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Microchip Technology 93C46A-E/SN
- Part No.:
- 93C46A-E/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93C46A-E/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
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Product details
Overview
93C46A-E/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1Kbit (128 × 8-bit), low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, 4.5–5.5V supply range, and industrial/automotive temperature support (–40°C to +125°C). It features self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL/WRAL, power-on/off data protection, and Ready/Busy status signaling via DO pin - used for configuration storage in automotive body control modules.
For engineers reviewing the 93C46A-E/SN datasheet, 93C46A-E/SN pinout, 93C46A-E/SN application, or 93C46A-E/SN equivalent, key selection considerations include VCC voltage compliance (≥4.5V for ERAL/WRAL), absence of ORG pin (fixed 8-bit organization), SOIC-8 package compatibility, and automotive-grade reliability requirements for nonvolatile parameter retention.
Technical Context
This device implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, DI, and DO pins - no ORG pin (dedicated x8 mode). Communication uses start-bit detection followed by opcode, address (7-bit), and data (8-bit) clocked on rising CLK edges. Read operations output data with a leading dummy zero and support sequential addressing while CS remains high.
Erase/write cycles are fully self-timed: for 93C46A-E/SN, the rising edge of CLK on the final data bit initiates auto-erase-and-program; ERAL and WRAL require VCC ≥4.5V and complete in 6 ms and 15 ms respectively. Power-on reset logic disables write functions until explicit EWEN command is issued, ensuring robust data integrity during brown-out conditions.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit) - fixed x8 organization; no ORG pin; supports 128 unique byte-addressable locations. |
| VCC operating range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V - mandates external regulator stability ≥4.5V; ERAL/WRAL invalid below 4.5V per DS20001749K-page 8 & 11. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS/CLK/DI/DO) - no SPI mode; requires start-bit detection; no SS/SS̅ or MOSI/MISO naming. |
| Write endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - specified at 25°C, VCC = 5.0V; enables long-term field calibration storage in automotive ECUs. |
| Data retention | Greater than 200 years - ensures firmware configuration persistence over full vehicle lifecycle without refresh. |
| Temperature grade | Automotive (E): –40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood and transmission control unit deployment. |
| Max clock frequency | 3 MHz at VCC ≥4.5V - limits maximum sustained write throughput to ~128 bytes/sec (including TWC = 2 ms overhead). |
Pinout & Package
93C46A-E/SN is packaged in 8-lead SOIC (SN suffix), with Pb-free Matte Tin finish. Pin 1 is marked by laser dot; package outline conforms to JEDEC MS-012AA.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (CS) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; deselects device into standby but allows ongoing write completion. |
| 2 (CLK) | Serial Clock | Rising-edge synchronized I/O; stops/resumes freely; initiates 93C-series write cycle on rising edge of final data bit. |
| 3 (DI) | Data Input | Accepts start bit, opcode (2-bit), address (7-bit), and data (8-bit); high-impedance when not selected. |
| 4 (DO) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); enters High-Z on CS falling edge; requires CS high ≥250 ns to sample status. |
| 5 (VSS) | Ground | Reference return path for all I/O and core logic; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling into DO timing. |
| 6 (NC) | No Connection | Internally unconnected; must be left floating or tied to VSS/VCC per layout best practice - no functional role. |
| 7 (NC) | No Connection | Same as Pin 6; dual NC pins confirm absence of ORG function in 'A' variant - distinguishes from 'C' versions. |
| 8 (VCC) | Power Supply | 4.5–5.5V only; internal POR triggers at ~3.8V; voltage below threshold inhibits all write operations including EWEN. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write (TWC = 2 ms) | Eliminates need for external timing control or polling delay loops - simplifies MCU firmware integration in resource-constrained automotive microcontrollers. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees full-array initialization prior to bulk write; removes requirement for separate ERAL command in boot-time configuration loading sequences. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware-enforced write inhibition below VCC = 3.8V prevents corruption during power ramp-up/down - critical for ignition-switched automotive systems. |
| Ready/Busy status on DO pin | Enables efficient status polling without dedicated interrupt line; reduces GPIO count and avoids blocking delays in real-time safety-critical tasks. |
| 1M endurance + 200-year retention | Validated for >10 years of daily reprogramming in telematics units; exceeds AEC-Q100 Grade 1 requirements for EEPROM wear-out lifetime. |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Body Control Module (BCM) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing adaptive fuel trim values, learned idle air control parameters, and diagnostic trouble code (DTC) history across ignition cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register providing byte-addressable, field-updatable memory with deterministic 2 ms write latency. Use Value: Enables closed-loop engine optimization without external FRAM or flash; retains calibration after battery disconnect. |
Use Scenario: Holding door lock/unlock preferences, mirror position presets, and lighting timeout settings in vehicles with centralized body electronics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-pin-count serial EEPROM interfaced directly to 8-bit MCU GPIOs with minimal external components. Use Value: Reduces BOM cost vs. I²C EEPROM; eliminates level-shifting needs due to 4.5–5.5V native operation matching MCU VDD. |
