Microchip Technology 25LC160A-E/SN
- Part No.:
- 25LC160A-E/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
25LC160A-E/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 16KBIT SPI 10MHZ 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,430
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Product details
Overview
25LC160A-E/SN from Microchip Technology is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI Serial EEPROM with 16-byte page size, 10 MHz max clock frequency, and industrial-temperature operation (–40°C to +85°C). It features hardware write protection via WP pin, HOLD functionality for bus arbitration, and block-level array protection (none/1/4/1/2/all). Used in microcontroller-based systems for configuration storage, calibration data retention, and firmware parameter backup.
For engineers reviewing the 25LC160A-E/SN datasheet, 25LC160A-E/SN pinout, 25LC160A-E/SN application, or 25LC160A-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range (2.5–5.5 V), page-write capability (16 bytes), endurance (1,000,000 cycles), data retention (>200 years), and SOIC-8 (SN) package compatibility with standard SPI host interfaces.
Technical Context
The 25LC160A-E/SN implements a full 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 an 8-bit instruction register, page latches, and high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming.
Write operations require explicit WREN instruction before WRITE, followed by CS high to trigger self-timed internal write cycle (≤5 ms). The STATUS register provides real-time WIP, WEL, BP0/BP1, and WPEN status, readable even during active writes-enabling robust host-side polling and fault recovery.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 16 Kbit (2048 × 8 bits), organized as 2048 addressable bytes |
| Interface | SPI-compatible serial bus (Mode 0,0), with dedicated SI/SO pins and CS/SCK control |
| Page Size | 16-byte page buffer - limits contiguous writes to single physical page boundaries (0000h–000Fh, 0010h–001Fh, etc.) |
| Max Clock Frequency | 10 MHz at VCC ≥ 4.5 V; supports 5 MHz down to 2.5 V, enabling flexible host timing design |
| Write Cycle Time | ≤5 ms self-timed internal erase/write - eliminates need for external timeout logic |
| Endurance & Retention | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles; >200 years data retention at 85°C - suitable for long-life industrial deployments |
| VCC Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - interoperable with 3.3 V and 5 V microcontrollers without level shifting |
Pinout & Package
25LC160A-E/SN is packaged in 8-lead SOIC (SN), with 1.27 mm pitch, body size 4.9 × 3.9 mm, and RoHS-compliant matte tin finish.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable - selects device on SPI bus; rising edge initiates internal write after valid sequence |
| SO (Pin 2) | Serial Data Output | Tri-state open-drain output - shifts out read data on SCK falling edge; high-Z when deselected or during HOLD |
| WP (Pin 3) | Write-Protect Pin | Hardware lock - disables STATUS register writes when WPEN=1 and WP=low; no effect on memory reads or byte writes |
| VSS (Pin 4) | Ground Reference | Primary return path for all I/O and core logic - must be low-impedance connection to system GND plane |
| SI (Pin 5) | Serial Data Input | CMOS input - latches instructions, addresses, and write data on SCK rising edge |
| SCK (Pin 6) | Serial Clock Input | Master-generated clock - defines timing for all SI sampling and SO updates; max 10 MHz |
| HOLD (Pin 7) | Hold Input | Bus pause control - suspends ongoing SPI transaction (SI/SO tri-stated) while preserving internal state; requires SCK=low to assert |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Supply Voltage | Core power rail - powers EEPROM array, logic, and HV generator; bypass capacitor (0.1 µF) required near pin |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Block Write Protection | Selectable via STATUS register: protect none, upper 1/4 (0600h–07FFh), upper 1/2 (0400h–07FFh), or entire array (0000h–07FFh) |
| Power-On Write Protection | Write enable latch resets at power-up - prevents accidental writes during supply ramp or brownout |
| HOLD Functionality | Pauses active SPI transfer without losing position - enables host CPU to service higher-priority interrupts then resume seamlessly |
| ESD Robustness | ≥4 kV HBM on all pins - reduces susceptibility to handling damage and board-level ESD events |
| Low-Power Standby | ≤1 µA ICCS at 2.5 V - minimizes quiescent current in battery-powered or energy-sensitive applications |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration | Consumer Appliance Configuration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing factory-calibrated sensor offset/gain coefficients and temperature compensation tables in HVAC controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration store accessed infrequently at startup or maintenance mode via SPI. Use Value: Ensures measurement accuracy across product lifetime using 1M-cycle endurance and >200-year data retention. |
Use Scenario: Saving user preferences (e.g., cooking time, temperature presets, language) in smart ovens and washing machines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parameter EEPROM interfaced to MCU during UI initialization or button-press event handling. Use Value: Enables reliable recall of settings after power loss, leveraging hardware WP pin to prevent corruption during brownout. |
| Medical Device Audit Logs | Automotive Body Control Module |
Use Scenario: Recording timestamped operational events (e.g., door open/close, alarm triggers) in portable diagnostic equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Sequential log buffer written in small increments using page-write optimization. Use Value: Supports deterministic ≤5 ms write latency and immunity to power interruption via self-timed erase/write cycle. |
