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

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
93C46BX/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1Kbit, 8-bit organization serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, operating at 4.5–5.5V, supporting Industrial (−40°C to +85°C) and Automotive (−40°C to +125°C) temperature ranges in 8-lead SOIC package. It features self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL/WRAL, power-on/off data protection, and 1,000,000 endurance cycles - used for configuration storage in microcontroller-based embedded systems.
For engineers reviewing the 93C46BX/SN datasheet, 93C46BX/SN pinout, 93C46BX/SN application, or 93C46BX/SN equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs (e.g., TWC = 2 ms write cycle), timing constraints (TCSL ≥ 250 ns), Ready/Busy status signaling via DO, VCC detect threshold (3.8 V), and package-specific pin mapping for SOIC (SN) - all critical for reliable nonvolatile memory integration in automotive and industrial control designs.
Technical Context
The 93C46BX/SN implements a synchronous 3-wire Microwire interface with CS, CLK, and DI/DO pins, where instruction execution begins on a Start condition (CS high + DI high on CLK rising edge). Its internal logic supports dedicated 8-bit organization (no ORG pin), eliminating external configuration logic required by 'C' variants.
Write operations are initiated by the rising edge of CLK on the final data bit (93C-series behavior), not CS falling edge. The device powers up in EWDS mode, requiring explicit EWEN before any erase/write, and provides Ready/Busy status polling via DO pin after minimum TCSL (250 ns) - enabling deterministic firmware wait-state management.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit organization); fixed x8 mode eliminates address/data width ambiguity in firmware drivers. |
| VCC range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V; requires stable 5 V rail; POR threshold at 3.8 V prevents spurious writes during brown-out. |
| Write cycle time | 2 ms (TWC); deterministic self-timed programming enables precise timeout handling without clock stretching. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles; supports frequent calibration or logging updates over product lifetime. |
| Data retention | 200 years at 25°C; ensures long-term integrity of stored configuration or calibration data. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS/CLK/DI/DO); minimal GPIO usage; no I²C pull-ups or SPI SS complexity. |
| Temp range | −40°C to +125°C (Automotive E-grade); qualified for under-hood and powertrain control modules. |
Pinout & Package
8-lead SOIC package (SN suffix), Pb-free Matte Tin finish, standard footprint compatible with JEDEC MS-012. Pin 1 marked by laser dot; pin 1 ID corner confirmed per Microchip DS20001749K-page 18.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (CS) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions (TCSL); deselects device into standby but completes ongoing write. |
| 2 (CLK) | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in Start bit, opcode, address, and data; stops/resumes freely during transmission. |
| 3 (DI) | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, instruction opcodes (e.g., 01 for WRITE), 7-bit address, and 8-bit data; tied high at power-up for Start detection. |
| 4 (DO) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy status (low = busy); enters High-Z when CS low; requires TSV (≤500 ns) for valid status sampling. |
| 5 (VSS) | Ground | Reference for all I/O and internal logic; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling into serial interface. |
| 6 (NC) | No Connect | Internally unconnected; must be left floating or tied to VSS per layout best practice; not usable as ORG (unlike 'C' variants). |
| 7 (NC) | No Connect | Unused terminal; no internal bond wire; electrically isolated; avoid routing signals adjacent to reduce crosstalk. |
| 8 (VCC) | Power Supply | 4.5–5.5 V supply; bypass capacitor (0.1 µF ceramic) required within 5 mm for stable erase/write operation. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates need for external timing control or firmware delay loops; 2 ms guaranteed completion enables predictable interrupt latency. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Ensures full array is erased prior to bulk write; removes requirement for separate ERAL command in boot-time configuration loading. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware-level inhibition below 3.8 V VCC prevents corruption during power ramp-up/down - critical for automotive stop-start systems. |
| Ready/Busy status via DO | Enables efficient polling instead of fixed delays; reduces average write latency by >40% compared to worst-case timeout methods. |
| EWEN/EWDS security lock | Prevents accidental writes during normal operation; EWDS auto-engages at power-up, requiring explicit enable before each programming sequence. |
Applications
| Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Industrial PLC Configuration Storage |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing fuel map calibration tables and sensor offset values that persist across ignition cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory interfaced directly to MCU's Microwire peripheral; accessed during boot and runtime re-calibration. Use Value: 125°C rating ensures reliability in under-hood environments; 1M endurance supports field updates over 10+ years. |
Use Scenario: Retaining I/O module addressing, communication protocol settings, and alarm thresholds across power loss. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serial configuration register bank; accessed via GPIO-banged Microwire due to lack of dedicated controller. Use Value: 3-wire simplicity reduces BOM count vs. SPI EEPROM; NC pins simplify PCB routing in space-constrained DIN-rail enclosures. |
| Medical Infusion Pump Settings | Smart Energy Meter Calibration Data |
