CAT24C256XI-T2

Product Overview

Category

The CAT24C256XI-T2 belongs to the category of EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) 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 CAT24C256XI-T2 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 uses the I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) protocol for communication with other devices.
• Wide temperature range: The chip can operate reliably in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +85°C.

Package

The CAT24C256XI-T2 is available in an 8-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package.

Essence

The essence of the CAT24C256XI-T2 is its ability to store and retrieve digital information reliably and efficiently.

Packaging/Quantity

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

Specifications

• Storage Capacity: 256 kilobits (32 kilobytes)
• Interface: I2C
• Operating Voltage: 1.7V to 5.5V
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C
• Write Endurance: 1 million cycles
• Data Retention: 100 years

Pin Configuration

The CAT24C256XI-T2 has 8 pins arranged as follows:

```

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

Pin Description: 1. A0: Address Input 2. A1: Address Input 3. A2: Address Input 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 CAT24C256XI-T2 allows random access to any memory location, enabling efficient data retrieval.
• Byte-level read/write: It supports byte-level read and write operations, providing flexibility in data manipulation.
• Hardware write protection: The chip includes a write protect pin (WP) that can be used to prevent accidental or unauthorized writes to the memory.
• Page write mode: The CAT24C256XI-T2 supports page write mode, allowing multiple bytes to be written in a single operation, enhancing write efficiency.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• High storage capacity
• Low power consumption
• Wide temperature range
• Reliable data retention
• Flexible addressing options

Disadvantages

• Limited speed compared to other memory technologies
• Relatively higher cost per bit compared to larger capacity memory chips

Working Principles

The CAT24C256XI-T2 is based on EEPROM technology, which utilizes floating gate transistors to store and retrieve digital information. When data is written to the chip, charges are trapped in the floating gate, altering the transistor's behavior. These charges can be later read by applying appropriate voltages to the transistors.

Detailed Application Field Plans

The CAT24C256XI-T2 finds applications in various fields, including: - Embedded systems - Industrial automation - Automotive electronics - Smart home devices - Medical equipment

Detailed and Complete Alternative Models

Some alternative models to the CAT24C256XI-T2 include: - AT24C256C - M24C256 - 24AA256 - FM24C256 - X24C256

These alternative models offer similar functionality and capacity, but may have slight differences in specifications and pin configurations.

In conclusion, the CAT24C256XI-T2 is a high-capacity EEPROM chip that provides reliable non-volatile data storage. With its low power consumption, wide temperature range, and flexible addressing options, it is suitable for various electronic applications. However, it should be noted that it operates at a relatively slower speed compared to other memory technologies and has a higher cost per bit for larger capacity requirements.