STMicroelectronics M24256-DRMN8TP/K

Overview

M24256-DRMN8TP/K from STMicroelectronics is a 256-Kbit (32 Kbyte) I²C serial EEPROM with 64-byte page size, 1.7–5.5 V supply range, and extended industrial temperature operation up to +105 °C. It features an embedded ECC logic for enhanced data integrity, a dedicated 64-byte lockable Identification Page for device ID and application parameters, and supports I²C bus speeds up to 1 MHz. It is used in automotive body control modules for storing calibration data and configuration profiles.

For engineers reviewing the M24256-DRMN8TP/K datasheet, M24256-DRMN8TP/K pinout, M24256-DRMN8TP/K application, or M24256-DRMN8TP/K equivalent, key selection considerations include write endurance at high temperature, identification page locking capability, I²C timing compliance at 1 MHz, and RoHS-compliant TSSOP8 package compatibility with automated SMT assembly.

Technical Context

The device operates as an I²C slave with fixed 7-bit device type identifier (1010b for memory, 1011b for Identification Page), decoded against externally set E2/E1/E0 pins to support up to eight devices on one bus. Its internal address counter auto-increments after each byte write, and Stop condition triggers the internal 4 ms write cycle.

It implements Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity on SCL/SDA, open-drain SDA output requiring external pull-up, and WC pin-based hardware write protection that inhibits all writes when driven high - including acknowledgment of data bytes. The Identification Page supports read, write, and permanent lock operations independent of main array access.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TSSOP8 (DW), 3 mm × 6.4 mm, 0.65 mm pitch, 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, the M24256-DRMN8TP/K uniquely combines AEC-Q100 Grade 2 qualification, embedded ECC, and a permanently lockable Identification Page - making it the only option among the three qualified for safety-critical automotive calibration storage where data integrity and traceability are mandatory.

Availability

M24256-DRMN8TP/K is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control units, industrial PLC configuration storage, medical infusion pump calibration, and smart energy meter firmware parameter management requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.

Supply support for M24256-DRMN8TP/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 automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The M24256-DRMN8TP/K belongs to ST's M24 series of automotive-grade serial EEPROMs, engineered specifically for high-reliability non-volatile storage in systems demanding extended temperature operation, long data retention, and hardware-level write protection.

FAQ

What is the function of the WC pin on the M24256-DRMN8TP/K?

The WC (Write Control) pin is a hardware write-protection input. When driven high, it disables all write operations-including to the main memory array and the Identification Page-regardless of I²C command. Writes are enabled only when WC is low or left floating. This provides fail-safe protection against accidental or malicious overwrites during system operation or firmware updates.

Can the Identification Page be rewritten after being locked?

No. Once the Identification Page is locked using the Lock Identification Page instruction, the entire 64-byte page becomes permanently read-only. The lock is irreversible and enforced by internal fuse-like circuitry. Unlocking is not supported, ensuring tamper-proof storage of device ID or critical application parameters.

Does the M24256-DRMN8TP/K require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL?

Yes. The SDA pin is open-drain and requires an external pull-up resistor to VCC; SCL is an input but also benefits from a pull-up for noise immunity. Recommended values range from 1.8 kΩ (for 1 MHz, low-capacitance buses) to 10 kΩ (for 100 kHz, higher-capacitance buses), calculated per I²C specification based on bus capacitance and desired rise time.

How does the embedded ECC logic operate in the M24256-DRMN8TP/K?

The ECC logic operates transparently during read operations: for each 64-byte page, it computes and checks Hamming-code parity bits stored alongside user data. It corrects any single-bit error and flags uncorrectable multi-bit errors via status reporting. No host software intervention is needed-ECC is fully hardware-implemented and active across the entire 32 Kbyte memory array.