Microchip Technology 93C46C-E/MS

Overview

93C46C-E/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1 Kbit (128 × 8 or 64 × 16) low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, ORG pin for dynamic word-size selection, 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 1,000,000 endurance cycles - deployed in embedded system configuration storage where nonvolatile parameter retention is critical.

For engineers reviewing the 93C46C-E/MS datasheet, 93C46C-E/MS pinout, 93C46C-E/MS application, or 93C46C-E/MS equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs (VCC = 4.5–5.5 V), timing parameters (FCLK up to 3 MHz), memory organization flexibility (x8/x16 via ORG), RoHS-compliant MSOP-8 packaging, and real-world use context for industrial control and automotive subsystems.

Technical Context

The 93C46C-E/MS implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, DI, and DO signals, where instruction execution begins on a Start condition (CS high + DI high at CLK rising edge). Its dual-organization architecture relies on external logic driving the ORG pin: tied to VCC for 64 × 16-bit mode, or to VSS for 128 × 8-bit mode - enabling hardware-selectable data width without firmware changes.

Internal operation includes auto-erase-before-write, ERAL (Erase All) and WRAL (Write All) commands with dedicated opcodes, Ready/Busy status signaled via DO pin polling, and power-supply voltage detection (VPOR = 3.8 V typical) that inhibits all operations below threshold. Write cycle time is fixed at 2 ms (TWC), and VCC ≥ 4.5 V is required for ERAL/WRAL functionality.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

93C46C-E/MS is housed in an 8-lead MSOP (Mini Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm pitch, 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm body, and exposed pad option (not connected per datasheet). Pin 1 is marked by laser dot; package is Pb-free (Matte Tin finish) and RoHS compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.

Compared with 93LC46C-E/MS, the 93C46C-E/MS provides higher VCC noise margin and guaranteed ERAL/WRAL operation at 5 V, while AT25010B-MAHL-T trades ORG flexibility for broader voltage range and industry-standard SPI compatibility - making each optimal for distinct system architecture constraints.

Availability

93C46C-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, automotive electronics, and medical device manufacturing requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for 93C46C-E/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 microcontroller, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 93C46C-E/MS belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained embedded systems needing reliable, low-pin-count nonvolatile storage with hardware-configurable data width.

FAQ

What is the function of the ORG pin on the 93C46C-E/MS?

The ORG pin on the 93C46C-E/MS selects memory organization: logic high (VCC) configures 64 × 16-bit mode, logic low (VSS) configures 128 × 8-bit mode. This hardware-selectable width eliminates firmware adaptation when interfacing with different host MCUs. The 93C46C-E/MS requires external biasing - no internal pull-up/down - and improper floating causes undefined behavior. Always tie ORG to a valid logic level before power-up.

Does the 93C46C-E/MS support automatic erase before write?

Yes, the 93C46C-E/MS performs automatic erase before every write operation - including individual WRITE and bulk WRAL commands. This self-timed feature ensures data integrity without host software intervention. The total cycle time is fixed at 2 ms (TWC), and VCC must remain stable within 4.5–5.5 V throughout the operation. No separate ERASE command is needed prior to WRITE.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 93C46C-E/MS?

The 93C46C-E/MS supports a maximum clock frequency of 3 MHz when VCC is between 4.5 V and 5.5 V. At lower voltages, the limit drops: 2 MHz for 2.5–4.5 V (not applicable here), and 1 MHz for 1.8–2.5 V (outside 93C46C-E/MS's rated range). Timing parameters like TCKH (200 ns min) and TCKL (100 ns min) are guaranteed only within its specified 4.5–5.5 V window.

How does the 93C46C-E/MS indicate Ready/Busy status during programming?

The 93C46C-E/MS asserts Ready/Busy status on the DO pin: logic low indicates active erase/write, logic high confirms completion. To poll, bring CS high for ≥250 ns after initiating the command, then sample DO. DO returns to High-Z when CS goes low. After completion, issuing a Start bit followed by CS low clears the status flag - essential before subsequent commands.

Is the 93C46C-E/MS pin-compatible with other 93XX46 variants in MSOP-8 package?

Yes, the 93C46C-E/MS shares identical MSOP-8 pinout and footprint with all 93XX46A/B/C variants (e.g., 93C46A-E/MS, 93LC46C-E/MS), including CS, CLK, DI, DO, VSS, ORG/NC, NC, and VCC assignments. However, functional differences exist: 93C46A/B lack ORG, and 93LC46C has lower VCC min (2.5 V). Swapping requires verifying voltage compatibility and ORG handling in firmware.