Microchip Technology AT24C32-10PI-2.7

Overview

AT24C32-10PI-2.7 from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 32K-bit (4096 × 8) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM with 2.7V to 5.5V operation, 32-byte page write capability, and hardware write protection via the WP pin. It delivers 1 million write cycles and 100-year data retention in an 8-pin PDIP package, used for configuration storage in industrial controllers and embedded systems.

For engineers reviewing the AT24C32-10PI-2.7 datasheet, AT24C32-10PI-2.7 pinout, AT24C32-10PI-2.7 application, or AT24C32-10PI-2.7 equivalent, key selection factors include VCC range (2.7–5.5V), 100 kHz I²C speed at 2.7V, WP-enabled quadrant-level write protection, 8-pin PDIP mechanical compatibility, and industrial temperature support (−40°C to +85°C).

Technical Context

The AT24C32-10PI-2.7 implements a standard two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-triggered, noise-filtered SDA/SCL inputs and open-drain bidirectional data transfer. Its internal address counter supports current-address, random-address, and sequential read modes, while device addressing uses A0–A2 pins to enable up to eight devices on one bus.

Write operations are self-timed with a maximum 10 ms cycle; page writes allow up to 32 bytes per transaction with automatic lower-address-bit incrementing. The WP pin disables writes to the upper 8K bits when driven high, providing hardware-level memory segmentation without software overhead.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT24C32-10PI-2.7 is housed in an 8-lead, 0.300″ wide plastic dual in-line package (PDIP), JEDEC MS-001 compliant, with through-hole mounting and 0.100″ lead pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT24C32-10PI-2.7, the AT24C32D-SSHM-T offers SOIC packaging for automated assembly but lacks through-hole compatibility, while the CAT24C32WI-GT3 provides extended temperature range at identical pinout and voltage specs - both serve as functional alternatives where package or thermal envelope differs.

Availability

AT24C32-10PI-2.7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, smart metering systems, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and through-hole manufacturability.

Supply support for AT24C32-10PI-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 is a global semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and nonvolatile memory solutions, with a focus on reliability and long-term product support.

The AT24C32-10PI-2.7 belongs to Microchip's legacy AT24Cxx serial EEPROM family, designed for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded systems requiring robust, field-updatable configuration storage.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by AT24C32-10PI-2.7 at 2.7V?

The AT24C32-10PI-2.7 supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 100 kHz when operated at 2.7V. This is specified in the AC Characteristics table under "2.7-, 2.5-volt" conditions. The device does not support 400 kHz operation below 4.5V - that speed is only guaranteed for VCC ≥ 4.5V. This timing margin ensures reliable communication in electrically noisy industrial settings where slower clocks improve noise immunity.

Does AT24C32-10PI-2.7 require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, AT24C32-10PI-2.7 requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. The datasheet specifies SDA as "open-drain driven" and notes it may be wire-ORed with other open-drain devices. Typical values range from 2.2 kΩ to 10 kΩ depending on bus capacitance and desired rise time. Failure to install pull-ups will prevent proper I²C signaling and device recognition.

How does the WP pin protect memory in AT24C32-10PI-2.7?

The WP pin on AT24C32-10PI-2.7 protects the upper quadrant (8K bits, addresses 0x2000–0x3FFF) by disabling all write operations to that region when pulled high to VCC. When WP is grounded or left unconnected (internally pulled down), full memory access is enabled. This hardware-level protection operates independently of I²C commands - no software intervention is needed, making it ideal for safeguarding critical calibration or security data against accidental overwrite.

Can AT24C32-10PI-2.7 be used in a 1.8V system?

No, AT24C32-10PI-2.7 is specifically rated for 2.7V to 5.5V operation, as indicated by the "-2.7" suffix in its ordering code. It is not guaranteed to function correctly at 1.8V. For 1.8V systems, Microchip offers variants like AT24C32-10PI-1.8, which are characterized and tested down to 1.8V. Using AT24C32-10PI-2.7 below 2.7V may result in unreliable reads, failed writes, or undefined I²C behavior.

What is the endurance rating of AT24C32-10PI-2.7, and how is it measured?

The AT24C32-10PI-2.7 is rated for 1 million write cycles per memory location, measured under 5.0V, 25°C conditions using page-write mode. This endurance value is characterized (not 100% tested) per the datasheet note. It reflects guaranteed minimum lifetime under typical usage - for example, writing once per hour would sustain over 114 years. Endurance applies uniformly across all 4096 words and is unaffected by partial-page writes or byte-level accesses.