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Microchip Technology AT24C256C-SSHL-T
- Part No.:
- AT24C256C-SSHL-T
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
AT24C256C-SSHL-T.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 256KBIT I2C 1MHZ 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:10,523
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Product details
Overview
AT24C256C-SSHL-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 industrial temperature range, featuring 1 MHz Fast Mode Plus support at 2.5–5.5V, hardware write-protection via WP pin, and ultra-low standby current (6 μA max) - deployed in embedded system configuration storage, sensor calibration data retention, and firmware parameter backup.
For engineers reviewing the AT24C256C-SSHL-T datasheet, AT24C256C-SSHL-T pinout, AT24C256C-SSHL-T application, or AT24C256C-SSHL-T equivalent, key selection considerations include I²C bus voltage compatibility (1.7–5.5V), page write timing (≤5 ms), hardware addressability (A0–A2), WP pin behavior, and green packaging compliance (RoHS/halide-free).
Technical Context
The AT24C256C-SSHL-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 - with clock/data timing strictly defined per I²C specification and validated for 100 pF bus capacitance. It uses an internal high-voltage generation circuit for EEPROM cell programming without external VPP.
Memory is partitioned into 512 pages of 64 bytes each, enabling partial-page writes and sequential/random read modes; device addressing uses hardwired A0–A2 pins to select one of eight devices on a shared bus, with 7-bit slave address format (1010xxxR/W) and ACK/NACK protocol enforced on every byte transfer.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit (32,768 × 8 bits) - supports full system configuration storage without external memory expansion |
| Interface | I²C (Two-Wire Serial) - requires only SDA/SCL lines and external pull-ups; no SPI or parallel bus overhead |
| Supply Voltage | 1.7V to 5.5V - interoperable with 1.8V, 3.3V, and 5V microcontrollers without level shifting |
| Write Speed | ≤5 ms self-timed write cycle - eliminates need for host polling delay beyond tWR; enables deterministic firmware updates |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 write cycles - sufficient for daily logging over 27 years at 100 writes/day |
| Data Retention | 100 years at 55°C - ensures long-term reliability in sealed industrial enclosures |
| Standby Current | 6 μA max at 5.0V - critical for battery-backed real-time clocks and energy-harvesting nodes |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +85°C - qualified for automotive under-hood, factory automation, and outdoor IoT deployments |
Pinout & Package
AT24C256C-SSHL-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 functions are electrically identical across SOIC, TSSOP, UDFN, and VFBGA variants.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A0 | Hardware Device Address Input | Configures LSB of 7-bit I²C slave address; tied high/low to enable multi-device bus topology (up to 8 units) |
| A1 | Hardware Device Address Input | Configures middle bit of 7-bit I²C slave address; must be externally biased - internal pull-down disengages above ~0.5×VCC |
| A2 | Hardware Device Address Input | Configures MSB of 7-bit I²C slave address; floating state defaults to logic 0 but capacitive coupling risk mandates fixed bias |
| GND | Ground Reference | System ground return path; exposed pad on UDFN/VFBGA packages may be connected to GND for thermal relief |
| SDA | Serial Data Bidirectional I/O | Open-drain line requiring external pull-up (≤10 kΩ); supports wire-OR with other I²C devices on same bus |
| SCL | Serial Clock Input | Host-generated clock; rising edge latches input, falling edge outputs data; pull-up required if not actively driven |
| WP | Hardware Write-Protect Control | Active-high protection: tied to VCC blocks all writes; tied to GND enables full-array programming |
| VCC | Power Supply Input | 1.7–5.5V operation; slew rate ≤0.1 V/µs required during power-up to ensure reliable POR reset |
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 writes within single page boundary - minimizes I²C transaction count for block data storage |
| Schmitt Trigger Inputs | Suppresses bus noise and contact bounce on SDA/SCL - eliminates false start/stop detection in EMI-prone environments |
| Internal Power-on Reset | Guarantees device remains unresponsive until VCC ≥1.5V and stable for ≥100 µs - prevents spurious writes during brown-out |
| Green Packaging | Lead-free, halide-free, RoHS-compliant SOIC - meets IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity Level 3 (MSL3) |
| ESD Robustness | 4,000V HBM - sustains handling and board-level ESD events without latch-up or parametric shift |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Node | Medical Diagnostic Device |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing calibrated offset/gain coefficients and fault history logs in battery-powered wireless temperature/humidity sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration storage with infrequent writes (<100/day) and frequent reads during measurement cycles. Use Value: 100-year data retention and 6 μA standby current extend battery life beyond 10 years in sealed enclosures. | Use Scenario: Retaining patient-specific calibration profiles and usage counters in portable ultrasound probes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure parameter storage isolated from main MCU flash; WP pin permanently enabled during field operation. Use Value: Hardware write-protection prevents accidental overwrites during hot-plug probe insertion or firmware updates. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | Smart Energy Meter |
Use Scenario: Saving seat/mirror position presets and door lock event logs in 12V vehicle subsystems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-voltage EEPROM interfacing directly with 3.3V CAN microcontroller; operates down to 1.7V during cold-crank conditions. Use Value: 1.7V minimum VCC tolerance avoids brown-out resets during engine cranking transients. | Use Scenario: Recording tariff schedules, tamper events, and metering history in utility-grade electricity meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability data logger with 1M write endurance - withstands daily billing cycle writes for >27 years. Use Value: Verified 1,000,000 write cycles eliminate wear-leveling firmware complexity and reduce BOM cost. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT24C256BN-SH-B | Same 256-Kbit capacity and I²C interface, but in 8-lead TSSOP package; identical electrical specs and timing. | No SOIC footprint compatibility; smaller TSSOP (3.0 × 4.4 mm) requires PCB redesign. | Select when board space is constrained and reflow profile supports TSSOP. |
| M24256-BWMN6TP | STMicroelectronics 256-Kbit I²C EEPROM; supports 1 MHz FM+ only at 2.5–5.5V, but offers enhanced ESD (6 kV HBM) and wider temp range (-40°C to +105°C). | Higher temperature rating suits under-hood automotive use; different device address mapping (A0/A1 only). | Choose for extended temperature or higher ESD immunity; verify A2 pin absence in design. |
Compared with AT24C256C-SSHL-T, AT24C256BN-SH-B delivers identical functionality in a space-saving TSSOP, while M24256-BWMN6TP adds extended temperature and ESD margin at the cost of altered address pin configuration - both require layout or firmware review before substitution.
