Microchip Technology AT26DF161A-SU
- Part No.:
- AT26DF161A-SU
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
AT26DF161A-SU.pdf
- Description:
- IC FLASH 16MBIT SPI 70MHZ 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,078
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Product details
Overview
AT26DF161A-SU from Microchip Technology is a 16-Mbit serial Flash memory IC designed for code shadowing and data storage in embedded systems. It operates from a single 2.7V–3.6V supply, supports SPI Modes 0/3 up to 70 MHz, features uniform 4/32/64-Kbyte erase blocks, and delivers 100,000 program/erase cycles with 20-year data retention.
For engineers reviewing the AT26DF161A-SU datasheet, AT26DF161A-SU pinout, AT26DF161A-SU application, or AT26DF161A-SU equivalent, this page provides verified electrical parameters, validated SOIC/MLF package mapping, confirmed sector protection behavior, real-world timing constraints (tPP, tBLKE), and direct alternative options for industrial firmware storage designs.
Technical Context
The AT26DF161A-SU implements a SPI-compatible serial interface with hardware-controlled write protection via dedicated WP and HOLD pins, enabling secure, low-overhead firmware updates without external voltage programming. Its memory array is partitioned into thirty-two 64-Kbyte physical sectors, each individually lockable via status register commands.
Erase granularity spans four levels-4-Kbyte, 32-Kbyte, 64-Kbyte, and full-chip-with automatic failure detection (EPE bit) and deep power-down mode (10 µA typical). All operations are internally self-timed and require prior Write Enable (06h) assertion to set the WEL bit before programming or erasing.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Density | 16 Mbit (2 Mbyte) - supports full firmware images for mid-complexity microcontrollers |
| Supply Voltage | 2.7V–3.6V - compatible with standard 3.3V logic rails; no VPP required |
| Max Clock Frequency | 70 MHz - enables high-throughput read access; supports fast boot-time code loading |
| Erase Granularity | 4/32/64-Kbyte blocks + full chip - allows precise field updates without disturbing adjacent code/data |
| Endurance & Retention | 100,000 cycles / 20 years - validated for long-life industrial logging and OTA update applications |
| Power Consumption | 5 mA active read / 10 µA deep power-down - reduces system-level standby current in battery-backed devices |
| Operating Temperature | −40°C to +85°C - qualified for full industrial environment operation |
Pinout & Package
AT26DF161A-SU is available in two RoHS-compliant packages: 8-lead SOIC (208-mil wide) and 8-pad MLF (6 × 5 × 1.00 mm). Both share identical pin functions and signal definitions.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select | Active-low enable; must transition high-to-low to initiate command, low-to-high to terminate operation |
| SCK | Serial Clock | Input clock; data latched on rising edge, output shifted on falling edge (SPI Modes 0/3) |
| SI | Serial Input | Command/address/data input; MSB-first; requires valid SCK edges for sampling |
| SO | Serial Output | Data output; high-impedance when CS deasserted; synchronized to SCK falling edge |
| WP | Write Protect | Hardware sector lock control; low-active; internally pulled high; optional external tie to VCC |
| HOLD | Hold Function | Pauses ongoing SPI transfer without deselecting device; low-active; internally pulled high |
| VCC | Power Supply | 2.7V–3.6V main supply; powers core logic and I/O buffers |
| GND | Ground Reference | System ground return path; must be low-impedance for stable read/write margins |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Flexible Erase Architecture | Four granularities (4/32/64-Kbyte + full chip) reduce wasted space vs. large-block-only Flash |
| Individual Sector Protection | 32 × 64-Kbyte sectors can be locked/unlocked independently to isolate code and data regions |
| Hardware-Controlled Locking | WP pin enables physical, non-volatile sector locking-immune to software corruption or reset glitches |
| Sequential Program Mode | ADh/AFh opcodes eliminate repeated address transmission for byte-by-byte firmware patching |
| Automatic Failure Reporting | EPE bit in Status Register flags failed program/erase operations-enables robust error recovery |
Applications
| Industrial Control Firmware Storage | Medical Device Boot Code |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing PLC ladder logic and configuration tables in programmable logic controllers requiring field-upgradable firmware. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile code storage with sector-level protection to prevent accidental overwrite of critical runtime modules. Use Value: 4-Kbyte erase blocks allow patching of individual function blocks without reprogramming entire firmware image. | Use Scenario: Holding certified boot loader and safety-critical initialization routines in portable diagnostic equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant firmware repository with hardware write protection enforced by WP pin. Use Value: Global protect/unprotect feature simplifies manufacturing programming while preserving runtime security. |
| Automotive Telematics Logging | Smart Energy Meter Data Archive |
Use Scenario: Recording GPS trajectory, CAN bus diagnostics, and fault logs in vehicle telematics units operating across temperature extremes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability data logger using 64-Kbyte sectors for time-stamped event buffers. Use Value: 100,000 endurance cycles and 20-year retention meet automotive AEC-Q100 functional longevity requirements. | Use Scenario: Archiving hourly consumption data and tariff schedules in utility-grade smart meters with decade-long field life. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power, sector-protected nonvolatile memory supporting frequent small writes and infrequent bulk reads. Use Value: Deep power-down current (10 µA typical) extends battery backup life during grid outages. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial Flash memory applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT25DF161-SH | Same density and SPI interface; newer revision with enhanced ESD tolerance and tighter tBP/tBLKE specs | Preferred for new designs per Microchip's migration notice; identical pinout and command set | Select for production ramp where long-term availability and latest characterization are prioritized |
| SST25VF016B-80-4I-SAE | 16-Mbit SPI Flash; supports 80 MHz max clock; lacks hardware HOLD pin; uses different protection register map | Higher-speed read capability but requires firmware adaptation for protection and hold functionality | Consider only if existing design already uses SST25VF016B and board layout cannot accommodate HOLD routing |
Compared with AT26DF161A-SU, AT25DF161-SH offers improved parametric consistency and extended lifecycle support, while SST25VF016B-80-4I-SAE trades hardware HOLD and unified protection for higher clock rate-making it suitable only when speed outweighs robustness in legacy integrations.
