Microchip Technology AT25160A-10PI-2.7

Overview

AT25160A-10PI-2.7 from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 16-kbit SPI serial EEPROM organized as 2048 × 8 bits, operating from 2.7V to 5.5V with 20 MHz max clock rate at 5V, 32-byte page write capability, and hardware/software write protection via WP pin and status register. It serves in industrial control systems for parameter storage and calibration data retention.

For engineers reviewing the AT25160A-10PI-2.7 datasheet, AT25160A-10PI-2.7 pinout, AT25160A-10PI-2.7 application, or AT25160A-10PI-2.7 equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC range compatibility (2.7–5.5V), 8-lead PDIP package footprint, 100-year data retention, 1 million write cycles, and SPI Mode 0/3 support in automotive-grade temperature range (−40°C to +85°C).

Technical Context

The AT25160A-10PI-2.7 implements a synchronous serial peripheral interface (SPI) as a slave device with separate SI/SO lines, MSB-first data transfer, and op-code–driven command execution (WREN, WRITE, RDSR, WRSR). It uses an internal 8-bit instruction register and supports block write protection via BP0/BP1 bits in the nonvolatile status register.

Its timing architecture requires CS low to initiate communication, supports HOLD pin suspension without sequence reset, and enforces self-timed internal write cycles (≤5 ms) with READY/BUSY status accessible only via RDSR during programming - no external erase cycle needed.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT25160A-10PI-2.7 is supplied in an 8-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual Inline Package), 0.300" wide body, through-hole mountable package compliant with JEDEC MS-001 BA.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with M95160-WMN6TP and BR24G16NUX-10, AT25160A-10PI-2.7 uniquely provides HOLD pin support, PDIP packaging for prototyping, and full −40°C to +85°C qualification with documented 100-year retention - making it optimal for industrial control and automotive body electronics where robustness and debug flexibility are prioritized.

Availability

AT25160A-10PI-2.7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, automotive body control modules, medical infusion pumps, and smart energy meters requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and through-hole assembly compatibility.

Supply support for AT25160A-10PI-2.7 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 is a global semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, with a focus on embedded control and connectivity.

The AT25160A-10PI-2.7 belongs to Microchip's legacy Atmel SPI EEPROM product line, engineered for reliable nonvolatile data storage in industrial, automotive, and medical systems where low-power operation, wide voltage range, and long-term data integrity are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by AT25160A-10PI-2.7?

The AT25160A-10PI-2.7 supports up to 20 MHz SCK frequency at VCC = 5.0V, 10 MHz at VCC = 2.7V, and 5 MHz at VCC = 1.8V. These values are specified in the AC Characteristics table for the −40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range. The actual usable frequency depends on VCC level and signal integrity; layout best practices (controlled impedance, short traces, proper termination) are required to achieve 20 MHz reliably. AT25160A-10PI-2.7 does not support frequencies above 20 MHz even at 5V.

Does AT25160A-10PI-2.7 require an external erase cycle before writing?

No, AT25160A-10PI-2.7 does not require a separate erase cycle. All write operations are self-timed and automatically erase and program the target memory location in a single internal cycle (≤5 ms). The device uses floating-gate technology that permits byte/page write without prior sector or chip erase. This simplifies firmware design - after issuing WREN and WRITE commands, the host only needs to poll RDSR RDY bit to confirm completion. AT25160A-10PI-2.7 implements this behavior consistently across all supported VCC ranges.

How is write protection implemented on AT25160A-10PI-2.7?

AT25160A-10PI-2.7 implements dual-layer write protection: hardware via the WP pin (when WPEN=1 and WP is low) and software via the status register's BP0/BP1 bits. WP protects the status register and block-protected memory regions; BP0/BP1 configure protection levels (0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of array). Both mechanisms can be used simultaneously - e.g., WP pin locks factory calibration blocks while software enables field-updatable sections. AT25160A-10PI-2.7 requires WREN before any write, including WRSR, ensuring intentional configuration changes.

What package type is used for AT25160A-10PI-2.7?

AT25160A-10PI-2.7 uses an 8-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual Inline Package) with 0.300" body width, per JEDEC MS-001 BA standard. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; lead finish is lead-free/halogen-free. This through-hole package supports breadboard prototyping, wave soldering, and legacy PCB designs. It is distinct from SOIC (8S1), TSSOP (8A2), and MAP (8Y1) variants - the "PI" suffix explicitly denotes PDIP. AT25160A-10PI-2.7 is not available in surface-mount packages.

Can AT25160A-10PI-2.7 operate at 1.8V?

No, AT25160A-10PI-2.7 is rated for 2.7V to 5.5V operation only. The "-2.7" suffix indicates the 2.7V minimum VCC specification. For 1.8V operation, Microchip offers the AT25160A-10PI-1.8 variant - a functionally identical part with extended low-voltage characterization down to 1.8V. Using AT25160A-10PI-2.7 below 2.7V may result in unreliable reads/writes, increased error rates, or failure to enter standby mode. Always match the suffix to the system's supply voltage range. AT25160A-10PI-2.7 is not backward-compatible with 1.8V logic interfaces.