Microchip Technology 25LC160A-I/P

Overview

25LC160A-I/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI Serial EEPROM with 16-byte page write capability, 2.5–5.5 V supply range, and industrial temperature rating (–40°C to +85°C). It features hardware write protection via WP pin, HOLD functionality for bus arbitration, and self-timed 5 ms max write cycles. Used in embedded systems for firmware storage, calibration data retention, and configuration parameter backup.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC160A-I/P datasheet, 25LC160A-I/P pinout, 25LC160A-I/P application, or 25LC160A-I/P equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, SPI timing constraints, package-confirmed pin functions, endurance/reliability metrics, and real-world use-case implementation guidance - all specific to the 25LC160A-I/P variant in PDIP packaging.

Technical Context

The 25LC160A-I/P implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface (CPOL = 0, CPHA = 0) with separate SI/SO lines and CS-controlled selection. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, page latches, HV generator for EEPROM programming, and status register with WIP, WEL, BP0/BP1, and WPEN bits.

Write operations require explicit WREN instruction followed by CS high-to-low transition to initiate internal 5 ms erase/write cycle; reads support sequential addressing with automatic address rollover at 07FFh. Block protection is configurable to lock none, upper 1/4, upper 1/2, or entire memory array via STATUS register bits.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC160A-I/P is supplied in an 8-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package) with 0.3 inch body width, RoHS-compliant matte tin lead finish, and standard through-hole mounting.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25LC160A-I/P, the 25AA160A-I/P extends voltage flexibility downward to 1.8 V but retains identical timing and endurance, while the 25LC160B-I/P doubles page capacity to reduce write latency for multi-byte updates - both share the same PDIP footprint and SPI command set.

Availability

25LC160A-I/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, medical device configuration, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for 25LC160A-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 leading provider of microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 25LC160A-I/P belongs to Microchip's 25XX160A/B family of SPI Serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, pin-efficient nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the 25LC160A-I/P?

The 25LC160A-I/P 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 values are specified in Table 1-2 of DS21807D and define the upper limit for reliable read/write timing margins under respective supply conditions. The 25LC160A-I/P must be operated within these AC characteristics to ensure data integrity.

Does the 25LC160A-I/P support hardware write protection, and how is it configured?

Yes, the 25LC160A-I/P supports hardware write protection using the WP pin in conjunction with the WPEN bit in its STATUS register. When WP is low and WPEN = 1, writes to nonvolatile STATUS bits are disabled. This configuration is set via WRSR instruction and persists across power cycles. The 25LC160A-I/P allows full array or partial block protection (upper 1/4 or 1/2) independent of WP pin state.

What is the page size of the 25LC160A-I/P, and why does it matter for write operations?

The 25LC160A-I/P has a fixed 16-byte page size. During page write mode, up to 16 bytes can be loaded before initiating the internal 5 ms write cycle - but all bytes must reside within the same physical page (e.g., addresses 0000h–000Fh). Crossing a page boundary causes wraparound, overwriting earlier bytes in the page. This constraint directly impacts firmware update logic and buffer management in host firmware for the 25LC160A-I/P.

How does the HOLD pin function on the 25LC160A-I/P, and what are its timing requirements?

The HOLD pin on the 25LC160A-I/P suspends ongoing SPI communication without resetting the internal state. It must be asserted while SCK is low to avoid metastability; once active, SI/SO/SCK inputs are ignored except CS. Resuming requires HOLD high while SCK is low. Minimum HOLD setup/hold times are 20–80 ns depending on VCC, per Table 1-2 in DS21807D - critical for deterministic interrupt response in real-time systems using the 25LC160A-I/P.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 25LC160A-I/P?

The 25LC160A-I/P guarantees 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and greater than 200 years of data retention at +85°C ambient temperature. These figures are validated per JEDEC standards and reflect actual measured performance - not extrapolated estimates. The 25LC160A-I/P maintains these specifications across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and rated VCC range (2.5–5.5 V).