Microchip Technology 24FC16H-E/SN

Overview

24FC16H-E/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as eight 256 × 8-bit blocks, operating from 1.7V to 5.5V with 1 MHz maximum clock frequency, 1 μA standby current (E-temp), and hardware write-protect for memory addresses 400h–7FFh. It is used in industrial and automotive systems requiring nonvolatile parameter storage under extended temperature conditions.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC16H-E/SN datasheet, 24FC16H-E/SN pinout, 24FC16H-E/SN application, or 24FC16H-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1 MHz I²C speed at full VCC range, -40°C to +125°C extended temperature rating, SOIC-8 narrow-body package (SN), half-array write-protection, and AEC-Q100 qualification for automotive use.

Technical Context

The 24FC16H-E/SN implements a two-wire I²C slave interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit address pointer, 16-byte page write buffer, and HV generator for EEPROM programming.

It supports byte and page write operations with self-timed erase/write cycles up to 5 ms, and uses acknowledge polling to detect write completion. The WP pin enables hardware-level protection of the upper 8 Kbits (400h–7FFh) when pulled high, while read operations support current-address, random, and sequential modes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-Lead Plastic Small Outline (SN) – Narrow, 3.90 mm body, RoHS-compliant, with standard SOIC footprint and 1.27 mm pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA16H-I/SN and AT24C16D-SSHM-T, the 24FC16H-E/SN uniquely combines 1 MHz operation across its full 1.7V–5.5V range, AEC-Q100 qualification, and dedicated hardware write-protect for the upper memory block - making it the only option meeting simultaneous high-speed, extended-temperature, and safety-critical data protection requirements.

Availability

24FC16H-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU design, industrial motor drive development, smart metering systems, and medical diagnostic equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24FC16H-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, FPGA, and memory solutions, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets with vertically integrated silicon and software platforms.

The 24FC16H belongs to Microchip's 24XX16H family of I²C EEPROMs, designed specifically for robust, low-power, and extended-temperature nonvolatile storage in safety-critical and mission-reliability applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC16H-E/SN?

The 24FC16H-E/SN supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V to 5.5V supply range - unlike 24AA16H or 24LC16BH variants, which are limited to 400 kHz or 100 kHz at low VCC. This allows faster firmware updates and reduced bus occupancy in time-sensitive applications.

Does the 24FC16H-E/SN require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC16H-E/SN requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL because it uses open-drain outputs. Typical values are 2 kΩ for 1 MHz operation; higher values (e.g., 10 kΩ) may be used for 100 kHz, but must be selected based on bus capacitance and rise-time requirements per I²C specification.

How does hardware write-protection work on the 24FC16H-E/SN?

When the WP pin of the 24FC16H-E/SN is tied to VCC, writes to memory addresses 400h–7FFh (upper 8 Kbits) are disabled; reads remain fully functional. Tying WP to VSS enables full-array write access. This hardware-level protection operates independently of firmware state and survives power loss.

Is the 24FC16H-E/SN qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, the 24FC16H-E/SN is AEC-Q100 qualified for Grade 1 (-40°C to +125°C) and specified for extended temperature operation. It undergoes stress testing for thermal cycling, humidity, and electrical robustness - making it suitable for engine control, body electronics, and ADAS subsystems.

What package type does the 24FC16H-E/SN use, and is it compatible with standard SOIC footprints?

The 24FC16H-E/SN uses the 8-Lead Plastic Small Outline (SN) package - a narrow-body SOIC with 3.90 mm width and 1.27 mm lead pitch. It is fully compatible with industry-standard SOIC-8 land patterns (e.g., IPC-7351B SOIC-N8), enabling drop-in replacement in existing designs.