Microchip Technology 25LC160CT-E/MNY

Overview

25LC160CT-E/MNY from Microchip Technology is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI Serial EEPROM with 16-byte page write capability, 10 MHz max clock frequency, and automotive-grade temperature support (–40°C to +125°C). It operates from 2.5V to 5.5V, features hardware write protection via WP pin and STATUS register, and delivers >1 million erase/write cycles with >200 years data retention - used in engine control units, ADAS sensor modules, and automotive infotainment firmware storage.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC160CT-E/MNY datasheet, 25LC160CT-E/MNY pinout, 25LC160CT-E/MNY application, or 25LC160CT-E/MNY equivalent, key selection criteria include its TDFN-8 (2×3 mm) package, automotive qualification (E-temp), 16-byte page size (C-version), HOLD/CS/SO/SI/SCK/WP/VSS/VCC interface compatibility, and block-level write protection (BP0/BP1 bits).

Technical Context

The 25LC160CT-E/MNY implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 or Mode 1,1 serial 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, HV generator for EEPROM programming, and status register with WIP, WEL, BP0, BP1, and WPEN bits.

Write operations require explicit WREN instruction before WRITE, and CS must go high after final data bit to trigger the self-timed 5 ms internal write cycle. The HOLD pin suspends ongoing SPI transfers without resetting the sequence, enabling host interrupt servicing while preserving transaction state.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC160CT-E/MNY is housed in an 8-lead 2×3 mm TDFN (Thin Dual Flat No-lead) package with wettable flanks, RoHS-compliant matte tin finish, and thermal pad exposed on bottom for enhanced PCB heat dissipation in automotive modules.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25LC160DT-E/MNY and AT25DF021-SSH-T, the 25LC160CT-E/MNY offers optimal balance of automotive qualification, deterministic 5 ms write latency, and minimal software overhead for legacy SPI EEPROM integration - especially where strict page-size control and proven field reliability are prioritized over raw speed or density.

Availability

25LC160CT-E/MNY is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU calibration storage, ADAS sensor configuration, and infotainment firmware patch management requiring stable component supply across multi-year production programs.

Supply support for 25LC160CT-E/MNY 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 25LC160C/D family was designed specifically for automotive and industrial applications requiring reliable, low-power, SPI-compatible nonvolatile memory with extended temperature operation and robust write protection.

FAQ

What is the page size of the 25LC160CT-E/MNY and why does it matter?

The 25LC160CT-E/MNY has a fixed 16-byte page size. This means that any page write operation - even a single-byte write - consumes the full 16-byte buffer and must remain within physical page boundaries (addresses 0000h–000Fh, 0010h–001Fh, etc.). Crossing a boundary causes data to wrap to the start of the same page, potentially overwriting prior content. Correct page-aligned addressing is essential for reliable firmware or calibration table updates in the 25LC160CT-E/MNY.

Does the 25LC160CT-E/MNY support hardware write protection, and how is it configured?

Yes, the 25LC160CT-E/MNY supports hardware write protection via the WP pin in conjunction with the WPEN bit in the STATUS register. When WP is pulled low *and* WPEN = 1, writes to the STATUS register are blocked - preventing accidental changes to BP0/BP1 protection bits. Memory array writes remain enabled unless BP bits are set. This dual-layer protection ensures critical configuration data remains intact during system power cycling or software faults in the 25LC160CT-E/MNY.

What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the 25LC160CT-E/MNY at 3.3V supply?

At VCC = 3.3V (within 2.5V–4.5V range), the 25LC160CT-E/MNY supports a maximum clock frequency of 5 MHz. This is specified in Table 1-2 (Param No. 1, FCLK) of the DS22150B datasheet. Operating above this limit may cause setup/hold violations on SI/SO, leading to corrupted reads or failed writes - particularly critical in automotive diagnostics where timing margins must accommodate worst-case temperature and voltage conditions for the 25LC160CT-E/MNY.

How does the HOLD pin function during an active SPI transaction in the 25LC160CT-E/MNY?

The HOLD pin on the 25LC160CT-E/MNY suspends an ongoing SPI transaction without resetting the internal address pointer or byte counter. When HOLD is pulled low during SCK low time, SI, SCK, and SO enter high-impedance states and all inputs (except CS) are ignored. Upon returning HOLD to high (also during SCK low), communication resumes exactly where it left off - enabling microcontrollers to service higher-priority interrupts (e.g., CAN message arrival) without retransmitting commands or addresses in the 25LC160CT-E/MNY.

Is the 25LC160CT-E/MNY qualified for automotive applications, and what does the 'E' suffix indicate?

Yes, the 'E' in 25LC160CT-E/MNY denotes Automotive Temperature Grade (–40°C to +125°C), qualified per AEC-Q100 requirements. This includes extended temperature operation, enhanced reliability testing (e.g., HTOL, TC), and rigorous process controls. The 'T' indicates tape-and-reel packaging, and '/MNY' specifies the 2×3 mm TDFN package with wettable flanks - making the 25LC160CT-E/MNY suitable for under-hood and transmission-mounted electronic control units.