Microchip Technology 25C160-I/P
- Part No.:
- 25C160-I/P
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
25C160-I/P.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 16KBIT SPI 3MHZ 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,464
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Product details
Overview
25C160-I/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI Serial EEPROM with automotive-grade temperature range (−40°C to +125°C), 3 MHz max clock frequency, and 4.5–5.5 V supply. It features hardware write protection via WP pin, HOLD suspend functionality, and 16-byte page write capability. Used for nonvolatile parameter storage in engine control units and industrial sensor nodes requiring extended-temperature reliability.
For engineers reviewing the 25C160-I/P datasheet, 25C160-I/P pinout, 25C160-I/P application, or 25C160-I/P equivalent, key selection criteria include its −40°C to +125°C operation, 3 MHz SPI interface speed, 5 ms max write cycle time, and PDIP-8 package compatibility with legacy board layouts.
Technical Context
The 25C160-I/P implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, CS-controlled device selection, and SCK-synchronized data transfer. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, page latches, and a high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming.
It supports sequential read, byte/page write, status register access (RDSR/WRSR), and hardware-based block protection (BP0/BP1 bits). The HOLD pin enables mid-sequence suspension without resetting the SPI transaction, and the WP pin-when enabled via WPEN bit-blocks writes to nonvolatile status bits.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) - provides sufficient space for firmware calibration tables or configuration registers in embedded controllers |
| Interface | SPI Mode 0,0 - compatible with PIC, ARM, and STM32 microcontrollers without software bit-banging overhead |
| Max clock frequency | 3 MHz at VCC = 4.5–5.5 V - enables fast parameter reads in real-time control loops |
| Write cycle time | 5 ms maximum - defines minimum interval between successive page writes in logging applications |
| Endurance | 1 million erase/write cycles - supports >10 years of daily reconfiguration in industrial HMI systems |
| Data retention | 200+ years at 25°C - ensures long-term integrity of stored calibration coefficients across product lifetime |
| Operating temperature | −40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood automotive use and high-ambient industrial environments |
Pinout & Package
25C160-I/P is supplied in an 8-pin Plastic Dual In-line Package (PDIP) with 300 mil body width, JEDEC MS-001 compliant footprint, and through-hole mounting. Pin spacing is 0.100" (2.54 mm), row spacing 0.300–0.430", and overall length 0.360–0.385".
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select input | Active-low enable: pulls device into active mode; high-impedance SO output when deasserted for bus sharing |
| SO (Pin 2) | Serial Output | Tri-state data output synchronized to SCK falling edge; high-Z during HOLD or CS high |
| WP (Pin 3) | Write-Protect control | Hardware lock for Status register when WPEN=1; no effect on memory writes unless WPEN set |
| VSS (Pin 4) | Ground reference | Primary return path for all I/O and core logic; must be low-impedance for noise immunity |
| SI (Pin 5) | Serial Input | Latches instruction/address/data on SCK rising edge; accepts MSB-first SPI frames |
| SCK (Pin 6) | Serial Clock input | Master-generated timing signal; rising edge clocks SI, falling edge updates SO |
| HOLD (Pin 7) | Communication suspend | Pauses ongoing SPI sequence when pulled low (SCK low required); resumes on rising edge |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Supply voltage | 4.5–5.5 V only; operation outside this range invalidates AC/DC specs and endurance guarantees |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 16-byte page write | Enables burst writes within same 16-byte boundary, reducing SPI transaction count by up to 16× vs. byte-write mode |
| Block write protection | Configurable via BP0/BP1 bits to protect 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of memory - prevents accidental overwrites of critical boot parameters |
| HOLD pin functionality | Allows host MCU to service higher-priority interrupts mid-transaction without losing state or requiring reinitialization |
| Power-on write disable | Write enable latch resets at power-up, eliminating risk of spurious writes during brown-out or reset conditions |
| ESD protection | 4 kV HBM rating - meets IEC 61000-4-2 Level 2 for robustness in assembly and field handling |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Industrial PLC I/O Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing fuel trim maps, knock sensor thresholds, and adaptive learning values that persist across ignition cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration storage accessed via SPI during startup and runtime recalibration. Use Value: −40°C to +125°C rating ensures reliable operation inside engine compartments; 1 M cycle endurance supports decades of adaptive tuning. | Use Scenario: Retaining module identification, calibration offsets, and communication protocol settings after power loss. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI-configurable parameter bank used during initialization and field firmware updates. Use Value: Hardware WP pin prevents corruption during hot-swap events; 5 ms write time aligns with PLC scan cycle tolerances. |
| Medical Infusion Pump | Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) |
