STMicroelectronics M24C02-DRDW8TP/K 2KB EEPROM, DFN8 Package with I2C Interface

STMicroelectronics M24C02-DRDW8TP/K EEPROM Overview

The STMicroelectronics M24C02-DRDW8TP/K is a high-reliability 2KB electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) engineered for non-volatile data retention in ultra-compact, low-power electronic systems. It integrates an industry-standard I2C (2-wire serial) interface-renowned for simplicity and minimal pin count-enabling seamless communication with microcontrollers, wearables, and IoT modules. This makes it a trusted solution for B2B engineers prioritizing extreme miniaturization, power efficiency, and long-term data security in space-constrained designs.

As a product from STMicroelectronics, a global leader in semiconductor innovation with decades of expertise in compact memory and consumer/industrial-grade components, the device meets strict quality benchmarks for performance, durability, and environmental compliance (including RoHS certification). For more trusted industrial ICs and miniaturized memory solutions, visit IC Manufacturer.

Technical Parameters of M24C02-DRDW8TP/K

Key Technical Features of M24C02-DRDW8TP/K

• Hardware write protection via a dedicated WP pin, preventing accidental erasure or modification of critical data (e.g., wearable user profiles, IoT sensor calibration values) in high-reliability systems-avoiding data loss in consumer or industrial devices.
• 16-byte page write capability, enabling efficient block data transfers to reduce system latency and lower power consumption during bulk updates (e.g., storing daily fitness tracker logs or smart home device settings).
• Ultra-compact DFN8 package (3x3mm), reducing PCB space usage by 40% vs. standard SO8N packages-critical for designs where miniaturization is non-negotiable, such as wireless earbuds or tiny IoT sensors.
• Low standby current (typical 1??A at 3V) and low active current (typical 1mA at 3V, 1MHz), optimizing power efficiency for battery-powered devices like portable wearables or remote IoT sensors-extending operational life without frequent recharging.
• Self-timed write cycles (up to 5ms), eliminating the need for external timing circuits and simplifying software integration-reducing design complexity and shortening time-to-market for engineers developing compact consumer electronics.

Advantages of M24C02-DRDW8TP/K Over Alternative Solutions

Compared to standard SO8/SO8N EEPROMs, narrow-voltage-range memory, or larger-capacity chips, the M24C02-DRDW8TP/K delivers three critical benefits for B2B designs:

First, its DFN8 package enables unmatched miniaturization. Standard SO8N packages (5x6mm) occupy 3x more PCB space, making them impossible to use in ultra-compact devices like wireless earbuds or tiny IoT temperature sensors. The DFN8??s 3x3mm size lets engineers fit the EEPROM alongside other components (e.g., microcontrollers, batteries) in devices smaller than a thumbnail-opening up design possibilities for wearable tech and portable smart home gadgets.

Second, its voltage flexibility outperforms single-voltage alternatives. Low-cost EEPROMs often restrict operation to 3.3V only, requiring external regulators for 1.8V wearables (e.g., fitness trackers) or 5V legacy home appliances (e.g., older smart thermostats). The M24C02-DRDW8TP/K??s 1.8V?C5.5V range works with both modern low-power and legacy systems, eliminating the need for extra components. This flexibility simplifies inventory, as engineers can use one part across multiple projects instead of stocking 3.3V-only options.

Third, its 2KB capacity balances storage and efficiency. Larger 4KB+ EEPROMs waste space and increase cost for applications that only need to store small datasets (e.g., smart earbud EQ settings, IoT sensor configs). Smaller 1KB EEPROMs force engineers to limit data (e.g., truncating 7-day fitness logs). The 2KB capacity perfectly matches these mid-scale needs, ensuring efficient storage without unnecessary bulk or expense-critical for cost-sensitive consumer electronics.

Typical Applications of M24C02-DRDW8TP/K

The M24C02-DRDW8TP/K is engineered to solve non-volatile storage challenges in ultra-compact, low-power systems. Its key use cases include:

• Consumer Electronics (Wearables): Storing 7-day fitness data (e.g., step counts, sleep patterns) and user preferences in wireless fitness trackers or smartwatches-ensuring personalized experiences persist without reconfiguration after charging.
• Internet of Things (IoT) Sensors: Retaining network credentials, sensor calibration values, and 7-day usage logs in tiny IoT sensors (e.g., smart light, humidity, or motion detectors)-enabling reliable operation in space-constrained smart home or industrial deployments.
• Home Appliances (Compact Smart): Saving user settings (e.g., smart coffee maker brew strength, portable air purifier fan speeds) and appliance calibration data-delivering consistent performance even after power disruptions in small kitchen or bedroom devices.
• Telecommunications and Networking: Storing device IDs, Bluetooth pairing data, and firmware fragments in miniaturized wireless modules (e.g., wireless earbud chipsets or tiny Wi-Fi sensors)-ensuring seamless connectivity and fast boot times.
• Medical Devices (Portable Mini): Preserving basic patient data (e.g., daily blood oxygen readings) and device configs in ultra-compact handheld tools (e.g., tiny pulse oximeters)-complying with healthcare standards for data integrity and fitting in small medical kits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is the DFN8 package??s small size important for wireless earbuds?

Wireless earbuds require components that fit in a case smaller than a fingernail. The DFN8??s 3x3mm size is 40% smaller than standard SO8N packages, letting engineers fit the EEPROM alongside the battery, microcontroller, and speaker-without increasing the earbud??s size. This miniaturization is critical for user comfort, as larger earbuds are less wearable for extended periods.

Can the M24C02-DRDW8TP/K operate in battery-powered IoT sensors?

Yes. Its low standby current (1??A typical) minimizes power draw when the sensor is idle (e.g., during nighttime monitoring), and its 1.8V?C5.5V range works with common IoT sensor batteries (e.g., 3V coin cells). Even during active data transfers, the 1mA active current is low enough to extend battery life to 6?C12 months-critical for remote sensors that are hard to access for recharging.

How does the 1MHz clock frequency benefit smart home sensors?

Smart home sensors (e.g., motion detectors) need to send data to a hub quickly to trigger actions (e.g., turning on lights). The 1MHz frequency lets the M24C02-DRDW8TP/K transfer data up to 10x faster than slower 100kHz EEPROMs, reducing latency to under 1ms. This ensures the sensor responds in real time, avoiding delays that break the smart home user experience.

When should I use the hardware write protection feature?

Use hardware write protection when storing data that should never be modified accidentally-such as smart earbud EQ presets (to avoid losing user preferences) or IoT sensor calibration values (to prevent inaccurate readings). Activating the WP pin locks the data, even if software glitches or electrical noise occur-critical for maintaining device performance in consumer or industrial settings.

How long will the M24C02-DRDW8TP/K retain data, and is it enough for consumer devices?

It guarantees 40 years of data retention, far exceeding the typical 3?C5 year lifespan of consumer devices like wireless earbuds or fitness trackers. This ensures critical data (e.g., user settings, fitness logs) remains intact for the device??s entire operational life. With 1 million write cycles, it also handles daily updates (e.g., fitness log entries) without degradation-meeting consumer reliability expectations and reducing product returns.