Microchip Technology 25AA160D-E/MS

Overview

25AA160D-E/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI serial EEPROM with 32-byte page write capability, 1.8–5.5 V supply range, and automotive-grade temperature support (–40°C to +125°C). It features hardware write protection via WP pin and STATUS register, HOLD functionality for interrupt-safe bus suspension, and operates up to 10 MHz at 4.5–5.5 V. Used in engine control units, battery management systems, and industrial sensor calibration storage.

For engineers reviewing the 25AA160D-E/MS datasheet, 25AA160D-E/MS pinout, 25AA160D-E/MS application, or 25AA160D-E/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include page size (32 B), automotive temp rating, WPEN-controlled hardware write protection, HOLD timing compliance, and MSOP-8 package compatibility with space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The 25AA160D-E/MS implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface with separate SI (MOSI) and SO (MISO) lines, requiring CS assertion, SCK synchronization, and optional HOLD/HPIN control. Its internal architecture includes a 32-byte page latch, nonvolatile STATUS register (BP0/BP1/WPEN/WEL/WIP), and high-voltage generator for EEPROM cell programming.

Write operations require explicit WREN instruction followed by WRITE command and address/data; CS rising edge initiates self-timed internal write cycle (≤5 ms). Block protection supports four configurations (none, upper 1/4, upper 1/2, or full array), configurable via WRSR and enforced by both software (STATUS bits) and hardware (WP pin + WPEN bit).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25AA160D-E/MS is housed in an 8-lead MSOP (Mini Small Outline Package), 3.0 mm × 4.9 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, RoHS-compliant and Pb-free.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25LC160D-E/MS and AT25DF021-MAHN-T, the 25AA160D-E/MS uniquely supports 1.8 V operation and retains full pin/function compatibility with legacy 25AAxx designs, making it optimal for voltage-scalable automotive and industrial platforms requiring guaranteed write protection and HOLD functionality.

Availability

25AA160D-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, battery management systems, and industrial PLCs requiring stable component supply across extended automotive and industrial lifecycles.

Supply support for 25AA160D-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 leading provider of microcontroller, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets with high-reliability silicon and development tools.

The 25AAxx family delivers cost-optimized, SPI-compatible EEPROMs designed specifically for robust parameter storage in harsh environments - emphasizing write protection, wide VCC range, and automotive qualification.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25AA160D-E/MS?

The 25AA160D-E/MS supports up to 10 MHz SPI clock frequency when VCC is between 4.5 V and 5.5 V. At 2.5–4.5 V, the maximum is 5 MHz, and at 1.8–2.5 V, it is 3 MHz. These limits ensure reliable setup/hold timing across voltage and temperature ranges, as specified in Table 1-2 of DS22150B.

Does the 25AA160D-E/MS support hardware write protection?

Yes, the 25AA160D-E/MS supports hardware write protection via the WP pin in conjunction with the WPEN bit in its STATUS register. When WP is low and WPEN = 1, writes to the STATUS register are disabled - protecting block protection settings and write-enable state. Memory array writes remain possible unless blocked by BP bits.

What package type is used for the 25AA160D-E/MS?

The 25AA160D-E/MS uses an 8-lead MSOP (Mini Small Outline Package) with 3.0 mm × 4.9 mm body size and 0.65 mm lead pitch. This surface-mount package is RoHS-compliant, Pb-free, and optimized for high-density PCB layouts in automotive and industrial modules.

How many write/erase cycles does the 25AA160D-E/MS guarantee?

The 25AA160D-E/MS guarantees more than 1 million erase/write cycles per memory location, validated at 25°C and VCC = 5.5 V. This endurance rating ensures long-term reliability in applications such as automotive diagnostics logging and industrial calibration data storage.

Can the 25AA160D-E/MS operate from a 1.8 V supply?

Yes, the 25AA160D-E/MS is fully specified to operate from 1.8 V to 5.5 V. Unlike the 25LC160D variant, the 25AA160D-E/MS maintains full functionality-including 32-byte page writes, HOLD, and WP-down to 1.8 V, enabling use in energy-harvesting and ultra-low-power systems.