CAT24C256WI-G

Product Overview

Category

The CAT24C256WI-G 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, computers, and consumer electronics.

Characteristics

• Non-volatile: The CAT24C256WI-G retains stored data even when power is removed.
• High capacity: It has a storage capacity of 256 kilobits (32 kilobytes).
• Low power consumption: The chip operates at low power levels, making it suitable for battery-powered devices.
• I2C interface: It communicates with the host device using the widely adopted I2C protocol.
• Wide temperature range: The chip can operate reliably in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +85°C.

Package

The CAT24C256WI-G is available in an 8-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package.

Essence

The essence of the CAT24C256WI-G lies in its ability to store and retrieve digital information reliably and efficiently.

Packaging/Quantity

This chip is typically sold in reels or tubes, with each reel or tube containing a specific quantity of CAT24C256WI-G chips. The exact quantity may vary depending on the supplier.

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 million cycles
• Data Retention: 100 years

Detailed Pin Configuration

The CAT24C256WI-G has the following pin configuration:

1. A0: Address Input 0
2. A1: Address Input 1
3. A2: Address Input 2
4. GND: Ground
5. SDA: Serial Data Input/Output
6. SCL: Serial Clock Input
7. WP: Write Protect
8. VCC: Power Supply

Functional Features

• Random Access: The CAT24C256WI-G allows random access to any memory location, enabling efficient data retrieval.
• Byte and Page Write: It supports both byte-level and page-level write operations, providing flexibility in storing data.
• Hardware Write Protection: The chip includes a write protect pin (WP) that can be used to prevent accidental writes or unauthorized modifications.
• Acknowledge Support: The I2C interface provides acknowledge support, ensuring reliable communication between the chip and the host device.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• High storage capacity for its size
• Low power consumption
• Wide temperature range for reliable operation in various environments
• Compatibility with the widely adopted I2C protocol
• Hardware write protection for data security

Disadvantages

• Limited write endurance compared to some other non-volatile memory technologies
• Relatively small package size may require additional space considerations in certain designs

Working Principles

The CAT24C256WI-G utilizes electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) technology. It stores digital information by trapping charges within floating gate transistors. These charges represent binary data, which can be read, written, and erased electronically.

When data needs to be stored, the chip applies a high voltage to the appropriate memory cells, allowing charges to be trapped in the floating gates. To retrieve the stored data, the chip applies a lower voltage and measures the resulting electrical current, determining the presence or absence of charges.

Detailed Application Field Plans

The CAT24C256WI-G finds applications in various fields, including:

1. Embedded Systems: It is commonly used in microcontroller-based systems for storing configuration data, calibration values, and firmware updates.
2. Industrial Automation: The chip can be utilized in industrial control systems to store critical parameters, such as sensor calibration data and system settings.
3. Automotive Electronics: It finds use in automotive applications for storing vehicle-specific data, such as mileage, service history, and user preferences.
4. Consumer Electronics: The CAT24C256WI-G is suitable for consumer electronics devices, including smart TVs, set-top boxes, and audio/video equipment, where it can store user preferences, channel lists, and other configuration data.

Detailed and Complete Alternative Models

• AT24C256: This EEPROM chip from Atmel offers similar specifications and functionality to the CAT24C256WI-G.
• 24LC256: Manufactured by Microchip Technology, this EEPROM chip is compatible with the I2C interface and has a storage capacity of 256 kilobits.
• M24C256: STMicroelectronics produces this EEPROM chip, which shares the same storage capacity and I2C compatibility as the