Microchip Technology 11LC160T-E/MS

Overview

11LC160T-E/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2,048 × 8) serial EEPROM with UNI/O® single-I/O bus interface, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V across -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range, featuring 16-byte page write buffer, Schmitt-trigger SCIO input, and built-in block write protection for automotive body control modules and sensor calibration storage.

For engineers reviewing the 11LC160T-E/MS datasheet, 11LC160T-E/MS pinout, 11LC160T-E/MS application, or 11LC160T-E/MS equivalent, this device delivers deterministic Manchester-encoded timing at up to 100 kHz, low-power standby current ≤1 µA (I-temp), and guaranteed 1 million erase/write cycles - critical for infotainment configuration memory and ECU parameter logging where pin count and board space are constrained.

Technical Context

The 11LC160T-E/MS implements a Manchester-encoded UNI/O® bus protocol using a single bidirectional SCIO line, eliminating separate clock and data lines while maintaining synchronization via start-header-based re-locking and MAK-bit phase adjustment. Its internal architecture includes a 16-byte page latch, STATUS register with WIP/WEL/BP bits, and current-limited slope-controlled output driver.

It supports byte- and page-write operations with self-timed internal write cycles (≤10 ms), automatic erase-before-write, and hardware write protection via BP0/BP1 bits controlling 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% array lock. The device enters Standby mode after NoMAK+SAK or standby pulse, drawing ≤1 µA at 125°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

11LC160T-E/MS uses an 8-lead MSOP (MS) package with exposed pad, optimized for thermal performance and high-density automotive PCBs. Pin 1 is SCIO (bidirectional serial clock/data), Pin 2 is VSS (ground), Pin 3 is NC (no connect), Pin 4 is NC, Pin 5 is NC, Pin 6 is NC, Pin 7 is NC, Pin 8 is VCC (supply voltage).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT24C128C-SSHL-T and BR24G128FJ-WE2, the 11LC160T-E/MS provides superior electromagnetic robustness in noisy automotive wiring harnesses via its single-line UNI/O® protocol and Schmitt-trigger inputs, while delivering optimal balance of density, endurance, and footprint for space-constrained ECU designs.

Availability

11LC160T-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, instrument clusters, engine control units, and telematics control units requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q100 alignment and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for 11LC160T-E/MS 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 for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The 11LC160T-E/MS belongs to Microchip's UNI/O® serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for automotive-grade applications demanding ultra-low pin count, high noise immunity, and extended temperature operation without sacrificing reliability or write endurance.

FAQ

What is the maximum bus frequency supported by the 11LC160T-E/MS?

The 11LC160T-E/MS supports a maximum serial bus frequency of 100 kHz, corresponding to a minimum bit period of 10 µs. This limit is defined by AC timing parameter FBUS and applies across the full -40°C to +125°C operating range. Exceeding 100 kHz may cause synchronization loss due to insufficient margin for frequency drift and edge jitter tolerance as specified in DS22067J.

Does the 11LC160T-E/MS require external pull-up resistors on the SCIO line?

No, the 11LC160T-E/MS does not require external pull-up resistors on the SCIO line. Its internal output driver includes active slope control and current limiting, and the UNI/O® protocol relies on Manchester encoding that inherently avoids DC bias issues. External pull-ups would disrupt the precise timing and voltage thresholds required for reliable edge detection and synchronization.

How is write protection implemented on the 11LC160T-E/MS?

Write protection on the 11LC160T-E/MS is implemented through two nonvolatile Block Protection (BP0, BP1) bits in the STATUS register, configurable via the WRSR command. These bits enable locking 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of the memory array. Protection is enforced at the hardware level during WRITE and WRSR commands, preventing accidental modification of calibrated parameters or safety-critical data stored in protected sectors.

What is the purpose of the standby pulse in the 11LC160T-E/MS communication protocol?

The standby pulse in the 11LC160T-E/MS protocol is a high-level SCIO signal held for ≥600 µs (TSTBY) that resets the device and returns it to Standby mode. It is required before initiating a new command after an error condition or when switching between different slave devices on the same bus. The pulse ensures deterministic state recovery and eliminates residual timing skew from prior operations.

Can the 11LC160T-E/MS be used in systems powered by 1.8V?

No, the 11LC160T-E/MS is not rated for 1.8V operation. Its specified VCC range is 2.5V to 5.5V, as confirmed in the Device Selection Table and DC Characteristics section of DS22067J. For 1.8V-compatible alternatives, Microchip offers the 11AA160 variant, which shares identical density and packaging but supports 1.8–5.5V operation and is rated only for Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) temperature range.