24AA256T-I/ST

Product Overview

Category

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

Use

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

Characteristics

• Capacity: 256 kilobits (32 kilobytes)
• Interface: I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit)
• Operating voltage: 1.7V to 5.5V
• Low power consumption
• High reliability and endurance
• Small form factor
• RoHS compliant

Package

The 24AA256T-I/ST is available in a small surface-mount package known as SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit). This package offers ease of integration into circuit boards and efficient use of space.

Essence

The essence of the 24AA256T-I/ST lies in its ability to provide reliable and non-volatile data storage in electronic devices, ensuring that critical information is retained even when power is disconnected.

Packaging/Quantity

This product is typically supplied in tape and reel packaging, with a quantity of 2500 units per reel.

Specifications

• Memory capacity: 256 kilobits (32 kilobytes)
• Organization: 32 pages of 256 bytes each
• Write endurance: 1 million write cycles
• Data retention: 200 years
• Operating temperature range: -40°C to +85°C
• I2C bus speed: Up to 400 kHz
• Device address: Configurable through hardware pins

Detailed Pin Configuration

The 24AA256T-I/ST has an 8-pin configuration:

1. VCC: Power supply voltage
2. SDA: Serial data input/output for I2C communication
3. SCL: Serial clock input for I2C communication
4. WP: Write protect pin (optional)
5. A0: Address selection bit 0
6. A1: Address selection bit 1
7. A2: Address selection bit 2
8. GND: Ground reference

Functional Features

• Byte-level random access for efficient data retrieval and modification
• Hardware write protection option to prevent accidental data alteration
• Software write protection through specific command sequences
• Page write and sequential read operations for faster data transfer
• Built-in write cycle and endurance monitoring
• Self-timed programming cycles for simplified operation

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• High reliability and endurance ensure long-term data retention
• Low power consumption extends battery life in portable devices
• Small form factor allows for integration in space-constrained designs
• Configurable device address enables multiple devices on the same bus

Disadvantages

• Limited storage capacity compared to other memory technologies
• Slower write and erase times compared to some flash memory alternatives
• Reliance on I2C interface may limit compatibility with certain systems

Working Principles

The 24AA256T-I/ST utilizes an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) technology. It stores data by trapping electrical charges within a floating gate structure, which can be selectively erased and programmed using voltage pulses. The I2C interface facilitates communication between the chip and the host microcontroller, enabling data read, write, and erase operations.

Detailed Application Field Plans

The 24AA256T-I/ST finds applications in various fields, including:

1. Industrial automation: Used for storing configuration parameters, calibration data, and event logs in programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and industrial control systems.
2. Automotive electronics: Employed for storing critical data, such as vehicle identification numbers (VINs), mileage records, and user preferences in automotive electronic control units (ECUs).
3. Consumer electronics: Integrated into devices like smart TVs, set-top boxes, and home appliances for storing user settings, firmware updates, and usage logs.
4. Medical devices: Utilized for storing patient data, device configurations, and event logs in medical equipment like patient monitors, infusion pumps, and diagnostic devices.

Detailed and Complete Alternative Models

1. 24LC256: Similar EEPROM chip with the same capacity and I2C interface, manufactured by Microchip Technology Inc.
2. AT24C256: EEPROM chip with similar specifications, capacity, and I2C interface, produced by Atmel Corporation.
3. CAT24C256: Electrically erasable PROM with comparable characteristics, capacity, and I2C interface, manufactured by ON Semiconductor.

These alternative models offer similar functionality and can be considered as substitutes for the 24AA256T-I/ST depending on specific requirements and availability.

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