Microchip Technology AT24C256-10PI-2.7
- Part No.:
- AT24C256-10PI-2.7
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
AT24C256-10PI-2.7.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT I2C 1MHZ 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
AT24C256-10PI-2.7 from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8) two-wire serial EEPROM with I²C-compatible interface, operating from 2.7V to 5.5V, featuring 64-byte page write capability, hardware write protection via WP pin, and 1 million write cycles endurance. It is used in industrial control systems for storing calibration data, configuration settings, and firmware parameters requiring nonvolatile retention over 40 years.
For engineers reviewing the AT24C256-10PI-2.7 datasheet, AT24C256-10PI-2.7 pinout, AT24C256-10PI-2.7 application, or AT24C256-10PI-2.7 equivalent, key selection criteria include supply voltage range (2.7–5.5 V), I²C clock compatibility (up to 1 MHz at 5 V), page write timing (≤5 ms), WP pin functionality, and PDIP-8 packaging for through-hole prototyping and legacy board compatibility.
Technical Context
The AT24C256-10PI-2.7 implements a standard I²C bus protocol with bidirectional open-drain SDA and edge-triggered SCL, supporting up to four devices on a shared bus via A0/A1 address inputs. Its internal architecture organizes memory as 512 pages of 64 bytes each, enabling partial-page writes without erasing adjacent data.
It features Schmitt-trigger inputs with noise filtering, supports acknowledge polling during write cycles, and includes internal pull-down biasing on A0, A1, and WP pins when left floating-reducing external component count in space-constrained designs.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Capacity | 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8 bits), sufficient for storing full device configuration tables or multi-sensor calibration profiles |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.7 V to 5.5 V - compatible with both 3.3 V and 5 V logic systems without level shifting |
| I²C Clock Frequency | Up to 1 MHz at 5 V; 400 kHz at 2.7 V - enables fast parameter updates while maintaining robustness in noisy industrial environments |
| Write Cycle Time | Max 5 ms (for process-B devices) - defines minimum interval between successive write commands to avoid data corruption |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 write cycles - supports frequent field-updatable parameters in telemetry or logging applications |
| Data Retention | 40 years at +85°C - ensures long-term reliability in unattended infrastructure equipment |
| Operating Temperature | −40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial-grade deployment without derating |
Pinout & Package
AT24C256-10PI-2.7 is supplied in an 8-lead JEDEC PDIP package (0.300" wide body), suitable for breadboarding, manual assembly, and legacy PCB layouts. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; leads are tin-lead plated unless specified otherwise.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A0 | Device Address Input | Hardwired low/high or left floating (internally pulled down) to select one of four possible I²C addresses on shared bus |
| A1 | Device Address Input | Second address bit; combined with A0, enables up to four AT24C256-10PI-2.7 devices on same I²C bus |
| NC | No Connect | Unbonded pin; must remain unconnected - no routing or grounding required |
| GND | Ground Reference | Primary return path for VCC and signal currents; requires low-impedance connection to system ground plane |
| VCC | Power Supply | Accepts 2.7–5.5 V DC; bypass capacitor (0.1 µF ceramic) recommended within 10 mm of pin |
| WP | Write Protect Control | Active-high input: tied to VCC to disable all writes; grounded to enable normal programming |
| SCL | Serial Clock Input | Positive-edge triggered I²C clock; requires external pull-up resistor (typically 2.2–10 kΩ) |
| SDA | Serial Data I/O | Bidirectional open-drain line; shares pull-up with other I²C devices on same bus |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware Write Protection | WP pin enables irreversible lock of entire memory array during power-on or runtime, preventing accidental firmware overwrite in field-deployed units |
| 64-byte Page Write Mode | Allows burst programming of up to 64 bytes per command, reducing I²C transaction overhead by >90% vs. byte-wise writes |
| Schmitt Trigger Inputs | Filters noise on SCL/SDA lines, eliminating false clock edges and bus glitches in electrically noisy factory-floor environments |
| Cascadable I²C Addressing | A0/A1 pins support up to four identical AT24C256-10PI-2.7 devices on one bus, simplifying multi-module BOM consolidation |
| Extended Temperature Support | Qualified from −40°C to +85°C - meets industrial temperature requirements without thermal derating or external compensation |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Configuration Storage | Medical Device Calibration Data |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing I/O mapping, PID tuning constants, and alarm thresholds in programmable logic controllers deployed in manufacturing cells. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile parameter storage with guaranteed 40-year data retention and immunity to brown-out events during power cycling. Use Value: Eliminates need for battery-backed SRAM; reduces system cost and maintenance while ensuring deterministic startup behavior after extended power loss. |
Use Scenario: Holding sensor offset/gain coefficients and regulatory compliance logs in portable diagnostic equipment subject to periodic recalibration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant memory accessed only during service mode via controlled I²C handshake. Use Value: Enables traceable calibration history and prevents unauthorized parameter modification via WP pin hardwiring during production. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | Smart Energy Meter Firmware Settings |
