Microchip Technology 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO

Overview

24FC02-E/SN36KVAO from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 256 × 8-bit memory with hardware write-protection, 1 MHz max clock frequency, and extended temperature operation from –40°C to +125°C. It supports 1.7V–5.5V single-supply operation, features an 8-byte page write buffer, and is used for secure device identification and configuration storage in automotive and industrial control modules.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO datasheet, 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO pinout, 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO application, or 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1 MHz I²C speed at 1.7V, E-temp qualification, WP-controlled full-array write protection, and compatibility with noise-prone embedded bus environments requiring Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs.

Technical Context

The 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO implements a 2-wire I²C interface compliant with standard-mode (100 kHz), fast-mode (400 kHz), and fast-mode plus (1 MHz) timing specifications across its full 1.7V–5.5V VCC range. Its internal architecture includes a self-timed erase/write cycle, 8-byte page latches, and a dedicated HV generator for EEPROM programming - enabling reliable byte- and page-write operations without external timing control.

It integrates Schmitt-trigger inputs on SDA and SCL for robust noise immunity, output slope control to suppress ground bounce, and a hardware Write-Protect (WP) input that disables all write cycles when tied high. The device uses no internal connections for A0–A2 pins, simplifying PCB layout and eliminating address conflicts in multi-device I²C systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC02-E/SN36KVAO is supplied in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) package per Microchip's standard marking and packaging specification. Pin 1 is located at the top-left corner with notch or dot indicator; the exposed pad is not present in SOIC.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA02-I/SN and 24LC02B-I/SN, the 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO delivers higher bus throughput, broader voltage operation, and certified extended-temperature performance - making it the optimal choice for next-generation automotive and industrial edge nodes where speed, ruggedness, and low-voltage support are mandatory.

Availability

24FC02-E/SN36KVAO is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control units, industrial PLC I/O modules, medical infusion pump calibration storage, and smart energy meter security key storage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and low-voltage operating conditions.

Supply support for 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO 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 microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets with high-reliability semiconductor products.

The 24FC02 belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for robust, low-power, and high-speed nonvolatile data storage in space- and power-constrained embedded systems requiring AEC-Q100 qualification and extended temperature operation.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO?

The 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V–5.5V supply range - unlike the 24AA02 (max 400 kHz) or 24LC02B (max 400 kHz, min 2.5V). This enables faster configuration reads in low-voltage microcontroller applications. The 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO maintains full timing compliance at 1 MHz even at 1.7V, verified per DS20001709M AC characteristics Table 1-2.

Does the 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because both pins are open-drain. Recommended values are 2 kΩ for 1 MHz operation, 10 kΩ for 100 kHz. The 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO's internal Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope control ensure clean signal transitions even with these external resistors in noisy environments.

How does the Write-Protect (WP) pin function on the 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO?

When the WP pin of the 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO is tied to VCC, all write operations (byte and page) to the entire 256-byte memory array are inhibited; read operations remain fully functional. When tied to VSS, normal read/write access is enabled. This hardware-level protection is active regardless of I²C command state and provides deterministic security against firmware glitches or unintended writes.

Is the 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO AEC-Q100 qualified?

Yes, the 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO is AEC-Q100 qualified for Automotive Grade 3 (–40°C to +125°C), as confirmed in the "Features" section of DS20001709M. This qualification covers stress testing for temperature cycling, humidity, ESD, and electrical performance - validating its suitability for under-hood and chassis-mounted automotive electronics where the 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO is commonly deployed.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO?

The 24FC02-E/SN36KVAO guarantees 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and greater than 200 years of data retention at +25°C, as specified in DS20001709M Table 1-2 Note 4 and Features list. These values are characterized and ensured by design - not merely sampled - and apply across the full extended temperature range when operated within rated VCC and timing conditions.