25AA160B-I/ST

Memory IC Overview

The Microchip Technology 25AA160B-I/ST is a 16 Kbit (2048 x 8-bit) Serial Electrically Erasable PROM. It features an SPI-compatible interface with a maximum clock frequency of 10 MHz and a 32-byte page size. Operating within a voltage range of 1.8 V to 5.5 V, it supports industrial temperatures from -40 °C to +85 °C. The device offers high reliability with over 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and data retention exceeding 200 years.

Memory IC Feature Summary

• Supports serial communication via a standard four-wire SPI bus including Chip Select, Serial Clock, Data In, and Data Out lines.
• Includes programmable block write protection allowing selection of none, one-quarter, one-half, or the entire memory array.
• Features hardware-based power-on/off data protection and a dedicated hold pin to pause serial operations without resetting the sequence.

Memory IC Applications

• Data logging in industrial control systems
• Configuration storage for microcontroller peripherals
• Parameter storage in consumer electronics

Memory IC Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'I/ST' corresponds to the Industrial temperature grade (-40°C to +85°C) and TSSOP-8 package. Confirm that the 'B' designation indicates the 32-byte page size variant rather than the 16-byte 'A' version. Ensure compatibility with the target system's SPI voltage levels given the 1.8V minimum operating requirement.

Memory IC Selection Notes

Select this component when a low-voltage EEPROM with a 32-byte page buffer is required for space-constrained designs. The TSSOP-8 package suits surface-mount applications needing a compact footprint. Verify that the host controller can support the necessary SPI timing constraints at the intended operating frequency and supply voltage.

Memory IC Part Context

This part belongs to the 25XX160A/B family of 16 Kbit Serial EEPROMs manufactured by Microchip Technology. The 'AA' prefix denotes operation down to 1.8 V, while 'LC' variants operate from 2.5 V. The 'B' suffix specifies the 32-byte page architecture, distinguishing it from the 16-byte 'A' series devices.

Memory IC Replacement Considerations

Direct substitutes include other 25AA160B variants in different packages such as PDIP-8 (25AA160B-I/P) or SOIC-8 (25AA160B-I/SN). Cross-family replacements like the 25LC160B are compatible but require a minimum supply voltage of 2.5 V instead of 1.8 V.

Memory IC FAQ

How does the HOLD pin function during serial communication?

The HOLD pin allows the user to pause transmission to the device without resetting the serial sequence. When pulled low while SCK is low, the SI, SCK, and SO pins enter a high-impedance state until HOLD is released.

What is the difference between the 25AA160A and 25AA160B page sizes?

The 25AA160B features a 32-byte page size, whereas the 25AA160A has a 16-byte page size. Both share the same 16 Kbit capacity and SPI interface.