Microchip Technology 24FC04-I/MS

Overview

24FC04-I/MS from Microchip Technology is a 4-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as two 256 × 8-bit blocks, supporting 1 MHz clock frequency at 1.7–5.5 V supply, with 16-byte page write buffer, hardware write-protect (WP), and operation across -40°C to +125°C extended temperature range. It serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in embedded controllers, sensor nodes, and power management ICs.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC04-I/MS datasheet, 24FC04-I/MS pinout, 24FC04-I/MS application, or 24FC04-I/MS equivalent, key selection considerations include its 1 MHz I²C speed at low voltage (1.7 V), extended-temp endurance (>1M cycles), Schmitt-trigger noise immunity, and MSOP-8 package compatibility with space-constrained industrial PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The 24FC04-I/MS implements a two-wire I²C interface with fixed 4-bit device code '1010', block-select bit B0, and R/W control-enabling access to either 256-word memory block. Its internal address pointer auto-increments during sequential reads and supports current-address, random, and sequential read modes.

Write operations use self-timed erase/write cycles (max 5 ms) with acknowledge polling for bus efficiency. The device features Schmitt-trigger inputs on SDA/SCL, output slope control to suppress ground bounce, and hardware write-protection via the WP pin tied to VCC or VSS-no software lock required.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC04-I/MS is packaged in an 8-lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm pitch, 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm body, and exposed pad option (not electrically connected). Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA04-I/MS, the 24FC04-I/MS delivers 2.5× faster configuration loading and extended-temp robustness; versus AT24C04D-MAHM-T, it provides hardware write protection and guaranteed operation up to +125°C-critical for industrial and automotive deployments.

Availability

24FC04-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, automotive electronics, and medical device design requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-qualified nonvolatile memory.

Supply support for 24FC04-I/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 components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global manufacturing and support infrastructure.

The 24FC04 belongs to Microchip's 24XX04 family of I²C EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-voltage, high-speed nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems across automotive, industrial, and computing markets.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC04-I/MS?

The 24FC04-I/MS supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7–5.5 V supply range, enabling faster configuration writes than 400 kHz EEPROMs like the 24AA04. This specification is validated per AC Characteristics Table 1-2 in DS20001708P, with timing parameters including THIGH = 260 ns and TLOW = 500 ns at 1 MHz.

Does the 24FC04-I/MS require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC04-I/MS 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 is recommended per Microchip's datasheet guidance; value selection must account for bus capacitance and controller drive strength to meet rise-time requirements (TR ≤ 1000 ns).

How does the Write-Protect (WP) pin function on the 24FC04-I/MS?

The WP pin on the 24FC04-I/MS provides hardware-level write inhibition: when tied to VCC, the entire 4-Kbit memory array is locked against write or erase operations while read access remains fully functional. When tied to VSS (or left floating, though not recommended), normal read/write operation is enabled-no software command or register setting is needed.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24FC04-I/MS?

The 24FC04-I/MS guarantees a minimum of 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and greater than 200 years of data retention at +25°C, as specified in Table 1-1 (DC Characteristics) and Figure 1-1 (AC Characteristics) of DS20001708P. These values are characterized and ensured by Microchip's process qualification-not merely typical or sampled.

Is the 24FC04-I/MS AEC-Q100 qualified, and what grade does it meet?

Yes, the 24FC04-I/MS is AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive applications. Per the Device Selection Table on page 1 of DS20001708P, it is rated for Extended (E) temperature range (-40°C to +125°C), meeting AEC-Q100 Grade 0 requirements-making it suitable for under-hood and safety-critical ECUs where thermal resilience is mandatory.