Microchip Technology 24FC16H-I/SN

Overview

24FC16H-I/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as eight 256 × 8-bit blocks. It operates from 1.7V to 5.5V, supports up to 1 MHz clock frequency, features hardware write-protect for the upper half-array (400h–7FFh), and delivers ≤1 μA standby current at industrial temperature (−40°C to +85°C). It is used in embedded system configuration storage where low-voltage operation and noise-immune bus interface are required.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC16H-I/SN datasheet, 24FC16H-I/SN pinout, 24FC16H-I/SN application, or 24FC16H-I/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1 MHz I²C speed at full VCC range, half-array write-protection logic, SOIC-8 (SN) package compatibility, and guaranteed >1 million erase/write cycles with >200-year data retention.

Technical Context

The 24FC16H-I/SN implements a two-wire I²C slave interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress ground bounce and bus noise. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit address pointer, 16-byte page write buffer, and HV generator for EEPROM programming - enabling self-timed byte/page writes without external timing control.

It uses a fixed 4-bit device code (1010b) plus 3-bit block-select bits (B2–B0) to address eight 256-word memory blocks, supporting only one device per I²C bus. Write protection is implemented via the WP pin: tied to VCC, it disables writes to addresses 400h–7FFh while permitting full read access.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC16H-I/SN is supplied in an 8-lead narrow SOIC package (JEDEC MS-012, suffix SN), 3.90 mm body width, with standard 1.27 mm pitch. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or notch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA16H-I/SN, the 24FC16H-I/SN delivers 2.5× faster configuration loading and deterministic half-array protection; versus AT24C16D-SSHM-T, it provides 10× higher endurance and hardware-enforced write security for industrial firmware integrity.

Availability

24FC16H-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration storage, automotive body control modules, medical device configuration, and smart energy meter firmware patch storage requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24FC16H-I/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 devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24FC16H belongs to Microchip's 24XX16H family of I²C EEPROMs, designed specifically for robust, low-power nonvolatile storage in space-constrained embedded systems requiring extended temperature operation and high reliability.

FAQ

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

The 24FC16H-I/SN supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V–5.5V VCC range - unlike the 24AA16H (400 kHz max) or 24LC16BH (400 kHz, min 2.5V). This is confirmed in DS20002118B, Table 1-2, Param. No. 1 (FCLK), and applies to both industrial and extended temperature grades. The 24FC16H-I/SN achieves this with 260 ns minimum THIGH/TLOW timing.

How does the write-protect function work on the 24FC16H-I/SN?

The 24FC16H-I/SN uses the WP pin to enable hardware write-protection: when WP = VCC, writes to memory addresses 400h–7FFh (upper half-array) are inhibited, while reads remain fully functional. When WP = VSS, full-array write access is enabled. This behavior is identical across all 24XX16H variants and is documented in Section 2.4 and Figure 6-3 of DS20002118B. The 24FC16H-I/SN does not support individual byte or page-level software write-lock.

What package type does the 24FC16H-I/SN use, and what are its key mechanical dimensions?

The 24FC16H-I/SN uses the 8-lead narrow SOIC package (suffix SN), per JEDEC MS-012. Key dimensions: 3.90 mm body width (E1), 4.90 mm length (D), 1.27 mm lead pitch (e), and 1.75 mm max molded thickness (A2), as specified in Microchip Drawing C04-057-SN Rev D. This package is compatible with standard SOIC-8 footprints and reflow profiles, and is distinct from MSOP, TSSOP, or TDFN variants listed for other 24XX16H part numbers.

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

Yes, the 24FC16H-I/SN requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I/O pins are open-drain. Recommended values are 2 kΩ for 1 MHz operation (per DS20002118B, Section 2.2), 10 kΩ for 100 kHz, and 2 kΩ for 400 kHz. Pull-ups must connect to the same VCC rail used by the 24FC16H-I/SN to ensure valid logic levels and avoid bus contention.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 24FC16H-I/SN?

The 24FC16H-I/SN is rated for >1,000,000 erase/write cycles and >200 years of data retention at 25°C, as stated in DS20002118B, Table 1-2, Param. No. 18 (Endurance) and Features list. These values are characterized and ensured by Microchip's Total Endurance™ model. Retention is guaranteed across the full industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C), making the 24FC16H-I/SN suitable for long-life infrastructure applications.