Microchip Technology 24FC1025-I/SM

Overview

24FC1025-I/SM from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 128K × 8 (1024 Kbit) I²C-compatible serial EEPROM with 1 MHz maximum clock frequency, 1.8–5.5 V supply range, and industrial temperature rating (–40°C to +85°C). It features 128-byte page write buffer, hardware write-protection via WP pin, and Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity. Used in embedded systems for firmware parameter storage, calibration data retention, and configuration backup.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC1025-I/SM datasheet, 24FC1025-I/SM pinout, 24FC1025-I/SM application, or 24FC1025-I/SM equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1 MHz I²C speed at V_CC ≥ 2.5 V, 5 µA standby current, 3 ms typical page write time, and SOIC-8 (3.9 mm) package compatibility with legacy 24AA/LC1025 designs requiring higher throughput.

Technical Context

The 24FC1025-I/SM implements a two-wire I²C interface with master-controlled clock (SCL) and bidirectional open-drain data (SDA), supporting standard (100 kHz), fast (400 kHz), and fast-plus (1 MHz) modes depending on V_CC. Its internal address counter enables sequential reads across 512 Kbit blocks (00000h–0FFFFh and 10000h–1FFFFh), while block select bit B0 controls access between segments.

Write operations use either byte-write (single location) or page-write (up to 128 bytes within one physical page boundary); page writes require software-enforced alignment to avoid wraparound. The A0/A1 pins configure slave address (up to four devices per bus), and A2 must be hard-wired to V_CC for valid operation - a fixed hardware constraint distinguishing it from A0/A1.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC1025-I/SM uses an 8-pin SOIC (3.90 mm body width) package, RoHS-compliant and Pb-free. Pin functions are electrically defined and validated per DS20001941L.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC1025-I/SM, the 24FC1025-I/SM delivers 2.5× faster write throughput and 1.8 V operation, while AT24C1024 offers comparable speed but lacks A2-based hardware safety constraint - making 24FC1025-I/SM preferable for designs requiring deterministic address validation.

Availability

24FC1025-I/SM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, medical calibration storage, automotive body control modules, and smart energy meters requiring stable component supply, long-term data integrity, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for 24FC1025-I/SM 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 microcontroller, analog, FPGA, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24FC1025 belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, engineered for low-power, high-reliability nonvolatile data storage in space-constrained embedded systems across industrial, medical, and automotive markets.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC1025-I/SM?

The 24FC1025-I/SM supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency when V_CC is 2.5 V or higher. At 1.8–2.5 V, maximum clock drops to 400 kHz. This dual-speed capability allows backward compatibility with legacy 400 kHz systems while enabling faster parameter updates in newer designs - a key differentiator from the 24AA1025 and 24LC1025 variants.

How does the A2 pin function on the 24FC1025-I/SM?

The A2 pin on the 24FC1025-I/SM is a non-configurable chip address input that must be hard-wired to V_CC. Unlike A0 and A1, it cannot be left floating or tied to VSS - doing so results in undefined device behavior. This design enforces deterministic slave address resolution and prevents misconfiguration in multi-device I²C networks.

Can the 24FC1025-I/SM perform sequential reads across its full 1024 Kbit memory space?

No. The 24FC1025-I/SM divides its memory into two 512 Kbit segments (00000h–0FFFFh and 10000h–1FFFFh). Sequential reads automatically roll over within each segment but cannot cross the 0FFFFh → 10000h boundary. To read full memory, software must issue separate read commands with appropriate block select bit (B0) settings for each segment.

What is the purpose of the WP pin on the 24FC1025-I/SM?

The WP (Write-Protect) pin on the 24FC1025-I/SM provides hardware-level write inhibition. When tied to V_CC, it disables all write and page-write operations while permitting unlimited reads - protecting stored calibration data or firmware parameters from corruption during power transitions or software faults. Tying WP to VSS enables full read/write access.

Is the 24FC1025-I/SM compatible with standard I²C bus timing requirements?

Yes. The 24FC1025-I/SM complies with standard I²C specifications for fast-plus mode (1 MHz), including minimum THIGH (500 ns), TLOW (500 ns), and setup/hold times for START/STOP conditions. Its Schmitt-trigger inputs and controlled output fall time (≤100 ns at 1.8–5.5 V) ensure robust signal integrity on buses with up to 400 pF total capacitance.