Microchip Technology AT24C512N-10SU-1.8

Overview

AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 512 Kbit (65,536 × 8) two-wire serial EEPROM optimized for low-voltage embedded systems. It operates from 1.8 V to 3.6 V, supports up to 100 kHz I²C bus speed at 1.8 V, features hardware write protection via WP pin, and delivers 100,000 write cycles with 40-year data retention. It is used in industrial sensor calibration storage and firmware parameter backup where space-constrained, battery-powered operation is required.

For engineers reviewing the AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 datasheet, AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 pinout, AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 application, or AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 1.8 V–3.6 V supply range, 128-byte page write capability, Schmitt-triggered noise-immune inputs, TSSOP-8 package with lead-free/halogen-free compliance, and support for cascaded multi-device I²C buses up to four units.

Technical Context

The AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 implements a standard two-wire (I²C-compatible) interface with open-drain SDA and edge-triggered SCL, supporting addressable device selection via A0/A1 pins. Its internal architecture organizes memory as 512 pages of 128 bytes each, enabling partial-page writes and automatic address roll-over within pages.

It uses internal pull-down biasing on floating A0, A1, and WP pins when capacitive coupling to VCC is below 3 pF; otherwise, external grounding is recommended. The device enters standby mode after STOP condition receipt and supports acknowledge polling to detect write completion without fixed timing delays.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 is packaged in an 8-lead TSSOP (8A2) with 0.65 mm pitch, 3.0 mm × 4.4 mm body, and lead-free/halogen-free construction per RoHS.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with M24C512-RMN6TP and BR24G512FJ-3GE2, the AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 offers guaranteed 100 kHz operation at 1.8 V in TSSOP-8 with proven automotive-grade reliability, while alternatives trade package form factor or marginal voltage/speed margins for second-source availability.

Availability

AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration storage, medical device configuration backup, and automotive body control module applications requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for AT24C512N-10SU-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 acquired Atmel in 2016 and maintains full technical and manufacturing continuity for the AT24Cxx EEPROM family, delivering high-reliability nonvolatile memory solutions since 1980.

The AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for low-voltage, space-constrained embedded systems needing robust, field-updatable parameter storage with minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 at 1.8 V?

The AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 100 kHz when operating at 1.8 V, as specified in Table 4 of the official datasheet. This limit ensures reliable signal integrity and timing margin under low-voltage conditions. Exceeding this frequency may result in read/write failures or bus arbitration errors. The AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 datasheet explicitly characterizes tLOW, tHIGH, and other AC parameters only up to 100 kHz at 1.8 V.

Does AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I/O pins are open-drain. At 1.8 V operation, a 10 kΩ pull-up is recommended per the datasheet's AC test conditions. The value balances rise time (tR ≤ 1.0 µs) against bus capacitance and current consumption. Omitting pull-ups will prevent proper I²C communication, as neither line can drive high without them.

How does the WP pin function on AT24C512N-10SU-1.8, and what happens if it is left unconnected?

On AT24C512N-10SU-1.8, the WP pin enables hardware write protection: tying it to VCC inhibits all write operations, while grounding it allows normal writes. If left unconnected, the pin is internally pulled down to GND *only if* capacitive coupling to the VCC plane is less than 3 pF; otherwise, it may float unpredictably. The AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 datasheet recommends explicit grounding for reliable operation in all layouts.

Can AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 be used in cascaded I²C configurations, and how many devices can share one bus?

Yes, AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 supports cascading via its A0 and A1 address pins, allowing up to four devices on a single I²C bus. Each device is assigned a unique 7-bit address (0x50–0x53) based on A0/A1 logic levels. The AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 datasheet confirms this capability in the Device Addressing section and specifies that floating A0/A1 pins default to logic low, enabling predictable multi-device enumeration without external jumpers.

What is the write endurance and data retention specification for AT24C512N-10SU-1.8?

The AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 guarantees 100,000 write cycles per memory location and 40 years of data retention at +85°C, as stated in the Features section and Table 4 of the official datasheet. These values are characterized, not 100% tested, but represent minimum expected performance across the industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). The AT24C512N-10SU-1.8 achieves this via oxide degradation mitigation and charge-trapping design.