Microchip Technology AT24C256C-MAHL-T
- Part No.:
- AT24C256C-MAHL-T
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-UFDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
AT24C256C-MAHL-T.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT I2C 1MHZ 8UDFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
AT24C256C-MAHL-T from Microchip Technology is a 256-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 32,768 × 8 bits, operating from 1.7V to 5.5V across -40°C to +85°C, featuring 1 MHz Fast Mode Plus support (2.5–5.5V), hardware write-protection via WP pin, and ultra-low standby current of 6 μA - deployed in industrial sensor calibration storage and embedded system configuration retention.
For engineers reviewing the AT24C256C-MAHL-T datasheet, AT24C256C-MAHL-T pinout, AT24C256C-MAHL-T application, or AT24C256C-MAHL-T equivalent, key selection considerations include I²C bus voltage compatibility (1.7–5.5V), page-write timing (≤5 ms), hardware addressability (A0–A2), and Green RoHS-compliant 8-lead SOIC packaging.
Technical Context
The AT24C256C-MAHL-T implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-triggered, noise-filtered SDA/SCL inputs supporting Standard (100 kHz), Fast (400 kHz), and Fast Mode Plus (1 MHz) speeds. Its memory array is partitioned into 512 pages of 64 bytes each, enabling partial page writes and sequential read operations.
Internal power-on reset (POR) ensures reliable initialization at VCC ≥ 1.5 V, with tPUP = 100 µs minimum delay before command acceptance. The device uses hard-wired A0–A2 pins for multi-device bus addressing (up to eight devices), and WP pin logic-level control (GND = write enabled, VCC = full-array protection) provides deterministic hardware data security.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8 bits) - supports firmware parameter tables and device-specific calibration data storage. |
| Interface | I²C (Two-Wire) - requires only SDA/SCL lines with external pull-ups; no additional control signals needed. |
| Supply Voltage | 1.7V to 5.5V - interoperable with 1.8V, 3.3V, and 5V microcontroller I/O domains without level shifters. |
| Write Cycle Time | ≤5 ms max - enables rapid nonvolatile updates during runtime without blocking host CPU for extended periods. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 write cycles - suitable for logging applications with frequent small-data updates (e.g., metering counters). |
| Data Retention | 100 years at 55°C - guarantees long-term integrity of stored configuration or calibration data in unattended systems. |
| Standby Current | 6 μA max at 5.0V - minimizes battery drain in always-on IoT edge nodes and portable instrumentation. |
Pinout & Package
AT24C256C-MAHL-T is supplied in an 8-lead SOIC package (3.9 mm × 4.9 mm, 1.27 mm pitch), RoHS-compliant and halide-free.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A0 | Hardware Device Address Input | Configures LSB of 7-bit I²C slave address; tied high/low to enable up to eight devices on same bus. |
| A1 | Hardware Device Address Input | Configures middle bit of 7-bit I²C slave address; must be externally biased (not left floating) for deterministic operation. |
| A2 | Hardware Device Address Input | Configures MSB of 7-bit I²C slave address; internal weak pull-down engages if unconnected - not recommended for production. |
| GND | Ground Reference | System return path for VCC and signal references; must be low-impedance connection to avoid noise coupling into SDA/SCL. |
| SDA | Serial Data Bidirectional I/O | Open-drain line requiring external pull-up (≤10 kΩ); shares bus with other I²C devices via wired-AND topology. |
| SCL | Serial Clock Input | Host-generated clock controlling data sampling (rising edge) and output (falling edge); also requires pull-up. |
| WP | Write-Protect Control | Hardware lock: GND = full write access; VCC = full-array write inhibition - prevents accidental overwrites during power transients. |
| VCC | Power Supply | 1.7–5.5V supply; slew rate ≤0.1 V/µs required for reliable POR; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF) recommended near pin. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Fast Mode Plus Support | 1 MHz I²C operation at 2.5–5.5V - reduces EEPROM access latency by 2.5× vs. standard 400 kHz mode. |
| 64-Byte Page Write | Enables burst programming of up to 64 bytes per write cycle - improves throughput when updating contiguous configuration blocks. |
| Schmitt Trigger Inputs | Integrated noise filtering on SDA/SCL - eliminates false start/stop detection in electrically noisy industrial environments. |
| Hardware Write Protection | Dedicated WP pin with VCC/GND logic-level control - provides fail-safe, zero-software-overhead data integrity for critical settings. |
| Green Packaging | Lead-free, halide-free, RoHS-compliant SOIC - meets global environmental compliance requirements without derating. |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration Storage | Embedded System Configuration Retention |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing factory-calibrated coefficients and temperature compensation tables for pressure/temperature sensors in HVAC controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register holding 32K of sensor-specific linearization and offset data accessed at boot and during field recalibration. Use Value: Eliminates need for external calibration EEPROM or MCU flash wear management; retains data across 100-year lifetime without refresh. | Use Scenario: Preserving user-defined network settings (IP, subnet, gateway), display brightness, and language preferences in medical infusion pumps. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dedicated I²C-configurable memory mapped to MCU's peripheral address space for fast, atomic read/write of persistent settings. Use Value: Enables <5 ms write cycles and 6 μA standby draw - extends battery life while ensuring settings survive unexpected power loss. |
| Smart Meter Firmware Parameter Tables | Automotive Body Control Module Settings |
