Microchip Technology 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO

Overview

24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 4-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as two 256 × 8-bit blocks, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V with 400 kHz max clock frequency, 5 ms max page write time, and hardware write-protection via WP pin - used for nonvolatile parameter storage in industrial control modules.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO datasheet, 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO pinout, 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO application, or 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO equivalent, key selection criteria include extended temperature support (–40°C to +125°C), 16-byte page write buffer, Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity, and compatibility with standard I²C bus timing at 400 kHz.

Technical Context

The 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO implements a two-wire I²C interface with fixed 4-bit device code '1010', block-select bit B0, and R/W control - supporting byte and page write modes with self-timed erase/write cycles. Its internal Address Pointer auto-increments during sequential reads and random accesses.

It features Schmitt-trigger inputs on SDA and SCL for noise suppression, output slope control to limit ground bounce, and a dedicated Write-Protect (WP) input that disables all writes when pulled high. The device uses an on-chip HV generator for EEPROM programming and includes built-in ESD protection (>4 kV).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) narrow-body package (3.90 mm width), with gull-wing leads and JEDEC-standard pinout. Pin 1 is top-left corner (notch-marked), and the exposed pad is not present in SOIC.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO, the 24AA04-I/SN offers broader voltage flexibility but sacrifices extended temperature capability, while the AT24C04D-SSHM-T provides higher speed but no automotive qualification - making 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO optimal for thermally demanding, safety-critical deployments.

Availability

24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, automotive body electronics, and medical device configuration storage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO 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 manufacturing and support infrastructure.

The 24LC04B belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-power nonvolatile data storage in space-constrained, thermally harsh, and safety-critical embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO?

The 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO supports a maximum I²C clock frequency of 400 kHz when VCC is 2.5V or higher. It does not support 1 MHz operation like the 24FC04 variant. This 400 kHz limit applies across its full extended temperature range (–40°C to +125°C), and timing parameters such as THIGH, TLOW, and TSU:DAT are specified accordingly in the datasheet for this condition. The 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO must not be operated above 400 kHz.

Does the 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes, the 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO requires external pull-up resistors on both SDA and SCL lines because it uses open-drain outputs. Typical values are 2 kΩ for 400 kHz operation and 10 kΩ for 100 kHz. The exact value depends on bus capacitance and desired rise time; the datasheet specifies maximum rise times (TR ≤ 300 ns at VCC ≥ 2.5V), so pull-up strength must be chosen to meet this while avoiding excessive current draw during low states.

How is write protection implemented on the 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO?

Write protection on the 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO is controlled by the WP (Write-Protect) pin: when WP is tied to VCC, the entire memory array (addresses 000h–1FFh) becomes read-only; when WP is tied to VSS, full read/write access is enabled. No internal register configuration is needed - protection is purely hardware-based and active immediately upon power-up, providing deterministic security against firmware errors or unintended writes.

What is the function of pins A0, A1, and A2 on the 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO?

Pins A0, A1, and A2 on the 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO are not internally connected and serve no functional purpose. They may be left floating, tied to VSS, or tied to VCC without affecting device operation. This differs from larger EEPROMs (e.g., 24LC256) where these pins encode device address - the 24LC04B uses a fixed I²C address prefix '1010' with only the block-select bit B0 determining memory block access.

Can the 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO be used in automotive applications?

Yes, the 24LC04B-E/SN16KVAO is AEC-Q100 qualified (Grade 1) and rated for the extended temperature range of –40°C to +125°C, making it suitable for automotive applications including body control modules, infotainment systems, and powertrain subsystems. Its hardware write-protection, 1 million endurance cycles, and 200-year data retention further support long-life, safety-relevant use cases in vehicles.