Microchip Technology 24FC02T-I/OT

Overview

24FC02T-I/OT 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), 8-byte page buffer, and industrial/extended temperature operation (-40°C to +125°C). It enables nonvolatile parameter storage in space-constrained embedded control systems.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC02T-I/OT datasheet, 24FC02T-I/OT pinout, 24FC02T-I/OT application, or 24FC02T-I/OT equivalent, key selection considerations include its 1.7V–5.5V supply range, 1 MHz I²C timing compliance, WP-controlled full-array write protection, 5 ms max page write time, and qualification for automotive AEC-Q100 Grade 2 applications.

Technical Context

The 24FC02T-I/OT implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. Its internal address pointer supports current-address, random, and sequential read modes, while the 8-byte page buffer enables efficient burst writes within physical page boundaries (0x00–0x07, 0x08–0x0F, etc.).

Write operations are self-timed and internally managed; during active erase/write cycles, the device inhibits ACK responses-enabling reliable acknowledge polling for bus efficiency. The WP pin provides hardware-level write-inhibition when tied to VCC, independent of software state or power sequencing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC02T-I/OT is supplied in the 5-lead SOT-23 package (JEDEC MO-178AA), measuring 2.9 mm × 1.6 mm × 1.1 mm with wettable flanks. Pin 1 is marked via laser etch; A0–A2 are no-connects and may be left floating or tied to VSS/VCC without functional impact.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA02T-I/OT and AT24C02D-SSHM-T, the 24FC02T-I/OT uniquely delivers 1 MHz I²C performance *and* AEC-Q100 Grade 2 qualification in the compact 5-lead SOT-23 package-enabling faster firmware field updates and certified operation in harsh automotive environments without footprint penalty.

Availability

24FC02T-I/OT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial programmable logic controllers, and medical infusion pumps requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24FC02T-I/OT 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, serving automotive, industrial, and communications markets since 1989.

The 24FC02T-I/OT belongs to Microchip's 24XX02 family of serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for robust, low-voltage, high-speed nonvolatile storage in space- and power-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC02T-I/OT?

The 24FC02T-I/OT supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency when VCC is between 1.7V and 5.5V. At VCC < 2.5V, the maximum clock rate remains 1 MHz-unlike the 24AA02 (limited to 100 kHz below 2.5V) or 24LC02B (requires ≥2.5V for 400 kHz). This makes the 24FC02T-I/OT uniquely suited for high-speed parameter loading in 1.8V systems. The 24FC02T-I/OT datasheet specifies THIGH = 260 ns min and TLOW = 500 ns min at 1 MHz.

Does the 24FC02T-I/OT require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC02T-I/OT requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. For 1 MHz operation, a 2 kΩ pull-up to VCC is recommended; for 400 kHz, 2.2 kΩ is typical; and for 100 kHz, 10 kΩ suffices. The 24FC02T-I/OT's Schmitt-trigger inputs tolerate slow rise times, but proper pull-up sizing ensures timing compliance per AC specifications in DS20001709N.

How does the hardware write-protect (WP) pin function on the 24FC02T-I/OT?

When the WP pin of the 24FC02T-I/OT is tied to VCC, the entire 256-byte memory array (addresses 0x00–0xFF) becomes write-inhibited-read operations remain fully functional. When WP is tied to VSS (or left floating, though not recommended), normal read/write access is enabled. This hardware-level protection operates independently of power state or I²C commands, making it essential for safeguarding critical calibration data during brown-out events. The 24FC02T-I/OT specification confirms WP hold time = 1000 ns and setup time = 0 ns.

Is the 24FC02T-I/OT pin-compatible with other 24XX02 family members in the SOT-23 package?

Yes-the 24FC02T-I/OT shares identical 5-lead SOT-23 pinout (SCL, SDA, WP, VSS, VCC) and memory map with 24AA02T-I/OT and 24LC02BT-I/OT in the same package variant. However, functional differences exist: only the 24FC02T-I/OT supports 1 MHz I²C and AEC-Q100 qualification. Substituting other variants may violate timing or reliability requirements, even if soldered correctly. Always verify VCC-dependent clock limits and qualification status before interchange.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24FC02T-I/OT?

The 24FC02T-I/OT guarantees 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and >200 years of data retention at 25°C, as specified in DS20001709N Table 1-2 Note 4 and page 5. Endurance is characterized at 25°C and 5.5V using page-mode writes; retention is extrapolated from high-temperature accelerated testing. These values apply across the full −40°C to +125°C operating range, making the 24FC02T-I/OT suitable for infrastructure equipment with 15+ year service life targets.