Use Scenario: Holding tariff schedules, demand-response thresholds, and cryptographic keys in ANSI C12.19-compliant electricity meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, write-protected storage block accessed exclusively via authenticated I²C commands from metering SoC. Use Value: Hardware WP pin prevents unauthorized firmware parameter modification; 1M-cycle endurance supports daily billing log updates for 27 years. | Use Scenario: Saving seat position memory, mirror fold/unfold states, and lighting profiles in vehicle door modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-voltage (1.7V) EEPROM interfacing directly with 3.3V CAN/LIN microcontrollers for fail-safe setting persistence. Use Value: Operates down to 1.7V during cold-cranking events; retains settings through battery disconnects and ECU reboots. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT24C256BN-SSHM-T | Same 256-Kbit capacity and I²C interface, but in 8-lead TSSOP package (3.0 × 4.4 mm); identical electrical specs and timing. | TSSOP offers smaller footprint and better thermal dissipation than SOIC - preferred for space-constrained PCBs with moderate airflow. | Select AT24C256BN-SSHM-T when board area is constrained and thermal performance under sustained write load is critical. |
| M24256-BWMN6TP | STMicroelectronics 256-Kbit I²C EEPROM; supports 1 MHz FM+ at 1.8–5.5V, but has higher standby current (1 µA typical vs. 6 µA max for AT24C256C-MAHL-T). | Higher ESD rating (6 kV vs. 4 kV) and extended -40°C to +125°C option available - suited for under-hood automotive use. | Select M24256-BWMN6TP only when 125°C operation or enhanced ESD immunity is mandatory; otherwise AT24C256C-MAHL-T offers superior low-power performance. |
Compared with AT24C256C-MAHL-T, the AT24C256BN-SSHM-T delivers identical functionality in a smaller TSSOP package, while the M24256-BWMN6TP trades higher standby current for extended temperature range and ESD robustness - making AT24C256C-MAHL-T optimal for industrial and battery-powered applications prioritizing ultra-low quiescent power and SOIC manufacturability.
Availability
AT24C256C-MAHL-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration storage, embedded system configuration retention, and smart meter firmware parameter tables requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for AT24C256C-MAHL-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 Inc. is a leading provider of microcontroller, analog, FPGA, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design, manufacturing, and sales operations.
The AT24C256C-MAHL-T belongs to Microchip's AT24Cxx family of I²C serial EEPROMs, engineered for reliable, low-power nonvolatile data storage in industrial, automotive, and consumer systems where deterministic write timing and hardware-level data protection are essential.
FAQ
What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the AT24C256C-MAHL-T?
The AT24C256C-MAHL-T supports up to 1 MHz Fast Mode Plus operation when VCC is between 2.5V and 5.5V. At 1.7V to 2.5V, it operates at up to 400 kHz Fast Mode, and at all voltages within its range (1.7V–5.5V), it supports 100 kHz Standard Mode. These modes are fully compliant with I²C-bus specification Rev. 6.
Does the AT24C256C-MAHL-T require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?
Yes, the AT24C256C-MAHL-T requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because SDA is open-drain and SCL is an input-only pin. Microchip specifies maximum values of 10 kΩ for 100 kHz, 4 kΩ for 400 kHz, and 1.3 kΩ for 1 MHz operation - with CL ≤ 100 pF - to meet rise time and noise immunity requirements.
How does the write-protect (WP) pin function on the AT24C256C-MAHL-T?
On the AT24C256C-MAHL-T, the WP pin provides hardware-level write inhibition: when pulled to VCC, it disables all write operations to the entire memory array; when pulled to GND, normal byte and page writes are permitted. If left floating, WP is internally pulled down to GND - but Microchip recommends explicit biasing to avoid noise-induced misoperation.
What is the memory organization of the AT24C256C-MAHL-T?
The AT24C256C-MAHL-T organizes its 256 Kbit capacity as 32,768 words of 8 bits each, physically structured as 512 pages of 64 bytes. This layout enables efficient partial-page writes and supports both random and sequential read modes - allowing flexible access patterns without page-boundary alignment constraints.
Is the AT24C256C-MAHL-T compatible with 1.8V microcontrollers?
Yes, the AT24C256C-MAHL-T is fully compatible with 1.8V microcontrollers: it operates down to 1.7V VCC and supports I²C Standard Mode (100 kHz) and Fast Mode (400 kHz) across the full 1.7V–5.5V range. Its input thresholds (VIL ≤ 0.3×VCC, VIH ≥ 0.7×VCC) ensure robust logic-level recognition at 1.8V, eliminating need for voltage translation.
AT24C256C-MAHL-T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-UFDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- 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:
- 5ms
- Access Time:
- 550 ns
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.7V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-UDFN (2x3)
AT24C256C-MAHL-T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT24C256C-MAHL-T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT24C256C-MAHL-T 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 AT24C256C-MAHL-T reliable?
The price and inventory of AT24C256C-MAHL-T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT24C256C-MAHL-T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT24C256C-MAHL-T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT24C256C-MAHL-T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT24C256C-MAHL-T?
AT24C256C-MAHL-T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT24C256C-MAHL-T 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 AT24C256C-MAHL-T?
For technical support, including AT24C256C-MAHL-T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT24C256C-MAHL-T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT24C256C-MAHL-T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT24C256C-MAHL-T 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 AT24C256C-MAHL-T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT24C256C-MAHL-T?
All AT24C256C-MAHL-T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT24C256C-MAHL-T, 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 AT24C256C-MAHL-T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT24C256C-MAHL-T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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