Microchip Technology 25LC160CT-E/ST

Overview

25LC160CT-E/ST from Microchip Technology is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI Serial EEPROM with 16-byte page size, 2.5–5.5 V supply range, and automotive-grade temperature support (−40°C to +125°C). It features hardware write protection via WP pin, HOLD suspend functionality, and self-timed 5 ms max write cycles - deployed in engine control units, ADAS sensor modules, and automotive infotainment boot memory.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC160CT-E/ST datasheet, 25LC160CT-E/ST pinout, 25LC160CT-E/ST application, or 25LC160CT-E/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include SPI timing compliance at 10 MHz (VCC ≥ 4.5 V), page-write boundary handling, WPEN-controlled hardware lock, and TDFN-8 package thermal performance in under-hood environments.

Technical Context

The 25LC160CT-E/ST implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface with separate SI (data-in) and SO (data-out) lines, requiring CS assertion and SCK synchronization for all operations. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, page latches, and HV generator for EEPROM programming - enabling byte- and page-write modes with automatic address increment during sequential reads.

Write enable logic is controlled by a volatile WEL bit set via WREN instruction and reset on power-up, WRDI, WRSR, or successful WRITE completion. Block protection is configured nonvolatily via BP0/BP1 bits in the STATUS register, supporting four protection levels (none, upper 1/4, upper 1/2, or full array), while WP pin functionality is gated by the WPEN bit.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC160CT-E/ST is housed in an 8-lead 2×3 mm TDFN package (MN suffix), optimized for space-constrained automotive PCBs and offering enhanced thermal dissipation vs. SOIC.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT25DF021-SSH-T and M95M02-DRMN6TP/K, the 25LC160CT-E/ST provides guaranteed −40°C to +125°C operation, dedicated HOLD functionality for interrupt-safe transfers, and 16-byte page granularity ideal for compact parameter sets - making it the only option qualified for ASIL-B-relevant ECU memory functions.

Availability

25LC160CT-E/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive powertrain control, ADAS sensor calibration, and infotainment boot memory applications requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 25LC160CT-E/ST 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 systems requiring robust, low-power, SPI-compatible nonvolatile memory with hardware write protection and extended temperature operation.

FAQ

What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the 25LC160CT-E/ST?

The 25LC160CT-E/ST supports up to 10 MHz SPI clock frequency when VCC is 4.5–5.5 V. At 2.5–4.5 V, max frequency drops to 5 MHz, and at 1.8–2.5 V (not applicable to this part), it is 3 MHz. These values are specified in Table 1-2 of DS22150B and directly impact data throughput in time-sensitive automotive firmware updates.

Does the 25LC160CT-E/ST support page write operations, and what is the page size?

Yes, the 25LC160CT-E/ST supports page write operations with a fixed 16-byte page size, as confirmed in the Device Selection Table and Section 2.3 of DS22150B. All bytes in a page write must reside within the same physical page boundary (e.g., addresses 0000h–000Fh); crossing boundaries causes data to wrap within the current page.

How does hardware write protection work on the 25LC160CT-E/ST?

Hardware write protection on the 25LC160CT-E/ST requires both the WP pin to be low AND the WPEN bit (bit 7 of STATUS register) to be set to 1. When enabled, it blocks writes to nonvolatile STATUS register bits - preserving block protection settings during field updates. This dual-condition mechanism prevents accidental lockout during system integration.

What is the purpose of the HOLD pin on the 25LC160CT-E/ST, and how must it be used?

The HOLD pin on the 25LC160CT-E/ST suspends ongoing SPI communication without resetting the internal state machine. To activate, HOLD must be pulled low while SCK is low; to resume, it must be raised while SCK remains low. This enables MCUs to service higher-priority interrupts (e.g., CAN error frames) without losing EEPROM transaction context.

Is the 25LC160CT-E/ST qualified for automotive applications, and what temperature range does it support?

Yes, the 25LC160CT-E/ST carries the 'E' temperature grade suffix and is fully qualified for automotive applications per DS22150B, operating from −40°C to +125°C. This rating is validated across electrical parameters including ICC Read/Write, timing specs, and endurance - meeting requirements for placement in engine bays and powertrain control modules.