Microchip Technology 24FC04T-I/ST

Overview

24FC04T-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 maximum clock frequency, 5 ms max page write time, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It supports hardware write-protection via the WP pin and is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (ST) for embedded system configuration storage.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC04T-I/ST datasheet, 24FC04T-I/ST pinout, 24FC04T-I/ST application, or 24FC04T-I/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include low-voltage operation down to 1.7V, 1 MHz I²C timing compliance, 16-byte page write buffer, ESD protection >4 kV, and AEC-Q100 qualification for automotive use.

Technical Context

The 24FC04T-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 enables current-address, random, and sequential read modes, while the 16-byte page buffer allows efficient burst writes within physical page boundaries (0–15, 16–31, etc.).

Write protection is enforced by the dedicated WP pin: tied to VSS for full read/write access, or to VCC to inhibit all write operations across the entire 000–1FF address space. Acknowledge polling is supported to detect write cycle completion without fixed delay timing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC04T-I/ST is supplied in an 8-lead SOIC (SOIC-N, package code "ST") per Microchip drawing C04-057-SN. Pin 1 is top-left corner (notch or dot marked); pin numbering follows standard SOIC convention: pins 1–4 on top row (left to right), pins 5–8 on bottom row (right to left).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA04T-I/ST, the 24FC04T-I/ST delivers 2.5× faster I²C throughput and automotive qualification, while AT24C04D-SSHM-T offers equivalent speed and voltage but no automotive validation - making 24FC04T-I/ST the sole choice for AEC-Q100-compliant systems requiring 1 MHz operation.

Availability

24FC04T-I/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control units, industrial PLCs, medical infusion pumps, and smart energy meters requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24FC04T-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 components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24FC04T-I/ST belongs to Microchip's 24XX04 family of serial EEPROMs, engineered specifically for automotive and industrial applications demanding low-voltage operation, high-speed I²C communication, and AEC-Q100 reliability.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC04T-I/ST?

The 24FC04T-I/ST supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 1 MHz across its full 1.7V to 5.5V VCC range. This is confirmed in Table 1-2 of the DS20001708P datasheet, distinguishing it from the 24AA04 (max 400 kHz) and 24LC04B (max 400 kHz below 2.5V). The 1 MHz capability enables faster configuration loading in time-sensitive applications such as automotive ECUs and industrial controllers.

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

Yes, the 24FC04T-I/ST requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I/O pins are open-drain. Section 2.2 of the datasheet specifies typical values of 2 kΩ for 1 MHz operation. The resistor value must be selected based on bus capacitance and desired rise time - lower resistance improves speed but increases power consumption during low states.

How does hardware write-protection work on the 24FC04T-I/ST?

Hardware write-protection on the 24FC04T-I/ST is controlled by the WP pin: when tied to VCC, all write operations (byte and page) to the entire memory array (addresses 000–1FF) are inhibited, while read operations remain fully functional. When WP is tied to VSS, normal read/write access is enabled. This behavior is defined in Section 2.4 and Figure 6-1 of the DS20001708P datasheet.

Is the 24FC04T-I/ST AEC-Q100 qualified?

Yes, the 24FC04T-I/ST is explicitly AEC-Q100 qualified, as stated in the "Features" section of DS20001708P-page 1. This qualification covers stress testing for temperature cycling, humidity, mechanical shock, and electrical reliability - confirming suitability for automotive applications including body control modules and infotainment systems.

What is the page write buffer size of the 24FC04T-I/ST?

The 24FC04T-I/ST has a 16-byte page write buffer, allowing up to 16 bytes to be loaded into the on-chip latch before initiating the internal write cycle. This is specified in the "Features" list on DS20001708P-page 1 and detailed in Section 6.2. Writing beyond 16 bytes without an intervening Stop condition causes address pointer rollover and data overwrite within the same physical page.