Microchip Technology 25LC160T-I/SN

Overview

25LC160T-I/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is an industrial-grade 16 Kbit SPI Serial EEPROM with 2048 × 8-bit organization, 2 MHz max clock frequency at VCC ≥ 2.5V, and 16-byte page write capability. It operates across -40°C to +85°C, supports hardware write protection via WP pin and status register, and delivers 1 million endurance cycles with >200 years data retention - used for firmware parameter storage in embedded control modules.

For engineers reviewing the 25LC160T-I/SN datasheet, 25LC160T-I/SN pinout, 25LC160T-I/SN application, or 25LC160T-I/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range (2.5–5.5V), SOIC-8 package compatibility, SPI Mode 0,0/1,1 timing compliance, and block-protection granularity (none/¼/½/all array).

Technical Context

This device implements a standard SPI-compatible serial interface with separate SI (data-in) and SO (data-out) lines, CS-controlled selection, and HOLD pin for interrupt-safe transaction suspension. It uses internal high-voltage generation for EEPROM programming and includes a status register with WIP, WEL, BP0/BP1, and WPEN bits.

Write operations require explicit WREN instruction before WRITE or WRSR commands; all writes are self-timed with 5 ms max internal cycle time. Block protection is configurable via nonvolatile BP0/BP1 bits, and hardware write protection engages only when WP = low and WPEN = 1.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

25LC160T-I/SN is housed in an 8-pin Plastic Small Outline (SOIC-8, 150 mil body), JEDEC MS-012 compliant, with gull-wing leads and 1.27 mm pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 25AA160T-I/SN, the 25LC160T-I/SN provides faster SPI throughput at 3.3V/5V rails but lacks sub-2.5V operation; versus 25LC160A-I/SN, it offers cost-effective drop-in replacement where AEC-Q100 is not mandated.

Availability

25LC160T-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, medical device configuration, automotive body control modules, and smart energy meter firmware requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence support.

Supply support for 25LC160T-I/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 25LC160 series belongs to Microchip's SPI Serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-power nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems across industrial, medical, and automotive markets.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25LC160T-I/SN?

The 25LC160T-I/SN supports up to 2 MHz maximum clock frequency when VCC is 2.5V or higher. At lower voltages (1.8–2.5V), the device is not rated - this specification applies exclusively to the 25LC160 variant, distinguishing it from the 25AA160 (1 MHz at 1.8V). The 25LC160T-I/SN must operate within its defined VCC range of 2.5–5.5V to guarantee 2 MHz timing compliance.

Does the 25LC160T-I/SN support hardware write protection?

Yes, the 25LC160T-I/SN supports hardware write protection through the WP pin in conjunction with the WPEN bit in its Status register. When WPEN = 1 and WP = low, writes to nonvolatile Status register bits are disabled - protecting critical configuration like block protection settings. Memory array writes remain unaffected unless BP bits are set. This dual-layer protection is confirmed in the DS21231E datasheet Section 2.3 and Table 3-3.

What package type does the 25LC160T-I/SN use?

The 25LC160T-I/SN uses an 8-pin Plastic Small Outline (SOIC-8) package with 150 mil body width, JEDEC MS-012 compliant, and marked "I/SN" per Microchip's part numbering system. This matches the /SN suffix in the full part number and is distinct from PDIP (/P) variants. The SOIC-8 footprint is verified in DS21231E pages 13–14 and Package Marking section on page 12.

How many write cycles can the 25LC160T-I/SN endure?

The 25LC160T-I/SN is rated for 1 million erase/write cycles per memory location, as specified in DS21231E page 3 (AC Characteristics, Note 2) and page 1 (Features list). This endurance is ensured by characterization and applies across the full industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C), supporting long-life deployments in programmable logic controllers and telemetry systems.

Is the 25LC160T-I/SN pin-compatible with the 25AA160T-I/SN?

Yes, the 25LC160T-I/SN is pin-compatible with the 25AA160T-I/SN: both use identical SOIC-8 packaging and share the same pin functions (CS, SO, WP, VSS, SI, SCK, HOLD, VCC) and SPI instruction set. However, they differ in VCC range and max clock speed - 25AA160T-I/SN operates down to 1.8V at 1 MHz, while 25LC160T-I/SN requires ≥2.5V for 2 MHz operation. Electrical compatibility must be verified per application voltage.