Microchip Technology 25AA160/SN
- Part No.:
- 25AA160/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
25AA160/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 16KBIT SPI 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,418
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Product details
Overview
25AA160/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI-compatible serial EEPROM with 1.8–5.5 V supply range, 1 MHz max clock frequency, and industrial temperature rating (–40°C to +85°C). It features 16-byte page write, hardware write protection via WP pin, and HOLD functionality for interrupt-safe bus suspension - used in embedded system configuration storage, sensor calibration data retention, and firmware parameter backup.
For engineers reviewing the 25AA160/SN datasheet, 25AA160/SN pinout, 25AA160/SN application, or 25AA160/SN equivalent, key selection considerations include its 1.8 V minimum VCC support, 5 ms internal write cycle time, block-level write protection (none/¼/½/all), and SOIC-8 (SN) package compatibility with space-constrained PCB layouts.
Technical Context
The 25AA160/SN implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, requiring CS, SCK, SI, SO, WP, HOLD, VCC, and VSS. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, page latches, and high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming.
Write operations require explicit WREN instruction followed by CS high assertion to initiate self-timed 5 ms erase/write cycles; read operations support sequential addressing with automatic address roll-over at 07FFh. The Status register provides real-time WIP, WEL, BP0/BP1, and WPEN bits accessible during active writes.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) - supports up to 2 KB of nonvolatile configuration or calibration data |
| Interface | SPI Mode 0,0 - compatible with PIC, ARM, and RISC-V microcontrollers without bit-banging overhead |
| VCC range | 1.8–5.5 V - enables direct integration into low-voltage IoT nodes and mixed-supply systems |
| Max clock frequency | 1 MHz at VCC ≥ 4.5 V - ensures reliable timing margin in noisy industrial environments |
| Write cycle time | 5 ms max - defines minimum interval between consecutive page writes; impacts firmware update latency |
| Endurance | 1 million write/erase cycles - supports daily reconfiguration over 27 years in field-deployed equipment |
| Data retention | >200 years - guarantees long-term integrity of stored calibration coefficients or security keys |
Pinout & Package
25AA160/SN is housed in an 8-pin narrow SOIC (150 mil) package per JEDEC MS-012, with 1.27 mm pitch and 3.91 mm × 4.90 mm body dimensions.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select input | Active-low enable: must be low for all SPI transactions; high state forces standby mode and tri-states SO |
| SO (Pin 2) | Serial Output | Push-pull output delivering read data on SCK falling edge; high-impedance when CS high or HOLD active |
| WP (Pin 3) | Write-Protect control | Hardware lock: disables Status register writes when WP low and WPEN=1; no effect on memory reads or byte writes |
| VSS (Pin 4) | Ground reference | Primary return path for all internal logic and EEPROM programming current |
| SI (Pin 5) | Serial Input | Latches instructions, addresses, and write data on SCK rising edge; sampled first after CS low |
| SCK (Pin 6) | Serial Clock input | Synchronizes all SPI transfers; rising edge clocks SI, falling edge updates SO |
| HOLD (Pin 7) | Bus suspend control | Pauses ongoing SPI sequence without reset: must be asserted while SCK is low to avoid metastability |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Supply voltage | Power source for logic and EEPROM programming; internal regulator enables operation down to 1.8 V |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 16-byte page write | Enables burst programming of up to 16 contiguous bytes per write cycle, reducing host MCU overhead vs. byte-by-byte writes |
| Block write protection | Configurable via Status register to protect none, upper 1/4 (0600h–07FFh), upper 1/2 (0400h–07FFh), or full array (0000h–07FFh) |
| HOLD pin functionality | Allows host MCU to service higher-priority interrupts mid-transaction without losing SPI state or requiring re-synchronization |
| Power-on write disable | Automatic reset of write enable latch at power-up prevents accidental writes during brown-out or reset conditions |
| ESD robustness | 4 kV HBM rating ensures reliability in handling and assembly environments without additional protection circuitry |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Node | Medical Device Calibration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing temperature-compensation coefficients and factory calibration offsets in battery-powered wireless sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration storage accessed infrequently during startup or maintenance mode via SPI. Use Value: 1.8 V operation enables direct connection to low-power MCU rails; 200-year data retention eliminates recalibration logistics in sealed enclosures. | Use Scenario: Retaining patient-specific therapy parameters and device usage logs in portable infusion pumps. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure parameter backup with hardware write protection preventing runtime corruption during power transitions. Use Value: WP pin + WPEN bit allows permanent lock of critical settings while permitting dynamic updates to operational variables in unprotected blocks. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | Smart Energy Meter |
