24LC256T-I/SN is a member of Microchip's 24LC series I2C serial EEPROM family, with 256Kb (32Kx8bit) storage capacity, using a two-wire I2C interface for data read/write, supporting 400kHz high-speed communication and standard 100kHz I2C bus.

The device supports 2.5V to 5.5V supply voltage, compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic systems, with hardware write protection (WP pin) to prevent accidental overwriting. 256Kb large capacity stores device configuration parameters, calibration data, serial numbers and log records. Data retention exceeds 200 years with over 1 million write cycle endurance.

Standard SOIC-8 package with simple pinout, pin-compatible with the common 24C series EEPROM family, facilitating design replacement and supply chain management. The I suffix indicates industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C), and the T suffix indicates tape-and-reel packaging option - these are two independent designators in the Microchip part numbering system.

Note: For detailed electrical parameters, I2C timing and package dimensions, please refer to the official Microchip 24LC256 datasheet. Design engineers should verify all parameters before finalizing designs.

24LC256T-I/SN uses the standard SOIC-8 (Small Outline Integrated Circuit, 8-pin small outline package) with 1.27mm pin pitch, package width approximately 3.9mm and length approximately 4.9mm. SOIC-8 is one of the most common IC packages, fully compatible with MCU and scalar EEPROM interfaces, facilitating direct replacement and supply chain management.

The package has no bottom leads; gull-wing leads on four sides ensure good solder joint reliability, suitable for standard reflow soldering. The WP pin has an internal pull-up resistor.

The 24LC256T-I/SN SOIC-8 package has 8 pins. Key pin definitions are as follows (top view, notch on left):

• Pin 1 - A0: Device address select pin. Can be tied to GND or VCC, combining with A1/A2 to form a 3-bit I2C address, supporting up to 8 cascaded 24LC256 devices on the same I2C bus.
• Pin 2 - A1: Device address select pin. Same as A0, for I2C bus address configuration.
• Pin 3 - A2: Device address select pin. Same as A0, supporting multi-device cascading.
• Pin 4 - VSS (GND): Chip ground pin. Connect to system ground.
• Pin 5 - SDA: I2C data pin. Open-drain output, requires external pull-up resistor (typical 4.7kOhm~10kOhm).
• Pin 6 - SCL: I2C clock pin. Input, data sampled on rising edge, updated on falling edge.
• Pin 7 - WP: Write protection control pin. High level protects entire memory; GND allows read/write. Internal pull-up resistor.
• Pin 8 - VCC: Chip power pin (2.5V~5.5V). Recommended to place a 0.1uF decoupling capacitor near the VCC pin.

The following alternative parts are listed for reference. Before selecting an alternative, verify communication interface, supply voltage, storage capacity and package compatibility.

Selection Tips: When selecting alternatives, pay attention to: supply voltage compatibility (24LC256T: 2.5V~5.5V); operating temperature range (I suffix: -40°C~+85°C); I2C address conflict with other devices on the bus; WP pin polarity and functionality matching system requirements.

Microchip Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: MCHP), headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, USA, is a leading global supplier of microcontrollers, mixed-signal, analog and Flash-IP solutions. Microchip's serial EEPROM product line (24AA/24LC/24FC series) covers 1Kb to 1Mb capacities with I2C, SPI and microwire interfaces, widely used in automotive, industrial control and consumer electronics with high reliability and competitive pricing.

All Microchip EEPROM products are manufactured in-house with complete automotive (AEC-Q100/Q200) and medical-grade certifications. Microchip provides free MPLAB Code Configurator and reference designs to simplify EEPROM interface driver development. The 24LC256 is one of the preferred devices for embedded parameter storage thanks to stable supply, long-term availability and mature ecosystem.