Microchip Technology SST26WF016B-104I/MF

Overview

SST26WF016B-104I/MF from Microchip Technology is a 1.8V, 16 Mbit Serial Quad I/O (SQI) flash memory IC with 104 MHz max clock frequency, 4 KByte uniform sector erase, and 256-byte page programming. It operates across -40°C to +85°C and supports both SPI and SQI protocols for embedded boot code and firmware storage in space-constrained industrial controllers.

For engineers reviewing the SST26WF016B-104I/MF datasheet, SST26WF016B-104I/MF pinout, SST26WF016B-104I/MF application, or SST26WF016B-104I/MF equivalent, key selection criteria include quad I/O throughput at 104 MHz, flexible hardware/software write protection, deep power-down current of 2.5 μA, and factory-programmed 64-bit Security ID for secure boot verification.

Technical Context

The SST26WF016B-104I/MF implements a six-wire, 4-bit multiplexed I/O interface (SIO[3:0]) supporting both Mode 0 and Mode 3 SPI timing, enabling linear burst reads up to 64 bytes with wrap-around. Its SuperFlash® split-gate cell architecture delivers 100,000 program/erase cycles and >100 years data retention.

It features dual configuration modes: default power-up state enables WP# and HOLD# pins (SPI mode), while configurable IOC bit allows transition to SQI mode. The device integrates a 48-bit Block-Protection Register, non-volatile Write-Lock Lock-Down register (nVWLDR), and 2 KByte Security ID space with OTP factory segment.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-contact WDFN (6 mm × 5 mm), RoHS-compliant, moisture-sensitive level 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with W25Q16JW and S25FL116K, the SST26WF016B-104I/MF uniquely combines 104 MHz SQI throughput, write-suspend, and OTP Security ID in a single 8-pin WDFN package - enabling secure, low-latency firmware storage without external security co-processors or layout changes.

Availability

SST26WF016B-104I/MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, secure MCU boot loaders, wireless sensor nodes, medical diagnostics equipment, and automotive infotainment modules requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for SST26WF016B-104I/MF 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 provider of microcontrollers, analog components, and Flash memory solutions, serving industrial, automotive, and communications markets with vertically integrated silicon and software.

The SST26WF016B-104I/MF belongs to Microchip's Serial Quad I/O™ (SQI™) flash family, designed specifically for high-performance, low-power, secure firmware and code storage in space- and energy-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the default power-up configuration of the SST26WF016B-104I/MF regarding WP# and HOLD# pins?

The SST26WF016B-104I/MF ships with IOC bit = '0' at power-up, enabling both WP# and HOLD# pins for hardware write protection and serial hold functionality in SPI mode. This differs from the SST26WF016BA variant, which defaults to IOC = '1'. The WP# pin only affects Block-Protection and Configuration registers, not main array writes.

Does the SST26WF016B-104I/MF support true quad I/O mode, and how is it enabled?

Yes, the SST26WF016B-104I/MF supports true quad I/O (SQI) mode using all four SIO[3:0] pins for bidirectional data transfer. It is enabled by setting the IOC bit to '1' in the Configuration Register, followed by issuing the EQIO (38H) command. Once configured, commands like SQOR (6BH) and SQIOR (EBH) become active, delivering up to 4× bandwidth versus standard SPI.

What is the purpose and behavior of the non-volatile Write-Lock Lock-Down register (nVWLDR) in the SST26WF016B-104I/MF?

The nVWLDR in the SST26WF016B-104I/MF is a 40-bit one-time-programmable register that permanently disables modification of corresponding Block-Protection bits. Writing '1' to any nVWLDR bit locks its associated memory block against future program/erase operations - even after power cycles. Once set, those bits cannot be cleared, providing irreversible firmware partition protection for safety-critical code sections.

How does the SST26WF016B-104I/MF handle end-of-write detection during programming or erase operations?

The SST26WF016B-104I/MF uses polling of the BUSY bit (bit 0 or 7) in the Status Register to detect end-of-write. While an internal Program or Erase operation is active, BUSY = '1'; it clears to '0' upon completion. Software must issue RDSR (05H) repeatedly until BUSY = '0', confirming readiness for the next command - no timeout or interrupt signaling is provided.

Can the SST26WF016B-104I/MF be used in systems requiring secure boot with hardware-enforced key storage?

Yes, the SST26WF016B-104I/MF supports secure boot via its 2 KByte Security ID space, which includes a factory-programmed, unalterable 64-bit unique identifier and a user-programmable area. The LSID (85H) command permanently locks this space, preventing further writes. Combined with nVWLDR-protected boot sectors, it provides hardware-rooted trust for cryptographic key storage and firmware authentication.