24C32 Technical Summary

Overview

The 24C32 is a 32-Kbit (4K x 8) serial Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM) that operates via the I2C-compatible interface. This non-volatile memory device is designed for low-power, high-reliability applications, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial, automotive, and consumer electronics. The 24C32 supports bidirectional data transfer between a host microcontroller and the memory array, providing reliable storage for configuration data, calibration settings, and other critical parameters.

Features

• Memory Capacity: 32 Kbits organized as 4,096 words x 8 bits.
• I2C Interface: Supports standard (100 kHz) and fast (400 kHz) I2C protocols.
• Low Power Consumption: Active read current of 1 mA (typical) and standby current of 1 µA (typical).
• Wide Voltage Range: Operates from 1.7V to 5.5V, making it compatible with 3.3V and 5V systems.
• High Endurance: Supports 1,000,000 write cycles per byte.
• Data Retention: Guaranteed 100-year data retention under specified conditions.
• Page Write Mode: Allows up to 32 bytes to be written in a single operation.
• Hardware Write Protection: WP pin enables protection against accidental writes.
• Industrial Temperature Range: Operates from -40°C to +85°C.

Applications

The 24C32 is widely used in applications requiring non-volatile memory with a simple serial interface. Key applications include:

• Consumer Electronics: Smartphones, TVs, and set-top boxes for storing user preferences and firmware settings.
• Automotive Systems: Infotainment systems, instrument clusters, and engine control units for parameter storage.
• Industrial Control: Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and sensor modules for calibration data.
• Medical Devices: Patient monitoring systems and portable medical equipment for configuration storage.
• Networking Equipment: Routers and switches for MAC address storage and configuration backup.

Electrical Characteristics

Absolute Maximum Ratings

• Supply Voltage (V_CC): -0.6V to +6.5V
• Input Voltage (V_IN): -0.6V to V_CC + 0.6V
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C
• Storage Temperature Range: -65°C to +150°C

DC Characteristics

• Supply Current (Read, V_CC = 5V): 1 mA (typical)
• Supply Current (Standby): 1 µA (typical)
• Input Low Voltage (V_IL): -0.5V to 0.3V_CC
• Input High Voltage (V_IH): 0.7V_CC to V_CC + 0.5V

AC Characteristics

• Clock Frequency (Standard Mode): 0 to 100 kHz
• Clock Frequency (Fast Mode): 0 to 400 kHz
• Start Condition Hold Time: 600 ns (min)
• Data Hold Time: 900 ns (min)
• Write Cycle Time: 5 ms (max)

Package Information

The 24C32 is available in multiple industry-standard packages, ensuring compatibility with various PCB layouts and assembly processes.

8-Lead PDIP (Plastic Dual In-Line Package)

• Dimensions: 9.81 mm x 6.35 mm
• Pitch: 2.54 mm
• Lead Count: 8

8-Lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit)

• Dimensions: 5.00 mm x 4.00 mm
• Pitch: 1.27 mm
• Lead Count: 8

8-Lead TSSOP (Thin Shrink Small Outline Package)

• Dimensions: 3.00 mm x 4.40 mm
• Pitch: 0.65 mm
• Lead Count: 8

Functional Description

The 24C32 operates as a slave device in an I2C bus system, responding to commands from a master controller. The memory array is divided into pages of 32 bytes each, allowing efficient block writes. The device supports sequential read operations, enabling rapid data retrieval. A built-in address counter automatically increments during reads or writes, simplifying software implementation.

Write Operations

The 24C32 supports two write modes:

• Byte Write: A single byte is written to a specified address.
• Page Write: Up to 32 bytes can be written in a single I2C transaction, reducing protocol overhead.

Read Operations

The device supports three read modes:

• Current Address Read: Reads from the last accessed address + 1.
• Random Read: Reads from any specified address.
• Sequential Read: Reads multiple bytes in sequence, with automatic address increment.

Conclusion

The 24C32 is a versatile, reliable, and low-power EEPROM solution for applications requiring non-volatile memory with an I2C interface. Its wide voltage range, high endurance, and robust packaging options make it suitable for demanding environments. Whether used in consumer electronics, automotive systems, or industrial controls, the 24C32 provides an efficient and cost-effective memory solution.