Microchip Technology 24FC04T-E/SN

Overview

24FC04T-E/SN 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 1.7–5.5 V supply, with hardware write-protection, 16-byte page buffer, and extended temperature operation to +125°C. It serves in industrial control systems for parameter storage and calibration data retention.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC04T-E/SN datasheet, 24FC04T-E/SN pinout, 24FC04T-E/SN application, or 24FC04T-E/SN equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, SOIC-8 package details, I²C timing compliance (1 MHz), endurance (1M cycles), and real-world use context for embedded firmware configuration and sensor calibration memory.

Technical Context

The 24FC04T-E/SN implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress ground bounce and bus noise. 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-tied high to disable all write operations across the full 000h–1FFh address space. The device uses on-chip charge-pump HV generation for EEPROM programming and features acknowledge polling to determine write-cycle completion without fixed delays.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC04T-E/SN is packaged in an 8-lead narrow SOIC (SN) body per JEDEC MS-012, 3.90 mm wide, with gull-wing leads and 1.27 mm pitch. 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 24FC04T-E/SN, the 24AA04T-I/SN trades 1 MHz performance and extended temperature for lower unit cost, while the AT24C04D-SSHM-T offers software-controllable write protection at the expense of differing register-level command structure and vendor-specific initialization sequences.

Availability

24FC04T-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, automotive electronics, and medical instrumentation requiring stable component supply, extended temperature operation, and AEC-Q100-compliant nonvolatile memory.

Supply support for 24FC04T-E/SN 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 design and manufacturing operations.

The 24FC04T-E/SN belongs to Microchip's 24XX04 family of serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for robust, low-power, I²C-based configuration and calibration storage in harsh industrial and automotive environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC04T-E/SN?

The 24FC04T-E/SN supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7–5.5 V supply range and -40°C to +125°C operating temperature. This is confirmed in Table 1-2 of the DS20001708P datasheet and distinguishes it from the 24AA04 (400 kHz max) and 24LC04B (400 kHz, 2.5V min). The 24FC04T-E/SN maintains full timing compliance at 1 MHz even at 1.7 V, enabling faster firmware updates and logging in low-voltage systems.

Does the 24FC04T-E/SN require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC04T-E/SN requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because both pins are open-drain. For 1 MHz operation, a 2 kΩ pull-up to VCC is recommended per the datasheet (Section 2.2). Incorrect pull-up values cause timing violations: too weak (>10 kΩ) increases rise time beyond specification; too strong (<1 kΩ) increases bus capacitance loading and power consumption during low states.

How does the write-protect (WP) pin function on the 24FC04T-E/SN?

On the 24FC04T-E/SN, the WP pin is a hardware-level write-inhibit control: when tied to VCC, all write operations (byte and page) to the entire 000h–1FFh memory array are blocked, while read operations remain fully functional. When tied to VSS, normal read/write access is enabled. Unlike software-based protection schemes, this hardware lock cannot be overridden by I²C commands, making it ideal for securing calibration data or serial numbers.

What is the page write capability of the 24FC04T-E/SN?

The 24FC04T-E/SN features a 16-byte page write buffer, allowing up to 16 contiguous bytes to be written in a single I²C transaction after one Start condition and address byte. Page writes complete in ≤5 ms. This reduces bus overhead significantly compared to byte writes-e.g., writing 16 bytes requires only one Start/Stop sequence instead of 16-making it highly efficient for firmware parameter blocks or sensor calibration datasets.

Is the 24FC04T-E/SN AEC-Q100 qualified?

Yes, the 24FC04T-E/SN is explicitly AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive applications, as stated in the "Features" section of the DS20001708P datasheet. This qualification covers stress testing for temperature cycling, humidity, ESD, and other reliability parameters required for under-hood and chassis-mounted electronics. The "E" in the part number denotes the Extended temperature grade (-40°C to +125°C), which aligns with AEC-Q100 Grade 1 requirements.