Microchip Technology 24FC16T-E/MS

Overview

24FC16T-E/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as eight 256 × 8-bit memory blocks. It operates from 1.7V to 5.5V, supports up to 1 MHz clock frequency, features hardware write-protection via the WP pin, and delivers ≤1 μA standby current at extended temperature (–40°C to +125°C). It is used in industrial sensor calibration storage and embedded system configuration retention.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC16T-E/MS datasheet, 24FC16T-E/MS pinout, 24FC16T-E/MS application, or 24FC16T-E/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1 MHz I²C interface speed, extended-temperature operation, MSOP-8 package compatibility, and 16-byte page write buffer for efficient firmware parameter updates.

Technical Context

The 24FC16T-E/MS 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 latches, and a high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming.

It supports three read modes-current address, random, and sequential-and uses acknowledge polling to detect write cycle completion. The device requires no external components beyond standard I²C pull-up resistors and accepts only the fixed 4-bit control code '1010' with 3 block-select bits for addressing its 2 Kbyte memory space.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC16T-E/MS is housed 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.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA16T-I/MS, the 24FC16T-E/MS provides double the I²C bandwidth and extended temperature capability; versus AT24C16D-MAHM-T, it offers Microchip's AEC-Q100 qualification and factory programming option, though both deliver identical core EEPROM functionality in MSOP-8.

Availability

24FC16T-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, automotive body control modules, medical infusion pump configuration, and smart energy meter firmware parameter storage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for 24FC16T-E/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 microcontroller, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, serving industrial, automotive, and consumer markets with high-reliability semiconductor products.

The 24FC16T-E/MS belongs to Microchip's 24XX16 family of serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for low-voltage, high-speed I²C-based configuration and calibration storage in space-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC16T-E/MS?

The 24FC16T-E/MS supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V–5.5V supply range, unlike the 24AA16 (max 400 kHz) or 24LC16B (max 400 kHz, min 2.5V). This is confirmed in the Device Selection Table and AC Characteristics section of DS20001703M, where FCLK is specified as 1000 kHz for VCC = 1.7–5.5V. The 24FC16T-E/MS achieves this via optimized internal timing and slope-controlled outputs.

Does the 24FC16T-E/MS require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC16T-E/MS requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because its I²C interface uses open-drain outputs. Typical values are 2 kΩ for 1 MHz operation (as stated in Section 2.2), though actual value depends on bus capacitance and rise-time requirements. Without pull-ups, the bus cannot achieve valid HIGH states, and I²C communication will fail.

How does hardware write-protection work on the 24FC16T-E/MS?

Hardware write-protection on the 24FC16T-E/MS is controlled by the WP pin: when tied to VCC, the entire memory array (addresses 000h–7FFh) becomes read-only; when tied to VSS, full read/write access is enabled. This is a physical enable/disable function independent of I²C commands, providing fail-safe protection against firmware bugs or bus glitches - a feature explicitly documented in Section 2.4 and Figure 6-3 of DS20001703M.

Is the 24FC16T-E/MS AEC-Q100 qualified?

Yes, the 24FC16T-E/MS is explicitly listed as "Automotive AEC-Q100 Qualified" in the Features section of DS20001703M. Its Extended temperature grade (–40°C to +125°C) and qualification status make it suitable for automotive applications such as body control modules and engine control peripherals where reliability under thermal stress is mandatory.

What is the purpose of the A0, A1, and A2 pins on the 24FC16T-E/MS?

The A0, A1, and A2 pins on the 24FC16T-E/MS are not internally connected - they are no-connect (NC) terminals. As confirmed in Section 2.1 and Table 2-1 of DS20001703M, these pins may be left floating or tied to VSS/VCC without affecting device operation. This design eliminates address conflicts in multi-device I²C systems and simplifies PCB layout for the 24FC16T-E/MS.