Microchip Technology 24FC08T-E/MS

Overview

24FC08T-E/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is an 8-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as four 256 × 8-bit blocks, operating from 1.7V to 5.5V with 1 MHz clock support, 16-byte page write buffer, and hardware write-protection via WP pin. It delivers ≤1 µA standby current (E-temp), 5 ms max write cycle time, and >1 million erase/write cycles - deployed in automotive body control modules for configuration storage.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC08T-E/MS datasheet, 24FC08T-E/MS pinout, 24FC08T-E/MS application, or 24FC08T-E/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include extended temperature operation (-40°C to +125°C), 1 MHz I²C speed at full VCC range, MSOP-8 package compatibility, and hardware write-protect functionality for firmware parameter integrity.

Technical Context

The 24FC08T-E/MS implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. Its internal architecture includes a 16-byte page latch, HV generator for EEPROM programming, and address pointer logic supporting current-address, random, and sequential read modes.

It uses a fixed 4-bit device identifier (1010) with 2-bit block select (B1/B0) and R/W bit for addressing four 256-word memory blocks. Write protection is implemented via dedicated WP pin tied to VCC, disabling all writes while permitting reads - no internal A0–A2 connections exist.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC08T-E/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 optionally connected to VSS for thermal enhancement.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA08T-I/MS and AT24C08D-MAHM-T, the 24FC08T-E/MS uniquely combines 1 MHz I²C, -40°C to +125°C operation, AEC-Q100 qualification, and hardware write-protect - making it the only drop-in option for automotive and harsh-environment designs requiring both speed and reliability.

Availability

24FC08T-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control units, industrial sensor calibration systems, medical infusion pump configuration storage, and smart energy meter firmware parameter management requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for 24FC08T-E/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, FPGA, and memory solutions, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets with vertically integrated silicon and development tools.

The 24FC08T-E/MS belongs to Microchip's 24XX08 family of I²C EEPROMs, designed specifically for robust, low-voltage, high-reliability nonvolatile storage in automotive and extended-temperature industrial applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC08T-E/MS?

The 24FC08T-E/MS supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V–5.5V supply range - unlike 24AA08 (400 kHz max) or 24LC08B (400 kHz, limited to ≥2.5V). This allows faster parameter updates in time-critical systems without compromising low-voltage operation. The 24FC08T-E/MS maintains this speed even at 1.7V, enabling direct interface with 1.8V MCUs.

Does the 24FC08T-E/MS require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC08T-E/MS requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. Typical values are 2 kΩ for 1 MHz operation, 10 kΩ for 100 kHz. The 24FC08T-E/MS does not integrate internal pull-ups, so omitting external resistors will prevent proper bus communication and ACK generation.

How does the hardware write-protect (WP) pin function on the 24FC08T-E/MS?

When the WP pin of the 24FC08T-E/MS is tied to VCC, all write operations (byte and page) to the entire 8-Kbit memory array (addresses 000h–3FFh) are inhibited; read operations remain fully functional. Tying WP to VSS enables normal read/write access. This hardware-level protection prevents corruption during power transitions or software faults - a critical feature for automotive and medical applications using the 24FC08T-E/MS.

Is the 24FC08T-E/MS AEC-Q100 qualified, and what grade does it meet?

Yes, the 24FC08T-E/MS is AEC-Q100 qualified and meets Grade 1 requirements (-40°C to +125°C), including stress testing for temperature cycling, HTOL, ESD, and mechanical shock. This qualification is explicitly documented in Microchip's DS20001710M datasheet and confirms suitability for automotive powertrain, chassis, and body electronics - distinguishing it from non-qualified alternatives like AT24C08D.

What is the page write buffer size and maximum write cycle time for the 24FC08T-E/MS?

The 24FC08T-E/MS features a 16-byte page write buffer and guarantees a maximum write cycle time of 5 ms for both byte and page writes. This allows efficient batched updates - for example, writing 16 calibration coefficients in one transaction - while ensuring predictable timing behavior critical for real-time systems. The 24FC08T-E/MS does not require polling beyond this fixed timeout for deterministic firmware design.