Microchip Technology 47C16T-E/ST

Overview

47C16T-E/ST 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 VCAP-triggered store/recall. Used in industrial control modules where deterministic nonvolatile write timing and high endurance are required.

For engineers reviewing the 47C16T-E/ST datasheet, 47C16T-E/ST pinout, 47C16T-E/ST application, or 47C16T-E/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include auto-store trip voltage (4.0–4.4 V), manual store time (25 ms max), EEPROM endurance (>1 million cycles), SRAM infinite write cycles, and TSSOP-8 package compatibility with legacy 47Cxx designs.

Technical Context

The 47C16T-E/ST implements a dual-memory architecture: 2,048 × 8-bit SRAM for fast read/write access and EEPROM for nonvolatile backup. Store and recall operations are triggered either automatically on VCC fall below VTRIP (4.0–4.4 V) or manually via HS pin pulse or software command (0x55 + 0x33 / 0xDD).

I²C interface complies with standard 100 kHz/400 kHz/1 MHz modes, features Schmitt-trigger inputs (SDA/SCL/HS), supports cascading up to four devices, and uses 7-bit client addressing with A1/A2 hardware select bits. The STATUS register (00h) controls ASE (Auto-Store Enable), BP<2:0> (block protection), and AM (Array Modified) flag.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

47C16T-E/ST is housed in an 8-lead TSSOP (Thin Shrink Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm lead pitch, optimized for automated assembly and space-constrained industrial PCBs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 47C16T-E/ST, the 47C16T-I/ST sacrifices extended temperature capability and AEC-Q100 compliance for lower cost, while the FM24V10-G replaces EEPROM-based store/recall with instant-write F-RAM-requiring changes to power-fail detection logic and eliminating VCAP dependency.

Availability

47C16T-E/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, automotive body electronics, and medical device applications requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed AEC-Q100 compliance.

Supply support for 47C16T-E/ST 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 global semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog, FPGA, and memory solutions, with emphasis on reliability, longevity, and embedded control.

The 47C16T-E/ST belongs to Microchip's EERAM family-designed specifically for applications needing battery-free, deterministic nonvolatile storage with SRAM-like speed and EEPROM-like persistence.

FAQ

What is the function of the VCAP pin on the 47C16T-E/ST?

The VCAP pin on the 47C16T-E/ST connects to an external 5–6.8 µF capacitor that supplies hold-up energy during power loss. When VCC falls below the trip voltage (4.0–4.4 V), the stored charge enables automatic SRAM-to-EEPROM store within ≤25 ms. If VCAP is unconnected, the pin must be tied to VCC and Auto-Store disabled to prevent EEPROM corruption.

How does the 47C16T-E/ST differ from standard I²C EEPROMs?

Unlike standard I²C EEPROMs, the 47C16T-E/ST integrates a 2,048 × 8-bit SRAM array with parallel EEPROM backup. It supports zero-cycle-delay reads/writes to SRAM, automatic store/recall on power transition, hardware store triggering via HS pin, and software-configurable block protection-all accessible over the same I²C bus without external controllers or timing supervision.

Can the 47C16T-E/ST replace a 47C04T-E/ST in an existing design?

No-the 47C16T-E/ST is not a drop-in replacement for the 47C04T-E/ST due to differing memory density (16 Kbit vs. 4 Kbit) and address space (2,048 × 8 vs. 512 × 8). Software must be updated to handle the larger address range, and I²C transactions requiring more than 512 bytes will exceed the smaller device's capacity. Pinout and electrical specs are identical, but functional compatibility requires firmware revision.

What is the purpose of the EVENT bit in the STATUS register of the 47C16T-E/ST?

The EVENT bit (bit 0) in the 47C16T-E/ST STATUS register (00h) latches high when the HS pin is driven high during normal operation, indicating an external hardware event such as a button press or safety interlock closure. It remains set until cleared by a STATUS register write, enabling the host MCU to detect asynchronous events without continuous polling of the HS pin.

Does the 47C16T-E/ST require external pull-up resistors on SDA and SCL lines?

Yes-the 47C16T-E/ST uses open-drain I²C outputs on SDA and SCL, requiring external pull-up resistors to VCC. Typical values range from 1.8 kΩ to 10 kΩ depending on bus capacitance and desired rise time; Microchip recommends 4.7 kΩ for standard 100 kHz operation with ≤400 pF total bus capacitance, as specified in DS20005371E.