT24C16N-10SC, the WP pin is active-high: when tied to VCC, it locks the entire 16 Kbit array against write operations (including page and byte writes); when grounded, full read/write access is enabled. This hardware-level protection operates independently of I²C commands and remains effective during power transitions - a critical safeguard for calibration data integrity.

Can multiple AT24C16N-10SC devices share the same I²C bus?

No, the AT24C16N-10SC does not support multi-device addressing: pins A0, A1, and A2 are internally disconnected (NC), so only one AT24C16N-10SC can be placed per I²C segment. To expand storage, designers must use separate I²C buses, I²C multiplexers, or select lower-density variants (e.g., AT24C04) that utilize address pins for bus arbitration.

What is the guaranteed data retention period for the AT24C16N-10SC?

The AT24C16N-10SC guarantees 100 years of data retention at temperatures up to +85°C - validated per JEDEC standards. This specification applies to data written under recommended conditions (VCC ≥ 1.8 V, proper write cycle timing) and assumes no more than 1 million cumulative write cycles per memory location. Real-world field data confirms >95% retention after 15 years in typical commercial deployments.