Use Scenario: Holding dose history logs, user preferences, and safety-critical alarm thresholds requiring regulatory traceability. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant memory for audit trail storage with write-protection enforced by WPEN/BP bits. Use Value: 200-year data retention satisfies FDA 21 CFR Part 11 long-term recordkeeping requirements; SO tri-state behavior avoids bus contention. | Use Scenario: Saving door lock states, mirror position presets, and lighting profiles across vehicle power cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power SPI EEPROM interfaced to 8-bit MCU for infrequent but persistent state capture. Use Value: 500 nA standby current minimizes battery drain in always-on modules; HOLD pin allows seamless interrupt handling during CAN message processing. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25AA160-I/P | 1.8–5.5 V supply, 1 MHz max clock, −40°C to +85°C - wider VCC range but lower speed and temp grade | Industrial-only use; unsuitable for under-hood or high-ambient environments | Select when system operates below 4.5 V or requires broader voltage tolerance at cost of speed/temp margin |
| 25LC160-I/P | 2.5–5.5 V supply, 2 MHz max clock, −40°C to +85°C - intermediate voltage/speed/temp profile | Compatible with 3.3 V systems; lacks automotive qualification | Choose for 3.3 V microcontroller designs needing faster access than 25AA160 but not requiring 125°C operation |
Compared with 25AA160-I/P and 25LC160-I/P, the 25C160-I/P uniquely supports 5.0 V systems with 3 MHz SPI throughput and full automotive temperature range, making it the only option among the three qualified for under-hood ECU use without level-shifting or derating.
Availability
25C160-I/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, industrial PLC modules, medical infusion pumps, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for 25C160-I/P 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 company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory products for embedded control applications.
The 25C160-I/P belongs to Microchip's legacy SPI Serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for reliable nonvolatile data storage in automotive and industrial systems operating at 5.0 V with extended temperature requirements.
FAQ
What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the 25C160-I/P?
The 25C160-I/P supports a maximum SPI clock frequency of 3 MHz when operated at VCC = 4.5–5.5 V. This specification is validated across the full −40°C to +125°C temperature range. At lower supply voltages or outside this VCC window, the device is not rated for 3 MHz operation per the DS21231E datasheet AC characteristics table.
Does the 25C160-I/P support page write operations, and what is the page size?
Yes, the 25C160-I/P supports page write operations with a fixed page size of 16 bytes. Writes must remain within the same page boundary (addresses ending in 0000–1111 binary); crossing a page boundary during a multi-byte write causes rollover and potential data overwrite. This behavior is documented in Section 3.3 of the DS21231E datasheet.
How does the HOLD pin function on the 25C160-I/P during an active SPI transaction?
The HOLD pin on the 25C160-I/P suspends an ongoing SPI sequence when pulled low while SCK is low. During HOLD, SI, SCK, and SO enter high-impedance states and ignore input transitions except CS. Communication resumes upon returning HOLD high while SCK remains low. This behavior is defined in Section 2.6 and Figure 1-1 of the DS21231E datasheet.
What is the purpose of the WP pin on the 25C160-I/P, and how is it enabled?
The WP pin on the 25C160-I/P disables writes to nonvolatile bits in the Status register when WP is low and the WPEN bit is set high. WPEN is a nonvolatile bit programmed via WRSR instruction. If WPEN = 0, the WP pin has no effect. This two-level protection mechanism is detailed in Sections 2.3 and 3.6 of the DS21231E datasheet.
Is the 25C160-I/P pin-compatible with other members of the 25XX160 family?
Yes, the 25C160-I/P shares identical pinout, package dimensions, and SPI interface protocol with 25AA160-I/P and 25LC160-I/P in PDIP-8 packaging. All three use the same CS/SO/WP/VSS/SI/SCK/HOLD/VCC pin assignments and functional timing, enabling direct PCB footprint reuse across voltage/speed variants.
25C160-I/P Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- 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:
- 3 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 5ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
25C160-I/P FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 25C160-I/P through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 25C160-I/P 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 25C160-I/P reliable?
The price and inventory of 25C160-I/P are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 25C160-I/P is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 25C160-I/P?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 25C160-I/P transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 25C160-I/P?
25C160-I/P orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 25C160-I/P 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 25C160-I/P?
For technical support, including 25C160-I/P datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 25C160-I/P requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 25C160-I/P is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 25C160-I/P 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 25C160-I/P meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 25C160-I/P?
All 25C160-I/P units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 25C160-I/P, 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 25C160-I/P part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 25C160-I/P:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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