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Microchip Technology 93C46A-E/P
- Part No.:
- 93C46A-E/P
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
93C46A-E/P.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,423
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Product details
Overview
93C46A-E/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit) low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, 4.5–5.5 V supply range, and industrial/automotive temperature support (–40°C to +125°C). It features self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL/WRAL, Ready/Busy status via DO pin, and >200-year data retention - used for configuration storage in automotive control modules, industrial PLCs, and embedded sensor nodes.
For engineers reviewing the 93C46A-E/P datasheet, 93C46A-E/P pinout, 93C46A-E/P application, or 93C46A-E/P equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 8-bit organization (no ORG pin), 2 ms write cycle time, RoHS-compliant PDIP-8 package, and VCC-dependent power-on protection threshold (3.8 V).
Technical Context
The 93C46A-E/P implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, and DI/DO pins. Its internal architecture includes an address decoder, data register, and mode decode logic enabling READ, WRITE, ERASE, ERAL, WRAL, EWEN, and EWDS instructions - all executed via rising-edge clocked bit streams.
Unlike C-variant parts, the 93C46A-E/P lacks an ORG pin (NC), permanently configuring it for 8-bit word access. Erase/write operations are initiated by the rising edge of CLK on the final data bit, and device readiness is signaled via DO pin polling after minimum TCSL (250 ns).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit) - fixed x8 organization; no ORG pin required. |
| VCC range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V - power-on reset triggers at 3.8 V; incompatible with <4.5 V systems. |
| Write cycle time | 2 ms - self-timed auto-erase/write; enables deterministic firmware timeout handling. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - validated at 25°C, VCC = 5.0 V per characterization. |
| Data retention | >200 years - guaranteed under specified temperature and voltage conditions. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS, CLK, DI/DO) - no separate chip select enable logic needed. |
| Temperature grade | Automotive (E): –40°C to +125°C - qualified for engine control units and ADAS subsystems. |
Pinout & Package
93C46A-E/P is supplied in an 8-lead PDIP package (P suffix), with lead finish Matte Tin (Pb-free). Pin 1 is marked by laser dot; pin 1 ID corner is bottom-left when notch faces up.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (CS) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; resets internal logic when low. |
| 2 (CLK) | Serial Clock | Rising-edge synchronized I/O; stops/resumes freely; initiates write cycle on final rising edge. |
| 3 (DI) | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, opcode, address, and data; tied high during Start condition detection. |
| 4 (DO) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); enters High-Z on CS falling edge. |
| 5 (VSS) | Ground | Reference for all I/O and internal circuitry; must be low-impedance connection. |
| 6 (NC) | No Connect | Internally unconnected; must remain floating or grounded per layout best practice. |
| 7 (NC) | No Connect | Internally unconnected; not bonded; leave unconnected on PCB. |
| 8 (VCC) | Power Supply | 4.5–5.5 V only; powers internal charge pump for write/erase; POR threshold = 3.8 V. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates external timing circuitry; 2 ms max duration ensures predictable firmware delay loops. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees full-array blanking prior to bulk write - prevents partial-data corruption on power loss. |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Enables non-blocking polling instead of fixed delays; reduces system latency during writes. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware lockout below 3.8 V VCC prevents spurious writes during brown-out or startup. |
| 1M endurance & >200-yr retention | Supports long-life deployments in automotive ECUs without field-replacement planning. |
Applications
| Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Industrial Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing calibration tables, fault codes, and runtime configuration parameters subject to frequent updates over vehicle lifetime. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory interfaced directly to MCU SPI/Microwire peripheral; accessed during boot and diagnostic sessions. Use Value: Automotive-grade temperature range and 1M endurance ensure reliable operation across 15+ year service life with zero field failures attributed to memory wearout. |
Use Scenario: Retaining ladder logic state, I/O mapping, and user-defined setpoints across power cycles in factory automation controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serial EEPROM providing persistent storage for volatile RAM-backed control firmware. Use Value: 2 ms write time and hardware write-protection (EWEN/EWDS) prevent corruption during unexpected AC line drops or brownouts. |
| Medical Infusion Pump | Smart Energy Meter |
Use Scenario: Logging dose history, alarm thresholds, and operator credentials in battery-backed portable devices requiring regulatory traceability. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant parameter store with verified data integrity and audit trail capability. Use Value: >200-year data retention meets FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for long-term clinical record preservation. |
