STMicroelectronics M24256-DRMN3TP/K

Overview

M24256-DRMN3TP/K from STMicroelectronics is a 256-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 32 K × 8 bits, featuring an additional 64-byte identification page with permanent lock capability. It operates from 1.7 V to 5.5 V, supports 1 MHz I²C clock, and delivers byte/page write within 5 ms across –40 °C to +85 °C. Used in industrial control modules for secure parameter storage and firmware revision tracking.

For engineers reviewing the M24256-DRMN3TP/K datasheet, M24256-DRMN3TP/K pinout, M24256-DRMN3TP/K application, or M24256-DRMN3TP/K equivalent, key selection factors include I²C speed compatibility (1 MHz), dual-voltage operation (1.7–5.5 V), identification page lockability, WC-controlled full-array write protection, and ECOPACK2-compliant TSSOP8 packaging.

Technical Context

The device implements a slave-only I²C interface with hardware address decoding via three chip-enable inputs (E2–E0), enabling up to eight devices on one bus. Its internal ECC logic corrects single-bit errors per 4-byte group without protocol overhead.

Write control (WC) input disables all memory writes when high, while the identification page-accessible via distinct device-select code (1011b)-supports one-time locking via dedicated instruction. Internal power-on-reset prevents spurious writes during voltage ramp-up.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TSSOP8 (DW), 169 mil width, RoHS-compliant and halogen-free (ECOPACK2).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT24C256C-SSHL-T and BR24G256FJ-3GE2, M24256-DRMN3TP/K uniquely combines hardware write control (WC), ECC, and a permanently lockable identification page - making it the only option meeting stringent requirements for tamper-resistant calibration storage in medical and industrial safety systems.

Availability

M24256-DRMN3TP/K is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, automotive body control units, smart energy meters, and medical infusion pumps requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for M24256-DRMN3TP/K 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing microcontrollers, power ICs, sensors, and memory solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

M24256 belongs to ST's serial EEPROM product line, engineered specifically for high-reliability, secure, and long-lifecycle applications requiring guaranteed data integrity, hardware-level write protection, and extended temperature operation.

FAQ

What is the function of the WC pin on M24256-DRMN3TP/K?

The WC (Write Control) pin is an active-high hardware input that globally disables all write operations to the memory array when driven high. When WC = high, the device acknowledges device select and address bytes but returns NoAck for data bytes, preventing any memory modification. This provides fail-safe protection against spurious writes during power transients or software faults - independent of I²C command execution.

How does the identification page differ from standard memory pages?

The identification page is a dedicated 64-byte region accessible only via a distinct I²C device-select code (1011b instead of 1010b). It supports two unique instructions: write identification page and lock identification page. Once locked, its contents become permanently read-only - no further writes or erases are possible, even with WC = low. This makes it ideal for storing immutable keys, serial numbers, or calibration signatures.

Does M24256-DRMN3TP/K require external pull-up resistors on SDA/SCL?

Yes - SDA and SCL are open-drain outputs requiring external pull-up resistors to VCC. The datasheet specifies typical values between 1 kΩ and 10 kΩ depending on bus capacitance and target clock speed. For 1 MHz operation, a 2.2 kΩ resistor is recommended with ≤200 pF total bus capacitance. Pull-ups must be placed close to the EEPROM pins to minimize noise susceptibility and ensure clean signal edges.

Can the ECC functionality be disabled or bypassed?

No - ECC is fully transparent and always active on every read operation across all memory locations. It operates automatically on 4-byte groups without host intervention, correcting single-bit errors in real time. There is no register, command, or pin to disable ECC; it is implemented in hard logic and cannot be overridden. This ensures consistent reliability but means all reads benefit from error correction regardless of application need.