Microchip Technology 93C46C-E/ST
- Part No.:
- 93C46C-E/ST
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93C46C-E/ST.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
93C46C-E/ST from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1 Kbit (128 × 8 or 64 × 16) Microwire-compatible serial EEPROM with ORG pin for dynamic word-size selection, 4.5–5.5 V supply range, -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature grade, and 1 million erase/write cycles. It serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in microcontroller-based automotive control modules requiring robust data retention (>200 years) and power-on/off data protection.
For engineers reviewing the 93C46C-E/ST datasheet, 93C46C-E/ST pinout, 93C46C-E/ST application, or 93C46C-E/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-word-size flexibility via ORG pin, automotive-grade reliability, Microwire protocol compliance, Ready/Busy status signaling, and support for ERAL/WRAL bulk operations under ≥4.5 V.
Technical Context
The 93C46C-E/ST implements a synchronous 3-wire Microwire interface (CS, CLK, DI/DO) with start-bit detection and opcode-driven command set. Its ORG pin directly configures memory organization between 128×8-bit (ORG = low) and 64×16-bit (ORG = high), enabling hardware-selectable data width without firmware reconfiguration.
It features self-timed erase/write cycles initiated by rising CLK edge (not falling CS), automatic ERAL before WRAL, EWEN/EWDS write-protection logic, and VCC brown-out detection at 3.8 V. Ready/Busy status is actively driven on DO during programming, requiring CS high ≥250 ns after TCSL to sample.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size & Organization | 1 Kbit total: configurable 128 × 8-bit (ORG = 0) or 64 × 16-bit (ORG = 1); enables flexible byte- or word-aligned firmware storage |
| VCC Range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V; requires ≥4.5 V for ERAL and WRAL operations - mandates stable automotive rail design |
| Temperature Grade | Automotive (E): -40°C to +125°C; qualified for engine bay and powertrain control unit environments |
| Endurance & Retention | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles; >200 years data retention at 25°C - supports long-life vehicle ECUs |
| Write Cycle Time | 2 ms typical (TWC); fixed duration independent of address - simplifies timing-critical firmware polling |
| Interface Protocol | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS/CLK/DI/DO); no SPI mode - requires dedicated Microwire host or bit-banged GPIO |
| Power Consumption | Standby current ≤5 µA (I-Temp), ≤1 µA (E-Temp); read current ≤500 µA at 2.5 V - suitable for low-power wake-up circuits |
Pinout & Package
93C46C-E/ST is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (ST) with Pb-free Matte Tin finish. Pin 1 is marked by laser; package dimensions conform to JEDEC MS-012AA.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns (TCSL) between instructions; deselects device into standby but completes ongoing write |
| CLK (Pin 2) | Serial Clock | Rising-edge synchronized I/O; initiates self-timed write cycle on rising edge of final data bit - differs from A/B variants |
| DI (Pin 3) | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, opcode, address, and data; must be stable before first CLK rising edge after CS high |
| DO (Pin 4) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); enters High-Z on CS falling edge; requires CS high ≥250 ns to sample status |
| VSS (Pin 5) | Ground | Reference return path for all I/O and core logic; must be low-impedance for noise immunity in automotive harnesses |
| ORG (Pin 6) | Organization Control | Logic-high → 64×16-bit mode; logic-low → 128×8-bit mode; must be externally biased - no internal pull-up/down |
| NC (Pin 7) | No Connect | Internally unconnected; must be left floating or tied to VSS/VCC per layout best practice - no electrical function |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Power Supply | 4.5–5.5 V input; brown-out detection triggers at 3.8 V - prevents corruption during cold-cranking transients |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hardware-configurable word size | ORG pin selects 8-bit or 16-bit organization at power-on - eliminates firmware branching for data width handling |
| Auto-erase before write | Self-timed erase integrated into each WRITE/WRAL cycle - guarantees clean page before programming |
| Bulk erase & write (ERAL/WRAL) | Single-command full-array erase (6 ms) or write (15 ms) - reduces bootloader update time vs. individual address writes |
| Power-on/off data protection | Internal circuitry inhibits all operations below 3.8 V VCC - prevents corruption during ignition cycling |
| Ready/Busy status signaling | DO pin drives active-low busy signal during programming - enables efficient polling without timer overhead |
