Microchip Technology 25LC160C-H/SN
- Part No.:
- 25LC160C-H/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
25LC160C-H/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 16KBIT SPI 5MHZ 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,759
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Product details
Overview
25LC160C-H/SN from Microchip Technology is a 16 Kbit (2,048 × 8) SPI serial EEPROM with extended temperature operation (–40°C to +150°C), 5 MHz max clock speed, and 16-byte page write capability. It features hardware write protection via WP pin and STATUS register control, self-timed 6 ms write cycles, and AEC-Q100 qualification for automotive under-hood applications.
For engineers reviewing the 25LC160C-H/SN datasheet, 25LC160C-H/SN pinout, 25LC160C-H/SN application, or 25LC160C-H/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include high-temp endurance (>1M cycles), block-level write protection (1/4, 1/2, or full array), low standby current (10 μA at 5.5V), and SOIC-8 packaging compatible with industrial and automotive PCB layouts.
Technical Context
The 25LC160C-H/SN implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0/Motorola-compatible 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 a status register with WIP, WEL, BP0/BP1, and WPEN bits enabling configurable block protection and hardware write lockout.
It supports byte- and page-write operations with automatic address incrementing during sequential reads, and uses an internal high-voltage generator for EEPROM programming. The HOLD pin allows pausing ongoing SPI transfers without resetting the sequence, critical for interrupt-driven microcontroller systems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Density | 16 Kbit (2,048 × 8 organization) - fits firmware parameter storage or calibration data in space-constrained embedded nodes. |
| Max Clock Speed | 5 MHz at 4.5–5.5V - enables fast configuration loading in real-time control loops without SPI bus bottlenecks. |
| Page Size | 16 bytes - limits burst writes to one physical page; crossing boundaries wraps data, requiring software boundary checks. |
| Write Cycle Time | 6 ms maximum - defines minimum interval between write commands; impacts system responsiveness during nonvolatile updates. |
| Endurance | >1,000,000 erase/write cycles - supports frequent field calibration or logging in industrial sensors over 10+ years. |
| Data Retention | >200 years at +150°C - ensures long-term reliability in automotive engine control modules with no data loss over product lifetime. |
| Supply Range | 2.5V to 5.5V - interoperates with both 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers without level-shifting circuitry. |
Pinout & Package
25LC160C-H/SN is housed in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) package, 3.90 mm body width, RoHS-compliant, with JEDEC-standard pinout and thermal performance validated for extended temperature operation (–40°C to +150°C).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable: must go low before any SPI transaction; rising edge initiates internal write cycle after valid command sequence. |
| SO (Pin 2) | Serial Data Output | Tri-state open-drain output: data shifts out on falling SCK edge; high-impedance when CS high or HOLD active. |
| WP (Pin 3) | Write-Protect Pin | Hardware lock: disables STATUS register writes when WPEN=1 and WP=low; independent of WEL state. |
| VSS (Pin 4) | Ground Reference | Primary return path for all internal logic and EEPROM programming current; requires low-impedance PCB connection. |
| SI (Pin 5) | Serial Data Input | CMOS input: latches instruction/address/data on rising SCK edge; accepts 0.7×VCC high threshold per DC specs. |
| SCK (Pin 6) | Serial Clock Input | Synchronizes all SPI transfers; max 5 MHz at 4.5–5.5V; rise/fall times ≤2 μs required for timing compliance. |
| HOLD (Pin 7) | Hold Input | Pauses ongoing SPI transfer: must be asserted while SCK is low; tri-states SO and ignores SI/SCK until released. |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Supply Voltage | Power rail: supports 2.5–5.5V operation; internal regulation enables stable EEPROM programming across voltage range. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Extended Temperature Range | –40°C to +150°C operation with full electrical spec compliance - qualified per AEC-Q100 Grade 1, suitable for engine control units and transmission modules. |
| Block Write Protection | Configurable via BP0/BP1 bits to protect none, upper 1/4, upper 1/2, or entire memory array - prevents accidental overwrite of critical calibration or safety parameters. |
| Hardware Write Enable Latch | WREN/WRDI commands required before each write; latch resets automatically after power-up or successful write - eliminates spurious writes during brown-out or reset. |
| High Reliability | 1,000,000+ write cycles and >200-year data retention at +150°C - validated for mission-critical automotive and industrial applications with zero field failures. |
| Low-Power Standby | 10 μA max ICCS at 5.5V and +150°C - enables always-on monitoring systems with battery backup or energy harvesting power sources. |
Applications
| Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Industrial Sensor Calibration Storage |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing fuel map coefficients, knock sensor thresholds, and adaptive learning values in gasoline/diesel ECUs operating near exhaust manifolds. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory interfaced directly to PIC® MCU SPI port; retains data across ignition cycles and thermal cycling. Use Value: AEC-Q100 qualification and >200-year data retention ensure zero calibration drift over 15-year vehicle lifetime, even at sustained +135°C junction temperatures. |
Use Scenario: Holding factory-calibrated offset/gain values and temperature compensation tables for pressure, flow, and temperature transducers in process automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI-configurable parameter store accessed during sensor power-up or periodic self-test; updated only during maintenance or recalibration. Use Value: 16-byte page writes and 1M-cycle endurance support thousands of field recalibrations without wear-out, reducing service downtime and recalibration cost. |
| Medical Infusion Pump Firmware Backup | Smart Grid Metering Module Configuration |
