Microchip Technology 93C46BX-E/SN
- Part No.:
- 93C46BX-E/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93C46BX-E/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
93C46BX-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 before 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 93C46BX-E/SN datasheet, 93C46BX-E/SN pinout, 93C46BX-E/SN application, or 93C46BX-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC operating range (4.5–5.5V), 8-bit fixed organization (no ORG pin), automotive-grade temperature rating, SOIC-8 package compatibility, and Microwire protocol timing compliance.
Technical Context
The 93C46BX-E/SN implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, and DI/DO signals. It uses a dedicated 8-bit memory organization (no ORG pin function), requiring no external logic for word-size selection. All instructions - READ, WRITE, ERASE, ERAL, WRAL, EWEN, EWDS - are initiated by a Start bit followed by opcode and address/data bits clocked on CLK rising edges.
Internal power-on reset and voltage detect circuitry (VPOR = 3.8V typical) inhibit all operations below VCC threshold. Programming cycles are fully self-timed: WRITE and ERASE complete in ≤2 ms, ERAL in ≤6 ms, and WRAL in ≤15 ms at VCC ≥4.5V. The DO pin serves dual role - serial data output during READ and Ready/Busy status indicator during programming.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit) - fixed 8-bit organization; no ORG pin; supports byte-level writes without external word-width logic. |
| VCC operating range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V - requires stable regulated supply; operation inhibited below 3.8 V (VPOR threshold). |
| Temperature grade | Automotive (E): −40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood and body-control applications with extended thermal reliability. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS, CLK, DI/DO) - compatible with legacy microcontrollers lacking SPI hardware but supporting bit-banged Microwire timing. |
| Endurance & retention | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles; >200 years data retention - suitable for infrequently updated calibration or configuration data. |
| Write cycle time | ≤2 ms (TWC) - enables fast firmware-initiated parameter updates without blocking host CPU for extended periods. |
| Standby current | ≤5 µA (ICCS) at I-temp, ≤1 µA at E-temp - minimizes quiescent power in always-on automotive modules. |
Pinout & Package
93C46BX-E/SN is supplied in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) package per Microchip's standard outline. Pin 1 is CS; pin 2 is CLK; pin 3 is DI; pin 4 is DO; pin 5 is VSS; pin 6 is NC (no internal connection); pin 7 is NC; pin 8 is VCC. The ORG pin is not present - confirming fixed 8-bit organization as indicated by 'X' suffix in part number.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; initiates self-timed write on falling edge for 93C devices. |
| CLK (Pin 2) | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcode/address/data; rising edge of final CLK initiates write/erase on 93C devices. |
| DI (Pin 3) | Data Input | Receives Start bit, opcodes, addresses, and write data; must be stable before first CLK rising edge after CS high. |
| DO (Pin 4) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy status (low = busy); enters High-Z when CS low or during non-read operations. |
| VSS (Pin 5) | Ground | Reference for all digital and analog circuitry; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling into DO status signal. |
| NC (Pin 6 & 7) | No Connection | Unused pins; must remain unconnected - no tie-to-ground or pull-up required; confirms absence of ORG functionality. |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Power Supply | 4.5–5.5 V supply; internal POR circuit disables operation below ~3.8 V; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF) required near pin. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Fixed 8-bit organization (no ORG pin) | Eliminates need for external level-shifting or logic to configure word size - simplifies PCB layout and firmware initialization. |
| Self-timed erase/write cycles | Removes requirement for precise host timing control - host polls DO pin for completion instead of managing fixed delays. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees full array erase prior to bulk write - prevents partial-write corruption and eliminates separate erase command in configuration update sequences. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware-enforced write inhibition below VPOR (3.8 V) - prevents inadvertent writes during brown-out or power ramp conditions. |
| Ready/Busy status on DO pin | Enables efficient polling-based programming flow without dedicated interrupt lines - reduces MCU GPIO count and firmware complexity. |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Unit | Industrial PLC Configuration Storage |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing door lock settings, mirror position presets, and lighting profiles in a vehicle body control module. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register accessed via Microwire interface during MCU boot or user input events. Use Value: Automotive temperature rating (−40°C to +125°C) and 1M-cycle endurance ensure reliable parameter retention over 15+ year vehicle lifetime. | Use Scenario: Holding I/O mapping tables and calibration coefficients in a programmable logic controller field module. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serial EEPROM interfaced to ARM Cortex-M MCU for infrequent but critical firmware-updatable parameters. Use Value: 4.5–5.5 V VCC range matches industrial 5 V rail; self-timed writes eliminate timing-critical delays in real-time control loops. |
| Medical Infusion Pump Settings | Smart Energy Meter Calibration Data |
