Microchip Technology 47C16-I/P

Overview

47C16-I/P from Microchip Technology is a 16 Kbit (2,048 × 8) I²C serial EERAM combining volatile SRAM with nonvolatile EEPROM backup. It operates at 4.5V–5.5V, supports up to 1 MHz I²C, and delivers automatic power-loss data retention via external VCAP capacitor. Its hardware Store pin (HS), software-controlled Store/Recall, and configurable write protection make it suitable for industrial data logging and configuration storage in microcontroller-based systems.

For engineers reviewing the 47C16-I/P datasheet, 47C16-I/P pinout, 47C16-I/P application, or 47C16-I/P equivalent, key selection criteria include its 16 Kbit SRAM + EEPROM hybrid architecture, 25 ms max Store time, 40 µA standby current, I²C address flexibility (A1/A2 pins), and AEC-Q100-qualified industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C).

Technical Context

The 47C16-I/P implements a dual-memory architecture where SRAM provides infinite read/write cycles while EEPROM preserves data across power loss. Store operations transfer SRAM contents to EEPROM either automatically on VCC fall (via VCAP-triggered Auto-Store), manually via HS pin pulse (≥150 ns), or through software command (0x55 → 0x33). Recall restores EEPROM data to SRAM on power-up or via software (0x55 → 0xDD).

I²C interface compliance includes 100 kHz / 400 kHz / 1 MHz modes, Schmitt-trigger inputs on SDA/SCL/HS for noise immunity, and cascading support for up to four devices on one bus. The STATUS register (address 0x00) enables nonvolatile configuration of Auto-Store Enable (ASE), Block Protection (BP2–BP0), and Array Modified (AM) flag tracking.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

47C16-I/P is supplied in an 8-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package) with 0.3-inch body width, suitable for through-hole prototyping and legacy industrial PCBs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 47C16-I/P, 47L16-I/P offers lower-voltage compatibility but mandates different VCAP sizing and cannot operate on 5 V rails, while FM24CL16-G removes VCAP dependency and store latency but sacrifices hardware-triggered store and event detection capabilities essential for industrial fault logging.

Availability

47C16-I/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial data loggers, motor control systems, smart sensor nodes, and PLC I/O modules requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 47C16-I/P 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 is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The 47C16-I/P belongs to Microchip's EERAM product line, designed specifically to replace battery-backed SRAM and discrete EEPROM+SRAM combinations in systems demanding reliable, low-power, power-fail-safe data retention.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the VCAP pin on the 47C16-I/P?

The VCAP pin on the 47C16-I/P connects to an external 5–6.8 µF capacitor that supplies hold-up energy during VCC collapse. When VCC drops below the Auto-Store trip voltage (4.0–4.4 V), the stored charge triggers automatic transfer of SRAM contents to EEPROM. If VCAP is omitted, Auto-Store must be disabled (ASE = 0) and the pin tied to VCC to prevent EEPROM corruption - a requirement explicitly stated in DS20005371E.

How does the 47C16-I/P differ from standard I²C EEPROMs like the 24LC256?

Unlike standard I²C EEPROMs such as the 24LC256, the 47C16-I/P integrates SRAM and EEPROM into a single die with transparent recall/store logic. It offers zero-cycle-delay reads/writes to SRAM, automatic power-loss backup, hardware Store triggering via HS pin, and nonvolatile status flags - eliminating MCU firmware overhead for wear leveling, backup sequencing, and power-fail detection required with discrete EEPROM+SRAM solutions.

Can the 47C16-I/P be used without connecting the A1 and A2 pins?

Yes - A1 and A2 pins on the 47C16-I/P are user-configurable I²C address bits and may be tied to VSS or VCC to set a fixed device address (e.g., 0xA0–0xA7). Leaving them floating is not permitted per DS20005371E Section 2.2, as mismatched pin states cause unpredictable addressing. For single-device applications, grounding both pins sets base address 0xA0 with R/W bit determining read/write mode.

What happens if a Store operation is initiated while the 47C16-I/P is performing an I²C read or write?

If a Store operation (Auto-Store, Hardware Store, or Software Store) is triggered during an active I²C transaction, the 47C16-I/P aborts the ongoing read or write immediately to execute the Store. As confirmed in DS20005371E Section 2.3.1 and Section 2.4.1, this behavior ensures data consistency: the SRAM-to-EEPROM transfer takes priority, and the interrupted I²C command receives no acknowledgment, requiring host-side retry logic.

Is the 47C16-I/P qualified for automotive applications?

No - the 47C16-I/P carries the "I" suffix denoting Industrial temperature grade (–40°C to +85°C) and is not AEC-Q100 qualified. While the 47C16 family includes AEC-Q100-qualified variants (e.g., 47C16-IM), the -I/P variant is specified only for industrial use. Automotive designs requiring qualification must verify part number suffixes and consult Microchip's official automotive product list before selection.