Use Scenario: Holding drug delivery profiles, dosage limits, and user preferences with regulatory-required data integrity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure parameter store; accessed only during setup mode with EWEN/EWDS enforced in firmware. Use Value: 200-year data retention meets FDA long-term device lifecycle requirements; RoHS compliance supports global deployment. |
Use Scenario: Storing metering constants, tariff schedules, and tamper-event logs in utility-grade electricity meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Tamper-resistant configuration memory; write-protected via hardware VCC lockout and EWDS. Use Value: 3.8 V VCC detect prevents writes during brown-out events common in grid-edge deployments; 5.5 V max rating accommodates 5 V system rails. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46B/SN | 2.5–5.5 V VCC range; same 128×8 organization; no ORG pin; identical SOIC-8 pinout. | Supports wider voltage range including 3.3 V systems; lacks 125°C automotive qualification. | Select for cost-sensitive industrial designs operating at 3.3 V where extended temperature is unnecessary. |
| AT25010B-MAHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 1.8–5.5 V, 1 Kbit x8, 5 MHz max clock; different command set and status reporting. | Requires SPI master instead of Microwire; higher speed but incompatible protocol stack. | Choose when migrating to SPI-based platforms or needing faster random access; requires firmware rewrite. |
Compared with 93LC46B/SN, the 93C46BX/SN offers guaranteed automotive temperature support and tighter VCC lockout (3.8 V), while AT25010B-MAHL-T trades Microwire simplicity for SPI speed and broader voltage flexibility - making 93C46BX/SN optimal for legacy 5 V automotive ECUs requiring drop-in compatibility and robust brown-out immunity.
Availability
93C46BX/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control units, industrial programmable logic controllers, and medical infusion pump designs requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-lifecycle support.
Supply support for 93C46BX/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 microcontrollers, analog components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 93C46BX/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy 93Cxx serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-effective, low-pin-count nonvolatile storage in automotive and industrial control systems requiring Microwire compatibility and high-reliability data retention.
FAQ
What is the function of the NC pins on the 93C46BX/SN?
The 93C46BX/SN has two NC (No Connect) pins - pin 6 and pin 7 - which are internally unconnected and serve no electrical function. They must be left floating or tied to VSS per PCB layout guidelines; unlike the 93C46C variant, these pins do not support ORG functionality. This simplifies design by removing configuration dependencies and reducing risk of misconnection in the 93C46BX/SN.
Does the 93C46BX/SN support 3.3 V operation?
No, the 93C46BX/SN does not support 3.3 V operation. Its specified VCC range is strictly 4.5 V to 5.5 V, with a power-on reset threshold of 3.8 V. Attempting to operate below 4.5 V may result in unreliable write cycles or data corruption. For 3.3 V systems, consider the pin-compatible 93LC46B/SN, which operates from 2.5 V to 5.5 V.
How is the Ready/Busy status monitored on the 93C46BX/SN?
Ready/Busy status on the 93C46BX/SN is monitored via the DO pin: after initiating an erase or write command, bring CS high for ≥250 ns (TCSL), then sample DO - low indicates ongoing operation, high indicates completion. The status is valid within TSV (≤500 ns) after CS high. This allows precise firmware polling without fixed delays, improving system responsiveness.
What is the significance of the 'X' in 93C46BX/SN?
The 'X' in 93C46BX/SN denotes the package variant - specifically, the 8-lead SOIC (SN) package with standard pinout and Matte Tin (Pb-free) finish. It distinguishes this part from other 93C46B variants such as 93C46BT (TSSOP) or 93C46BM (MSOP). The 'X' is part of Microchip's standardized marking convention and confirms mechanical and electrical compatibility within the SOIC-8 footprint.
Can the 93C46BX/SN be used in place of the 93C46A/SN?
Yes, the 93C46BX/SN is functionally identical to the 93C46A/SN - both are 128×8-bit, 4.5–5.5 V, SOIC-8 EEPROMs with no ORG pin and identical timing (e.g., 2 ms TWC). The 'X' suffix reflects updated packaging and marking per Microchip's DS20001749K revision history and does not indicate functional deviation; they share the same datasheet and are interchangeable in design.
93C46BX/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:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
93C46BX/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C46BX/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C46BX/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/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C46BX/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/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C46BX/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C46BX/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C46BX/SN?
93C46BX/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C46BX/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/SN?
For technical support, including 93C46BX/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C46BX/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C46BX/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C46BX/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/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C46BX/SN?
All 93C46BX/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C46BX/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/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C46BX/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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