Microchip Technology AT24C256-10PI-1.8

Overview

AT24C256-10PI-1.8 from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM optimized for low-voltage embedded systems. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V, supports 100 kHz I²C clocking at 1.8 V, features hardware write protection via the WP pin, and delivers 1 million write cycles with 40-year data retention. It is commonly used in industrial sensor calibration storage and firmware parameter backup where power efficiency and reliability are critical.

For engineers reviewing the AT24C256-10PI-1.8 datasheet, AT24C256-10PI-1.8 pinout, AT24C256-10PI-1.8 application, or AT24C256-10PI-1.8 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1.8 V operation range, 64-byte page write capability, Schmitt-triggered noise-immune inputs, and compatibility with standard 2-wire bus topologies supporting up to four cascaded devices.

Technical Context

The AT24C256-10PI-1.8 implements a standard I²C interface with bidirectional open-drain SDA and edge-triggered SCL, supporting device addressing via A0/A1 pins for multi-drop bus configurations. Its internal architecture organizes memory as 512 pages of 64 bytes each, enabling partial-page writes without address rollover beyond page boundaries.

It uses an internally timed 5 ms write cycle (for process-B variants), incorporates Schmitt-trigger inputs and input filtering for robust noise immunity, and provides both hardware (WP pin) and software (address-range locking) data protection mechanisms - all while maintaining full compatibility with I²C protocol timing requirements at 1.8 V supply.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT24C256-10PI-1.8 is supplied in an 8-lead PDIP (0.300" wide) package per JEDEC MS-001 BA, with 0.100" lead pitch and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; the package is RoHS-compliant and halogen-free.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT24C256-10PI-1.8, the M24C256-WMN6TP offers higher I²C speed headroom at 1.8 V but requires address pin inversion, while the R1EX24256ASAS0I adds extended temperature capability and lower leakage at the cost of slightly higher unit price - making it preferable for harsh-environment automotive applications.

Availability

AT24C256-10PI-1.8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, medical device configuration storage, and smart energy meter firmware backup requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.

Supply support for AT24C256-10PI-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 AT24C256-10PI-1.8 belongs to Microchip's legacy AT24Cxx serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for low-power, space-constrained applications requiring reliable, byte-addressable nonvolatile storage with simple two-wire interface integration.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by AT24C256-10PI-1.8 at 1.8 V?

The AT24C256-10PI-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 for the 1.8-volt column and ensures robust timing margins under low-voltage conditions. Higher frequencies (up to 400 kHz) require ≥2.5 V supply per the datasheet's voltage-dependent timing specifications. The AT24C256-10PI-1.8 maintains full protocol compliance at this rate, including setup/hold times and rise/fall constraints.

Does AT24C256-10PI-1.8 support page write operations, and what is the page size?

Yes, the AT24C256-10PI-1.8 supports 64-byte page write operations. Each page consists of 64 contiguous bytes aligned to natural boundaries (e.g., addresses 0x0000–0x003F form page 0). The device accepts up to 64 bytes in a single I²C transaction after the initial address byte, automatically incrementing the lower 6 bits of the address counter. Exceeding 64 bytes causes wraparound within the same page - a behavior explicitly documented for the AT24C256-10PI-1.8 in the Page Write section.

How does the write protect (WP) pin function on AT24C256-10PI-1.8?

The WP pin on AT24C256-10PI-1.8 is an active-high hardware lock: when tied to VCC, all write operations (byte, page, and write-enable commands) are inhibited; when tied to GND, normal write functionality is enabled. If left floating, the pin is internally pulled down (subject to board capacitance <3 pF), defaulting to write-enabled mode. This dual-mode protection complements software write-disable commands and is electrically validated for the AT24C256-10PI-1.8 across its full temperature range.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for AT24C256-10PI-1.8?

The AT24C256-10PI-1.8 guarantees 1,000,000 write cycles and 40 years of data retention at +25°C for process-B variants (identified by "B" marking on package). These values are measured under standard conditions per JEDEC standards and apply to the specific AT24C256-10PI-1.8 part number as confirmed in the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Endurance sections of its official datasheet revision 0670N.

Which packages are available for AT24C256-10PI-1.8, and what does the "PI" suffix indicate?

The "PI" suffix in AT24C256-10PI-1.8 denotes the 8-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual Inline Package) with 0.300" body width, per JEDEC MS-001 BA. This is the only package associated with the -10PI-1.8 ordering code. Other variants like -10SI-1.8 (SOIC) or -10TI-1.8 (TSSOP) use different suffixes. The PDIP package supports through-hole assembly and is commonly used in prototyping, industrial controls, and legacy board designs requiring socket-based field upgrades.