AT24C16 Contact IC Card with 16Kb I2C EEPROM
DAFTags AT24C16 contact IC cards are smart cards with a Microchip AT24C16 serial EEPROM. The card is intended for contact-reader systems that need 16Kb of data storage for identification, access, membership, or record-based applications.
The card uses an I2C-compatible two-wire interface and includes a gold-plated contact pad on the front. Card printing, memory layout, encoding, and reader compatibility should be confirmed before production.
The Buyer Pain Points
- Contact cards are not tap cards: The AT24C16 card must be inserted into a contact reader. Buyers looking for NFC or tap-and-go operation should choose a different card type.
- The reader must support the chip protocol: The card uses an I2C-compatible serial EEPROM. It is not interchangeable with every contact IC card, and the reader or software must support the exact memory layout.
- Memory layout must be planned before encoding: The chip is organized as 2K x 8 bits. The data address map, sector use, and write-protection requirements should be defined before production.
- Printing and chip production are separate steps: Card artwork, numbering, magnetic stripe, scratch-off, and encoding must be coordinated so the printed card matches the stored data.
- Old data-retention claims need proof: The supplier lists 100-year data retention. Request supporting documentation before using that figure in a tender or product claim.
What Is an AT24C16 Contact IC Card?
An AT24C16 contact IC card is a CR80 plastic card with an embedded serial EEPROM and a gold contact pad. The card must be inserted into a compatible contact reader to read or write data.
The AT24C16 provides 16Kb of EEPROM, organized as 2K x 8 bits. It supports a write-protect pin for hardware data protection and a self-timed write cycle with auto-clear.
Key Features
- AT24C16 EEPROM: 16Kb serial EEPROM from Microchip Technology.
- I2C-Compatible Interface: Two-wire serial interface for compatible contact readers.
- 2K x 8 Organization: Memory layout should match the reader and software requirements.
- Hardware Write Protection: The chip provides a write-protect pin for hardware data protection.
- Gold-Plated Contact Pad: Front-side contact area for reader insertion.
- Custom Card Printing: Logo, text, images, magnetic stripe, numbering, signature panel, and scratch-off options can be discussed.
Technical Specifications
| Product Model | DFTC001 |
| Product Type | AT24C16 contact IC card |
| Chip | Microchip AT24C16 |
| Memory Type | Serial EEPROM |
| Storage Capacity | 16Kb, 2048 x 8 bits |
| Interface | I2C-compatible two-wire serial interface |
| Data Protection | Write-protect pin for hardware data protection |
| Read / Write Cycles | More than 100,000 times |
| Data Retention | 100 years per supplier listing; confirm supporting documentation |
| Transmission Speed | 100 kHz at 1.8 V, 2.5 V, and 2.7 V; 400 kHz at 5 V |
| Working Temperature | -40°C to +125°C |
| Card Size | 85.5 x 54 mm |
| Thickness | 0.84 mm |
| Contact Surface | Gold-plated contact pad on the front |
| Back Surface | Blank white PVC, custom printing available |
| Color | Customized |
| Available Crafts | Magnetic stripe, encoded data, DOD serial numbering, signature panel, scratch-off, and custom printing |
Applications
- Access control systems
- Identification and membership cards
- Library and campus cards
- Parking and logistics systems
- Retail and loyalty programs
- Contact-reader data storage projects
Reader and Chip Compatibility
The card requires a contact reader that supports the AT24C16 memory and its I2C-compatible interface. It cannot be read by an NFC phone or a contactless RFID reader.
Send the reader model, memory address map, data format, and write-protection requirement before ordering. Test a programmed sample in the finished system before a bulk order.
Printing, Craft, and Encoding
- Logo, text, image, and color printing
- Magnetic stripe
- DOD serial numbering
- Signature panel
- Scratch-off panel
- Card data encoding
Order Details to Confirm
- Reader model and supported chip type
- Memory address map and data format
- Write-protection and password requirements
- Printing, numbering, magnetic stripe, scratch-off, and encoding details
- Card material, thickness, and finish
- MOQ, sample policy, packaging, and production schedule
FAQ
Will this card work with our contact IC reader?
Only if the reader supports the AT24C16 memory and the required I2C-compatible interface. Send the reader model before ordering so compatibility can be checked.
Can this card be read by an NFC phone?
No. This is a contact card and must be inserted into a compatible contact reader. It is not an NFC or contactless RFID card.
How much memory does the card have?
The AT24C16 provides 16Kb of serial EEPROM, organized as 2048 x 8 bits.
Can the card be printed and encoded?
Yes. Printing, numbering, magnetic stripe, signature panel, scratch-off, and data encoding can be discussed for the project.
Is the 100-year data retention guaranteed?
100-year retention. Request supporting documentation before using that figure as a formal specification or warranty.
Can I request samples?
Sample availability depends on the current production schedule. Test the card with the actual reader and software before approving bulk production.
Request a Quote
Send your reader model, memory layout, printing details, card craft, quantity, and target application. We will confirm the suitable AT24C16 card configuration and the next step for samples or production.
Tel : +86 15814022871
Email : sales@daftag.com