Use Scenario: Storing vehicle-specific configuration (e.g., mirror position, seat memory, lighting profiles) in BCMs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI-connected nonvolatile memory accessed during ignition-on initialization and runtime updates. Use Value: Meets automotive-grade reliability with –40°C to +85°C operation, 2.5–5.5 V VCC range, and built-in power-on write disable. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar SPI Serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25AA160A-I/SN | Wider VCC range (1.8–5.5 V); identical 16-byte page, 1M endurance, and SOIC-8 package | Supports 1.8 V logic systems (e.g., ultra-low-power MCUs); not rated for extended temperature | Select when operating below 2.5 V or requiring broader voltage margin; avoid if automotive or extended-temp use case |
| AT25160B-SSHL-T | Same 16 Kbit size and SOIC-8 package; 5 MHz max clock; 100-year retention; no HOLD pin | Lacks HOLD functionality and has lower clock speed - limits bus arbitration flexibility and throughput | Choose for cost-sensitive designs where HOLD is unused and 5 MHz SPI suffices; verify absence of HOLD does not impact interrupt latency requirements |
Compared with 25LC160A-E/SN, 25AA160A-I/SN extends voltage compatibility downward but sacrifices temperature rating, while AT25160B-SSHL-T reduces feature set (no HOLD) and performance (5 MHz) to meet lower-cost targets - both require validation of WPEN/WP interaction and block protection behavior in target firmware.
Availability
25LC160A-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, consumer appliance configuration, medical audit logging, and automotive body control module applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for 25LC160A-E/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, FPGA, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 25LC160A-E/SN belongs to Microchip's 25XX160A/B SPI EEPROM family, designed specifically for reliable, low-pin-count nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems requiring SPI interface simplicity and proven EEPROM endurance.
FAQ
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC160A-E/SN?
The 25LC160A-E/SN supports up to 10 MHz SPI clock frequency when VCC is 4.5 V to 5.5 V. At 2.5 V ≤ VCC < 4.5 V, the maximum clock drops to 5 MHz. This graded timing ensures reliable operation across its full 2.5–5.5 V supply range. The 25LC160A-E/SN datasheet specifies AC characteristics including setup/hold times and clock pulse widths for each voltage band.
Does the 25LC160A-E/SN support page writes, and what is the page size?
Yes, the 25LC160A-E/SN supports page writes with a fixed 16-byte page size - characteristic of the 'A' version in the 25XX160A/B family. Page writes allow up to 16 contiguous bytes to be loaded before triggering the internal write cycle. Crossing a 16-byte boundary wraps data to the start of the same page, so firmware must enforce alignment.
How does hardware write protection work on the 25LC160A-E/SN?
Hardware write protection on the 25LC160A-E/SN requires both the WP pin (Pin 3) to be low AND the WPEN bit (bit 7 of STATUS register) to be set high. When enabled, this combination blocks writes to the nonvolatile STATUS register bits (BP0, BP1, WPEN) but permits normal memory reads and writes. The 25LC160A-E/SN retains this setting across power cycles.
What is the purpose of the HOLD pin on the 25LC160A-E/SN?
The HOLD pin (Pin 7) on the 25LC160A-E/SN pauses an ongoing SPI transaction without resetting the internal state. When asserted low (with SCK low), SI, SO, and SCK are tri-stated, allowing the host MCU to service urgent interrupts. Resuming requires bringing HOLD high while SCK remains low - the 25LC160A-E/SN then continues from the exact bit position where it paused.
What temperature range is specified for the 25LC160A-E/SN?
The 25LC160A-E/SN is rated for the Industrial temperature range: –40°C to +85°C. This is indicated by the 'I' suffix in the full part number 25LC160A-I/SN - the 'E' in the query appears to be a misreading; official Microchip documentation confirms 'I' for Industrial and 'E' only for automotive-grade variants like 25LC160A-E/P. The 25LC160A-E/SN does not exist - correct designation is 25LC160A-I/SN.
25LC160A-E/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:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 16Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 2K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- SPI
- Clock Frequency:
- 10 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 5ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
25LC160A-E/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 25LC160A-E/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 25LC160A-E/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 25LC160A-E/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 25LC160A-E/SN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 25LC160A-E/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 25LC160A-E/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 25LC160A-E/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 25LC160A-E/SN?
25LC160A-E/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 25LC160A-E/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 25LC160A-E/SN?
For technical support, including 25LC160A-E/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 25LC160A-E/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 25LC160A-E/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 25LC160A-E/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 25LC160A-E/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 25LC160A-E/SN?
All 25LC160A-E/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 25LC160A-E/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 25LC160A-E/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 25LC160A-E/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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