Microchip Technology 25AA160AT-I/SN

Overview

25AA160AT-I/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI Serial EEPROM with 1.8–5.5 V supply, 16-byte page size, and Industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It features hardware write protection via WP pin, HOLD functionality for bus arbitration, and self-timed 5 ms max write cycles. Used in microcontroller-based systems for parameter storage, calibration data retention, and firmware configuration.

For engineers reviewing the 25AA160AT-I/SN datasheet, 25AA160AT-I/SN pinout, 25AA160AT-I/SN application, or 25AA160AT-I/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC operating range (1.8–5.5 V), page write capability (16 bytes), SPI clock support up to 10 MHz at 4.5–5.5 V, and industrial-grade reliability (1M endurance, >200-year data retention).

Technical Context

The 25AA160AT-I/SN implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface with separate SI and SO lines, requiring CS, SCK, SI, SO, WP, HOLD, VCC, and VSS. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, status register with WIP/WEL/BP bits, and page latches enabling burst writes within 16-byte boundaries.

Write operations require explicit WREN instruction followed by WRITE command and address; the device automatically increments the internal address pointer during sequential reads. Hardware write protection is enabled only when WPEN bit = 1 and WP pin = low, allowing selective block protection of upper 1/4, 1/2, or full memory array.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25AA160AT-I/SN is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) with standard 150-mil body width and gull-wing leads. Pin 1 is marked with a beveled corner or dot; package meets RoHS and Pb-free requirements.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25AA160AT-I/SN, 25AA160AT-I/MC offers identical functionality in a smaller DFN package ideal for compact designs, while AT25DF021-SSH-T provides greater density and faster quad-read speeds but sacrifices 1.8 V support, HOLD functionality, and pin compatibility-requiring firmware and layout changes.

Availability

25AA160AT-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, medical device configuration, automotive body control modules, and smart energy meter firmware requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for 25AA160AT-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 leading provider of microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and sales operations.

The 25AA160A/B series belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, engineered for reliable, low-voltage, SPI-based nonvolatile storage in cost-sensitive and space-constrained embedded applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the 25AA160AT-I/SN?

The 25AA160AT-I/SN supports up to 10 MHz SPI clock frequency when VCC is 4.5–5.5 V. At 2.5–4.5 V, max clock drops to 5 MHz, and at 1.8–2.5 V, it is limited to 3 MHz. These limits ensure setup/hold timing compliance across voltage and temperature ranges specified for the Industrial grade.

Does the 25AA160AT-I/SN require external pull-up resistors on its SPI lines?

No, the 25AA160AT-I/SN does not require external pull-ups on SI, SO, or SCK. Its inputs meet standard CMOS thresholds, and SO is actively driven or tri-stated. Pull-ups may be needed only if shared bus lines float during CS high or HOLD low states in multi-device configurations.

How does the HOLD function operate during an active SPI transaction on the 25AA160AT-I/SN?

The HOLD function pauses the 25AA160AT-I/SN mid-transaction when HOLD is pulled low while SCK is low. All inputs except CS are ignored, SO goes high-impedance, and internal state is preserved. Resuming requires bringing HOLD high while SCK remains low; communication continues from the exact point of suspension.

Can the 25AA160AT-I/SN be used with a 1.8 V microcontroller without level shifting?

Yes, the 25AA160AT-I/SN operates natively from 1.8 V to 5.5 V and meets VIH/VIL specifications down to 1.8 V (VIH2 = 0.7×VCC, VIL2 = 0.2×VCC). When interfaced with a 1.8 V MCU, no level shifting is required for CS, SI, SCK, WP, or HOLD signals.

What happens if a page write crosses a 16-byte boundary on the 25AA160AT-I/SN?

If a page write command attempts to cross a 16-byte boundary on the 25AA160AT-I/SN, data wraps around to the start of the current page instead of advancing to the next page. This overwrites previously written bytes in that page. Application firmware must enforce address alignment to prevent unintended data corruption.