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Home > Products > Integrated Circuits (ICs) > Memory > Memory

Microchip Technology 25C160-I/SN

Name: 25C160-I/SN
Brand: Microchip Technology
SKU: 25C160-I/SN
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

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Part No.:: 25C160-I/SN

Manufacturer:: Microchip Technology

Category:: Memory

Package:: 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)

Datasheet:: 25C160-I/SN.pdf

Description:: IC EEPROM 16KBIT SPI 3MHZ 8SOIC

Quantity:: RFQ Add To RFQ list

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Product details

Overview

25C160-I/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI Serial EEPROM with automotive-grade temperature support (−40°C to +125°C), 3 MHz max clock frequency, 5 ms max write cycle time, and hardware write protection via WP pin. It serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in engine control units, battery management systems, and industrial sensor nodes requiring long-term data retention.

For engineers reviewing the 25C160-I/SN datasheet, 25C160-I/SN pinout, 25C160-I/SN application, or 25C160-I/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include V_CC range (4.5–5.5 V), endurance (1 M cycles), data retention (>200 years), and SOIC-8 packaging compatibility with legacy 5 V SPI bus designs.

Technical Context

The 25C160-I/SN implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, CS-controlled device selection, and HOLD pin for transaction suspension without reset. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, page latches for 16-byte writes, and a status register with WIP, WEL, BP0/BP1, and WPEN bits.

Write operations require explicit WREN instruction before WRITE, followed by CS high to initiate self-timed internal erase/write. Block protection supports four configurations (none, upper 1/4, upper 1/2, or full array), and hardware write protection engages only when WP = low and WPEN = 1 - enabling selective locking of critical calibration or safety parameters.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
Memory size	16 Kbit (2048 × 8) - sufficient for firmware boot flags, sensor calibration tables, and fault logs in compact embedded systems
Interface	SPI Mode 0,0 - compatible with PIC, ARM Cortex-M, and STM32 microcontrollers without software bit-banging overhead
V_CC range	4.5–5.5 V - matches standard 5 V logic rails and automotive supply domains with minimal regulation
Max clock frequency	3 MHz at V_CC = 4.5–5.5 V - enables ~384 KB/s burst read throughput for rapid parameter loading
Write cycle time	5 ms max - deterministic latency for critical save-on-exit operations in safety-critical subsystems
Endurance & retention	1 M write cycles / >200 years data retention - validated for lifetime logging in automotive ECUs and industrial controllers
ESD protection	>4000 V HBM - robust against handling and board-level transients in manufacturing and field service

Pinout & Package

25C160-I/SN is housed in an 8-pin narrow SOIC (SN) package per JEDEC MS-012, 150 mil body width, with gull-wing leads and 1.27 mm pitch. Pin 1 is marked with a beveled corner or dot.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
CS	Chip Select Input	Active-low enable; forces SO into high-impedance when deasserted, allowing multi-device SPI bus sharing
SO	Serial Data Output	Tri-state output updated on SCK falling edge; requires external pull-up for open-drain compatibility
WP	Write-Protect Control	Hardware lock for Status register nonvolatile bits when WPEN = 1; no effect if WPEN = 0
VSS	Ground Reference	Primary return path for all I/O and core logic; must be low-inductance connection to minimize noise coupling
SI	Serial Data Input	Latches data on SCK rising edge; accepts instruction, address, and payload bytes in MSB-first order
SCK	Serial Clock Input	Synchronizes all transfers; timing constraints require min 150 ns high/low time at 3 MHz
HOLD	Transaction Pause	Halts ongoing SPI sequence when pulled low during SCK low; resumes on rising edge of HOLD with SCK low
VCC	Supply Voltage	4.5–5.5 V input; internal voltage regulator ensures stable EEPROM operation across rail variation

