Microchip Technology 24FC04H-I/ST

Overview

24FC04H-I/ST 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 half-array write-protection (100h–1FFh). It delivers ≤1 µA standby current and >1 million erase/write cycles for nonvolatile data storage in space-constrained industrial control modules.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC04H-I/ST datasheet, 24FC04H-I/ST pinout, 24FC04H-I/ST application, or 24FC04H-I/ST equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specs, SOIC-8 pin mapping, I²C timing compliance at 1 MHz, endurance and retention data, and direct alternatives for memory upgrade or supply continuity planning.

Technical Context

The 24FC04H-I/ST 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 without host-side buffering.

Write protection is implemented via the WP pin: tied to VCC, it disables writes to addresses 100h–1FFh (half-array); tied to VSS, full array access is enabled. The device uses self-timed erase/write cycles with ACK polling support to maximize bus throughput during write completion detection.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC04H-I/ST is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) with 3.90 mm body width and 1.27 mm pitch. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or notch; the package is RoHS-compliant and lead-free.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24FC04H-I/ST, the 24AA04H-I/ST offers identical packaging and voltage range but halves maximum I²C speed, whereas AT24C04D-SSHM-T provides functionally equivalent performance with alternate supply-chain assurance and identical SOIC-8 footprint.

Availability

24FC04H-I/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, medical device configuration, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-term data retention, and AEC-Q100-aligned reliability.

Supply support for 24FC04H-I/ST 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, designed specifically for low-voltage, high-reliability nonvolatile storage in space- and power-constrained embedded systems across industrial, medical, and automotive markets.

FAQ

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

The 24FC04H-I/ST supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V–5.5V V_CC range, unlike the 24AA04H-I/ST (400 kHz max) or 24LC04BH-I/ST (400 kHz, 2.5V min). This allows faster configuration loading and logging in time-critical applications. The 24FC04H-I/ST maintains AC timing compliance including THIGH ≥260 ns and TLOW ≥500 ns at 1 MHz.

How does the WP pin function on the 24FC04H-I/ST?

On the 24FC04H-I/ST, the WP pin enables hardware-based write protection: when tied to VCC, writes to memory addresses 100h–1FFh are blocked while reads remain fully functional; when tied to VSS, full-array write access is enabled. This protects critical calibration or security data without firmware dependency. Pins A0–A2 are unconnected and may be left floating.

Is the 24FC04H-I/ST compatible with standard I²C protocol stacks?

Yes, the 24FC04H-I/ST implements a fully compliant I²C slave interface with standard START/STOP conditions, 7-bit client address (1010xxxR/W), ACK/NACK signaling, and support for current-address, random, and sequential read modes. It requires no special drivers and integrates seamlessly with Linux i2c-dev, Arduino Wire, or RTOS-based I²C stacks without modification.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24FC04H-I/ST?

The 24FC04H-I/ST is rated for more than 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and guarantees data retention exceeding 200 years at +25°C. These values are measured under specified conditions (25°C, 5.5V, page-mode writes) and validated per Microchip's qualification standards. Real-world retention remains robust across the full –40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range.

Which packages are available for the 24FC04H-I/ST, and what does '-I/ST' signify?

The '-I/ST' suffix denotes Industrial temperature grade (–40°C to +85°C) in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) package with 3.90 mm body width. Other 24FC04H variants include -E/ST (Extended temp), -I/P (PDIP), -I/MS (MSOP), and -I/Q4B (TDFN). All share identical electrical functionality; only thermal rating and physical form factor differ. The SOIC-8 variant is widely supported in automated assembly and legacy designs.