| Transmission Control Unit (TCU) | Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) |
Use Scenario: Recording gear shift adaptation profiles and clutch wear compensation tables updated during vehicle operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Automotive-grade persistent memory with –40°C to +125°C operation supporting under-hood placement near transmission housing. Use Value: Eliminates need for external temperature compensation circuitry; maintains data integrity during thermal cycling. |
Use Scenario: Storing camera calibration offsets, radar beam alignment coefficients, and sensor fusion bias corrections in front-camera modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant storage for safety-critical calibration data requiring AEC-Q100 qualification and long-term stability. Use Value: Meets ISO 26262 ASIL-B data retention requirements; supports traceable field updates via bootloader-controlled WRAL. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46B-E/SN | 1Kbit, 64 × 16-bit organization; same VCC (2.5–5.5V), temp grade, and SOIC-8 package. | Requires 16-bit MCU data path or software bit-packing; incompatible with legacy 8-bit read/write firmware. | Select only if system architecture natively supports 16-bit word access and higher density per instruction is prioritized. |
| AT25010B-MAHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 1Kbit (128 × 8), 2.5–5.5V, –40°C to +125°C, SOIC-8; no Ready/Busy pin. | Requires SPI peripheral instead of GPIO-bit-banged Microwire; lacks hardware status signaling - necessitates fixed 5 ms delay or polling loop. | Choose when existing platform uses SPI peripherals exclusively and firmware can absorb timing uncertainty in write confirmation. |
Compared with 93LC46B-E/SN, 93C46A-E/SN offers simpler 8-bit firmware integration and guaranteed 4.5–5.5V compatibility with legacy 5V automotive MCUs; versus AT25010B-MAHL-T, it provides deterministic status feedback and eliminates SPI bus contention risks in mixed-protocol designs.
Availability
93C46A-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive control units, industrial programmable logic controllers, and medical infusion pump calibration storage requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for 93C46A-E/SN 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 microcontroller, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 93Cxx series was designed specifically for automotive and industrial applications demanding high-reliability, low-pin-count serial EEPROMs with robust power-supply immunity and extended temperature operation.
FAQ
What is the minimum VCC required for reliable operation of the 93C46A-E/SN?
The 93C46A-E/SN requires VCC ≥4.5V for full functionality. Its internal power-on reset (POR) circuit activates at ~3.8V, disabling all write operations (EWEN, ERASE, WRITE, ERAL, WRAL) below this threshold. Operation at 4.5–5.5V ensures valid ERAL/WRAL execution, guaranteed 3 MHz clock timing, and compliance with AEC-Q100 automotive stress testing requirements.
Does the 93C46A-E/SN have an ORG pin, and what memory organization does it use?
No, the 93C46A-E/SN does not have an ORG pin - it is an 'A'-suffix device with fixed 128 × 8-bit (x8) organization. Unlike 'C' variants, it cannot be configured for 64 × 16-bit mode. This simplifies PCB layout by eliminating ORG pull-up/pull-down routing and guarantees consistent 8-bit data framing in firmware drivers.
How is Ready/Busy status monitored on the 93C46A-E/SN?
Ready/Busy status is signaled on the DO pin: logic low indicates active erase/write, logic high indicates completion. To sample status, CS must be brought high for ≥250 ns after the write command completes, then DO is read on the next CLK rising edge. The status remains valid until CS falls again or a new Start bit is detected.
What is the write cycle time for the 93C46A-E/SN, and how does it differ from other 93XX46 variants?
The 93C46A-E/SN has a typical write cycle time (TWC) of 2 ms, which is half that of 93AA46A/B/C and 93LC46A/B/C (6 ms). This faster timing results from optimized process technology in the 'C' family and applies to both single-byte WRITE and full-array WRAL operations - enabling tighter real-time response in safety-critical automotive diagnostics.
Can the 93C46A-E/SN be used in place of the 93LC46A-E/SN?
Yes, but only in 8-bit systems requiring 4.5–5.5V operation. The 93C46A-E/SN shares identical pinout, x8 organization, and SOIC-8 packaging with 93LC46A-E/SN, but differs in VCC range (93LC46A supports 2.5–5.5V) and write speed (2 ms vs. 6 ms). Firmware must validate VCC ≥4.5V before issuing ERAL/WRAL commands, as those fail below that threshold.
93C46A-E/SN Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- 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:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
93C46A-E/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C46A-E/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C46A-E/SN 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/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C46A-E/SN 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/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C46A-E/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C46A-E/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C46A-E/SN?
93C46A-E/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C46A-E/SN 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/SN?
For technical support, including 93C46A-E/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C46A-E/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C46A-E/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C46A-E/SN 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/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C46A-E/SN?
All 93C46A-E/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C46A-E/SN, 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/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C46A-E/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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