Microchip Technology AT24C64-10TC-2.5

Overview

AT24C64-10TC-2.5 from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 64K-bit (8192 × 8) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM optimized for low-voltage embedded systems. It operates from 2.5V to 5.5V, supports 100 kHz I²C bus speed, features hardware write protection via WP pin, and delivers 1 million write cycles with 100-year data retention. It is used in industrial control panels for parameter storage and calibration data backup.

For engineers reviewing the AT24C64-10TC-2.5 datasheet, AT24C64-10TC-2.5 pinout, AT24C64-10TC-2.5 application, or AT24C64-10TC-2.5 equivalent, key selection considerations include VCC range compatibility (2.5–5.5V), TSSOP-8 package footprint, 32-byte page write capability, and hardware write-protect functionality for firmware configuration safety.

Technical Context

The AT24C64-10TC-2.5 implements a standard two-wire I²C interface with open-drain SDA and Schmitt-triggered SCL inputs for noise immunity. Its internal memory is organized as 256 pages of 32 bytes each, supporting both byte and page write modes with self-timed 10 ms max write cycle.

Device addressing uses three hardware-configurable pins (A0–A2), enabling up to eight devices on a single I²C bus. The WP pin provides hardware-level protection for the upper quadrant (16K bits) of memory when driven high, while standby current is limited to 0.5 µA at 2.5V - critical for battery-powered metering applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT24C64-10TC-2.5 is housed in an 8-pin TSSOP package (JEDEC MO-153, 3.0 mm × 4.4 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch), compatible with automated SMT assembly and space-constrained PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT24C64-10TC-2.5, AT24C64D-SSHM-T adds automotive qualification and wider voltage range but increases cost and thermal envelope, while BR24G64FJ-WE2 offers faster I²C timing but removes hardware write protection - making AT24C64-10TC-2.5 optimal for cost-sensitive industrial designs needing deterministic memory lockdown.

Availability

AT24C64-10TC-2.5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial HMI, smart metering, POS terminal, and automotive body control applications requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for AT24C64-10TC-2.5 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, FPGA, and memory solutions, with strong heritage in legacy Atmel product lines including serial EEPROMs.

The AT24C64 family was designed for reliable, low-power nonvolatile data storage in resource-constrained embedded systems - particularly where I²C interface simplicity, hardware write protection, and extended data retention are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by AT24C64-10TC-2.5?

The AT24C64-10TC-2.5 supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 100 kHz when operating within its 2.5V to 5.5V supply range. This is specified in the AC Characteristics table under fSCL for 2.5V/2.7V operation. Higher speeds (up to 400 kHz) require VCC ≥ 4.5V - not applicable to the -2.5 suffix variant. The 100 kHz limit ensures robust timing margins in electrically noisy industrial environments where AT24C64-10TC-2.5 is commonly deployed.

Does AT24C64-10TC-2.5 include hardware write protection?

Yes, AT24C64-10TC-2.5 includes a dedicated Write Protect (WP) pin that, when driven high to VCC, disables write operations to the upper quadrant (16K bits) of memory. This hardware-level protection prevents accidental overwrites of critical firmware or calibration data. When WP is tied to GND or left floating (internally pulled down), full memory access is enabled. This feature is confirmed in the Pin Description and Device Addressing sections of the official datasheet for AT24C64-10TC-2.5.

What package type is used for AT24C64-10TC-2.5?

AT24C64-10TC-2.5 uses an 8-pin TSSOP (Thin Shrink Small Outline Package) with JEDEC MO-153 mechanical dimensions: 3.0 mm × 4.4 mm body size and 0.65 mm lead pitch. The "T" in the part number explicitly denotes TSSOP packaging, and the datasheet's Packaging Information section confirms this footprint. This package supports fine-pitch SMT assembly and offers better thermal performance than PDIP for dense industrial PCB layouts.

How many write cycles can AT24C64-10TC-2.5 endure?

AT24C64-10TC-2.5 is rated for 1 million write cycles per memory location, as specified in the High Reliability section of its datasheet. This endurance applies under standard conditions (5.0V, 25°C, page mode). The value is verified through accelerated testing and ensures long-term reliability in applications such as daily log updates in industrial controllers. Each write cycle completes in ≤10 ms, and the device automatically manages internal timing - no external delay is required after issuing a write command to AT24C64-10TC-2.5.

What is the data retention period for AT24C64-10TC-2.5?

AT24C64-10TC-2.5 guarantees 100 years of data retention at +25°C ambient temperature, as stated in the High Reliability section of its datasheet. Retention decreases logarithmically with increasing temperature - e.g., ~30 years at +85°C - but remains sufficient for the full service life of industrial equipment. This specification reflects actual accelerated life testing results, not theoretical projections, and applies to data stored in AT24C64-10TC-2.5 under recommended operating conditions.