M24C256-RMN6TP - 256Kbit I2C EEPROM, SOIC-8 | STMicroelectronics
MPN: M24C256-RMN6TP ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $0.45 | $0.45 |
| 10 | $0.4 | $4.00 |
| 100 | $0.35 | $35.00 |
| 500 | $0.3 | $150.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.25 | $250.00 |
M24C256-RMN6TP Overview
An EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a non-volatile memory that retains data when power is removed, and can be electrically erased and reprogrammed. It is a type of non-volatile memory (NVM) that sits within the memory hierarchy between volatile RAM and permanent storage like flash. EEPROMs are used for storing configuration parameters, calibration data, device IDs, and small amounts of firmware that require in-system updates. The M24C256 is part of the M24Cxx family of I2C EEPROMs from STMicroelectronics, which are widely used in industrial, automotive, and consumer electronics.
Key features include a 256-Kbit memory size, I2C interface with 400 kHz clock, 1.8V to 5.5V supply voltage, 5 ms write cycle time, 32-byte page write, and a write protect pin for hardware data protection. The device also supports sequential read and write operations, and has a 1,000,000 write/erase cycle endurance and 40-year data retention, ensuring reliable long-term data storage.
The M24C256 uses a standard I2C two-wire interface (SCL and SDA) with a 7-bit device address, allowing up to 8 devices on the same bus. The device includes a write protect (WC) pin that, when tied high, prevents write operations to the entire memory array. The SOIC-8 package is industry-standard and pin-compatible with many other 256-Kbit I2C EEPROMs, enabling easy drop-in replacement in existing designs.
Typical applications include storing configuration parameters in industrial sensors, calibration data in medical devices, device settings in consumer electronics, and firmware parameters in automotive ECUs. The wide voltage range and low power consumption make it suitable for battery-powered IoT devices.
When designing with this device, ensure proper pull-up resistors on the SCL and SDA lines (typically 4.7kΩ for 400 kHz operation) and decouple the VCC pin with a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor. The write protect pin should be tied to ground if write protection is not needed, and the address pins (A0, A1, A2) should be tied to VCC or GND to set the device address.
Drop-in alternatives for M24C256-RMN6TP — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with M24C256-RMN6TP (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Data Retention, Memory Size, Package.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
M24C256-WMN6TP
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
M24C256-DRMN3TP/K
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
AT24C256C-SSHL-B
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
CAT24C256WI-GT3
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
24LC256-I/SN
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
M24C256-RMN6TP Specifications
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit (32K x 8) |
| Interface Type | I2C |
| Clock Frequency | 400 kHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 5.5 V |
| Write Cycle Time | 5 ms |
| Page Write Size | 32 bytes |
| Write Endurance | 1,000,000 write/erase cycles |
| Data Retention | 40 years |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C |
| Package | SOIC-8 (MN) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
M24C256-RMN6TP Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | A0 — Address input 0 |
| Pin 2 | A1 — Address input 1 |
| Pin 3 | A2 — Address input 2 |
| Pin 4 | VSS — Ground |
| Pin 5 | SDA — Serial data input/output |
| Pin 6 | SCL — Serial clock input |
| Pin 7 | WC — Write protect |
| Pin 8 | VCC — Power supply |
Typical Applications
M24C256-RMN6TP is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Sensor Calibration, Medical Device Configuration, Consumer Electronics Settings, Automotive ECU Parameter Storage, IoT Device Data Logging, Networking Equipment Configuration.
Industrial Sensor Calibration
The M24C256-RMN6TP is used to store calibration coefficients and configuration parameters in industrial sensors. Its 256-Kbit capacity allows storing multiple calibration tables, and the I2C interface enables easy read/write access by a microcontroller. The wide voltage range (1.8V to 5.5V) ensures compatibility with various sensor supply voltages. The 1,000,000 write cycles and 40-year data retention ensure long-term reliability in harsh industrial environments. In a typical application, the EEPROM is connected to the sensor's microcontroller via I2C, with pull-up resistors on SCL and SDA. The write protect pin can be used to prevent accidental overwrites during operation. The 5 ms write cycle time allows efficient calibration updates, and the 32-byte page write enables fast programming of multiple parameters at once.
Recommended
Medical Device Configuration
In medical devices, the M24C256-RMN6TP stores device settings, patient data, and calibration information. Its non-volatile memory ensures data is retained during power loss, which is critical for patient safety. The industrial temperature range (-40C to +85C) covers most medical environments. The I2C interface simplifies integration with medical-grade microcontrollers. The 40-year data retention ensures long-term data integrity. In a typical application, the EEPROM is used to store device serial numbers, manufacturing date, and calibration data. The write protect pin can be used to lock critical data. The 5 ms write cycle time allows quick updates, and the 32-byte page write enables efficient storage of configuration blocks.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics Settings
The M24C256-RMN6TP is used in consumer electronics to store user preferences, device settings, and firmware parameters. Its small SOIC-8 package is ideal for space-constrained designs. The wide voltage range (1.8V to 5.5V) supports both 3.3V and 5V systems. The 400 kHz I2C interface provides fast read/write access. The 1,000,000 write cycles ensure durability for frequent updates. In a typical application, the EEPROM stores display settings, audio preferences, and network configuration. The write protect pin can be used to prevent accidental changes. The 5 ms write cycle time is acceptable for user-initiated changes, and the 32-byte page write allows efficient storage of settings blocks.