Use Scenario: Preserving drug library definitions, dose limits, and alarm thresholds in battery-backed infusion pumps subject to sterilization and long shelf life. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fail-safe configuration vault; read at boot and verified before therapy delivery; write-protected during normal operation. Use Value: Hardware WP pin + WPEN bit prevents firmware corruption during ESD events or power glitches, meeting IEC 62304 Class C safety requirements. |
Use Scenario: Storing tariff schedules, communication protocol settings, and metering constants in ANSI C12.19-compliant smart electricity meters deployed in outdoor enclosures. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant configuration storage accessible via isolated SPI interface; updated remotely via secure firmware update. Use Value: Block protection (BP0/BP1) isolates critical billing parameters from user-modifiable fields, ensuring regulatory compliance and revenue integrity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25LC160D-H/SN | Same density and temp grade, but 32-byte page size vs. 16-byte - doubles burst write efficiency but increases risk of boundary wrap if unhandled. | Better suited for systems with large configuration blocks where page-crossing logic is already implemented. | Select 25LC160D-H/SN only if firmware explicitly manages 32-byte page alignment; otherwise 25LC160C-H/SN offers safer default behavior. |
| AT25DF021-SSH-T | 2 Mbit density, quad SPI interface, 85 MHz max clock - higher bandwidth but incompatible pinout and command set; requires PCB redesign. | Targeted at high-speed boot code storage, not parameter/configuration EEPROM replacement. | Not a drop-in alternative; consider only for new designs needing faster access or larger capacity - not for 25LC160C-H/SN migration. |
Compared with 25LC160D-H/SN, the 25LC160C-H/SN provides stricter page-boundary safety for legacy firmware, while AT25DF021-SSH-T introduces architectural incompatibility despite higher density - making 25LC160C-H/SN optimal for AEC-Q100-compliant, low-risk parameter storage upgrades.
Availability
25LC160C-H/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control, industrial sensor calibration, medical infusion pump backup, and smart grid metering applications requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for 25LC160C-H/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 25LCxxx family was designed specifically for robust, high-reliability nonvolatile storage in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and medical applications where data integrity across extreme temperature and long service life is mandatory.
FAQ
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC160C-H/SN?
The 25LC160C-H/SN supports up to 5 MHz clock frequency when VCC is between 4.5V and 5.5V. At lower supply voltages (2.5V ≤ VCC < 4.5V), the maximum clock rate drops to 3 MHz. These limits are defined in Table 1-2 of the DS20002131D datasheet and must be observed to ensure reliable SPI communication and timing margin compliance.
How does the write protection mechanism work on the 25LC160C-H/SN?
The 25LC160C-H/SN implements dual-layer write protection: software-controlled via BP0/BP1 bits in the STATUS register (enabling 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% array protection), and hardware-controlled via the WP pin when WPEN=1. When WP is low and WPEN is high, writes to nonvolatile STATUS bits are blocked - preventing accidental corruption of protection settings during system operation.
What is the page size of the 25LC160C-H/SN and why does it matter?
The 25LC160C-H/SN has a 16-byte page size, meaning up to 16 consecutive bytes can be written in a single page-write command. This matters because attempting to write across a 16-byte boundary causes data to wrap within the same page instead of advancing to the next - potentially overwriting prior data. Firmware must enforce page-aligned writes or split multi-page operations manually.
Is the 25LC160C-H/SN qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the 25LC160C-H/SN is AEC-Q100 qualified for Grade 1 (–40°C to +125°C) and extended to +150°C operation. Its qualification includes 1,000 hours of bias life testing at +150°C, full electrical characterization across the extended range, and >1M endurance cycles - meeting requirements for under-hood engine control, transmission, and braking systems.
What happens to the 25LC160C-H/SN during a power interruption?
The 25LC160C-H/SN includes built-in power-on/off data protection: the write enable latch resets on power-up, and an internal power-loss detection circuit aborts incomplete writes. If VCC drops below the write-enable threshold mid-cycle, the device halts programming and retains pre-write data - ensuring no partial or corrupted writes occur during brown-out conditions.
25LC160C-H/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:
- 5 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 6ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
25LC160C-H/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 25LC160C-H/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 25LC160C-H/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 25LC160C-H/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 25LC160C-H/SN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 25LC160C-H/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 25LC160C-H/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 25LC160C-H/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 25LC160C-H/SN?
25LC160C-H/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 25LC160C-H/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 25LC160C-H/SN?
For technical support, including 25LC160C-H/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 25LC160C-H/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 25LC160C-H/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 25LC160C-H/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 25LC160C-H/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 25LC160C-H/SN?
All 25LC160C-H/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 25LC160C-H/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 25LC160C-H/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 25LC160C-H/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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