Use Scenario: Saving seat/mirror position presets and lighting configuration profiles across ignition cycles in 12 V automotive systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI EEPROM interfaced to CAN-connected MCU for user preference persistence. Use Value: Industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and 1 M endurance support repeated reprogramming during vehicle lifetime. | Use Scenario: Archiving tariff schedules, billing history, and tamper-detection flags in utility-grade electricity meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability nonvolatile storage isolated from main processor domain via dedicated SPI bus. Use Value: 500 nA typical standby current minimizes battery drain in backup power scenarios; ESD > 4 kV withstands field installation surges. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25AA160A/SN | Enhanced revision with improved ESD (6 kV HBM), tighter AC timing specs, and updated qualification per AEC-Q100 Grade 3 | Required for new designs targeting automotive or extended-lifecycle industrial use | Select 25AA160A/SN when long-term supply assurance, enhanced reliability, or automotive qualification is mandatory |
| AT25160B-MAU-10 | Same 16 Kbit SPI EEPROM but with 2.5–5.5 V VCC range, 20 MHz max clock, and different Status register layout | Higher-speed operation suitable for high-throughput data loggers where 1 MHz is limiting | Choose AT25160B-MAU-10 only if system requires >1 MHz SPI clock or broader VCC compatibility beyond 1.8 V |
Compared with 25AA160/SN, the 25AA160A/SN offers verified automotive-grade robustness and longer product lifecycle, while the AT25160B-MAU-10 trades 1.8 V support for higher speed and alternate vendor sourcing - neither is pin- or firmware-compatible without validation.
Availability
25AA160/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, medical device calibration storage, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply across multi-year production programs.
Supply support for 25AA160/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, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 25AA160/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy SPI Serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded systems needing reliable nonvolatile storage with minimal board footprint and software overhead.
FAQ
What is the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation of the 25AA160/SN?
The 25AA160/SN operates reliably down to 1.8 V DC, making it suitable for single-cell Li-ion or coin-cell powered devices. Below this threshold, read/write functionality is not guaranteed per datasheet DS21231E specifications, and the internal voltage regulator may fail to sustain EEPROM programming voltage. Always verify VCC stability under load using decoupling capacitors near the VCC pin of the 25AA160/SN.
Does the 25AA160/SN support SPI Mode 1,1 or only Mode 0,0?
The 25AA160/SN supports SPI Mode 0,0 exclusively - meaning CPOL = 0 (clock idle low) and CPHA = 0 (data sampled on first clock edge). Attempting Mode 1,1 communication will result in misaligned bit sampling and corrupted reads/writes. This is confirmed in the "Functional Description" section of DS21231E, which specifies rising-edge sampling on SI and falling-edge output on SO.
How does the HOLD pin function during an active write cycle in the 25AA160/SN?
The HOLD pin cannot suspend an internal write cycle once initiated in the 25AA160/SN; it only pauses serial command transmission. If HOLD is asserted during a write, the device completes the ongoing 5 ms internal programming before entering hold state. During that time, the WIP bit remains set and SO stays high-impedance - no status polling or command interruption is possible until the write finishes.
Can the 25AA160/SN be used in automotive applications rated to 125°C?
No - the 25AA160/SN is specified only for industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). The 25C160/SN variant supports –40°C to +125°C, but it requires 4.5–5.5 V VCC and lacks 1.8 V compatibility. Using 25AA160/SN above +85°C violates absolute maximum ratings and risks data corruption or premature endurance failure.
What happens to the write enable latch after issuing a WRITE instruction to the 25AA160/SN?
After a successful WRITE instruction completes in the 25AA160/SN, the write enable latch is automatically reset - disabling further writes until WREN is reissued. This behavior is explicitly documented in Section 3.4 of DS21231E and prevents accidental overwrites due to noise or software errors. The WEL bit in the Status register reflects this cleared state and must be re-enabled before any subsequent write operation.
25AA160/SN Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 16Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 2K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- SPI
- Clock Frequency:
- 1 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 5ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
25AA160/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 25AA160/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 25AA160/SN on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 25AA160/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 25AA160/SN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 25AA160/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 25AA160/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 25AA160/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 25AA160/SN?
25AA160/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 25AA160/SN order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 25AA160/SN?
For technical support, including 25AA160/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 25AA160/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 25AA160/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 25AA160/SN products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 25AA160/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 25AA160/SN?
All 25AA160/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 25AA160/SN, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 25AA160/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 25AA160/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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