Microchip Technology 11LC160T-I/SN

Overview

11LC160T-I/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, delivers 1 mA typical active current and 1 µA max standby current over –40°C to +85°C, and supports 100 kbps bit rate with Manchester-encoded SCIO signaling. It is used in space-constrained embedded systems requiring nonvolatile parameter storage with minimal pin count.

For engineers reviewing the 11LC160T-I/SN datasheet, 11LC160T-I/SN pinout, 11LC160T-I/SN application, or 11LC160T-I/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its 3-lead SOT-23 package, industrial temperature rating, page-write buffer (16 bytes), STATUS register control, and block write protection options - all critical for low-pin-count microcontroller interfacing in cost-sensitive consumer and industrial designs.

Technical Context

The 11LC160T-I/SN implements a Manchester-encoded, master-controlled UNI/O® bus protocol on a single bidirectional SCIO line, eliminating separate clock and data lines. Its internal architecture includes a 16-byte page latch, STATUS register with WIP/WEL/BP bits, and re-synchronization circuitry tolerant of ±0.50% frequency drift per byte and ±0.06 UI input edge jitter.

It features Schmitt-trigger SCIO input for noise immunity, slope-controlled output to suppress ground bounce, and built-in power-on/off write protection. Memory endurance is rated at 1,000,000 erase/write cycles with >200 years data retention, validated under industrial temperature conditions (–40°C to +85°C).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

11LC160T-I/SN is packaged in a 3-lead SOT-23 (SN) case with gull-wing leads, footprint-compatible with standard pick-and-place equipment and suitable for high-density PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 11AA160-I/SN, the 11LC160T-I/SN provides higher minimum VCC (2.5V vs. 1.8V) but identical industrial temp rating and SOT-23 footprint; compared with AT24C128-PU, it trades I²C compatibility for single-pin simplicity and smaller package - making it optimal for new designs prioritizing minimal GPIO usage and board area.

Availability

11LC160T-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial controls, smart metering, and consumer appliance designs requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for 11LC160T-I/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 U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory products, with a focus on embedded control and connectivity solutions.

The 11LC160T-I/SN belongs to Microchip's UNI/O® serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for ultra-low-pin-count systems where minimizing MCU GPIO usage and PCB real estate is critical - targeting cost-sensitive, space-constrained embedded applications.

FAQ

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

The 11LC160T-I/SN uses Microchip's patented UNI/O® bus, a single-wire, Manchester-encoded serial interface that combines clock and data on the SCIO pin. Unlike I²C (2-wire) or SPI (3–4 wires), it requires only one GPIO, no external clock line, and no chip-select signals. This reduces MCU pin count and PCB routing complexity, making it ideal for highly integrated, low-cost embedded systems where every pin matters.

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

Yes, the 11LC160T-I/SN supports hardware-configurable block write protection via two nonvolatile BP0 and BP1 bits in its STATUS register. These bits - set using the WRSR command - allow protection of 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of the memory array. Protection is active immediately after write and persists through power cycles, providing robust safeguarding against accidental or malicious firmware overwrite of critical calibration or security data.

What is the maximum write speed and timing behavior of the 11LC160T-I/SN?

The 11LC160T-I/SN supports a maximum serial bus frequency of 100 kHz (100 kbps), with a worst-case write cycle time of 10 ms for page or byte writes. Its self-timed architecture means the device internally manages erase-and-write sequencing - no external timing control is needed. Firmware must poll the WIP bit in the STATUS register or wait the full 10 ms before initiating subsequent operations to ensure write completion.

Can the 11LC160T-I/SN operate reliably at 2.5V, and what are its current consumption specs?

Yes, the 11LC160T-I/SN is fully specified for operation from 2.5V to 5.5V. At 2.5V, its typical active current is 1 mA (during read/write), and its maximum standby current is 1 µA at +85°C. This low-power profile enables battery-powered operation for years in applications such as remote sensors or portable medical devices, while maintaining full functionality and timing compliance across the entire voltage range.

Is the 11LC160T-I/SN pin-compatible with other devices in the 11XX family, and what packages are supported?

Yes, the 11LC160T-I/SN in SOT-23 (SN) package shares identical pinout (SCIO/VSS/VCC) with all other 3-lead variants in the 11XX family, including 11AA010-I/SN and 11LC080-I/SN. It is also available in PDIP, SOIC, MSOP, TDFN, TO-92, and Chip Scale packages - enabling drop-in replacement across form factors when design requirements evolve, provided density and voltage range match.