Microchip Technology 25LC160DT-H/SN

Overview

25LC160DT-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, HOLD suspend functionality, and automotive AEC-Q100 qualification for under-hood and industrial control applications.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC160DT-H/SN datasheet, 25LC160DT-H/SN pinout, 25LC160DT-H/SN application, or 25LC160DT-H/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include high-temp endurance (>1M cycles), block-level write protection (1/4, 1/2, or full array), self-timed 6 ms write cycle, and SOIC-8 package compatibility with legacy SPI-based microcontroller interfaces.

Technical Context

This device implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, requiring CS, SCK, and HOLD for full protocol support. Its internal architecture includes a status register with WIP, WEL, BP0/BP1, and WPEN bits enabling flexible, nonvolatile memory protection schemes.

It supports byte and page writes within a single 16-byte physical page boundary, with automatic address incrementing during sequential reads and built-in power-on write-disable logic. The HOLD pin suspends ongoing transfers without resetting the internal state, allowing interrupt servicing on resource-constrained hosts.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-Lead SOIC (SN) package, 3.90 mm body width, JEDEC MS-012AC compliant, RoHS-compliant matte tin finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT25160B-MAHL-T and BR25H160FJ-WE2, the 25LC160DT-H/SN uniquely delivers AEC-Q100 Grade 0 qualification and guaranteed +150°C operation - essential for engine bay, transmission control, and high-temp industrial monitoring where thermal margin is non-negotiable.

Availability

25LC160DT-H/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control units, industrial PLCs, medical infusion pumps, and avionics sensor calibration systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 25LC160DT-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 microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 25LCxxx family was designed specifically for robust, low-pin-count nonvolatile storage in automotive, industrial, and medical systems where SPI interface simplicity, high-temp reliability, and hardware write protection are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC160DT-H/SN?

The 25LC160DT-H/SN supports up to 5 MHz clock frequency when VCC is 4.5V–5.5V, and 3 MHz when VCC is 2.5V–4.5V. This dual-speed specification ensures reliable SPI communication across wide supply voltage ranges without requiring clock rate derating in low-VCC applications. The 25LC160DT-H/SN maintains full timing compliance at both speeds per DS20002131D AC characteristics Table 1-2.

Does the 25LC160DT-H/SN require external pull-up resistors on its SPI lines?

The 25LC160DT-H/SN does not require external pull-ups on SI, SCK, or CS - these inputs have CMOS-compatible thresholds and function correctly with standard microcontroller GPIO outputs. However, SO and HOLD are open-drain capable and may require pull-ups in multi-drop bus configurations or when interfacing with weak-drive hosts. The 25LC160DT-H/SN datasheet specifies no mandatory external pull-ups for basic point-to-point operation.

How does the HOLD pin function during an active write cycle in the 25LC160DT-H/SN?

The HOLD pin cannot suspend an internal write cycle once initiated; it only pauses serial command input. If HOLD is asserted during a write, the 25LC160DT-H/SN completes the ongoing write (up to 6 ms), then enters hold state. Subsequent commands are ignored until HOLD is deasserted and CS is toggled. This behavior ensures data integrity - the 25LC160DT-H/SN never aborts or corrupts an in-progress write.

Can the 25LC160DT-H/SN be used as a direct replacement for the 25LC160C or 25LC160D?

Yes - the 25LC160DT-H/SN is functionally and pin-compatible with 25LC160C and 25LC160D, sharing identical density (16 Kbit), page size (16 bytes), SPI protocol, and SOIC-8 package. The "T-H/SN" suffix denotes the same H-grade temperature range and SN package as the base 25LC160C/D parts, with identical DC/AC specifications per DS20002131D Device Selection Table.

What write protection mechanisms does the 25LC160DT-H/SN provide beyond the WP pin?

Beyond the WP pin, the 25LC160DT-H/SN provides nonvolatile block protection via BP0/BP1 bits (locking 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of memory), a write-enable latch (WEL) that must be set before each write, and automatic WEL reset after power-up or successful write. These layers ensure that accidental writes are prevented even if WP is unconnected or floating - the 25LC160DT-H/SN requires explicit WREN + valid address + CS high assertion to commit data.