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
16-byte page write	Enables efficient bulk parameter updates within single write cycle - avoids 2048 individual byte writes
Block write protection	Four configurable protection levels (none/1/4/1/2/all) let designers lock bootloader sectors while permitting runtime config edits
Power-on data protection	Automatic WEL reset at power-up prevents accidental writes during brown-out or cold-start conditions
HOLD pin functionality	Allows host MCU to service higher-priority interrupts mid-transfer without losing SPI state or reinitializing sequence
Automotive temperature grade	Rated −40°C to +125°C ambient - qualified for under-hood and battery-pack environments without derating

Applications

Engine Control Unit (ECU)	Battery Management System (BMS)
Use Scenario: Storing fuel map coefficients, ignition timing offsets, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that persist across vehicle shutdown. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration and event logging storage interfaced directly to the ECU's SPI master controller. Use Value: 1 M endurance supports 10+ years of daily DTC logging; >200-year retention guarantees calibration integrity over vehicle lifetime.	Use Scenario: Recording cell voltage history, thermal profiles, and SOC calibration data in lithium-ion packs for EVs and energy storage. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dedicated SPI EEPROM for black-box telemetry, isolated from main BMS MCU flash to avoid wear leveling conflicts. Use Value: Hardware WP pin locks critical safety thresholds; 125°C rating ensures reliability near hot battery cells.
Industrial PLC I/O Module	Medical Infusion Pump
Use Scenario: Holding module identification, calibration constants, and user-defined I/O mapping tables in modular automation hardware. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Configuration memory accessed during power-up and firmware update handshake sequences. Use Value: 3 MHz SPI speed enables fast module enumeration; SOIC-8 footprint simplifies PCB layout in space-constrained DIN-rail enclosures.	Use Scenario: Storing drug library metadata, dose limits, and audit trail timestamps in Class II medical devices requiring traceable parameter history. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant storage for FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant operational logs. Use Value: Write-protection granularity allows locking drug definitions while permitting editable admin settings; >4 kV ESD withstand meets IEC 60601-1 ESD immunity requirements.

Engine Control Unit (ECU)

Battery Management System (BMS)

Use Scenario: Storing fuel map coefficients, ignition timing offsets, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that persist across vehicle shutdown.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration and event logging storage interfaced directly to the ECU's SPI master controller.

Use Value: 1 M endurance supports 10+ years of daily DTC logging; >200-year retention guarantees calibration integrity over vehicle lifetime.

Use Scenario: Recording cell voltage history, thermal profiles, and SOC calibration data in lithium-ion packs for EVs and energy storage.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dedicated SPI EEPROM for black-box telemetry, isolated from main BMS MCU flash to avoid wear leveling conflicts.

Use Value: Hardware WP pin locks critical safety thresholds; 125°C rating ensures reliability near hot battery cells.

Industrial PLC I/O Module

Medical Infusion Pump

Use Scenario: Holding module identification, calibration constants, and user-defined I/O mapping tables in modular automation hardware.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Configuration memory accessed during power-up and firmware update handshake sequences.

Use Value: 3 MHz SPI speed enables fast module enumeration; SOIC-8 footprint simplifies PCB layout in space-constrained DIN-rail enclosures.

Use Scenario: Storing drug library metadata, dose limits, and audit trail timestamps in Class II medical devices requiring traceable parameter history.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant storage for FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant operational logs.

Use Value: Write-protection granularity allows locking drug definitions while permitting editable admin settings; >4 kV ESD withstand meets IEC 60601-1 ESD immunity requirements.

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/SN	1.8–5.5 V V_CC, 1 MHz max clock, industrial temp only (−40°C to +85°C)	Broader voltage range suits mixed-signal 3.3 V systems; lower speed acceptable for non-real-time logging	Select when operating below 4.5 V or where extended temperature is not required
25LC160-I/SN	2.5–5.5 V V_CC, 2 MHz max clock, industrial temp only	Optimized for 3.3 V microcontroller interfaces; faster than 25AA160 but slower than 25C160	Choose for 3.3 V SPI buses needing better speed than 25AA160 but no automotive temp grade

Compared with 25AA160-I/SN and 25LC160-I/SN, the 25C160-I/SN delivers highest clock speed (3 MHz) and widest temperature range (−40°C to +125°C), making it the sole choice for 5 V automotive and high-reliability industrial applications where both performance and environmental robustness are mandatory.