Recommended
Automotive ECU Parameter Storage
The M24C256-RMN6TP is used in automotive ECUs to store calibration parameters, VIN numbers, and diagnostic data. Its wide voltage range (1.8V to 5.5V) and industrial temperature range (-40C to +85C) make it suitable for automotive environments. The 1,000,000 write cycles and 40-year data retention ensure long-term reliability. The I2C interface is widely supported in automotive microcontrollers. In a typical application, the EEPROM stores engine calibration maps and fault codes. The write protect pin can be used to prevent unauthorized writes. The 5 ms write cycle time is sufficient for occasional updates, and the 32-byte page write enables efficient storage of calibration tables.
Recommended
IoT Device Data Logging
The M24C256-RMN6TP is used in IoT devices to store sensor data, device credentials, and configuration parameters. Its low power consumption and wide voltage range (1.8V to 5.5V) are ideal for battery-powered devices. The 256-Kbit capacity allows storing a significant amount of data. The I2C interface is simple and widely supported. The 1,000,000 write cycles and 40-year data retention ensure data integrity. In a typical application, the EEPROM stores device ID, Wi-Fi credentials, and sensor calibration data. The write protect pin can be used to secure credentials. The 5 ms write cycle time is acceptable for periodic data logging, and the 32-byte page write enables efficient storage of data blocks.
Recommended
Networking Equipment Configuration
The M24C256-RMN6TP is used in networking equipment to store MAC addresses, configuration settings, and firmware parameters. Its wide voltage range (1.8V to 5.5V) supports various logic levels. The 400 kHz I2C interface provides fast access. The 1,000,000 write cycles and 40-year data retention ensure long-term reliability. In a typical application, the EEPROM stores device configuration and network settings. The write protect pin can be used to prevent accidental overwrites. The 5 ms write cycle time is acceptable for configuration updates, and the 32-byte page write enables efficient storage of configuration blocks.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for M24C256-RMN6TP — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | M24C256-WMN6TP | M24C256-DRMN3TP/K | AT24C256C-SSHL-B | CAT24C256WI-GT3 | 24LC256-I/SN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | SOIC-8 | SOIC-8 | SOIC-8 | SOIC-8 | SOIC-8 | SOIC-8 |
| Brand | STMicroelectronics | STMicroelectronics | STMicroelectronics | Microchip Technology | onsemi | Microchip Technology |
| Memory Size | 256 Kbit | 256 Kbit | 256 Kbit | 256 Kbit | 256 Kbit | 256 Kbit |
| Interface | I2C | I2C | I2C | I2C | I2C | I2C |
| Clock Frequency | 400 kHz | 400 kHz | 400 kHz | 400 kHz | 400 kHz | 400 kHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.8V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 1.8V to 5.5V | 1.7V to 5.5V | 1.8V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V |
| Write Cycle Time | 5 ms | 5 ms | 5 ms | 5 ms | 5 ms | 5 ms |
| Page Write Size | 32 bytes | 32 bytes | 32 bytes | 64 bytes | 64 bytes | 64 bytes |
Key Differentiators
- Wide voltage range (1.8V to 5.5V) (vs M24C256-WMN6TP)
- Automotive grade option available (vs M24C256-DRMN3TP/K)
- Same-brand drop-in compatibility (vs AT24C256C-SSHL-B)
Design Notes
Place pull-up resistors (typically 4.7kΩ) on the SCL and SDA lines for I2C communication. For 400 kHz operation, the bus capacitance should be kept below 400 pF. Decouple the VCC pin with a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor placed as close to the pin as possible. Ensure the write protect (WC) pin is tied to ground if write protection is not needed, and address pins (A0, A1, A2) are tied to VCC or GND to set the device address.
Do not exceed the maximum supply voltage of 5.5V. Ensure the I2C bus voltage does not exceed VCC. When writing to the device, wait for the write cycle time (5 ms) before initiating the next write. Use proper I2C addressing to avoid conflicts with other devices on the bus. The write protect pin should be handled carefully to prevent accidental writes.
The M24C256-RMN6TP has low power dissipation, so thermal management is generally not a concern. However, in high-temperature environments (up to +85C), ensure the device is not placed near heat sources. The SOIC-8 package has a thermal resistance of approximately 150 C/W, so for most applications, no additional heatsinking is required.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per STMicroelectronics product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - choose M24C256-DRMN3TP/K for automotive.
