The Microchip 24LC02BT-E/OT: A Compact Powerhouse for Serial Data Storage

In the realm of embedded systems and IoT devices, efficient and reliable non-volatile memory is a fundamental component. The Microchip 24LC02BT-E/OT stands out as a quintessential solution, offering a robust 2Kbit I²C Serial EEPROM in an ultra-miniature SOT-23 package. This memory chip is engineered for applications where board space is at a premium and low-power operation is paramount.

Operating across a broad voltage range of 1.7V to 5.5V, the 24LC02BT-E/OT is exceptionally versatile, suitable for everything from advanced 5V systems to modern battery-powered devices running at lower voltages. Its low-power design is a key advantage, featuring a standby current of just 1 µA (max) and an active read current of 1 mA (max), making it ideal for power-sensitive applications.

Communication is handled via the ubiquitous I²C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) serial protocol, supporting speeds of up to 400 kHz. This two-wire interface drastically reduces the number of GPIO pins required from the host microcontroller, simplifying board layout and design. The memory array is organized as 256 x 8 (2Kbit) and offers byte-level read and write operations, providing fine-grained control over data management. Furthermore, the chip features hardware write-protection. When the WP (Write Protect) pin is held high, the entire memory array is locked, safeguarding critical data from accidental overwrites or corruption.

The enduring reliability of this EEPROM is underscored by its impressive endurance rating of 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and a data retention period of over 200 years. Packaged in a space-saving 5-lead SOT-23, it is perfectly suited for a vast array of applications, including:

System configuration and parameter storage

Data logging in portable medical devices

Consumer electronics like smart watches and sensors

Industrial control modules

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip 24LC02BT-E/OT is an optimal choice for designers seeking a tiny-form-factor, low-power, and highly reliable serial EEPROM solution for space-constrained and battery-operated designs, backed by the proven I²C interface.

Keywords: I²C EEPROM, Low-Power, Non-Volatile Memory, SOT-23, Data Retention