NXP Semiconductors PCF8598C-2T/02,118

Overview

PCF8598C-2T/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 1,000,000 erase/write cycles at 22 °C. It operates from 2.5 V to 6.0 V, supports standard-mode I²C up to 100 kHz, and delivers ≤2.0 mA operating current. It is used in industrial control modules for non-volatile parameter storage requiring high reliability across temperature extremes.

For engineers reviewing the PCF8598C-2T/02 datasheet, PCF8598C-2T/02 pinout, PCF8598C-2T/02 application, or PCF8598C-2T/02 equivalent, this page provides verified functional specifications, SO8 package details, I²C timing constraints, write-protection behavior, and validated alternative parts for legacy system maintenance and BOM continuity planning.

Technical Context

The PCF8598C-2T/02 implements an internal 128-divider oscillator and 16-step programming timer to autonomously manage E/W cycle timing without external components. Its I²C interface complies strictly with standard-mode (0–100 kHz), not fast-mode, and uses hardware address selection via A2 pin to support up to two devices on one bus.

Redundant storage coding enables single-bit error tolerance, increasing data integrity over conventional EEPROMs. Write protection is implemented via active-HIGH WP pin, enabling selective locking of upper/lower 512-byte blocks - a feature confirmed in device addressing and functional description sections.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PCF8598C-2T/02 is supplied in SO8 (SOT176-1) plastic small outline package, 8-lead, body width 7.5 mm, surface-mount compatible.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with PCF8598C-2T/02, AT24C08C-SSHM-T offers faster communication but sacrifices fault-tolerant storage, while M95080-DW replaces I²C with SPI - requiring firmware and layout changes but enabling higher bandwidth in SPI-dominant designs.

Availability

PCF8598C-2T/02 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, consumer electronics configuration storage, and automotive body electronics requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for PCF8598C-2T/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, is a global leader in high-reliability analog and mixed-signal ICs, with deep expertise in automotive, industrial, and secure connectivity solutions.

The PCF8598C-2T/02 belongs to NXP's legacy I²C EEPROM product line, designed specifically for robust, low-power non-volatile storage in cost-sensitive embedded systems where data integrity and long-term retention are critical.

FAQ

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

The PCF8598C-2T/02 supports I²C standard-mode operation only, with a maximum clock frequency of 100 kHz. It does not support fast-mode (400 kHz) or high-speed mode. This limitation is explicitly defined in Section 8.1.2 of the datasheet and confirmed by timing parameter tables specifying fSCL ≤ 100 kHz under all operating conditions. The PCF8598C-2T/02 relies on internal timing for E/W cycles and does not scale with higher clock rates.

How does the WP pin function on the PCF8598C-2T/02?

The WP (Write Protect) pin on the PCF8598C-2T/02 is an active-HIGH input that controls write access to memory blocks. When WP = HIGH, writes to the upper 512 bytes (addresses 0x200–0x3FF) are disabled and no ACK is returned during data transmission to those addresses. Writes to the lower 512 bytes (0x000–0x1FF) remain enabled. When WP = LOW, full 1024-byte write access is permitted. This behavior is documented in Section 8.1.4 and Figure 4 of the datasheet.

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

The PCF8598C-2T/02 is packaged in an SO8 (plastic small outline, 8-lead, body width 7.5 mm) per SOT176-1 outline. This surface-mount package has lead pitch of 1.27 mm and is compatible with reflow soldering per JEDEC J-STD-020. It is distinct from the DIP8 variant (PCF8598C-2P/02) and shares identical electrical functionality but differs in mounting method and thermal profile.

Does the PCF8598C-2T/02 require an external voltage for programming?

No, the PCF8598C-2T/02 does not require an external programming voltage. It integrates an on-chip voltage multiplier that generates the required high voltage for EEPROM cell programming from the standard 2.5–6.0 V VDD supply. This eliminates the need for external charge pumps or high-voltage generators, simplifying system design and reducing bill-of-materials count - a key feature highlighted in Section 1 and Table 2 of the datasheet.

What is the endurance rating of the PCF8598C-2T/02 at industrial temperature?

The PCF8598C-2T/02 guarantees 100,000 erase/write cycles over the full industrial temperature range of −40 °C to +85 °C, and 1,000,000 cycles at 22 °C. This endurance specification is measured per JEDEC JESD22-A117 and confirmed in Table 9 (Write Cycle Limits). Endurance degrades predictably with temperature, and the 100k-cycle rating ensures reliable operation in thermally demanding applications such as motor drives and outdoor equipment.