Microchip Technology 24FC01-I/MS

Overview

24FC01-I/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1 Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 128 × 8-bit memory with hardware write-protection, 1 MHz maximum clock frequency, and operation down to 1.7V. It features an 8-byte page write buffer, Schmitt-trigger inputs, and supports industrial (–40°C to +85°C) and extended (–40°C to +125°C) temperature ranges in MSOP-8 package. Used for firmware parameter storage in embedded controllers.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC01-I/MS datasheet, 24FC01-I/MS pinout, 24FC01-I/MS application, or 24FC01-I/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include low-voltage operation (1.7V), high-speed I²C compatibility (1 MHz), write-protection via WP pin, endurance (>1 million cycles), and data retention (>200 years).

Technical Context

The 24FC01-I/MS implements a two-wire I²C interface with fixed 7-bit device address (1010xxx) and R/W bit control. Its internal architecture includes a page latch buffer, HV generator for EEPROM programming, and memory control logic that manages self-timed erase/write cycles without external timing constraints.

It supports byte and page write modes (up to 8 bytes per page), uses acknowledge polling to detect write completion, and incorporates input filtering and slope control on SDA/SCL to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce - critical for reliable operation in electrically noisy industrial environments.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-Lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm pitch, exposed pad optional for thermal relief or grounding. Pin 1 marked by notch or bevel; body dimensions 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm × 1.1 mm (max height).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.

Compared with 24AA01-I/MS and AT24C01D-MAHM-T, the 24FC01-I/MS uniquely delivers 1 MHz I²C performance *plus* extended temperature qualification (–40°C to +125°C), making it the only option among the three for high-reliability automotive and industrial applications demanding both speed and thermal robustness.

Availability

24FC01-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, automotive electronics, medical instrumentation, and smart metering applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for 24FC01-I/MS includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24FC01 belongs to Microchip's 24XX01 family of I²C serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for low-voltage, space-constrained embedded systems requiring reliable, low-power nonvolatile storage with robust noise immunity and hardware write protection.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC01-I/MS?

The 24FC01-I/MS supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V–5.5V supply range. This is higher than the 400 kHz limit of the 24AA01 and 24LC01B variants, enabling faster parameter reads and writes in time-sensitive applications. The 24FC01-I/MS maintains full AC timing compliance at this speed, including minimum THIGH (260 ns), TLOW (500 ns), and TAA (450 ns) values as specified in DS20001711M.

How does the WP pin function on the 24FC01-I/MS?

The WP (Write-Protect) pin on the 24FC01-I/MS is a hardware-level enable for full-array write inhibition. When tied to VCC, all write operations (byte and page) to addresses 00h–7Fh are blocked while read operations remain fully functional. When tied to VSS, normal read/write access is enabled. This behavior is implemented internally - no software register or command is required, ensuring fail-safe protection even during brown-out or reset conditions. The 24FC01-I/MS datasheet confirms this functionality applies identically across all supported temperature grades.

Is the 24FC01-I/MS pin-compatible with other 24XX01 family members in MSOP-8 package?

Yes, the 24FC01-I/MS is pin-compatible with 24AA01-I/MS and 24LC01B-I/MS in the MSOP-8 package. All share identical pin assignments (A0–A2, VSS, SDA, SCL, WP, VCC), same footprint, and mechanical dimensions. However, electrical differences exist: only the 24FC01-I/MS supports 1 MHz operation, and its extended temperature grade (–40°C to +125°C) exceeds the 24AA01's industrial-only rating. System designers may substitute based on speed and thermal requirements without layout changes.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24FC01-I/MS?

The 24FC01-I/MS guarantees ≥1,000,000 erase/write cycles and >200 years of data retention at 25°C, as validated per JEDEC standards and confirmed in Microchip's DS20001711M datasheet. These specifications apply across both industrial and extended temperature ranges. Endurance is tested in page mode; retention accounts for worst-case activation energy and stress conditions. This exceeds typical requirements for industrial control and automotive applications where firmware parameters are updated infrequently but must persist over decades.

Does the 24FC01-I/MS require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC01-I/MS requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. Recommended values are 2 kΩ for 1 MHz operation (per DS20001711M), 10 kΩ for 100 kHz, and 2–4.7 kΩ for 400 kHz. Pull-ups must connect to the same VCC domain as the 24FC01-I/MS to ensure valid logic levels. The device's Schmitt-trigger inputs and slew-rate control help maintain signal integrity even with these discrete components.