The 24C256 is a 256 Kbit CMOS Serial EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) manufactured by Fairchild Semiconductor, now ON Semiconductor. It is organized as 32K x 8 bits and is accessed via the I2C serial interface.

Applications:

• Storage of configuration data in embedded systems
• Storage of calibration data
• Storage of user preferences
• Storage of system parameters
• Data logging

Features:

• 256 Kbit (32K x 8) Serial EEPROM
• I2C Serial Interface
• Low Voltage Operation: 1.8V to 5.5V
• Low Power Consumption
• Write Protect Feature
• Self-Timed Write Cycle
• High Reliability

Benefits:

• Non-volatile storage of data even when power is removed
• Simple interface to microcontrollers using I2C protocol
• Wide operating voltage range suitable for various applications
• Reduced power consumption in battery-powered devices
• Protection against accidental data overwrites
• Easy integration into embedded systems
• Long data retention and endurance

Technical Specifications:

The 24C256 operates with a supply voltage ranging from 1.8V to 5.5V. It supports the standard I2C protocol with clock frequencies up to 400 kHz. The device features a self-timed write cycle, eliminating the need for external timing circuits. The write protect feature prevents data from being overwritten when enabled. The typical write cycle time is around 5 ms. The EEPROM is guaranteed for a minimum of 1 million write cycles per byte and a data retention of 100 years. It is available in various packages, including DIP, SOIC, and TSSOP. Consult the device datasheet for detailed timing diagrams, pin configurations, and operating conditions.