Microchip 24AA04T-I/SN: A Robust 4K I²C Serial EEPROM for Modern Designs

In the realm of embedded systems and IoT devices, reliable non-volatile memory is a cornerstone for data storage and configuration settings. The Microchip 24AA04T-I/SN stands out as a high-performance, 4Kbit (512 x 8) I²C serial EEPROM memory chip, engineered to meet the stringent demands of diverse applications. Its compact SN package, low-power operation, and robust feature set make it an ideal choice for designers seeking efficiency and reliability.

This EEPROM operates across a broad voltage range (1.7V to 5.5V), ensuring compatibility with both low-voltage microcontrollers and traditional 5V systems. Its low-power consumption is critical for battery-powered devices, with a standby current of just 1 μA (max) and an active current of 1 mA (max). The device supports the standard I²C protocol, enabling communication at speeds up to 400 kHz, facilitating efficient data transfer while minimizing processor overhead.

A key feature of the 24AA04T-I/SN is its hardware write-protection mechanism. By asserting the WP (Write Protect) pin, the entire memory array can be safeguarded against unintended writes, ensuring data integrity in critical applications. Additionally, the chip incorporates self-timed erase and write cycles, simplifying software development by eliminating the need for manual delay management. With an endurance of 1 million erase/write cycles and data retention exceeding 200 years, this EEPROM offers exceptional longevity.

The device is organized as two 256-byte blocks, each with its own I²C address, allowing a single bus to support up to two of these chips simultaneously. This flexibility enhances system scalability. Housed in an 8-lead SN (SOIC) package, it is suitable for space-constrained PCB designs. Its industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) ensures reliable operation in harsh environments.

ICGOOODFIND: The Microchip 24AA04T-I/SN is a versatile and dependable serial EEPROM, offering an optimal blend of low power, high reliability, and ease of integration, making it a superior choice for consumer electronics, industrial systems, and IoT nodes.

Keywords: I²C EEPROM, Low-Power Memory, Non-Volatile Storage, Hardware Write-Protection, Serial Memory Chip.