Microchip Technology 25LC160D-E/SN

Overview

25LC160D-E/SN from Microchip Technology is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI Serial EEPROM with 32-byte page write capability, operating across 2.5–5.5 V and supporting Industrial (–40°C to +85°C) and Automotive (–40°C to +125°C) temperature ranges. It features hardware write protection via WP pin and STATUS register, HOLD functionality for interrupt-safe bus suspension, and self-timed 5 ms max write cycles.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC160D-E/SN datasheet, 25LC160D-E/SN pinout, 25LC160D-E/SN application, or 25LC160D-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include page size (32 B), automotive-grade temp support, SPI timing compliance at 10 MHz (VCC ≥ 4.5 V), and hardware/software write-protection granularity (none/¼/½/all array).

Technical Context

The 25LC160D-E/SN implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0/Master-Slave interface with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, requiring CS, SCK, and optional HOLD/WP control. Its internal architecture includes an 8-bit instruction register, page latches, HV generator for EEPROM programming, and a 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; page writes are bounded to 32-byte physical pages (000h–01Fh, 020h–03Fh, etc.), with wraparound behavior on boundary violation. HOLD suspends ongoing transfers while preserving internal state, enabling host MCU to service higher-priority interrupts without reinitialization.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC160D-E/SN is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) with 150 mil width, RoHS-compliant matte tin finish, and standard JEDEC MS-012AC footprint. Pin 1 is CS (Chip Select), Pin 2 is SO (Serial Output), Pin 3 is WP (Write-Protect), Pin 4 is VSS (Ground), Pin 5 is SI (Serial Input), Pin 6 is SCK (Serial Clock), Pin 7 is HOLD, and Pin 8 is VCC (Supply Voltage).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25AA160D-E/SN and AT25DF021-SSH-T, the 25LC160D-E/SN delivers optimal balance of automotive temperature support, deterministic 5 ms writes, hardware/software write protection, and minimal MCU driver complexity-making it the preferred choice for safety-critical configuration storage where reliability and ease of integration outweigh raw density needs.

Availability

25LC160D-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU calibration storage, industrial PLC configuration backup, and medical infusion pump settings requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 25LC160D-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 microcontrollers, analog components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 25LC160D-E/SN belongs to Microchip's 25XX160 family of SPI Serial EEPROMs, designed specifically for robust, low-power, and secure nonvolatile data storage in automotive, industrial, and medical systems demanding long-term reliability and AEC-Q100 compliance.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC160D-E/SN?

The 25LC160D-E/SN 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 DS22150B and reflect guaranteed AC timing margins-not typical or best-case values. The 25LC160D-E/SN must be operated within these limits to ensure reliable read/write operation across its full temperature range.

Does the 25LC160D-E/SN support hardware write protection independent of software configuration?

Yes-the 25LC160D-E/SN supports hardware write protection via the WP pin in conjunction with the WPEN bit in the STATUS register. When WP is low and WPEN = 1, writes to the nonvolatile STATUS register bits (BP0, BP1, WPEN) are blocked, while memory array writes remain permitted unless BP bits are set. This dual-layer scheme allows physical lockout of critical configuration bits without disabling all writes.

How does the HOLD function operate during an active SPI transfer on the 25LC160D-E/SN?

The HOLD pin on the 25LC160D-E/SN suspends ongoing SPI communication while preserving internal state-including address pointer and instruction phase-when pulled low while SCK is low. SI, SCK, and SO enter high-impedance states, allowing the host MCU to service interrupts. Resuming requires bringing HOLD high while SCK remains low; resumption continues from the exact bit position where HOLD was asserted, eliminating retransmission overhead.

What is the page size of the 25LC160D-E/SN, and why does it matter for write efficiency?

The 25LC160D-E/SN has a 32-byte page size, meaning up to 32 bytes can be written in a single page-write command before triggering an internal 5 ms write cycle. This is double the 16-byte page of the 'C' version. Using full-page writes reduces total SPI transactions and MCU intervention versus byte writes-critical for logging or configuration saves where speed and determinism are essential.

Is the 25LC160D-E/SN qualified for automotive applications, and what temperature range does it cover?

Yes-the 25LC160D-E/SN carries the 'E' suffix denoting Automotive qualification, with full operation guaranteed from –40°C to +125°C. It meets AEC-Q100 stress testing requirements for temperature cycling, humidity, and mechanical shock, making it suitable for engine control units, body control modules, and other under-hood or chassis-mounted electronics where ambient temperatures exceed industrial-grade limits.