Microchip Technology 24FC04-I/ST

Overview

24FC04-I/ST from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 4-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as two 256 × 8-bit blocks, supporting 1 MHz clock frequency at 1.7V–5.5V supply, with hardware write-protection, 16-byte page buffer, and 1 µA standby current (I-temp). It operates across -40°C to +85°C and is used for parameter storage in industrial control modules, sensor calibration data retention, and firmware configuration backup.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC04-I/ST datasheet, 24FC04-I/ST pinout, 24FC04-I/ST application, or 24FC04-I/ST equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, SOIC-8 package layout, I²C timing compliance (1 MHz), endurance (1M cycles), and real-world use cases - all validated against Microchip DS20001708P.

Technical Context

The 24FC04-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 pointer supports current-address, random, and sequential read modes, while the 16-byte page write buffer enables efficient bulk writes without host-side byte-by-byte sequencing.

Write protection is enforced via the dedicated WP pin, which disables all write operations when tied to VCC. The device uses self-timed erase/write cycles (max 5 ms) and supports acknowledge polling to detect write completion - critical for deterministic bus arbitration in real-time embedded systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC04-I/ST is supplied in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) package per Microchip drawing C04-057-SN Rev F, with 1.27 mm pitch, 3.90 mm body width, and wettable flank-compatible leads. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or notch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24FC04-I/ST, the 24AA04-I/ST trades 1 MHz performance for broader voltage compatibility at lower speed, while the 24LC04B-I/ST sacrifices low-voltage operation for legacy industrial qualification - making 24FC04-I/ST the optimal choice for new 1.8V–5V designs demanding maximum I²C throughput.

Availability

24FC04-I/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, medical device calibration storage, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for 24FC04-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 24FC04-I/ST belongs to Microchip's 24XX04 family of serial EEPROMs, engineered for reliable, low-power nonvolatile storage in space-constrained embedded systems where I²C simplicity and robustness are essential.

FAQ

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

The 24FC04-I/ST supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V–5.5V supply range, as confirmed in Table 1-2 of DS20001708P. This exceeds the 400 kHz limit of 24AA04/24LC04B variants and enables faster configuration writes in time-sensitive applications. At VCC < 2.5V, the 24FC04-I/ST maintains 1 MHz operation - unlike 24AA04, which drops to 100 kHz below 2.5V.

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

Yes, the 24FC04-I/ST requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I/O pins are open-drain. Microchip specifies 2 kΩ as typical for 1 MHz operation (DS20001708P, Section 2.2). Values must be adjusted based on bus capacitance and speed - lower resistance improves rise time but increases power consumption during low states.

How does hardware write-protection work on the 24FC04-I/ST?

Hardware write-protection on the 24FC04-I/ST is controlled by the WP pin: tying WP to VCC disables all write operations (including page and byte writes) while preserving read functionality. Tying WP to VSS enables full read/write access. No internal pull-up or pull-down exists, so the pin must be actively driven - floating WP is not recommended for production designs.

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

The 24FC04-I/ST guarantees 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and greater than 200 years of data retention at +25°C (DS20001708P, Features section and Table 1-1). These values are measured under specified conditions (5.5V, +25°C, page-mode writes) and represent minimum guaranteed performance - actual field life typically exceeds these figures under nominal operating conditions.

Is the 24FC04-I/ST pin-compatible with other 24XX04 family members in SOIC-8 package?

Yes, the 24FC04-I/ST is pin-compatible with 24AA04-I/ST and 24LC04B-I/ST in the SOIC-8 (SN) package, sharing identical pin assignments (VSS, SDA, SCL, WP, VCC, A0–A2) and footprint per Microchip drawing C04-057-SN. However, functional differences - especially 1 MHz vs. 400 kHz clock support and 1.7V minimum VCC - require verification in the target application before substitution.