Microchip Technology 11AA160T-I/CS16K

Overview

11AA160T-I/CS16K from Microchip Technology is a 16 Kbit (2,048 × 8) serial EEPROM with UNI/O® single I/O bus interface, operating from 1.8V to 5.5V, featuring 16-byte page write buffer, 1 µA max standby current (I-temp), and Schmitt-trigger SCIO input for noise immunity in space-constrained industrial control and sensor calibration applications.

For engineers reviewing the 11AA160T-I/CS16K datasheet, 11AA160T-I/CS16K pinout, 11AA160T-I/CS16K application, or 11AA160T-I/CS16K equivalent, this device delivers verified low-voltage serial memory with Manchester-encoded timing recovery, built-in write protection, and chip-scale packaging for high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The 11AA160T-I/CS16K implements a Manchester-encoded UNI/O® bus protocol on a single SCIO pin, extracting clock and data from one bidirectional signal using internal re-synchronization circuitry tolerant to ±0.5% frequency drift per byte and ±0.06 UI edge jitter. It uses an internal Address Pointer that auto-increments during sequential reads or writes.

Its architecture includes a 16-byte page latch, STATUS register with WIP/WEL/BP bits, and hardware block protection (none/¼/½/all array). Write cycles are self-timed (max 10 ms), with endurance of 1,000,000 cycles and >200-year data retention at 85°C - all validated for Industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

11AA160T-I/CS16K is housed in a 4-lead Chip Scale Package (CS), with footprint optimized for minimal board area and thermal performance. Pin 1 = VCC, Pin 2 = VSS, Pin 3 = NC, Pin 4 = SCIO - consistent with Microchip's CS package standard for 11AA/11LC family.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 11AA160T-I/P, the 11AA160T-I/CS16K saves >70% board area and enables finer-pitch routing; versus AT24C16C-SSHM-T, it eliminates I²C pull-up resistors and offers superior noise rejection - making it optimal for compact, electrically harsh environments.

Availability

11AA160T-I/CS16K is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, medical device parameter storage, automotive body control modules, smart energy meter firmware patching, and portable instrumentation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for 11AA160T-I/CS16K 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 a focus on embedded control and connectivity.

The 11AA/11LC family was designed specifically to deliver ultra-low-pin-count, low-voltage serial EEPROMs for space- and power-constrained embedded systems - emphasizing single-wire simplicity, industrial reliability, and seamless integration with PIC® and other resource-limited MCUs.

FAQ

What is the UNI/O® interface used by the 11AA160T-I/CS16K, and how does it differ from I²C or SPI?

The 11AA160T-I/CS16K uses Microchip's patented UNI/O® bus - a single-pin, Manchester-encoded serial interface where clock and data are embedded in one SCIO signal. Unlike I²C (2-wire + pull-ups) or SPI (4–5 wires), UNI/O® eliminates dedicated clock lines and reduces routing complexity. It requires no external components and supports deterministic timing recovery, making it ideal for tight-layout applications where I/O count and board space are critical constraints.

Does the 11AA160T-I/CS16K support hardware write protection, and how is it configured?

Yes, the 11AA160T-I/CS16K supports hardware block write protection via two nonvolatile BP0/BP1 bits in its STATUS register. These bits can be set using the WRSR instruction to protect none, ¼, ½, or the entire memory array. Protection is active immediately after write and persists across power cycles - providing robust defense against accidental or malicious overwrites of critical calibration or configuration data stored in the 11AA160T-I/CS16K.

What is the maximum write speed and timing behavior of the 11AA160T-I/CS16K during a page write operation?

The 11AA160T-I/CS16K supports up to 100 kbps bit rate (equivalent to 100 kHz bus frequency), with self-timed write cycles completing in ≤10 ms for byte or page writes. Its 16-byte page buffer allows up to 16 bytes to be loaded before initiating the internal write - reducing host overhead. The WIP bit in the STATUS register indicates active write status, enabling precise polling instead of fixed delays, which improves system responsiveness and power efficiency in the 11AA160T-I/CS16K.

Can the 11AA160T-I/CS16K operate reliably at 1.8V, and what are its current consumption characteristics at that voltage?

Yes, the 11AA160T-I/CS16K is fully specified for 1.8V operation (minimum VCC), with typical active current of 1 mA and maximum standby current of 1 µA at 85°C - confirmed in the DS22067J datasheet. This low-voltage capability enables direct interfacing with 1.8V microcontrollers and sensors without level shifters, while its ultra-low standby draw extends battery life in always-on monitoring systems where the 11AA160T-I/CS16K remains idle between infrequent configuration updates.

What package type does the 11AA160T-I/CS16K use, and are there any layout or thermal considerations?

The 11AA160T-I/CS16K uses a 4-lead Chip Scale Package (CS), measuring 1.2 mm × 1.6 mm with 0.5 mm pitch - significantly smaller than SOIC or PDIP alternatives. Layout requires adherence to Microchip's recommended pad geometry and solder mask clearance; thermal performance benefits from exposed copper under the package. The NC pin must remain unconnected or tied to VSS - incorrect handling may compromise reliability of the 11AA160T-I/CS16K in high-density designs.