Description
The 24C16 is a 16-kilobit (2,048-word x 8-bit) Serial EEPROM. It sits between the smaller 24C02 and the much larger 24C512, offering enough storage for more complex configuration sets or small data logs without the architectural complexity of the 16-bit addressed devices.
Key Specifications
-
Capacity: 16K bits (2,048 bytes or 2 KB)
-
Interface: $I^2C$ (2-wire serial protocol)
-
Operating Voltage: 1.7V to 5.5V
-
Write Cycle Time: $\le 5\text{ms}$
-
Endurance: 1,000,000 write cycles
-
Data Retention: $> 100$ years
-
Page Size: 16 bytes
Pinout Configuration (8-Pin)
-
A0, A1, A2: Internally unconnected (NC) on many standard 24C16 models.
-
VSS: Ground.
-
SDA: Serial Data I/O.
-
SCL: Serial Clock Input.
-
WP: Write Protect.
-
VCC: Power Supply.
Important Distinction: Addressing
Unlike the 24C02 or 24C512, the 24C16 handles its addressing differently. Because it has 2,048 bytes of memory, it requires 11 bits to address all locations ($2^{11} = 2,048$).
-
Block Addressing: The $I^2C$ slave address is used to select which 256-byte “block” of memory you are accessing. The three bits typically used for A0, A1, and A2 on smaller EEPROMs are instead used as Block Select Bits in the device address byte.
-
Result: You cannot connect multiple 24C16 chips on the same $I^2C$ bus because the address pins are typically ignored by the internal logic to accommodate the full 2KB memory range.
Comparison
| Feature | 24C02 | 24C16 | 24C512 |
| Capacity | 256 Bytes | 2,048 Bytes | 64,000 Bytes |
| Addressing | 8-bit Internal | 8-bit Internal + Block Select | 16-bit Internal |
| Device Selection | Pins A0-A2 | Not supported (Pins NC) | Pins A0-A2 |
Common Applications
-
System Settings: Storing complex user profiles in appliances or audio equipment.
-
Non-volatile Logging: Recording error logs or event counters for embedded systems.
-
Calibration: Storing lookup tables for sensors that have more complex scaling requirements than a simple 256-byte EEPROM can handle.
Essential Design Requirements
-
Pull-up Resistors: SDA and SCL lines require $4.7\text{k}\Omega$ to $10\text{k}\Omega$ pull-up resistors to VCC.
-
Decoupling: Always include a $0.1\mu\text{F}$ capacitor across VCC and VSS pins to ensure stable operation.
-
Write Protect (WP): For standard read/write usage, tie the WP pin to GND. If you intend to permanently lock the memory, tie it to VCC.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.