Availability
AT26DF161A-SU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control firmware storage, medical device boot code, automotive telematics logging, and smart energy meter data archive applications requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for AT26DF161A-SU 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 U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and nonvolatile memory solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The AT26DF161A-SU belongs to Microchip's DataFlash® family-designed specifically for reliable, low-pin-count serial code and data storage in resource-constrained embedded systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum SPI clock frequency supported by the AT26DF161A-SU?
The AT26DF161A-SU supports a maximum clock frequency of 70 MHz for standard Read Array operations using opcode 0Bh. This enables fast sequential code loading during system boot. Lower-frequency reads (up to fRDLF) may use opcode 03h, but the 70 MHz rating applies specifically to the AT26DF161A-SU's validated timing under specified VCC and temperature conditions.
Does the AT26DF161A-SU require a separate programming voltage (VPP)?
No, the AT26DF161A-SU does not require a separate programming voltage. All read, program, and erase operations are performed using only the main VCC supply (2.7V–3.6V). This eliminates the need for charge pumps or external high-voltage generators, simplifying PCB design and reducing BOM cost compared to older parallel or multi-voltage Flash devices.
How many physical sectors does the AT26DF161A-SU have, and what is their size?
The AT26DF161A-SU contains thirty-two 64-Kbyte physical sectors, totaling 2 Mbytes of addressable memory. Each sector can be individually protected or unprotected via status register commands. The memory architecture also supports smaller 4-Kbyte and 32-Kbyte erase blocks within those sectors, enabling fine-grained updates without disturbing adjacent protected regions.
Can the AT26DF161A-SU be used in place of the AT25DF161-SH?
The AT26DF161A-SU and AT25DF161-SH share identical pinout, command set, and basic electrical specifications-but Microchip explicitly recommends AT25DF161-SH for new designs due to updated process technology and enhanced reliability metrics. While functional substitution is possible in many cases, AT26DF161A-SU is not a drop-in replacement for AT25DF161-SH in applications requiring the latest characterization or extended product lifetime assurance.
What happens if the WP pin is left unconnected on the AT26DF161A-SU?
The WP pin on the AT26DF161A-SU is internally pulled high, so leaving it unconnected defaults to unprotected mode-allowing all sector protection commands to execute. However, Microchip recommends externally tying WP to VCC to ensure deterministic behavior across voltage transients and board-level noise. Floating WP may lead to intermittent protection failures in electrically noisy environments, especially during power-up or brown-out conditions.
AT26DF161A-SU Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- FLASH
- Technology:
- FLASH
- Memory Size:
- 16Mbit
- Memory Organization:
- 256 Bytes x 8192 pages
- Memory Interface:
- SPI
- Clock Frequency:
- 70 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 7µs, 5ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 3.6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TC)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
AT26DF161A-SU FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT26DF161A-SU through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT26DF161A-SU on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for AT26DF161A-SU reliable?
The price and inventory of AT26DF161A-SU are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT26DF161A-SU is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT26DF161A-SU?
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Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT26DF161A-SU?
AT26DF161A-SU orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT26DF161A-SU order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for AT26DF161A-SU?
For technical support, including AT26DF161A-SU datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT26DF161A-SU requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT26DF161A-SU is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT26DF161A-SU products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that AT26DF161A-SU meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT26DF161A-SU?
All AT26DF161A-SU units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT26DF161A-SU, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The AT26DF161A-SU part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT26DF161A-SU:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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