Use Scenario: Retaining drug delivery profiles, alarm thresholds, and operator permissions in battery-backed medical equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Microwire EEPROM accessed during power-up and maintenance mode for safety-critical configuration recovery. Use Value: >200-year data retention meets IEC 62304 long-term reliability requirements; RoHS-compliant Pb-free SN package supports medical regulatory compliance. | Use Scenario: Storing metering calibration constants and tariff tables updated during factory programming or field service. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power serial EEPROM interfaced to 8-bit MCU for secure, tamper-resistant parameter storage. Use Value: ≤5 µA standby current extends battery life in AMI meters; 1M endurance supports decades of field recalibration cycles. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46B-I/SN | 2.5–5.5 V VCC range; 64 × 16-bit organization; industrial temp only (−40°C to +85°C); no ORG pin. | Requires 16-bit data path; unsuitable for automotive environments above +85°C; lower VCC minimum enables mixed-voltage designs. | Select if system operates at 2.5 V or requires 16-bit word access; avoid for automotive E-temp applications. |
| AT25010B-MAHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire); 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit); 1.8–5.5 V; industrial temp; different instruction set and timing. | Requires SPI-capable MCU; incompatible Microwire timing and command structure; no Ready/Busy on DO pin. | Select only if migrating to SPI architecture; firmware and driver redesign required; not drop-in replaceable. |
Compared with 93LC46B-I/SN and AT25010B-MAHL-T, the 93C46BX-E/SN uniquely combines automotive temperature qualification, fixed 8-bit Microwire compatibility, and hardware-enforced 4.5–5.5 V operation - making it optimal for legacy automotive MCU platforms requiring guaranteed write integrity under harsh thermal conditions.
Availability
93C46BX-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLCs, medical infusion pumps, and smart energy metering applications requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for 93C46BX-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 cost-sensitive, low-power serial EEPROM applications in automotive and industrial systems where Microwire protocol compatibility and robust data retention are essential.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93C46BX-E/SN?
The 93C46BX-E/SN has a fixed 128 × 8-bit organization. The 'X' in the part number indicates absence of the ORG pin, confirming it is an 'A'-type device - unlike 'C' variants which support configurable 8-/16-bit modes via the ORG pin. This eliminates external configuration logic and simplifies firmware handling of byte-aligned data.
Does the 93C46BX-E/SN support 16-bit word access?
No, the 93C46BX-E/SN does not support 16-bit word access. It is strictly an 8-bit device (128 × 8-bit) with no ORG pin. Only 93C46B and 93C46C variants provide 16-bit capability - the former with fixed 64 × 16-bit organization, the latter with ORG-pin-selectable mode. Attempting 16-bit reads/writes on 93C46BX-E/SN will result in incorrect data transfer.
What is the minimum VCC voltage required for reliable operation of the 93C46BX-E/SN?
The 93C46BX-E/SN requires a minimum VCC of 4.5 V for guaranteed operation. Its internal voltage detect (VPOR) is specified at 3.8 V typical, meaning all write, erase, and status functions are hardware-disabled below this threshold. Operating at voltages below 4.5 V risks incomplete programming or corrupted data - the device is explicitly rated for 4.5–5.5 V only.
Can the 93C46BX-E/SN be used in place of a 93C46A-I/SN?
Yes, the 93C46BX-E/SN is functionally identical to 93C46A-I/SN in memory organization and interface, but differs in temperature grade and packaging. Both are 128 × 8-bit, no-ORG devices. However, 93C46BX-E/SN is rated for −40°C to +125°C (automotive E-temp), while 93C46A-I/SN is limited to −40°C to +85°C (industrial I-temp). The 'X' denotes SOIC-8 (SN) package - same as 'A' variant - so PCB footprint is identical.
How does the Ready/Busy status work on the 93C46BX-E/SN DO pin?
During erase or write operations, the DO pin outputs Ready/Busy status: logic low indicates programming is in progress; logic high indicates completion. To read status, CS must be brought high for ≥250 ns after the initial instruction, then sampled on subsequent CLK edges. DO returns to High-Z when CS is low or during non-programming operations - requiring proper CS timing per datasheet Figure 2-1 through 2-11.
93C46BX-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:
- 64 x 16
- 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
93C46BX-E/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C46BX-E/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C46BX-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 93C46BX-E/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C46BX-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 93C46BX-E/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C46BX-E/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C46BX-E/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C46BX-E/SN?
93C46BX-E/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C46BX-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 93C46BX-E/SN?
For technical support, including 93C46BX-E/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C46BX-E/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C46BX-E/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C46BX-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 93C46BX-E/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C46BX-E/SN?
All 93C46BX-E/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C46BX-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 93C46BX-E/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C46BX-E/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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