Use Scenario: Saving seat/mirror position presets and lighting profiles in 12 V automotive body control units with wide-input LDO regulation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-voltage EEPROM interfacing directly to 3.3 V microcontroller I²C peripheral without level translation. Use Value: Supports operation down to 2.7 V during cold-cranking transients, ensuring configuration persistence even under battery sag conditions. |
Use Scenario: Storing tariff schedules, meter ID, and cryptographic keys in ANSI C12.19-compliant utility meters with 10+ year field life. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-endurance memory handling daily time-of-use updates and infrequent firmware patch storage. Use Value: 1 million write cycles exceed ANSI requirement for 10,000 annual writes over 10 years, providing design margin for future feature expansion. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| STMicroelectronics M24256-BWMN6TP | Same 256 Kbit capacity, 2.5–5.5 V supply, but uses different internal page buffer management; max write cycle time 10 ms (vs. 5 ms) | Compatible in I²C read/write protocols but requires longer polling intervals during write operations | Select when prioritizing ST's long-term supply assurance over minimal write latency |
| ON Semiconductor CAT24C256WI-GT3 | Identical pinout and electrical specs; rated for −40°C to +125°C extended temp range (vs. −40°C to +85°C for AT24C256-10PI-2.7) | Suitable for under-hood automotive or high-ambient industrial enclosures where ambient exceeds 85°C | Choose for higher temperature resilience without layout change, accepting minor cost premium |
Compared with M24256-BWMN6TP and CAT24C256WI-GT3, the AT24C256-10PI-2.7 offers the fastest guaranteed write cycle (5 ms) in its class and lowest-cost PDIP packaging for prototyping, while trading off extended temperature range and manufacturer longevity guarantees.
Availability
AT24C256-10PI-2.7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, medical instrumentation, and automotive body electronics requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for AT24C256-10PI-2.7 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 product continuity, technical documentation, and qualification standards for the AT24Cxx EEPROM family.
The AT24C256-10PI-2.7 belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-power nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems where I²C bus simplicity and proven field reliability are critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the AT24C256-10PI-2.7?
The AT24C256-10PI-2.7 supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency when operated at 5.0 V, 400 kHz at 2.7 V, and 100 kHz at 1.8 V. For the AT24C256-10PI-2.7 specifically (2.7–5.5 V variant), the maximum validated speed is 400 kHz at 2.7 V and 1 MHz at 5 V, per AC characteristics tables in Rev. 0670N–SEEPR.
Does the AT24C256-10PI-2.7 require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?
Yes, the AT24C256-10PI-2.7 requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I/O pins are open-drain. Typical values range from 2.2 kΩ to 10 kΩ depending on bus capacitance and desired rise time; Microchip recommends 4.7 kΩ for standard-speed operation with ≤400 pF total bus load.
How does the WP pin function on the AT24C256-10PI-2.7?
The WP (Write Protect) pin on the AT24C256-10PI-2.7 is an active-high hardware lock: when tied to VCC, it disables all write operations to the entire memory array; when grounded, normal read/write access is enabled. If left floating, the pin is internally pulled down, allowing writes by default - but Microchip recommends explicit grounding or VCC connection for deterministic behavior.
What is the memory organization of the AT24C256-10PI-2.7?
The AT24C256-10PI-2.7 is organized as 32,768 words × 8 bits (256 Kbit), internally segmented into 512 pages of 64 bytes each. This structure enables efficient page-write operations and supports random addressing using a 15-bit word address, with automatic rollover at page boundaries during sequential writes.
Is the AT24C256-10PI-2.7 RoHS compliant and halogen-free?
Yes, the AT24C256-10PI-2.7 is lead-free and halogen-free, meeting RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements. The "-2.7" suffix denotes the 2.7–5.5 V operating range, and the "PI" package code specifies the 8-lead PDIP variant, which is manufactured with Pb-free terminations and compliant molding compounds per Microchip's material declarations.
AT24C256-10PI-2.7 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 256Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 32K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- I2C
- Clock Frequency:
- 1 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 10ms
- Access Time:
- 550 ns
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
AT24C256-10PI-2.7 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT24C256-10PI-2.7 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT24C256-10PI-2.7 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for AT24C256-10PI-2.7 reliable?
The price and inventory of AT24C256-10PI-2.7 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT24C256-10PI-2.7 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT24C256-10PI-2.7?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT24C256-10PI-2.7 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT24C256-10PI-2.7?
AT24C256-10PI-2.7 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT24C256-10PI-2.7 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for AT24C256-10PI-2.7?
For technical support, including AT24C256-10PI-2.7 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT24C256-10PI-2.7 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT24C256-10PI-2.7 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT24C256-10PI-2.7 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that AT24C256-10PI-2.7 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT24C256-10PI-2.7?
All AT24C256-10PI-2.7 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT24C256-10PI-2.7, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The AT24C256-10PI-2.7 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT24C256-10PI-2.7:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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