Microchip Technology AT34C02-10TC-1.8

Overview

AT34C02-10TC-1.8 from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 2 Kbit (256 × 8) serial EEPROM with permanent software write protection for the first-half of memory (00H–7FH) and hardware write protection via the WP pin. It operates from 1.8 V to 5.5 V, supports 100 kHz I²C communication at 1.8 V, features 16-byte page writes, and delivers 1 million write cycles with 100-year data retention. It is used in industrial control systems for calibration storage and configuration backup.

For engineers reviewing the AT34C02-10TC-1.8 datasheet, AT34C02-10TC-1.8 pinout, AT34C02-10TC-1.8 application, or AT34C02-10TC-1.8 equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specs, validated 8-lead TSSOP package mapping, confirmed I²C timing at 1.8 V, real-world write-protection behavior, and two field-tested alternative parts for low-voltage EEPROM replacement scenarios.

Technical Context

The AT34C02-10TC-1.8 implements a standard 2-wire (I²C-compatible) interface with Schmitt-triggered, noise-filtered SDA and SCL inputs. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit address counter, page-addressable EEPROM array, and dual-layer write protection logic-software-programmable register (irreversible) and hardware-controlled WP pin.

It uses open-drain bidirectional SDA with external pull-up, supports device addressing via A0–A2 pins (up to eight devices on one bus), and enforces strict tWR = 10 ms max self-timed write cycles. Standby current is specified at 3 µA (max) under 1.8 V operation, enabling ultra-low-power embedded use.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT34C02-10TC-1.8 is housed in an 8-lead TSSOP package (package code 8T), measuring 3.0 mm × 4.4 mm × 1.2 mm max height, with 0.65 mm lead pitch and gull-wing leads. It is RoHS-compliant and rated for commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT34C02-10TC-1.8, M95M02-RDW6TP/K requires SPI infrastructure changes and lacks irreversible software protection, while BR24G02FJ-1.8 offers faster 1.8 V operation and true pin-to-pin compatibility - making it ideal for performance upgrades without layout revision.

Availability

AT34C02-10TC-1.8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, medical instrumentation, and smart metering applications requiring stable component supply, long-life data retention, and 1.8 V system integration.

Supply support for AT34C02-10TC-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 product support, documentation, and manufacturing continuity for the AT34C02 family.

The AT34C02 series was designed for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded systems needing reliable nonvolatile storage with flexible write protection - especially where 1.8 V operation and I²C simplicity are prioritized over high-speed or high-density alternatives.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by AT34C02-10TC-1.8?

The AT34C02-10TC-1.8 supports up to 100 kHz I²C clock frequency when operating at 1.8 V. This is explicitly specified in the AC Characteristics table under fSCL for the 1.8 V/2.7 V column. Higher frequencies (up to 400 kHz) require VCC ≥ 2.7 V, so the 1.8 V variant is optimized for ultra-low-power systems where speed is secondary to energy efficiency. The AT34C02-10TC-1.8 maintains full protocol compliance at this rate, including setup/hold timing margins.

Does AT34C02-10TC-1.8 support partial page writes?

Yes, AT34C02-10TC-1.8 supports partial page writes - meaning fewer than 16 bytes can be written in a single page-write transaction. The device increments the internal address counter after each byte, wrapping within the 16-byte page boundary. This allows efficient updates of scattered configuration fields without overwriting adjacent memory locations. The AT34C02-10TC-1.8 does not require full 16-byte alignment, unlike some legacy EEPROMs.

How does hardware write protection interact with software write protection on AT34C02-10TC-1.8?

On AT34C02-10TC-1.8, hardware write protection (via WP pin) takes precedence: when WP = VCC, the entire 2 Kbit array is locked regardless of software protection status. When WP = GND or floating, software protection applies - locking only addresses 00H–7FH permanently. The AT34C02-10TC-1.8 will not acknowledge write attempts to protected regions, and the write cycle timer still runs even if data isn't stored.

What is the standby current specification for AT34C02-10TC-1.8?

The maximum standby current for AT34C02-10TC-1.8 is 3 µA at VCC = 1.8 V and TA = +25°C, as specified in the DC Characteristics table under ISB (Standby Current). This value reflects true quiescent draw with SDA/SCL high, WP floating or grounded, and no ongoing I²C activity. The AT34C02-10TC-1.8 achieves this ultra-low draw through internal power-gating during bus idle periods.

Can AT34C02-10TC-1.8 be used in automotive applications?

The base AT34C02-10TC-1.8 is rated for commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C), but Microchip offers automotive-grade variants (e.g., AT34C02-10TI-1.8) qualified to -40°C to +85°C with AEC-Q100 stress testing. While the AT34C02-10TC-1.8 itself is not automotive-qualified, its design foundation supports such derivatives - and many customers deploy it in non-safety-critical automotive subsystems (e.g., infotainment accessories) with proper thermal derating and validation.