Microchip Technology 24FC02-I/P

Overview

24FC02-I/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 256 × 8-bit memory with hardware write-protection, 1 MHz clock support (down to 1.7V), and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It features 8-byte page write buffer, Schmitt-trigger inputs, slope-controlled outputs, and >1 million erase/write cycles - deployed in embedded system configuration storage, sensor calibration data retention, and power-management parameter backup.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC02-I/P datasheet, 24FC02-I/P pinout, 24FC02-I/P application, or 24FC02-I/P equivalent, key selection criteria include low-voltage operation (1.7V), fast 1 MHz I²C timing, industrial-grade reliability, hardware WP control, and PDIP-8 package compatibility with legacy through-hole designs.

Technical Context

The 24FC02-I/P implements a two-wire I²C interface with fixed 7-bit client address (1010xxx) and R/W bit control, supporting byte and page write modes with self-timed internal erase/write cycles. Its Address Pointer auto-increments during sequential reads and random reads require prior address setup via dummy write.

It uses CMOS EEPROM array with HV generator for programming, integrated sense amplifiers and decode logic, and noise-suppression circuitry including Schmitt-trigger inputs and input filter spike suppression (50 ns). Write protection is implemented via dedicated WP pin tied to VCC or VSS - no internal pull-up/down.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC02-I/P is supplied in 8-Lead Plastic Dual In-Line Package (PDIP), 300 mil body width, through-hole mountable with 0.100" pitch. Pin 1 is marked by notch or dot; leads are matte tin-plated.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA02-I/P and 24LC02B-I/P, the 24FC02-I/P uniquely delivers 1 MHz I²C performance at 1.7V while maintaining pin compatibility - enabling faster configuration loads in ultra-low-power or mixed-voltage embedded systems without layout changes.

Availability

24FC02-I/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, medical calibration storage, smart energy metering, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24FC02-I/P 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 24FC02 belongs to Microchip's 24XX02 family of serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for robust, low-power nonvolatile data storage in space-constrained embedded systems requiring I²C interface simplicity and industrial reliability.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC02-I/P?

The 24FC02-I/P supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V–5.5V V_CC range. This is confirmed in the Device Selection Table and AC Characteristics section of DS20001709N, distinguishing it from the 400 kHz limit of 24AA02 and 24LC02B variants. At 1.7V, the 24FC02-I/P maintains full 1 MHz operation, unlike 24AA02 which drops to 100 kHz below 2.5V.

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

Yes, the 24FC02-I/P requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its SDA pin is open-drain and SCL is input-only. The datasheet recommends 2 kΩ for 1 MHz operation, 10 kΩ for 100 kHz. Pull-ups must connect to the same V_CC rail used by the 24FC02-I/P - mismatched voltage domains risk bus contention or failure.

How does hardware write-protection work on the 24FC02-I/P?

The 24FC02-I/P uses the WP pin for hardware write-protection: when tied to VCC, all write operations (byte and page) to the entire 256-byte memory array (addresses 00h–FFh) are inhibited; reads remain fully functional. When tied to VSS, normal read/write access is enabled. No internal pull-up or pull-down exists - external connection is mandatory for defined behavior.

Can the 24FC02-I/P be used in automotive applications?

Yes, the 24FC02-I/P is AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive applications and rated for the Industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), matching common under-hood and cabin module requirements. While the "I" suffix denotes Industrial grade, its AEC-Q100 qualification - explicitly stated in the Features section of DS20001709N - confirms suitability for automotive body control, infotainment, and ADAS subsystems.

What is the purpose of the A0, A1, and A2 pins on the 24FC02-I/P?

The A0, A1, and A2 pins on the 24FC02-I/P are not internally connected and serve no functional purpose. As confirmed in Section 2.1 and the Pin Function Table of DS20001709N, they may be left floating or tied to VSS or VCC without affecting device operation, addressing, or I²C communication - simplifying PCB layout and eliminating need for termination resistors.