The 24LC16BT-I/SN: A Robust 16K I2C Serial EEPROM Solution from Microchip

In the realm of embedded systems and electronics design, reliable non-volatile memory is a fundamental component for data storage and configuration settings. The Microchip 24LC16BT-I/SN stands out as a premier solution, offering designers a robust and highly accessible memory chip. This device is a 16-kilobit (16K) I2C serial EEPROM, organized as 2048 x 8 bits, providing ample space for critical data in a vast array of applications.

A key strength of this memory chip is its utilization of the ubiquitous I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) serial communication protocol. This two-wire interface, comprising a serial data line (SDA) and a serial clock line (SCL), drastically reduces the number of I/O pins required on a microcontroller, simplifying board layout and minimizing component count. The 24LC16BT-I/SN supports a 400 kHz clock frequency, ensuring efficient and sufficiently fast data transfer for most common use cases. Furthermore, the device features hardware write-protection via a dedicated WP (Write-Protect) pin. When asserted, this pin safeguards the entire memory array from inadvertent writes, a critical feature for protecting firmware and calibration data in the field.

The "16" in its nomenclature indicates an internal organization that is effectively divided into two blocks of 8K bits each. This architecture is managed internally, presenting a seamless memory space to the host controller. Designed for low-power operation, this EEPROM is ideal for battery-powered and portable devices, boasting low standby and active currents. Its endurance is specified for 1,000,000 erase/write cycles per byte, coupled with a data retention period of over 200 years, guaranteeing long-term reliability.

Housed in a compact 8-lead SOIC (SN) package, the 24LC16BT-I/SN is perfectly suited for space-constrained applications. Its industrial temperature rating (-40°C to +85°C) ensures stable performance across a wide range of environmental conditions. Typical applications range from storing system parameters and user settings in consumer electronics to data logging in industrial systems and medical devices.

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip 24LC16BT-I/SN is a quintessential choice for designers seeking a proven, reliable, and easy-to-integrate serial EEPROM. Its combination of the standard I2C interface, hardware write-protection, and excellent endurance makes it a versatile memory solution for countless electronic products.

Keywords: I2C Interface, Serial EEPROM, Non-volatile Memory, Hardware Write-Protection, Low-Power Operation