Availability
AT24C256C-SSHL-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, medical diagnostic devices, automotive body control modules, and smart energy meters requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for AT24C256C-SSHL-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 is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog, FPGA, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global manufacturing and support infrastructure.
The AT24C256C-SSHL-T belongs to Microchip's AT24Cxx family of I²C serial EEPROMs, engineered for low-power, wide-voltage industrial and automotive data storage where reliability, longevity, and bus simplicity are critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the AT24C256C-SSHL-T?
The AT24C256C-SSHL-T supports up to 1 MHz Fast Mode Plus (FM+) operation, but only when VCC is between 2.5V and 5.5V. At 1.7V to 2.5V, maximum speed is limited to 400 kHz Fast Mode. Standard Mode (100 kHz) applies across the full 1.7V–5.5V range. These limits are defined in the AC Characteristics table of the official datasheet (20006042C-page 10).
Does the AT24C256C-SSHL-T require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?
Yes, the AT24C256C-SSHL-T requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because SDA is open-drain and SCL is an input. Microchip specifies maximum values of 10 kΩ for 100 kHz, 4 kΩ for 400 kHz, and 1.3 kΩ for 1 MHz operation - selected based on bus capacitance (≤100 pF) and rise time requirements. Pull-ups must connect to the same VCC rail used by the device.
How does the Write-Protect (WP) pin function on the AT24C256C-SSHL-T?
When the WP pin is driven high (to VCC), the AT24C256C-SSHL-T inhibits all write operations to its entire memory array. When WP is low (GND), normal read/write access is enabled. If left floating, WP is internally pulled down to GND - but Microchip recommends hard-wiring it to avoid noise-induced protection glitches. The pin has CMOS-compatible input thresholds (~0.3×VCC low, ~0.7×VCC high).
What is the memory organization and page structure of the AT24C256C-SSHL-T?
The AT24C256C-SSHL-T organizes its 256 Kbit memory as 32,768 words × 8 bits, grouped into 512 pages of 64 bytes each. This enables efficient 64-byte page writes - including partial-page writes - and supports random, sequential, and current-address read modes. Addressing uses a 7-bit I²C slave address (1010xxxR/W) with A0–A2 pins selecting the xxx bits for multi-device bus configurations.
Is the AT24C256C-SSHL-T compatible with 1.8V microcontrollers?
Yes, the AT24C256C-SSHL-T is fully compatible with 1.8V systems: it operates from 1.7V to 5.5V, supports I²C Standard Mode (100 kHz) and Fast Mode (400 kHz) across that full voltage range, and features Schmitt-triggered inputs with noise filtering. Its 1.7V minimum VCC allows direct interfacing with 1.8V MCUs without level shifters - confirmed in DC and AC operating range specifications (20006042C-page 9).
AT24C256C-SSHL-T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- 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-SOIC
AT24C256C-SSHL-T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT24C256C-SSHL-T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT24C256C-SSHL-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-SSHL-T reliable?
The price and inventory of AT24C256C-SSHL-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-SSHL-T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT24C256C-SSHL-T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT24C256C-SSHL-T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT24C256C-SSHL-T?
AT24C256C-SSHL-T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT24C256C-SSHL-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-SSHL-T?
For technical support, including AT24C256C-SSHL-T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT24C256C-SSHL-T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT24C256C-SSHL-T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT24C256C-SSHL-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-SSHL-T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT24C256C-SSHL-T?
All AT24C256C-SSHL-T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT24C256C-SSHL-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-SSHL-T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT24C256C-SSHL-T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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