Microchip Technology 24FC04H-I/P

Overview

24FC04H-I/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 4-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as two 256 × 8-bit blocks, supporting 1.7V–5.5V operation, 1 MHz clock frequency (at full V_CC), and hardware write-protection for the upper half-array (100h–1FFh). It features 16-byte page write buffer, 5 ms max page write time, and >1 million erase/write cycles - deployed in industrial sensor calibration storage and embedded system configuration retention.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC04H-I/P datasheet, 24FC04H-I/P pinout, 24FC04H-I/P application, or 24FC04H-I/P equivalent, key selection considerations include its 1 MHz I²C speed at 1.7V+, extended temperature support (–40°C to +125°C), PDIP-8 package compatibility, half-array write-protect functionality, and low 1 µA standby current under industrial conditions.

Technical Context

The 24FC04H-I/P 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 ACK polling enables precise timing of write-cycle completion without fixed delays.

It uses a dedicated Write-Protect (WP) pin to enable/disable write access to memory addresses 100h–1FFh; WP tied to V_CC locks that block, while WP tied to V_SS permits full-array writes. The A0–A2 pins are unconnected and may be left floating or tied to any rail.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC04H-I/P is supplied in an 8-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual In-Line Package) with 300-mil body width, standard through-hole mounting, and JEDEC MS-001 compliant footprint. 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 24FC04H-I/P, the 24AA04H-I/P trades 1 MHz speed for broader legacy compatibility, while AT24C04D-SSHM-T matches performance but mandates SOIC-8 placement - making 24FC04H-I/P the sole PDIP-8 option with full 1 MHz capability across 1.7V–5.5V.

Availability

24FC04H-I/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration storage, embedded system configuration retention, and automotive body control module applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant through-hole assembly.

Supply support for 24FC04H-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 devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24FC04H belongs to Microchip's 24XX04H family of serial EEPROMs, engineered for ultra-low-voltage operation, high reliability in extended temperature environments, and seamless integration into resource-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC04H-I/P?

The 24FC04H-I/P supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency when V_CC is between 1.7V and 5.5V. At V_CC < 2.5V, the maximum clock drops to 100 kHz per DS20002119C-page 4 AC Characteristics table. This 1 MHz capability distinguishes it from the 24AA04H-I/P (max 400 kHz) and enables faster configuration writes in modern microcontroller systems using the 24FC04H-I/P.

How does the Write-Protect (WP) pin function on the 24FC04H-I/P?

On the 24FC04H-I/P, the WP pin enables hardware-based memory protection: when tied to V_CC, writes to addresses 100h–1FFh (upper 2 Kbit) are inhibited while reads remain fully functional; when tied to V_SS, full-array write access is granted. This feature is implemented entirely in silicon - no firmware involvement is needed, and it applies regardless of I²C command sequence, making the 24FC04H-I/P ideal for safeguarding critical calibration data.

Is the 24FC04H-I/P compatible with 1.8V microcontrollers?

Yes, the 24FC04H-I/P operates down to 1.7V and is fully compatible with 1.8V microcontrollers. Its I²C interface meets standard voltage thresholds (VIH ≥ 0.7×V_CC, VIL ≤ 0.3×V_CC) at 1.8V, and it supports 1 MHz clocking across the entire 1.7V–5.5V range. This allows direct connection to 1.8V MCUs without level shifters - a key advantage over older EEPROMs like the 24LC04BH, which requires ≥2.5V, and confirms the 24FC04H-I/P's suitability for ultra-low-power designs.

What package type does the 24FC04H-I/P use, and are the A0–A2 pins functional?

The 24FC04H-I/P uses an 8-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual In-Line Package) with 300-mil body width, designated by the "P" suffix in its part number. Per Microchip DS20002119C-page 6, the A0, A1, and A2 pins are not internally connected - they serve no addressing or configuration purpose and may be left floating or tied to V_SS/V_CC without affecting 24FC04H-I/P operation. This simplifies PCB layout versus EEPROMs requiring address pin strapping.

Does the 24FC04H-I/P require external components for I²C operation?

Yes, the 24FC04H-I/P requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines - typically 2 kΩ for 1 MHz operation - due to its open-drain I²C interface. A 0.1 µF ceramic decoupling capacitor between V_CC and V_SS is also recommended near the 24FC04H-I/P pins. No external timing components or write-enable circuitry are needed, as the 24FC04H-I/P features self-timed erase/write cycles and integrated Schmitt triggers for noise immunity.