Microchip Technology 93C46C-E/P

Overview

93C46C-E/P 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 runtime word-size selection, and industrial-temperature operation (−40°C to +85°C). It supports self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL/WRAL, and Ready/Busy status via DO pin. Used in embedded system configuration storage, sensor calibration data retention, and firmware parameter backup.

For engineers reviewing the 93C46C-E/P datasheet, 93C46C-E/P pinout, 93C46C-E/P application, or 93C46C-E/P equivalent, key selection criteria include V_CC range (4.5–5.5 V), ORG-configurable memory organization, 2 ms program cycle time, 1 million endurance cycles, and Pb-free PDIP package compatibility with legacy through-hole designs.

Technical Context

The 93C46C-E/P implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, DI, and DO signals, where instruction execution is triggered by rising CLK edges and controlled by CS timing constraints (e.g., TCSL ≥ 250 ns). Its dual-organization capability is hardware-selectable via the ORG pin: logic high enables 64 × 16-bit mode; logic low enables 128 × 8-bit mode.

Internal operation includes power-on write protection (V_CC detect threshold = 3.8 V), EWEN/EWDS command-based programming enable/disable, and status polling via DO during erase/write. All programming cycles (ERASE, WRITE, ERAL, WRAL) are self-timed and initiate on the rising edge of CLK for 93C-series devices - distinct from 93AA/93LC variants that trigger on CS falling edge.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

93C46C-E/P is supplied in an 8-lead plastic dual in-line package (PDIP), RoHS-compliant with Matte Tin (Pb-free) finish. Pin 1 is marked by laser dot; pin 1 ID corner is bottom-left when viewed top-side with notch/left index mark oriented left.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 93C46B-E/P, the 93C46C-E/P adds runtime organization switching at the cost of one extra pin; compared with 93LC46C-E/P, it trades supply flexibility for higher noise immunity and guaranteed 5 V timing margins in industrial 5 V rails.

Availability

93C46C-E/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, industrial PLC configuration, and medical diagnostic equipment requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 93C46C-E/P 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 devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona.

The 93Cxx EEPROM family was designed for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded systems requiring reliable nonvolatile storage with minimal pin count and simple 3-wire control.

FAQ

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

The ORG pin on the 93C46C-E/P selects memory organization: logic high configures 64 × 16-bit mode; logic low configures 128 × 8-bit mode. This pin is active and required - unlike 'A' or 'B' variants where ORG is NC. Proper biasing to VCC or VSS is mandatory for correct operation of the 93C46C-E/P.

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

Yes, the 93C46C-E/P performs automatic erase before write (auto-erase) during all WRITE and WRAL operations. This eliminates the need for separate ERASE commands in most use cases. The 93C46C-E/P completes this self-timed cycle in ≤2 ms, with Ready/Busy status indicated on the DO pin.

What is the minimum VCC required for reliable operation of the 93C46C-E/P?

The 93C46C-E/P requires VCC ≥ 4.5 V for full specification compliance. Its internal voltage detector (VPOR) inhibits all write operations below 3.8 V to prevent data corruption. Operation below 4.5 V is not characterized and may result in timing violations or incomplete writes - always maintain 4.5–5.5 V for guaranteed 93C46C-E/P functionality.

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

The 93C46C-E/P uses the DO pin to signal Ready/Busy status: DO = low indicates ongoing erase/write; DO = high indicates completion. To read status, CS must be brought high for ≥250 ns after TCSL, then sampled on subsequent CLK rising edges. After completion, issuing a Start bit and lowering CS clears the status flag on the 93C46C-E/P.

Is the 93C46C-E/P pin-compatible with other 93XX46 variants in PDIP package?

Yes, the 93C46C-E/P shares identical 8-lead PDIP pinout and footprint with all 93XX46A/B/C variants (e.g., 93C46A-E/P, 93C46B-E/P, 93LC46C-E/P). Pin functions match per Table 3-1, though ORG is functional only on 'C' versions - on 'A'/'B' parts it is NC. This allows direct substitution in existing layouts when ORG functionality is not required.