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Microchip Technology 93C46A-I/MS
- Part No.:
- 93C46A-I/MS
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93C46A-I/MS.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,932
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Product details
Overview
93C46A-I/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1Kbit (128 × 8-bit), Microwire-compatible serial EEPROM designed for nonvolatile data storage in embedded control and configuration applications. It operates over 4.5–5.5 V, supports industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C), features self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL before WRAL, and Ready/Busy status via DO pin. Used in microcontroller-based systems for parameter retention and calibration storage.
For engineers reviewing the 93C46A-I/MS datasheet, 93C46A-I/MS pinout, 93C46A-I/MS application, or 93C46A-I/MS equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package-confirmed pin functions, real-world use cases, and validated alternative parts - all aligned with DS20001749K revision K.
Technical Context
This device implements a synchronous 3-wire Microwire interface (CS, CLK, DI/DO) with start-bit detection and opcode-driven command execution. It uses dedicated 8-bit organization (no ORG pin), requiring no external logic for word-size selection. All instructions - READ, WRITE, ERASE, ERAL, WRAL, EWEN, EWDS - are clocked on rising CLK edges with defined timing windows per VCC level.
Power-on data protection is enforced by internal voltage detection (VPOR = 3.8 V typical); operation is inhibited below this threshold. The device powers up in EWDS mode, mandating explicit EWEN before any write/erase, and supports sequential read with automatic address increment while CS remains high.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit) - fixed x8 organization; no ORG pin; supports 128-byte configuration storage. |
| VCC range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V - requires stable 5 V supply; VPOR = 3.8 V ensures reliable power-on reset and data protection. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS, CLK, DI/DO) - no separate chip select enable; no SPI mode. |
| Write cycle time | 2 ms max (TWC) - self-timed auto-erase-and-write; no external delay needed after CS/CLK trigger. |
| Endurance & retention | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles; >200 years data retention - validated at 25°C, VCC = 5.0 V per characterization. |
| Temp range | Industrial: −40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial control, metering, and automotive body electronics. |
| Standby current | 5 µA max (ICCS) - enables low-power battery-backed or always-on configuration memory. |
Pinout & Package
8-lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package), 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, Pb-free Matte Tin finish. Pin 1 marked by laser dot; exposed pad optional (not electrically connected).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (CS) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; initiates self-timed write on falling edge for 93C devices. |
| 2 (CLK) | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcodes, addresses, and data; stoppable mid-sequence. |
| 3 (DI) | Data Input | Receives start bit, instruction opcodes, addresses, and write data; shares net with DO only with series resistor to avoid bus conflict. |
| 4 (DO) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy status (low = busy); enters High-Z on CS falling edge; requires TCSL ≥250 ns before status polling. |
| 5 (VSS) | Ground | Reference for all I/O and internal circuitry; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling. |
| 6 (NC) | No Internal Connection | Unbonded pad; must be left floating or tied to VSS - no functional role; not usable as strap or debug pin. |
| 7 (ORG) | Organization Select | Not connected internally on 93C46A - NC function confirmed in Device Selection Table and Pin Function Table; unused. |
| 8 (VCC) | Power Supply | 4.5–5.5 V supply; internal POR circuit disables operation below ~3.8 V to prevent corruption during brownout. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates need for external timing control or software delays; 2 ms max cycle time ensures predictable firmware latency. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees full-array readiness prior to bulk write; prevents partial writes and data corruption without host intervention. |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Enables polling-based firmware flow control instead of fixed delays; reduces worst-case wait time and improves system responsiveness. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware-enforced lockout below 3.8 V prevents inadvertent writes during power ramp-up/down or brownout conditions. |
| Erase/Write Enable/Disable (EWEN/EWDS) | Explicit command gating adds layer of software safety; device powers up in EWDS state, requiring deliberate enable before programming. |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration | Printer Firmware Configuration |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Storing sensor offset/gain coefficients and linearization tables in factory-calibrated pressure or temperature transmitters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory interfaced to MCU via Microwire; accessed during boot and field recalibration. Use Value: Enables field-updatable calibration without reprogramming MCU flash; 1M endurance supports frequent recalibration cycles. |
Use Scenario: Retaining printer settings (paper type, resolution, duplex mode) and consumable usage counters across power cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dedicated parameter store for host MCU; accessed asynchronously during job setup and status reporting. Use Value: Isolates volatile MCU RAM from persistent settings; prevents loss of user preferences after unexpected power loss. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | POS Terminal Security Keys |
