Microchip Technology 24FC16-I/MS

Overview

24FC16-I/MS 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 clock support, 5 ms max page write time, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It features hardware write-protection via the WP pin, Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity, and 16-byte page write buffer - deployed in embedded control modules for parameter storage and firmware configuration.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC16-I/MS datasheet, 24FC16-I/MS pinout, 24FC16-I/MS application, or 24FC16-I/MS equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package mapping to MSOP-8, I²C timing compliance at 1 MHz, endurance (1M cycles), and real-world use context for industrial sensor nodes, power supply supervisors, and programmable logic controllers.

Technical Context

The 24FC16-I/MS implements a two-wire I²C slave interface with fixed 4-bit device code '1010' and 3-bit block-select addressing, supporting up to eight 256-word memory blocks. Its internal Address Pointer auto-increments during sequential reads and page writes, enabling efficient bulk access within a 16-byte boundary.

It integrates Schmitt-trigger inputs on SDA/SCL with 50 ns spike suppression and output slope control to suppress ground bounce. The device uses an internal HV generator for EEPROM programming and supports acknowledge polling to detect write completion without fixed delay timing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC16-I/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 (optional VSS connection). Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24FC16-I/MS, 24AA16-I/MS trades 1 MHz speed for broader voltage-margin timing stability, while AT24C16C-MAHM-T adds automotive qualification at the cost of package flexibility - both require layout review if replacing 24FC16-I/MS in existing MSOP-8 designs.

Availability

24FC16-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, PLC configuration, AC-DC power supply supervision, and medical diagnostic equipment requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.

Supply support for 24FC16-I/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 components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24FC16 belongs to Microchip's 24XX16 family of serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for robust, low-power, I²C-based nonvolatile storage in space-constrained industrial and medical systems where reliability and long-term data integrity are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC16-I/MS?

The 24FC16-I/MS supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V–5.5V supply range, with minimum SCL high time of 260 ns and low time of 500 ns - verified per DS20001703M Table 1-2. This exceeds the 400 kHz limit of the 24AA16-I/MS and enables faster configuration updates in time-sensitive applications.

Does the 24FC16-I/MS require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC16-I/MS requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL because its I/O pins are open-drain. For 1 MHz operation, Microchip recommends ~2 kΩ pull-ups to VCC; for 100 kHz, 10 kΩ is typical. Incorrect values cause timing violations or bus contention - always verify with actual bus capacitance using the formula R_PU ≤ (t_r × C_b) / 0.83.

How does the WP pin function on the 24FC16-I/MS?

When the WP pin on the 24FC16-I/MS is tied to VCC, the entire 16-Kbit memory array (addresses 000h–7FFh) is write-protected - all write commands (byte/page) are ignored, though reads remain fully functional. Tying WP to VSS enables full read/write access. No internal pull-up/pull-down is present, so the pin must be actively driven.

Can the 24FC16-I/MS be used in place of the 24LC16B-I/MS?

No - the 24FC16-I/MS and 24LC16B-I/MS are not interchangeable without design review. While both are 16-Kbit I²C EEPROMs in MSOP-8, the 24LC16B requires ≥2.5V supply and maxes out at 400 kHz, whereas the 24FC16-I/MS operates down to 1.7V and supports 1 MHz. Substituting may cause timing failures or brown-out resets in low-voltage systems.

What is the endurance rating and data retention specification for the 24FC16-I/MS?

The 24FC16-I/MS is rated for 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and guarantees data retention exceeding 200 years at +25°C (DS20001703M, Page 5). These values are characterized - not 100% tested - but validated across process corners and temperature extremes per Microchip's Total Endurance™ model, making it suitable for lifetime-critical applications like medical device calibration storage.