Microchip Technology 11LC160-E/SN

Overview

11LC160-E/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2,048 × 8) serial EEPROM using the UNI/O® single I/O bus interface. It operates from 2.5V to 5.5V, supports 100 kbps bit rate (100 kHz clock equivalent), features 16-byte page-write buffering, and delivers 1 µA max standby current at I-temp and E-temp ranges. It is used in automotive body control modules for storing calibration data and configuration parameters.

For engineers reviewing the 11LC160-E/SN datasheet, 11LC160-E/SN pinout, 11LC160-E/SN application, or 11LC160-E/SN equivalent, key selection considerations include its automotive-grade temperature range (–40°C to +125°C), UNI/O® bus compatibility with minimal GPIO usage, block write protection granularity (none/¼/½/all), and guaranteed 1,000,000 erase/write cycles with >200-year data retention.

Technical Context

The 11LC160-E/SN implements Manchester-encoded serial communication over a single SCIO line, eliminating separate clock lines and reducing PCB routing complexity. Its internal re-synchronization circuitry tolerates ±0.50% frequency drift per byte and ±5% total drift per command, enabling robust operation across voltage and temperature variations in automotive environments.

It integrates a STATUS register with WIP and WEL bits for real-time write-state monitoring, Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity, and slope-controlled output drivers to suppress ground bounce. The device uses on-chip high-voltage generation for EEPROM programming and supports auto-erase during self-timed write cycles.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

11LC160-E/SN is packaged in an 8-pin SOIC (SN) with gull-wing leads, optimized for automated assembly and thermal reliability in automotive applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 11LC160-E/SN, AT24C128C-SSHL-T offers greater density but demands additional MCU resources and lacks integrated block protection, while BR24G128FJ-WE2 matches the interface and density but fails automotive temperature and qualification requirements - making 11LC160-E/SN the sole option meeting full AEC-Q100-aligned E-temp, UNI/O® simplicity, and hardware write protection in one package.

Availability

11LC160-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control, instrument cluster, powertrain calibration, and ADAS camera module applications requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 11LC160-E/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 leading provider of microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets with high-reliability silicon and development tools.

The 11LCxxx family was designed specifically for automotive and industrial systems needing ultra-low-power, single-pin serial EEPROMs with robust noise immunity and extended temperature operation - directly addressing constraints in ECU and sensor module designs.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the 11LC160-E/SN UNI/O® bus?

The 11LC160-E/SN supports a maximum serial bus frequency of 100 kHz, corresponding to a 100 kbps bit rate. This is specified across its full automotive temperature range (–40°C to +125°C) and supply voltage range (2.5V to 5.5V). Timing parameters such as bit period (TE), jitter tolerance (±0.06 UI), and frequency drift limits (±0.50% per byte) are guaranteed per DS22067J.

Does the 11LC160-E/SN require external components for basic operation?

Yes - the 11LC160-E/SN requires an external pull-up resistor on the SCIO line (typically 4.7 kΩ to VCC) and a 0.1 µF ceramic decoupling capacitor placed near the VCC pin. These components ensure proper signal integrity, noise immunity, and stable internal voltage regulation during write cycles. No external clock source or level translators are needed due to its self-clocking UNI/O® interface.

How does the 11LC160-E/SN handle write protection?

The 11LC160-E/SN implements hardware-based block write protection via two nonvolatile BP0 and BP1 bits in its STATUS register. These bits allow users to protect none, 1/4, 1/2, or all of the memory array. Protection is enforced at the hardware level during WRITE and WRSR commands, independent of software state - ensuring critical calibration or boot data remains intact even during firmware faults.

Can the 11LC160-E/SN be used in place of an I²C EEPROM without redesigning the PCB?

No - the 11LC160-E/SN uses a UNI/O® single-wire interface, whereas I²C requires two dedicated lines (SCL and SDA). Pin count, protocol stack, timing, and command structure are incompatible. Replacing an I²C EEPROM with 11LC160-E/SN requires MCU firmware changes to implement UNI/O® bit-banging or dedicated peripheral support, and PCB layout modifications to route SCIO instead of dual I²C signals.

What is the write cycle time for a full page on the 11LC160-E/SN?

A full 16-byte page write on the 11LC160-E/SN completes in ≤10 ms, as specified in the "Write cycle time (byte or page)" parameter (TWC) for ERAL and SETAL commands. This includes internal auto-erase and programming. Individual byte writes take ≤5 ms. The device's self-timed nature means no external polling or delay loops are required beyond monitoring the WIP bit via RDSR if precise timing control is needed.