|
Use Scenario: Holding seat/mirror position memory and lighting configuration in entry-level BCMs operating at 5 V. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-pin-count serial EEPROM co-located with 8-bit MCU; accessed during initialization and user input events. Use Value: Meets AEC-Q100 Class 2 temp range (−40°C to +85°C); RoHS-compliant packaging supports automotive manufacturing requirements. |
Use Scenario: Securely storing cryptographic keys and terminal ID in payment terminals where flash wear-out is a concern. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Tamper-resistant configuration storage; accessed only during secure boot and key derivation routines. Use Value: 200-year data retention ensures key integrity over product lifetime; 5 µA standby current minimizes battery drain in backup mode. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46A-I/MS | Wider VCC range (2.5–5.5 V); same 128 × 8-bit organization; identical pinout and timing. | Supports 3.3 V systems; lacks 5 V-specific VPOR threshold - less robust against 5 V brownout. | Select when migrating to mixed-voltage designs or extending supply margin below 4.5 V. |
| AT25010B-MAHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 1 Kbit (128 × 8), 1.8–5.5 V; different command set and status register access. | Requires SPI controller instead of Microwire; no native Ready/Busy pin - relies on WIP flag polling. | Choose when existing design uses SPI peripherals and firmware already supports Atmel's instruction set. |
Compared with 93LC46A-I/MS, the 93C46A-I/MS offers tighter 5 V operation and stronger brownout immunity, while AT25010B-MAHL-T trades Microwire simplicity for broader voltage support and SPI ecosystem compatibility - neither is pin-compatible, but both serve overlapping configuration-storage roles.
Availability
93C46A-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, printer firmware configuration, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for 93C46A-I/MS 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 design and manufacturing operations.
The 93C46A-I/MS belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, engineered for cost-sensitive, low-pin-count nonvolatile storage in industrial and automotive applications where Microwire compatibility and hardware data protection are critical.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93C46A-I/MS?
The 93C46A-I/MS has a fixed 128 × 8-bit (1 Kbit) organization with no ORG pin functionality. Unlike 'C' variants, it does not support x16 mode - all instructions operate on 8-bit data words, and the ORG pin is internally unconnected (NC). This simplifies PCB layout and eliminates external strapping components.
Does the 93C46A-I/MS support 3.3 V operation?
No, the 93C46A-I/MS is specified only for 4.5 V to 5.5 V operation. Its internal voltage detect (VPOR = 3.8 V typical) is calibrated for 5 V systems; attempting 3.3 V operation will disable all programming functions and may cause unpredictable read behavior. For 3.3 V designs, consider 93LC46A-I/MS instead.
How is Ready/Busy status monitored on the 93C46A-I/MS?
Ready/Busy status is output on the DO pin: logic low indicates ongoing erase/write, logic high signals completion. To poll correctly, CS must be brought high for ≥250 ns after TCSL, then DO sampled. After completion, issuing a Start bit followed by CS low clears the status flag from DO.
What is the purpose of the NC pin on the 93C46A-I/MS MSOP package?
Pin 6 on the 93C46A-I/MS MSOP package is designated NC (No internal connection) - it is unbonded and electrically isolated. It must be left floating or tied to VSS per Microchip's recommendation; using it as a signal or ground path violates the device's qualification and may compromise reliability.
Can the 93C46A-I/MS be used in automotive applications?
The 93C46A-I/MS is rated for Industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C), not Automotive (−40°C to +125°C). While it may function in some under-hood environments, it is not AEC-Q100 qualified. For automotive body electronics requiring extended temperature support, Microchip's 93C46B-E/MS or 93C46C-E/MS variants are appropriate alternatives.
93C46A-I/MS Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not 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 ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-MSOP
93C46A-I/MS FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C46A-I/MS through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C46A-I/MS 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-I/MS reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C46A-I/MS are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93C46A-I/MS is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C46A-I/MS?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C46A-I/MS transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C46A-I/MS?
93C46A-I/MS orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C46A-I/MS 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-I/MS?
For technical support, including 93C46A-I/MS datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C46A-I/MS requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C46A-I/MS is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C46A-I/MS 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-I/MS meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C46A-I/MS?
All 93C46A-I/MS units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C46A-I/MS, 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-I/MS part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C46A-I/MS:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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