Microchip Technology 25AA160DT-E/ST

Overview

25AA160DT-E/ST 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 operation (–40°C to +125°C). It features hardware write protection via WP pin, HOLD functionality for interrupt-safe bus suspension, and block-level software write protection covering 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of memory. Used in engine control units, battery management systems, and industrial sensor calibration storage.

For engineers reviewing the 25AA160DT-E/ST datasheet, 25AA160DT-E/ST pinout, 25AA160DT-E/ST application, or 25AA160DT-E/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include its automotive temperature rating, 32-byte page size, SPI clock support up to 10 MHz at 4.5–5.5 V, and integrated power-on write-disable logic - all critical for reliable nonvolatile data logging in safety-critical embedded systems.

Technical Context

The 25AA160DT-E/ST implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0/Master-Slave interface with separate SI (data-in) and SO (data-out) lines, requiring only CS, SCK, SI, SO, WP, HOLD, VCC, and VSS. Its internal architecture includes a 32-byte page latch, STATUS register with WIP/WEL/BP0/BP1 bits, and high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming.

Write operations require explicit WREN instruction followed by CS high-to-low transition to initiate internal 5 ms max self-timed erase/write cycle; reads support sequential addressing with automatic address roll-over at 07FFh. HOLD pin suspends ongoing transfers without resetting state, enabling deterministic host interrupt handling.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25AA160DT-E/ST is packaged in an 8-lead TSSOP (ST) with 3.0 mm × 4.4 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, and Pb-free/RoHS-compliant finish. Pin 1 is marked with a dot or beveled corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25AA160DT-I/ST and AT25DF021-SSH-T, the 25AA160DT-E/ST uniquely combines AEC-Q100-aligned automotive temperature operation, HOLD functionality for deterministic interrupt handling, and drop-in compatibility with legacy 25AA160C/D designs - making it the optimal choice for safety-critical, thermally demanding, and interrupt-sensitive applications.

Availability

25AA160DT-E/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, battery management systems, and industrial PLC modules requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles and automotive qualification continuity.

Supply support for 25AA160DT-E/ST 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, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets with vertically integrated silicon and development tools.

The 25AA160DT-E/ST belongs to Microchip's 25XX160 family of SPI serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for robust, low-power, and pin-compatible nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems with stringent reliability requirements.

FAQ

What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the 25AA160DT-E/ST?

The 25AA160DT-E/ST supports up to 10 MHz SPI clock frequency when VCC is 4.5–5.5 V, 5 MHz at 2.5–4.5 V, and 3 MHz at 1.8–2.5 V. These graded timing specifications ensure reliable operation across its full 1.8–5.5 V supply range without derating. The 25AA160DT-E/ST uses standard SPI Mode 0,0 signaling with setup/hold timing validated per AC Characteristic Table 1-2 in DS22150B.

Does the 25AA160DT-E/ST support hardware write protection?

Yes, the 25AA160DT-E/ST 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 nonvolatile STATUS register bits are disabled - protecting block protection settings and write-enable state. This feature is fully functional across its –40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range and is documented in Section 2.6 and Table 2-4 of DS22150B.

How does the HOLD pin function on the 25AA160DT-E/ST?

The HOLD pin on the 25AA160DT-E/ST pauses ongoing SPI communication without resetting internal state. It must be driven low while SCK is low to activate; SO goes high-impedance immediately, and SI/SCK transitions are ignored until HOLD returns high (also while SCK is low). This enables deterministic host interrupt servicing - a key capability confirmed in Figure 1-1 and Section 3.6 of DS22150B.

What is the page size of the 25AA160DT-E/ST, and why does it matter?

The 25AA160DT-E/ST has a 32-byte page size, as indicated by the "D" suffix in its part number per the Device Selection Table on page 1 of DS22150B. This enables efficient burst writes: up to 32 bytes can be clocked in before triggering the internal 5 ms write cycle. Exceeding the page boundary causes wrap-around - so firmware must align writes to 32-byte boundaries, a constraint explicitly defined in Section 2.3.

Is the 25AA160DT-E/ST RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the 25AA160DT-E/ST is Pb-free and RoHS compliant, as stated in the Description section (page 1) and Packaging Information (page 14) of DS22150B. Its TSSOP package carries the JEDEC matte tin (Sn) plating designation, and marking includes "e3" per J-STD-609. Compliance is verified per EU Directive 2011/65/EU and applies to both material content and manufacturing process.