Microchip Technology AT24C256-10TI-1.8

Overview

AT24C256-10TI-1.8 from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM optimized for ultra-low-voltage operation at 1.8 V to 3.6 V. It supports 100 kHz I²C bus speed, features hardware write protection via WP pin, delivers 1 million write cycles endurance, and retains data for 40 years - deployed in battery-powered IoT sensors and portable medical devices requiring nonvolatile storage with minimal power budget.

For engineers reviewing the AT24C256-10TI-1.8 datasheet, AT24C256-10TI-1.8 pinout, AT24C256-10TI-1.8 application, or AT24C256-10TI-1.8 equivalent, key selection criteria include 1.8V supply compatibility, 64-byte page write capability, Schmitt-triggered noise-immune inputs, extended industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), and TSSOP-8 packaging for space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The AT24C256-10TI-1.8 implements a two-wire (I²C) serial interface with bidirectional open-drain SDA and edge-triggered SCL, supporting standard-mode (100 kHz) operation at 1.8 V. Its internal address counter enables current-address, random-address, and sequential read modes, while hardware address pins A0/A1 allow up to four devices on a shared bus.

Write operations use either byte-write or 64-byte page-write protocols, with self-timed internal write cycles completing in ≤5 ms (process-B variant). The device integrates Schmitt-trigger inputs and input filtering to suppress EMI in noisy embedded environments, and includes a dedicated WP pin for hardware-level memory lockout during critical system states.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT24C256-10TI-1.8 is housed in an 8-lead Thin Shrink Small Outline Package (TSSOP), 0.170" wide, with 0.65 mm lead pitch and exposed pad not present. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot; package dimensions are D = 3.00 mm (max), E1 = 4.40 mm (max), and L = 0.60 mm (nom).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with M24C256-WMN6TP and BR24G256FJ-3GE2, AT24C256-10TI-1.8 uniquely guarantees 100 kHz I²C timing at 1.8 V with pin-identical TSSOP-8 layout and hardware-compatible address/WP logic - making it the only drop-in option for legacy 1.8V designs requiring zero firmware or layout changes.

Availability

AT24C256-10TI-1.8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, industrial sensor nodes, portable medical devices, automotive body control modules, and battery-powered IoT endpoints requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.

Supply support for AT24C256-10TI-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 memory solutions, with a focus on embedded control and connectivity.

The AT24C256-10TI-1.8 belongs to Microchip's legacy AT24Cxx serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for low-voltage, high-reliability nonvolatile data storage in space- and power-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

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

The AT24C256-10TI-1.8 supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 100 kHz when operated at 1.8 V. This is explicitly specified in the AC Characteristics table for the 1.8-volt column and applies across the full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). Higher frequencies (e.g., 400 kHz) require VCC ≥ 2.5 V per the datasheet.

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

Yes, AT24C256-10TI-1.8 supports 64-byte page write operations. The memory is internally organized into 512 pages of 64 bytes each, allowing up to 64 sequential bytes to be written in a single I²C transaction - significantly improving write efficiency compared to byte-wise programming.

How does the Write Protect (WP) pin function on AT24C256-10TI-1.8?

The WP pin on AT24C256-10TI-1.8 is an active-high hardware lock: when pulled high to VCC, all write operations (byte and page) are inhibited; when tied to GND, full read/write access is enabled. Floating WP is internally pulled down, but Microchip recommends explicit GND connection for deterministic behavior.

What package type is used for AT24C256-10TI-1.8, and what are its key mechanical dimensions?

AT24C256-10TI-1.8 uses an 8-lead TSSOP (Thin Shrink Small Outline Package), designated as 8A2. Key dimensions include body width E1 = 4.40 mm (max), body length D = 3.00 mm (nom), lead pitch e = 0.65 mm, and nominal lead length L = 0.60 mm - compliant with JEDEC MO-153, Variation AA.

Is AT24C256-10TI-1.8 compatible with the standard I²C protocol, and does it require external pull-up resistors?

Yes, AT24C256-10TI-1.8 fully complies with the standard I²C protocol, including START/STOP conditions, ACK/NACK handshaking, and 7-bit addressing with R/W bit. Both SCL and SDA pins are open-drain and require external pull-up resistors (typically 4.7 kΩ to VCC) to ensure proper bus signaling and noise immunity.