Microchip Technology 11LC160T-E/TT

Overview

11LC160T-E/TT from Microchip Technology 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, STATUS register with WIP/WEL bits, and block write protection for 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of memory array - used in automotive body control modules for storing calibration data and configuration parameters.

For engineers reviewing the 11LC160T-E/TT datasheet, 11LC160T-E/TT pinout, 11LC160T-E/TT application, or 11LC160T-E/TT equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs (100 kHz max bit rate, 1 µA standby current), package mapping (3-lead SOT-23), pin function validation (SCIO/VCC/VSS), and two confirmed automotive-grade alternatives with documented functional and packaging differences.

Technical Context

The 11LC160T-E/TT implements Manchester-encoded UNI/O® protocol over a single bidirectional SCIO line, extracting clock and data from one signal stream without external clock lines. Its internal timing recovery circuitry tolerates ±0.50% frequency drift per byte and ±0.06 UI edge jitter, enabling robust communication in electrically noisy automotive environments.

It integrates a current-limited slope-controlled SCIO driver (±3 mA at 2.5V), Schmitt-trigger input for noise immunity, and on-chip high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming. Write operations are self-timed with 5–10 ms completion, supported by a 16-byte page buffer and nonvolatile STATUS register controlling write enable and block protection states.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

11LC160T-E/TT is housed in a 3-lead SOT-23 package (TT suffix), with leads arranged as SCIO (pin 1), VCC (pin 2), and VSS (pin 3) - compact footprint ideal for space-constrained automotive PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT24C128C-SSHL-T and BR24G16NUX-5TR, the 11LC160T-E/TT uniquely delivers automotive-grade reliability (-40°C to +125°C), single-pin UNI/O® simplicity, and factory-trimmed 16-byte page write efficiency - making it the only option qualified for safety-critical powertrain and chassis control nodes requiring minimal GPIO count and maximum thermal resilience.

Availability

11LC160T-E/TT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, instrument clusters, and transmission control units requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles and stringent environmental qualification.

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

The 11LC160T-E/TT belongs to Microchip's UNI/O® serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for automotive and industrial applications demanding minimal pin count, high reliability, and operation across extreme temperature ranges without external support components.

FAQ

What is the UNI/O® interface used by the 11LC160T-E/TT, and how does it differ from I²C or SPI?

The 11LC160T-E/TT uses Microchip's patented UNI/O® bus - a single-wire, Manchester-encoded serial interface that embeds clock and data into one signal (SCIO). Unlike I²C (2-wire) or SPI (4-wire), it requires only one GPIO, eliminates clock skew concerns, and provides built-in noise immunity via Schmitt triggers and slope control. This makes 11LC160T-E/TT ideal for pin-constrained automotive MCUs where routing space and EMI resilience are critical.

Does the 11LC160T-E/TT support write protection, and how is it configured?

Yes, the 11LC160T-E/TT supports hardware-based block write protection via its STATUS register. BP0 and BP1 bits allow locking 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of the 2,048-byte array - configured using the WRSR (Write Status Register) command. Protection persists through power cycles and is independent of the write enable latch (WEL), providing dual-layer security against accidental or malicious overwrites in automotive applications.

What is the maximum write speed and page size for the 11LC160T-E/TT?

The 11LC160T-E/TT supports a maximum bit rate of 100 kbps (100 kHz equivalent), with a fixed 16-byte page write buffer. Each page write completes in 5–10 ms (T_WC). Writing 16 bytes in one transaction is up to 16× faster than individual byte writes, and crossing page boundaries wraps data to the start of the current page - requiring firmware to align writes to 16-byte boundaries for predictable behavior.

Is the 11LC160T-E/TT qualified for automotive applications, and what standards does it meet?

Yes, the 11LC160T-E/TT carries the "E" suffix denoting Automotive temperature grade (-40°C to +125°C) and is manufactured to AEC-Q100 reliability standards. It features >4,000 V HBM ESD protection, 1,000,000 write cycles, and >200-year data retention at 85°C - meeting OEM requirements for powertrain, chassis, and body electronics deployed in harsh under-hood or under-dash environments.

How does the STATUS register in the 11LC160T-E/TT assist in system-level firmware design?

The STATUS register in the 11LC160T-E/TT provides real-time visibility into device state: the WIP (Write-In-Progress) bit signals active internal writes, allowing firmware to poll instead of using fixed delays; the WEL (Write Enable Latch) bit confirms write permission status; and BP0/BP1 bits reflect active protection zones. This eliminates race conditions, enables safe multi-threaded access, and simplifies error recovery - all critical for deterministic behavior in automotive software stacks.