24LC256-I/SN

Product Overview

Category

The 24LC256-I/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, computers, and consumer electronics.

Characteristics

• Non-volatile: The 24LC256-I/SN retains stored data even when power is removed.
• Electrically erasable: The chip allows for easy modification of stored data through electrical signals.
• High storage capacity: The 24LC256-I/SN has a storage capacity of 256 kilobits (32 kilobytes).
• Low power consumption: This chip operates at low power levels, making it suitable for battery-powered devices.

Package

The 24LC256-I/SN is available in an 8-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package.

Essence

The essence of the 24LC256-I/SN is its ability to provide reliable and non-volatile data storage in a compact form factor.

Packaging/Quantity

This chip is typically sold in reels or tubes, with each reel containing 2,000 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

Detailed Pin Configuration

The 24LC256-I/SN has the following pin configuration:

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

Functional Features

• Random access: The chip allows for direct access to any memory location, enabling efficient data retrieval.
• Byte-level read and write operations: Individual bytes of data can be read from or written to the chip.
• Hardware write protection: The WP pin can be used to protect the stored data from accidental modification.
• I2C interface: The 24LC256-I/SN communicates with other devices using the widely adopted I2C protocol.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• Non-volatile storage: The chip retains data even when power is removed.
• Compact form factor: The 24LC256-I/SN is available in a small package, making it suitable for space-constrained applications.
• Low power consumption: This chip operates at low power levels, extending battery life in portable devices.
• High endurance: The 24LC256-I/SN can withstand a large number of write cycles.

Disadvantages

• Limited storage capacity: With a maximum capacity of 32 kilobytes, this chip may not be sufficient for applications requiring larger amounts of data storage.
• Relatively slow write speed: Writing data to the chip can take longer compared to other memory technologies.

Working Principles

The 24LC256-I/SN utilizes electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) technology. It stores data by trapping charges in floating gate transistors, which can be electrically erased and reprogrammed. The chip communicates with the host device through the I2C interface, allowing for easy integration into various systems.

Detailed Application Field Plans

The 24LC256-I/SN finds applications in a wide range of electronic devices, including: - Microcontrollers: Used for storing program code and configuration data. - Computers: Employed in BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) chips for storing system settings. - Consumer electronics: Integrated into devices like smart TVs, set-top boxes, and digital cameras for data storage.

Detailed and Complete Alternative Models

Some alternative models to the 24LC256-I/SN include: - AT24C256: Manufactured by Atmel, this chip offers similar specifications and functionality. - CAT24C256: Produced by ON Semiconductor, it is compatible with the I2C interface and has a comparable storage capacity.

In conclusion, the 24LC256-I/SN is a versatile EEPROM chip that provides reliable non-volatile data storage in various electronic devices. With its compact size, low power consumption, and high endurance, it is well-suited for applications requiring small to medium-sized data storage.