Microchip Technology 24LC04B-I/STG

Overview

24LC04B-I/STG 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, 1 µA standby current, and hardware write-protection via the WP pin - used for nonvolatile parameter storage in industrial control modules.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC04B-I/STG datasheet, 24LC04B-I/STG pinout, 24LC04B-I/STG application, or 24LC04B-I/STG equivalent, key selection criteria include I²C voltage compatibility (2.5V min), industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C), 16-byte page write buffer, endurance (>1 million cycles), and package-specific pin mapping for SOIC-8 or TSSOP-8 footprints.

Technical Context

The 24LC04B-I/STG implements a two-wire I²C interface with Schmitt-trigger inputs and slope-controlled outputs to suppress noise and eliminate ground bounce. It supports standard-mode (100 kHz) and fast-mode (400 kHz) signaling, with internal address pointer auto-increment and ACK polling for write-cycle completion detection.

Its memory architecture uses a 16-byte page write buffer and self-timed erase/write cycles. The device features hardware write-protection via the dedicated WP pin, and all address pins (A0–A2) are unconnected - enabling simplified PCB layout without external pull-up/down resistors on those lines.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC04B-I/STG is supplied in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) package per Microchip drawing C04-057-SN Rev F, with 3.90 mm body width and 1.27 mm pitch. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or notch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 24LC04B-I/STG, the 24AA04-I/SN extends voltage flexibility at the cost of speed below 2.5V, while the AT24C04D-SSHM-T offers faster clocking but omits automotive qualification - making 24LC04B-I/STG optimal for industrial and automotive I²C systems requiring guaranteed 400 kHz operation and robust write protection.

Availability

24LC04B-I/STG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, medical instrumentation, automotive body electronics, and smart metering applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for 24LC04B-I/STG 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 company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions for embedded systems.

The 24LC04B belongs to Microchip's 24XX04 family of I²C serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-power nonvolatile data storage in space-constrained industrial and automotive applications.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation of the 24LC04B-I/STG?

The 24LC04B-I/STG requires a minimum supply voltage of 2.5V for guaranteed operation across its full temperature range (-40°C to +85°C). Unlike the 24AA04 variant, it is not rated for operation below 2.5V - attempting to power the 24LC04B-I/STG at 1.8V or 2.2V may result in undefined behavior or failed write cycles. Always verify VCC stability during brown-out conditions in systems using the 24LC04B-I/STG.

Does the 24LC04B-I/STG support 1 MHz I²C communication?

No, the 24LC04B-I/STG does not support 1 MHz I²C communication. Its maximum clock frequency is 400 kHz under all valid operating conditions (2.5V–5.5V, -40°C to +85°C). The 24FC04 variant is the only member of the 24XX04 family rated for 1 MHz operation. Using the 24LC04B-I/STG with a 1 MHz SCL signal will cause timing violations and communication failures.

How is write protection implemented on the 24LC04B-I/STG?

Write protection on the 24LC04B-I/STG is implemented via the dedicated WP (Write-Protect) pin: when WP is tied to VCC, the entire 4-Kbit memory array (addresses 000h–1FFh) becomes read-only; when WP is tied to VSS, full read/write access is enabled. This hardware-level lock operates independently of I²C commands and remains active during power transitions - a critical feature for preventing corruption in the 24LC04B-I/STG during reset or brown-out events.

Are the A0, A1, and A2 pins functional on the 24LC04B-I/STG?

No, the A0, A1, and A2 pins are not functional on the 24LC04B-I/STG. As confirmed in the official Microchip datasheet DS20001708P, these pins have no internal connection and serve no addressing or configuration purpose. They may be left floating, tied to VSS, or tied to VCC without affecting device operation - simplifying PCB layout and eliminating the need for external resistors on those pins in the 24LC04B-I/STG design.

What package type does the 24LC04B-I/STG use, and what are its key mechanical dimensions?

The 24LC04B-I/STG uses an 8-lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package designated SN per Microchip drawing C04-057-SN Rev F. Key dimensions include 3.90 mm body width (E1), 4.90 mm overall length (D), 1.27 mm lead pitch (e), and 1.25 mm maximum molded package thickness (A2). This footprint is compatible with standard SOIC-8 land patterns and reflow soldering profiles.