24AA256T-E/SN

Product Overview

Category

The 24AA256T-E/SN belongs to the category of electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) chips.

Use

This chip is commonly used for non-volatile data storage in various electronic devices, such as microcontrollers, embedded systems, and consumer electronics.

Characteristics

• Non-volatile: The stored data remains intact even when power is removed.
• Electrically erasable: Data can be erased and reprogrammed electronically.
• High storage capacity: The 24AA256T-E/SN has a storage capacity of 256 kilobits (32 kilobytes).
• Low power consumption: It operates at low voltage and consumes minimal power.
• I2C interface: The chip communicates using the widely-used I2C protocol.
• Small form factor: The chip is available in a compact SOIC package.

Package and Quantity

The 24AA256T-E/SN is packaged in a surface-mount SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package. It is typically sold in reels or tubes containing multiple units.

Specifications

• Storage Capacity: 256 kilobits (32 kilobytes)
• Interface: I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit)
• Operating Voltage: 1.7V to 5.5V
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C
• Write Endurance: 1,000,000 cycles
• Data Retention: 200 years

Pin Configuration

The 24AA256T-E/SN chip has a total of 8 pins arranged as follows:

```

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| | | 1 2 3 4 5 | | | | 6 7 8 | |_______________| ```

1. VCC: Power supply voltage
2. SDA: Serial Data Line (I2C)
3. SCL: Serial Clock Line (I2C)
4. WP: Write Protect (optional)
5. GND: Ground
6. A0: Address bit 0 (for device addressing)
7. A1: Address bit 1 (for device addressing)
8. NC: No Connection

Functional Features

• Random access: Allows reading and writing of data at any memory location.
• Byte-level operations: Supports individual byte read, write, and erase operations.
• Hardware write protection: The WP pin can be used to protect the memory from accidental writes.
• Sequential read mode: Enables efficient reading of consecutive memory locations.
• Software write protection: Configurable software settings to prevent unauthorized writes.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• High storage capacity for a compact chip size.
• Low power consumption, suitable for battery-powered devices.
• Easy integration with microcontrollers and other I2C-compatible devices.
• Reliable data retention and endurance characteristics.
• Flexible write protection options for enhanced security.

Disadvantages

• Limited storage capacity compared to other non-volatile memory technologies.
• Slower write speeds compared to volatile memory types.
• Requires an I2C interface, which may not be available in all systems.

Working Principles

The 24AA256T-E/SN EEPROM chip utilizes a floating-gate transistor structure to store and retrieve data. When data is written, an electric charge is trapped in the floating gate, altering the transistor's behavior. This charge can be removed during the erasing process, allowing the transistor to return to its original state. The stored data can be accessed by applying appropriate voltages to the control pins and using the I2C protocol for communication.

Detailed Application Field Plans

The 24AA256T-E/SN chip finds applications in various fields, including:

1. Industrial automation: Used for storing configuration data, calibration values, and event logs in programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and industrial control systems.
2. Automotive electronics: Employed for storing vehicle settings, sensor calibration data, and firmware updates in automotive electronic control units (ECUs).
3. Consumer electronics: Integrated into devices like smart TVs, set-top boxes, and gaming consoles to store user preferences, channel lists, and system settings.
4. Internet of Things (IoT): Utilized in IoT devices for storing sensor data, device configurations, and firmware updates.
5. Medical devices: Used for storing patient data, device settings, and firmware updates in medical equipment.

Detailed and Complete Alternative Models

• 24LC256: Similar EEPROM chip from Microchip Technology with the same storage capacity and I2C interface.
• AT24C256: EEPROM chip from Atmel (now Microchip Technology) with similar specifications and pin configuration.
• CAT24C256: EEPROM chip from ON Semiconductor with comparable characteristics and functionality.

These alternative models provide