Microchip Technology 24FC16HT-I/SN

Overview

24FC16HT-I/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as eight 256 × 8-bit blocks, supporting 1 MHz clock frequency at 1.7–5.5 V supply, with hardware write-protect for half-array (400h–7FFh), and rated for industrial temperature (−40°C to +85°C). It enables nonvolatile parameter storage in space-constrained embedded controllers and sensor nodes.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC16HT-I/SN datasheet, 24FC16HT-I/SN pinout, 24FC16HT-I/SN application, or 24FC16HT-I/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1 MHz I²C speed, 1.7 V minimum operating voltage, 16-byte page write buffer, half-array hardware write-protection, and SOIC-8 (SN) package compatibility with standard PCB footprints.

Technical Context

The 24FC16HT-I/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 address pointer supports current-address, random, and sequential read modes, while ACK polling enables precise timing of write-cycle completion.

It uses an on-chip HV generator for EEPROM programming and features a 16-byte page write buffer with self-timed erase/write cycles. Write protection is controlled solely by the WP pin state-tied to VCC to lock addresses 400h–7FFh-and no A0/A1/A2 pins are internally connected.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-Lead Plastic Small Outline (SOIC-Narrow), package code SN, body width 3.90 mm, pitch 1.27 mm, JEDEC MS-012 variant. RoHS-compliant matte tin lead finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA16HT-I/SN, the 24FC16HT-I/SN delivers 2.5× faster I²C throughput and identical low-voltage operation, while AT24C16D-SSHM-T trades endurance and retention for lower unit cost - making 24FC16HT-I/SN optimal for industrial firmware storage requiring both speed and longevity.

Availability

24FC16HT-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, automotive ECU configuration, and medical device usage logging requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for 24FC16HT-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 U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory products for embedded control applications.

The 24FC16HT-I/SN belongs to Microchip's 24XX16H family of I²C EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-voltage nonvolatile storage in space- and power-constrained industrial and automotive systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC16HT-I/SN?

The 24FC16HT-I/SN supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7 V to 5.5 V supply range. At VCC < 2.5 V, the maximum clock remains 1 MHz - unlike the 24AA16H which drops to 100 kHz below 2.5 V. This makes the 24FC16HT-I/SN uniquely suited for high-speed low-voltage I²C implementations without clock throttling.

Does the 24FC16HT-I/SN require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC16HT-I/SN requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. For 1 MHz operation, a 2 kΩ pull-up to VCC is recommended; for 400 kHz, 2.2 kΩ is typical; and for 100 kHz, 10 kΩ suffices. Proper pull-up sizing ensures signal integrity and meets rise-time specifications per I²C standard.

How does hardware write-protection work on the 24FC16HT-I/SN?

Hardware write-protection on the 24FC16HT-I/SN is controlled exclusively by the WP pin: when tied to VCC, writes to memory addresses 400h–7FFh (upper half-array) are inhibited while reads remain fully functional; when tied to VSS, full-memory write access is enabled. No software command or register setting affects this protection - it is purely pin-level and active immediately upon power-up.

Can the 24FC16HT-I/SN be used in place of the 24LC16BH in an existing design?

The 24FC16HT-I/SN is not a drop-in replacement for the 24LC16BH due to key differences: the 24LC16BH operates only down to 2.5 V and supports max 400 kHz, whereas the 24FC16HT-I/SN operates down to 1.7 V and supports 1 MHz. If the host system runs ≥2.5 V and uses ≤400 kHz I²C, the 24FC16HT-I/SN will function correctly but offers no benefit; if lower voltage or higher speed is needed, redesign validation is required.

What is the endurance rating and data retention specification for the 24FC16HT-I/SN?

The 24FC16HT-I/SN is rated for more than 1 million erase/write cycles and guarantees data retention exceeding 200 years at 25°C. These values are characterized and ensured per Microchip's Total Endurance™ model, and apply under standard industrial conditions (VCC = 5.5 V, TA = 25°C, page-mode writes). Retention degrades predictably with elevated temperature and voltage stress, as documented in Microchip AN247.