Microchip Technology 25LC160/SN

Overview

25LC160/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI-compatible serial EEPROM with industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C), 2 MHz max clock frequency at V_CC = 2.5–4.5 V, and 8-pin SOIC (SN) package. It features 16-byte page write, hardware write protection via WP pin, and built-in power-on data protection - used for nonvolatile parameter storage in microcontroller-based embedded systems.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC160/SN datasheet, 25LC160/SN pinout, 25LC160/SN application, or 25LC160/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include V_CC operating range (2.5–5.5 V), endurance (1 million cycles), data retention (>200 years), and SPI timing compatibility with host MCU peripherals.

Technical Context

The 25LC160/SN implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 interface (CPOL = 0, CPHA = 0) with separate SI (data in) and SO (data out) lines, requiring CS, SCK, SI, SO, WP, HOLD, and V_CC/V_SS. Its internal architecture includes a status register with WIP, WEL, BP0/BP1, and WPEN bits, enabling configurable block write protection (none/¼/½/all array).

Write operations require explicit WREN instruction followed by CS high-to-low transition to initiate self-timed internal write cycle (≤5 ms). HOLD pin suspends ongoing serial transfers without resetting sequence state, allowing interrupt servicing while preserving address/data context.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-pin SOIC (SN) package, 150 mil body width, JEDEC MS-012 compliant, surface-mount compatible with standard reflow profiles.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25LC160/SN, 25AA160T-I/SN extends voltage flexibility downward while 25LC160A-I/SN delivers verified reliability improvements and full manufacturer support - both retain identical SOIC-8 footprint and SPI command set.

Availability

25LC160/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, smart meter firmware storage, and automotive ECU configuration requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for 25LC160/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 25LC160 belongs to Microchip's legacy SPI Serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained embedded systems requiring reliable nonvolatile storage with minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC160/SN?

The 25LC160/SN supports up to 2 MHz maximum SPI clock frequency when V_CC is between 2.5 V and 4.5 V. At V_CC = 4.5–5.5 V, it operates up to 3 MHz - however, the 25LC160/SN variant is specified for 2 MHz per its device selection table. This timing allows reliable communication with most 8/16/32-bit MCUs without requiring clock stretching or wait states.

Does the 25LC160/SN support page write operations?

Yes, the 25LC160/SN supports 16-byte page write operations. Data written within the same 16-byte boundary (e.g., addresses 0x000–0x00F) can be loaded sequentially before initiating the internal write cycle. This reduces total programming time versus single-byte writes and is controlled via standard SPI WRITE instruction with proper address alignment.

How does hardware write protection work on the 25LC160/SN?

Hardware write protection on the 25LC160/SN requires both the WPEN bit (set via WRSR) and the WP pin (held low) to be active. When enabled, it prevents writes to nonvolatile bits in the Status register only - memory array writes remain functional unless blocked by BP0/BP1 bits. This dual-layer control allows robust configuration lockdown without disabling all write capability.

What is the endurance and data retention specification for the 25LC160/SN?

The 25LC160/SN guarantees 1 million erase/write cycles and greater than 200 years of data retention at +85°C. These values are characterized and ensured per Microchip's Total Endurance™ model, making it suitable for applications requiring decades of unattended operation such as utility meters and industrial controllers.

Is the 25LC160/SN pin-compatible with other members of the 25XX160 family?

Yes, the 25LC160/SN shares identical 8-pin SOIC (SN) package, pinout, and SPI command set with 25AA160/SN and 25C160/SN. Voltage range and timing specs differ per variant, but PCB layout and firmware integration remain consistent across the family - simplifying design reuse and qualification across multiple supply rail configurations.