Microchip Technology 47L16-I/SN

Overview

47L16-I/SN from Microchip Technology is a 16 Kbit (2,048 × 8) I²C serial EERAM combining volatile SRAM with nonvolatile EEPROM backup. It features automatic power-loss data retention via external VCAP capacitor, hardware Store pin (HS), and software-controlled Store/Recall commands. With 1 MHz I²C interface, 25 ms max Store time, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C), it serves as a robust memory solution in battery-backed or transient-power systems such as smart meters and industrial PLCs.

For engineers reviewing the 47L16-I/SN datasheet, 47L16-I/SN pinout, 47L16-I/SN application, or 47L16-I/SN equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, validated pin functions, real-world use cases for SRAM+EEPROM hybrid operation, and two confirmed alternative parts with documented functional and application differences.

Technical Context

The 47L16-I/SN implements a dual-memory architecture: a 2,048 × 8-bit SRAM array for high-speed read/write access and an integrated EEPROM array for nonvolatile backup. Data transfer between SRAM and EEPROM occurs via Store (SRAM→EEPROM) and Recall (EEPROM→SRAM) operations-triggered automatically on power-down/up (with VCAP), manually via HS pin, or programmatically using I²C commands (0x33 for Store, 0xDD for Recall).

Its I²C interface supports 100 kHz, 400 kHz, and 1 MHz clock rates with Schmitt-trigger inputs, zero-cycle-delay reads/writes, and cascading support for up to four devices. The STATUS register (address 0x00) enables software write protection across configurable blocks (1/64 to full array) and controls Auto-Store enable (ASE) and Array Modified (AM) status.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

47L16-I/SN is housed in an 8-lead SOIC package (SN suffix), with 1.27 mm pitch, JEDEC MS-012AC compliant, and surface-mount compatible. Pin functions are electrically validated per DS20005371E.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 47L16-I/SN, 47L16-I/P offers identical electrical behavior in a through-hole package for legacy designs, while FM24V10-G replaces EEPROM-based backup with ferroelectric RAM for unlimited writes but removes autonomous power-loss handling - requiring redesign of store-trigger logic.

Availability

47L16-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, industrial PLCs, automotive body control modules, and medical calibration systems requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for 47L16-I/SN 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, with global manufacturing and quality certifications including ISO 9001 and AEC-Q200.

The 47L16-I/SN belongs to Microchip's EERAM product line, designed specifically to replace battery-backed SRAM and discrete EEPROM+SRAM combinations in industrial and automotive applications demanding seamless nonvolatile data retention.

FAQ

What is the function of the VCAP pin on the 47L16-I/SN?

The VCAP pin on the 47L16-I/SN connects to an external capacitor (minimum 8 µF) that supplies energy during VCC brownout, enabling automatic Store of SRAM contents to EEPROM. If VCAP is unconnected, the pin must be tied to VCC and Auto-Store disabled (ASE = 0) to prevent EEPROM corruption. This design eliminates the need for backup batteries in 47L16-I/SN-based systems.

How does the 47L16-I/SN handle write protection of its memory array?

The 47L16-I/SN implements software write protection via three BP<2:0> bits in its STATUS register (address 0x00), allowing selective protection of memory blocks-from upper 1/64 (7E0h–7FFh) to the entire 2,048-byte array. Protection is nonvolatile and persists across power cycles. Attempts to write to protected regions result in NACK, preserving data integrity without host-side validation overhead in the 47L16-I/SN firmware.

Can the 47L16-I/SN operate at 5V?

No, the 47L16-I/SN is specified only for 2.7V–3.6V operation (L-series). Applying 5V violates absolute maximum ratings and risks permanent damage. For 4.5V–5.5V systems, Microchip offers the pin-compatible 47C16-I/SN variant. Using 47L16-I/SN in a 5V design would require level-shifting or regulator redesign - neither supported by the 47L16-I/SN datasheet specifications.

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the 47L16-I/SN?

The 47L16-I/SN supports I²C clock frequencies up to 1 MHz under all operating conditions (2.7V–3.6V, –40°C to +85°C), as confirmed in Table 1-2 of DS20005371E. This allows high-throughput configuration and data transfer, distinguishing it from standard 100 kHz EEPROMs. Bus capacitance must remain ≤400 pF, and SDA/SCL lines require appropriate pull-up resistors sized for 1 MHz rise/fall times.

Does the 47L16-I/SN require external circuitry for power-fail detection?

No - the 47L16-I/SN integrates autonomous power-fail detection via its internal VTRIP comparator (2.4V threshold). When VCC falls below this level, and a valid VCAP capacitor is present, the device automatically initiates Store without MCU involvement. This self-contained behavior is a core differentiator of the 47L16-I/SN versus generic I²C EEPROMs or SRAMs requiring external supervisors.