Microchip Technology 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO

Overview

24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO 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 automotive body control modules for nonvolatile parameter retention.

For engineers reviewing the 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO datasheet, 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO pinout, 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO application, or 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1 MHz I²C speed at 1.7V, E-temp qualification, 16-byte page write buffer, Schmitt-triggered SDA/SCL inputs, and hardware write-protect functionality - all critical for robust embedded firmware configuration storage.

Technical Context

The 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO implements a two-wire I²C slave interface with fixed 7-bit slave address prefix '1010' and three block-select bits (B2–B0), enabling access to eight independent 256-byte memory blocks. Its internal Address Pointer auto-increments during sequential reads and page writes, supporting FIFO-based data streaming.

It integrates Schmitt-trigger inputs and digital noise filters on SDA/SCL (spike suppression ≤100 ns), slope-controlled output drivers to suppress ground bounce, and an on-chip HV generator for EEPROM programming. Write cycles are self-timed (≤5 ms), and ACK polling is supported to detect completion without fixed delays.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) with standard pinout and exposed pad not present. Pin functions are electrically identical across all 8-lead variants (SOIC, TSSOP, MSOP, PDIP, DFN).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24AA16T-I/OT and AT24C16D-SSHM-T, the 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO uniquely combines 1 MHz I²C at 1.7V, AEC-Q100 qualification, and 3 μA E-temp standby current - making it the only choice for automotive and high-reliability industrial systems demanding both speed and extended-temperature robustness.

Availability

24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, automotive body control modules, medical device configuration, and smart energy meter firmware storage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO 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, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets with high-reliability silicon and development tools.

The 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO belongs to Microchip's 24XX16 family of serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for low-voltage, high-speed, and extended-temperature nonvolatile data storage in space-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO?

The 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO supports up to 1 MHz I²C clock frequency across its full 1.7V–5.5V supply range. This is a key differentiator from the 24AA16 (max 400 kHz above 2.5V, 100 kHz below) and 24LC16B (max 400 kHz, minimum 2.5V). The 1 MHz capability enables faster configuration reads during system boot and reduces I²C bus occupancy in time-critical applications.

Does the 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO 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, 10 kΩ for 100 kHz. Pull-ups must connect to the same VCC rail used by the device to ensure proper logic levels and noise margin, especially given its Schmitt-trigger inputs.

How does the WP pin function on the 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO?

The WP (Write-Protect) pin on the 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO is a logic-level input: when tied to VCC, it disables all write operations (byte and page) to the entire 2048-byte memory array while permitting unrestricted reads. When tied to VSS (or left floating, though not recommended), full read/write access is enabled. This hardware-level protection prevents accidental overwrites during power transients or firmware errors.

Is the 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, the 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO is AEC-Q100 qualified for Grade 1 (–40°C to +125°C) operation and specified for extended temperature use. Its design includes enhanced ESD protection (>4 kV), robust noise filtering, and validated reliability under thermal cycling and humidity stress - meeting requirements for body electronics, infotainment, and ADAS subsystems.

What is the page write buffer size of the 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO?

The 24FC16T-E/Q6B36KVAO features a 16-byte page write buffer, allowing up to 16 bytes to be loaded into the on-chip latch before initiating a single self-timed write cycle (≤5 ms). This reduces I²C protocol overhead significantly compared to byte-write mode and improves efficiency when updating contiguous configuration blocks - a capability confirmed in DS20001703M Section 6.2.