NXP Semiconductors PCF8598C-2P/02,112

Overview

PCF8598C-2P/02 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips) is a 1024 × 8-bit (8 kbit) I²C-bus EEPROM with on-chip voltage multiplier, fault-tolerant redundant storage code, and single-supply operation from 2.5 V to 6.0 V. It supports byte and 8-byte page write modes, internal programming timing, and write-protection via hardware pin WP. Used for non-volatile parameter storage in industrial control panels and legacy embedded systems requiring long-term data retention.

For engineers reviewing the PCF8598C-2P/02 datasheet, PCF8598C-2P/02 pinout, PCF8598C-2P/02 application, or PCF8598C-2P/02 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 100 kHz I²C clock support, 1,000,000 write endurance at 22 °C, 10-year data retention at 55 °C, DIP8 package compatibility, and hardware address select via A2 pin.

Technical Context

The PCF8598C-2P/02 implements an I²C-bus slave interface compliant with standard-speed mode only (0–100 kHz), with no fast-mode (400 kHz) support. Its internal sequencer handles E/W cycle timing using either the on-chip oscillator (7 ms/byte typical) or an external clock applied via PTC pin.

Memory organization is 1024 × 8-bit, partitioned into four 256-byte pages selected by software-addressable A1/A0 bits; chip selection is controlled by hardware pin A2, enabling up to two devices on one bus. Write protection isolates upper/lower 512-byte blocks based on WP pin state (HIGH disables upper block writes).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DIP8 package (SOT97-1): plastic dual in-line package, 8 leads, 300 mil width, through-hole mount.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with PCF8598C-2P/02, AT24C08C-PU offers faster communication but reduced reliability under bit-error stress, while M95080-DW replaces I²C with SPI-requiring firmware and hardware changes but enabling higher clock rates and simpler timing margins.

Availability

PCF8598C-2P/02 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control panel configuration storage, legacy automotive body control modules, medical device calibration data archiving, and point-of-sale terminal firmware patch storage requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for PCF8598C-2P/02 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

NXP Semiconductors, formerly Philips Semiconductors, designs high-reliability interface and memory ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications with emphasis on long-lifecycle support and legacy compatibility.

The PCF8598C-2P/02 belongs to NXP's legacy I²C EEPROM product line, engineered for systems where proven reliability, wide voltage operation, and hardware-configurable addressing outweigh the need for modern high-speed interfaces.

FAQ

What is the maximum I²C clock frequency supported by the PCF8598C-2P/02?

The PCF8598C-2P/02 supports I²C standard-speed mode only, with a maximum clock frequency of 100 kHz. It does not support fast-mode (400 kHz) or high-speed mode. This limitation is specified in Section 8.1.2 of the datasheet and confirmed by timing parameter t_SCL in Table 8. The PCF8598C-2P/02 must be interfaced with masters configured for ≤100 kHz operation to ensure reliable communication and avoid bus arbitration errors.

How does the write-protection pin (WP) function on the PCF8598C-2P/02?

Pin 1 (WP) is an active-HIGH write-protection input. When WP = HIGH, writes to the upper 512 bytes (addresses 0x200–0x3FF) are disabled; only the lower 512 bytes (0x000–0x1FF) remain writable. When WP = LOW, full 1024-byte memory is accessible. The PCF8598C-2P/02 acknowledges slave address and word address even under WP HIGH, but returns no ACK for data bytes targeting protected regions.

Can the PCF8598C-2P/02 operate from a 3.3 V supply?

Yes, the PCF8598C-2P/02 operates across 2.5 V to 6.0 V, fully supporting 3.3 V nominal systems. At VDD = 3.3 V, typical read current is <60 µA (Table 7), standby current is <3.5 µA, and write current remains within 0.6 mA max. All I²C logic thresholds scale with VDD (VIH = 0.7×VDD, VIL = 0.3×VDD), ensuring compatibility with 3.3 V microcontrollers without level shifting.

What package type is used for the PCF8598C-2P/02?

The PCF8598C-2P/02 uses the DIP8 package (SOT97-1): plastic dual in-line package with 8 leads, 300 mil body width, and through-hole mounting. Pin spacing is 2.54 mm (0.1 inch), and overall dimensions are 9.8 mm × 6.48 mm × 3.60 mm (L×W×H). This package is compatible with wave soldering and manual assembly per Philips Soldering Handbook IC26.

Does the PCF8598C-2P/02 require external components for programming voltage generation?

No, the PCF8598C-2P/02 integrates an on-chip voltage multiplier that generates the required programming voltage from the VDD supply (2.5–6.0 V). No external charge pump, high-voltage generator, or auxiliary power rail is needed. This simplifies board design and eliminates external component count, as explicitly stated in Section 1 (Description) and confirmed in the "On-chip voltage multiplier" feature list.