Microchip Technology 24LC256-I/SN

The 24LC256-I/SN is a 256 Kbit (32 K x 8) I2C-compatible EEPROM. It utilizes a standard I2C interface for communication and is designed for low-power, high-density memory storage applications. This IC is primarily used for data retention and storage in various electronic devices. Functions - Data Storage: The primary function is to store data in a non-volatile manner, allowing it to retain information even when the power is turned off. - I2C Interface: Supports 400 kHz fast mode I2C communication, enabling efficient data transfer between the EEPROM and microcontrollers or processors. - Page Write: Allows for writing data in pages up to 16 bytes at a time, improving the efficiency of programming. - Self-Timed Write Cycle: Ensures that the internal write cycle is managed without needing additional control from the microcontroller. - EEPROM Emulation: Commonly used in applications requiring EEPROM emulation due to its non-volatile memory characteristics. Applications - Consumer Electronics: Used in devices like TVs, washing machines, and microwaves for storing configuration settings. - Industrial Equipment: Commonly implemented in sensors and control systems to store calibration data and operational parameters. - Automotive: Employed in engine control units (ECUs) for logging data and storing parameter settings. - Medical Devices: Utilized for segmentation data, device configurations, and patient information storage. - Telecommunications: Used in network equipment for storing operational data. Alternative Parts - Microchip 24LC128: A smaller EEPROM with 128 Kbits of storage. - Microchip 24C512: A 512 Kbit EEPROM, providing a larger storage capacity. - Atmel AT24C256: Another 256 Kbit EEPROM with similar specifications. - Winbond W25X40: A serial flash memory alternative for applications where flash memory is preferred. Embedded Modules - Development Boards: Many microcontroller development boards, such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi, support the 24LC256 through libraries for easy integration. - Sensor Modules: Some sensor modules incorporate EEPROM for storing calibration values directly on the sensor unit, which uses the 24LC256. - Embedded Systems: It can be found in embedded system designs where persistent storage is required, interfaced via I2C with MCUs and digital circuits. Related Q&A 1. Q: What type of interface does the 24LC256-I/SN use for communication? - A: The 24LC256-I/SN uses the I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) interface for communication, which allows multiple devices to communicate using only two wires. 2. Q: What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the I2C interface of the 24LC256? - A: The maximum clock frequency supported by the 24LC256-I/SN I2C interface is 400 kHz in fast mode. 3. Q: How does the 24LC256 handle write operations? - A: The 24LC256 supports a self-timed write cycle, which means that after data is written, the device takes time to complete the write operation without requiring external control. 4. Q: In what applications would you typically use the 24LC256? - A: Typical applications include consumer electronics, industrial control systems, automotive electronics, medical devices, and telecommunication equipment for data retention and configuration storage. 5. Q: What is the storage capacity of the 24LC256-I/SN? - A: The 24LC256-I/SN has a storage capacity of 256 Kbits, which translates to 32 Kbytes of memory, organized as 32,768 bytes of data.