Microchip Technology 24FC08-I/MS

Overview

24FC08-I/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is an 8-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as four 256 × 8-bit blocks, supporting 1 MHz clock frequency at 1.7–5.5 V supply, with hardware write-protection via WP pin and 16-byte page write buffer. It operates across –40°C to +125°C (Extended temperature grade) in 8-lead MSOP package and is used for configuration storage in industrial sensors and embedded controllers.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC08-I/MS datasheet, 24FC08-I/MS pinout, 24FC08-I/MS application, or 24FC08-I/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1 MHz I²C speed at low voltage (1.7 V), extended temperature support, page write time ≤5 ms, Schmitt-trigger noise immunity on SDA/SCL, and hardware write-protect functionality - all critical for robust nonvolatile memory in space-constrained, high-reliability systems.

Technical Context

The 24FC08-I/MS implements a two-wire I²C interface with bidirectional SDA and unidirectional SCL, using open-drain signaling requiring external pull-ups. Its internal address pointer supports current-address, random, and sequential read modes, while the 16-byte page buffer enables efficient burst writes without host-side buffering.

It features Schmitt-trigger inputs (≥50 mV hysteresis) and input filter spike suppression (≤100 ns), ensuring reliable operation on noisy buses. Write protection is implemented via dedicated WP pin tied to VCC (full-array lock) or VSS (enabled), with no internal connection to A0–A2 pins - simplifying PCB routing and eliminating address-pin strapping complexity.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-Lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package), 3.0 mm × 4.9 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, exposed pad optional (not electrically connected).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA08-I/MS, the 24FC08-I/MS delivers 2.5× faster configuration writes and identical packaging, while AT24C08D-MAHM-T offers comparable speed but lacks hardware WP - making 24FC08-I/MS optimal for time-sensitive, safety-locked applications requiring zero-software write guardrails.

Availability

24FC08-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, automotive body control modules, medical infusion pump settings, and smart energy meter firmware patch storage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24FC08-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 U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, with global manufacturing and quality certifications including ISO 9001 and AEC-Q200.

The 24FC08 belongs to Microchip's 24XX08 family of I²C EEPROMs designed for high-reliability, low-voltage embedded systems requiring fast, noise-immune nonvolatile storage in compact packages.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC08-I/MS?

The 24FC08-I/MS supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7 V to 5.5 V supply range - verified per DS20001710M AC Characteristics Table 1-1. This is higher than the 400 kHz limit of the 24AA08-I/MS and enables faster configuration loading in time-critical applications such as motor control startup sequences. The 24FC08-I/MS maintains this speed even at 1.7 V, unlike some competing EEPROMs that throttle below 2.5 V.

Does the 24FC08-I/MS require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC08-I/MS requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. Microchip recommends 2 kΩ for 1 MHz operation (DS20001710M Section 2.2). The exact value depends on bus capacitance and rise-time requirements; typical designs use 1.8–4.7 kΩ. Without pull-ups, the 24FC08-I/MS cannot drive valid logic-high levels, causing communication failure.

How does the WP pin function on the 24FC08-I/MS, and what happens if it's left floating?

The WP pin on the 24FC08-I/MS is a digital input that disables all write operations when tied to VCC (logic high), while enabling full read/write access when tied to VSS (logic low). If left floating, the pin state is undefined and may cause intermittent write failures or unintended protection - DS20001710M Section 2.4 explicitly requires a defined connection. The 24FC08-I/MS does not include internal pull-up/down, so PCB-level termination is mandatory for reliable operation.

What is the page write capability of the 24FC08-I/MS, and how does it improve system efficiency?

The 24FC08-I/MS features a 16-byte page write buffer, allowing up to 16 contiguous bytes to be written in a single I²C transaction with one Stop condition. This reduces required bus traffic by up to 16× compared to byte-write mode, lowering host CPU overhead and shortening total write time - especially valuable in battery-powered devices where I²C activity increases power consumption. Page writes are limited to boundaries aligned to 16-byte offsets, and crossing boundaries causes wraparound within the same page.

Is the 24FC08-I/MS qualified for automotive applications, and what certifications does it hold?

Yes, the 24FC08-I/MS is AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive applications and rated for Extended temperature range (–40°C to +125°C). It meets Grade 1 requirements per AEC-Q100 Rev-H, including HTOL, TCT, and ESD testing. The "I" suffix denotes Industrial/Extended grade, and the MSOP package is approved for under-hood use in body control modules and sensor nodes. Full qualification data is documented in Microchip's AEC-Q100 report for the 24XX08 family, referenced in DS20001710M Section "Features".