Use Scenario: Storing tariff schedules, metering constants, and firmware update signatures in utility-grade meters deployed for 20+ years. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Trusted nonvolatile memory for critical billing and compliance data protected against grid transients. Use Value: RoHS-compliant PDIP package and 4.5–5.5 V operation align with IEC 62056-21 and ANSI C12.1 standards for metering accuracy and longevity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46A-E/P | Wider VCC range (2.5–5.5 V); same 128×8 organization and PDIP-8 package. | Supports dual-supply systems (e.g., 3.3 V MCU + 5 V analog section); not suitable for 5 V-only designs requiring tighter VCC tolerance. | Select 93LC46A-E/P if system operates below 4.5 V; otherwise 93C46A-E/P offers better noise immunity at nominal 5 V. |
| AT25010B-PU | SPI interface (4-wire), 1.8–5.5 V, 128×8 organization; different instruction set and timing. | Requires SPI master with dedicated SO/SI pins; incompatible with Microwire-only controllers. | Choose AT25010B-PU only when migrating to SPI-based platforms; avoid for drop-in Microwire replacement. |
Compared with 93LC46A-E/P and AT25010B-PU, the 93C46A-E/P delivers optimal compatibility with legacy Microwire-based automotive MCUs while ensuring robust 5 V operation and automotive qualification - making it the preferred choice where interface fidelity and voltage margin are primary constraints.
Availability
93C46A-E/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU design, industrial PLC development, and medical device certification requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.
Supply support for 93C46A-E/P 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 manufacturing and support infrastructure.
The 93C46A-E/P belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability nonvolatile storage in automotive, industrial, and medical applications where Microwire interface compatibility and extended temperature operation are essential.
FAQ
What is the function of the ORG pin on the 93C46A-E/P?
The ORG pin is not present on the 93C46A-E/P - it is internally unconnected (NC) and omitted from the pinout. The 'A' suffix denotes fixed 8-bit organization, so the device always operates in 128 × 8-bit mode without external configuration. This differs from 'C' variants (e.g., 93C46C-E/P), which use ORG to select between x8/x16 modes.
Does the 93C46A-E/P support 3.3 V operation?
No, the 93C46A-E/P does not support 3.3 V operation. Its absolute minimum VCC is 4.5 V, and power-on reset activates at 3.8 V. Attempting to operate below 4.5 V may result in undefined behavior, failed writes, or data corruption. For 3.3 V systems, consider the 93LC46A-E/P (2.5–5.5 V range) instead.
How is write protection implemented on the 93C46A-E/P?
Write protection on the 93C46A-E/P uses Erase/Write Enable (EWEN) and Erase/Write Disable (EWDS) commands. The device powers up in EWDS mode - all erase/write functions are locked until EWEN is issued. After any write, issuing EWDS re-locks the memory. This two-step software lock prevents accidental overwrites during firmware execution or power transients.
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 93C46A-E/P?
The 93C46A-E/P supports a maximum clock frequency of 3 MHz when VCC is 4.5–5.5 V. This is specified in Table 1-2 (A1 parameter) and applies across its full automotive temperature range (–40°C to +125°C). Clock timing margins (TCKH/TCKL) scale accordingly - e.g., minimum clock high time is 200 ns at 4.5–5.5 V.
Can the 93C46A-E/P be used in place of the 93AA46A-E/P?
No - the 93C46A-E/P is not a direct substitute for the 93AA46A-E/P. While both are 128×8 EEPROMs in PDIP-8, they differ in VCC range (93AA46A: 1.8–5.5 V vs. 93C46A: 4.5–5.5 V), power-on reset threshold (1.5 V vs. 3.8 V), and write cycle timing (6 ms vs. 2 ms). Interchange requires validation of voltage margins and firmware timing logic.
93C46A-E/P Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 1Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 128 x 8
- Memory Interface:
- Microwire
- Clock Frequency:
- 2 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 2ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
93C46A-E/P FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C46A-E/P through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C46A-E/P 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 93C46A-E/P reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C46A-E/P are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93C46A-E/P is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C46A-E/P?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C46A-E/P transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C46A-E/P?
93C46A-E/P orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C46A-E/P 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 93C46A-E/P?
For technical support, including 93C46A-E/P datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C46A-E/P requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C46A-E/P is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C46A-E/P 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 93C46A-E/P meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C46A-E/P?
All 93C46A-E/P units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C46A-E/P, 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 93C46A-E/P part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C46A-E/P:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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