Microchip Technology 24FC04H-E/MS

Overview

24FC04H-E/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 4-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as two 256 × 8-bit blocks, operating from 1.7V to 5.5V with 1 MHz clock support, 16-byte page write buffer, and hardware write-protect for half-array (100h–1FFh). It targets embedded system configuration storage in automotive and industrial controllers where low-voltage operation and extended temperature reliability are critical.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC04H-E/MS datasheet, 24FC04H-E/MS pinout, 24FC04H-E/MS application, or 24FC04H-E/MS equivalent, key selection considerations include its 1 MHz I²C speed at 1.7V–5.5V, -40°C to +125°C extended temperature rating, MSOP-8 package footprint, and half-array write-protection logic tied to the WP pin.

Technical Context

The 24FC04H-E/MS implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. Its internal address counter supports current-address, random, and sequential read modes, while the 16-byte page buffer enables efficient burst writes within physical page boundaries (00h–0Fh, 10h–1Fh, etc.).

Write protection is implemented via the WP pin: tied to VCC, it disables writes to addresses 100h–1FFh while permitting full read access; tied to VSS, full read/write is enabled. Acknowledge polling is supported to detect write-cycle completion without fixed timing delays.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC04H-E/MS is housed in an 8-lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package) with 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm body and 0.65 mm pitch. The package is RoHS-compliant and optimized for high-density PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24FC04H-E/MS, the 24AA04H-I/MS trades extended temperature and speed for lower cost in benign environments, while the AT24C04D-MAHM-T offers Atmel ecosystem compatibility but requires ≥2.5V for full-speed operation and draws more standby current.

Availability

24FC04H-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control, industrial PLC configuration, medical infusion pump calibration, and smart energy meter firmware flag storage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24FC04H-E/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, FPGA, and memory solutions, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets with integrated silicon and development tools.

The 24FC04H belongs to Microchip's 24XX04H family of serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-voltage, high-speed nonvolatile storage in harsh-environment embedded systems requiring AEC-Q100 qualification and extended temperature operation.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC04H-E/MS?

The 24FC04H-E/MS supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V–5.5V supply range, unlike the 24AA04H which drops to 100 kHz below 2.5V. This enables faster configuration writes in battery-powered or low-voltage systems without sacrificing timing margin.

How does the write-protect function work on the 24FC04H-E/MS?

The WP pin on the 24FC04H-E/MS controls half-array protection: when tied to VCC, writes to memory addresses 100h–1FFh are inhibited while reads remain fully functional; when tied to VSS, full read/write access is enabled. This allows secure storage of immutable calibration data alongside user-modifiable settings.

Is the 24FC04H-E/MS pin-compatible with other 24XX04H family members in MSOP-8?

Yes, the 24FC04H-E/MS shares identical MSOP-8 pinout and signal definitions with 24AA04H-I/MS and 24LC04BH-E/MS, including NC pins A0–A2, VSS, SDA, SCL, WP, and VCC. This enables drop-in replacement in existing layouts when upgrading to 1 MHz speed or extended temperature capability.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24FC04H-E/MS?

The 24FC04H-E/MS guarantees 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and greater than 200 years of data retention at +25°C. These specifications are validated per JEDEC standards and apply across the full -40°C to +125°C operating range, ensuring long-term reliability in automotive and industrial deployments.

Does the 24FC04H-E/MS require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC04H-E/MS has open-drain SDA and SCL pins and requires external pull-up resistors. For 1 MHz operation, a 2 kΩ resistor to VCC is recommended; for lower speeds (100 kHz), 10 kΩ is typical. Proper pull-up strength ensures signal rise time compliance per I²C specification.