Availability

25C160-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, battery management systems, and industrial PLC modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 25C160-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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory products for embedded control applications.

The 25C160 belongs to Microchip's legacy SPI Serial EEPROM family designed for cost-sensitive, high-reliability nonvolatile storage in automotive, industrial, and medical systems where 5 V operation and extended temperature compliance are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25C160-I/SN?

The 25C160-I/SN supports a maximum clock frequency of 3 MHz when operated within its specified V_CC range of 4.5–5.5 V. This value is confirmed in the Device Selection Table and AC Characteristics section of the DS21231E datasheet. At lower supply voltages, the maximum clock rate decreases - e.g., 2 MHz at 2.5–4.5 V - but those conditions do not apply to the 25C160-I/SN, which is rated exclusively for 4.5–5.5 V operation. The 25C160-I/SN achieves this speed while maintaining full timing compliance for setup, hold, and propagation delays.

Does the 25C160-I/SN support hardware write protection?

Yes, the 25C160-I/SN supports hardware write protection via the WP pin in conjunction with the WPEN bit in the Status register. When WPEN = 1 and WP = low, writes to nonvolatile bits in the Status register are disabled - protecting critical configuration such as block protection settings. This feature is explicitly documented in Section 2.3 and Table 3-3 of the DS21231E datasheet. The 25C160-I/SN implements this function identically to other members of the 25XX160 family, with no functional deviation.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 25C160-I/SN?

The 25C160-I/SN is specified for 1 million write/erase cycles and greater than 200 years of data retention at rated temperature. These values are listed in the Features section (DS21231E-page 1) and confirmed in AC Characteristic Note 2 (DS21231E-page 3). Endurance is ensured by characterization, not 100% tested, and applies across the full automotive temperature range (−40°C to +125°C). The 25C160-I/SN meets these specs without derating, making it suitable for long-life automotive and industrial deployments.

Can the 25C160-I/SN be used in a 3.3 V system?

No, the 25C160-I/SN is not rated for 3.3 V operation. Its absolute minimum V_CC is 4.5 V, as defined in the Device Selection Table (DS21231E-page 1) and Electrical Characteristics (DS21231E-page 2). Attempting to operate the 25C160-I/SN below 4.5 V may result in unreliable reads, failed writes, or undefined behavior. For 3.3 V systems, engineers should select the 25LC160-I/SN (2.5–5.5 V) or 25AA160-I/SN (1.8–5.5 V) instead - both pin-compatible alternatives with verified 3.3 V functionality.

What package type does the 25C160-I/SN use?

The 25C160-I/SN uses an 8-pin narrow SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package, designated "SN" in Microchip's part numbering system. This is confirmed in the Product Identification System section (DS21231E-page 19) and Packaging Information (DS21231E-page 14), which specifies JEDEC MS-012 compliance, 150 mil body width, and 1.27 mm lead pitch. The "I/SN" suffix explicitly denotes Industrial temperature grade in SOIC packaging - distinct from PDIP ("P") or tape-and-reel ("T") variants.

25C160-I/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:: 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:: Surface Mount

Supplier Device Package:: 8-SOIC

25C160-I/SN FAQ

1.How can I place an order for 25C160-I/SN through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 25C160-I/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 25C160-I/SN reliable?

The price and inventory of 25C160-I/SN 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/SN is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for 25C160-I/SN?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 25C160-I/SN transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for 25C160-I/SN?

25C160-I/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your 25C160-I/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 25C160-I/SN?

For technical support, including 25C160-I/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 25C160-I/SN requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that 25C160-I/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All 25C160-I/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 25C160-I/SN meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of 25C160-I/SN?

All 25C160-I/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 25C160-I/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 25C160-I/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for 25C160-I/SN:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.

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