| EWEN/EWDS write lock | Explicit enable/disable commands prevent accidental writes; powers up in EWDS state - enhances field reliability |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Calibration Storage | Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Configuration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing fuel map coefficients, spark timing tables, and emission calibration parameters subject to dealer-level updates. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory interfaced to MCU via Microwire; ORG pin set to 16-bit mode for compact coefficient packing. Use Value: 1M endurance and >200-year retention ensure calibration integrity over full vehicle lifetime without refresh; ERAL enables fast factory reset. | Use Scenario: Holding camera sensor alignment offsets, radar beamforming profiles, and fusion algorithm thresholds in ADAS domain controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Microwire EEPROM providing secure, tamper-resistant parameter storage; accessed during boot and runtime reconfiguration. Use Value: Automotive temperature grade (-40°C to +125°C) and 4.5–5.5 V operation guarantee reliability in under-hood ADAS modules; EWEN/EWDS prevents unintended parameter changes. |
| Body Control Module (BCM) Personalization Data | Electric Power Steering (EPS) Motor Control Parameters |
Use Scenario: Retaining user preferences (window position, mirror angle, seat settings) across ignition cycles in BCMs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power serial EEPROM interfaced to 8-bit MCU; ORG pin configured for 8-bit access to match byte-oriented preference variables. Use Value: Standby current ≤5 µA extends battery life during vehicle sleep modes; power-on protection prevents data loss during jump-start events. | Use Scenario: Storing torque assist maps, steering angle compensation curves, and fault history logs in EPS ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-critical nonvolatile memory storing motor control parameters; accessed during startup and periodic self-test routines. Use Value: 125°C rating ensures operation near electric motor heat sources; WRAL enables rapid parameter recovery after ECU reset without sequential writes. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46C-E/ST | 2.5–5.5 V VCC range; same pinout, ORG functionality, and instruction set | Broader voltage compatibility enables use with 3.3 V MCUs; not rated for 5.5 V-only systems | Select when system VCC may dip below 4.5 V or when interfacing with mixed-voltage domains |
| 93AA46C-E/ST | 1.8–5.5 V VCC range; identical package and ORG behavior | Supports ultra-low-power 1.8 V microcontrollers; higher leakage at elevated temperature vs. 93C variant | Select for battery-powered telematics modules or low-voltage sensor nodes where 4.5 V minimum cannot be guaranteed |
Compared with 93LC46C-E/ST and 93AA46C-E/ST, the 93C46C-E/ST offers highest VCC noise margin (4.5–5.5 V) and tighter automotive qualification at 125°C, making it optimal for legacy 5 V automotive systems where voltage stability is assured.
Availability
93C46C-E/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive control units, body electronics modules, and ADAS subsystems requiring stable component supply with full lifecycle traceability and AEC-Q200-aligned sourcing.
Supply support for 93C46C-E/ST 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 93Cxx series was designed specifically for automotive and industrial applications demanding high-reliability serial EEPROM with Microwire compatibility, extended temperature operation, and hardware-based write protection - addressing needs beyond standard SPI EEPROMs.
FAQ
What is the function of the ORG pin on the 93C46C-E/ST?
The ORG pin on the 93C46C-E/ST selects memory organization: logic high (VCC) configures 64 × 16-bit mode; logic low (VSS) configures 128 × 8-bit mode. This hardware-selectable word size eliminates firmware overhead for data-width adaptation. The 93C46C-E/ST requires external biasing of ORG - no internal pull-up/down - and the pin is not present on A/B variants.
Does the 93C46C-E/ST support SPI communication?
No, the 93C46C-E/ST implements a Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface (CS, CLK, DI/DO) and does not support SPI protocol framing, CPOL/CPHA modes, or quad I/O. It requires a Microwire host controller or bit-banged GPIO implementation. Attempting SPI clocking will result in undefined behavior or failed command execution.
What is the minimum VCC required for ERAL and WRAL operations on the 93C46C-E/ST?
The 93C46C-E/ST requires VCC ≥ 4.5 V for proper execution of ERAL (Erase All) and WRAL (Write All) commands, as specified in the datasheet's timing sections (Figures 2-3/2-4 and 2-10/2-11). Operation below this threshold will cause these bulk commands to fail silently or produce incomplete erasure/writing.
How does the 93C46C-E/ST indicate Ready/Busy status during programming?
The 93C46C-E/ST drives DO low during active erase/write cycles and high when ready. To sample this status, CS must be brought high for ≥250 ns after the minimum Chip Select low time (TCSL); DO remains in High-Z if CS stays low throughout the cycle. This active status signaling enables deterministic polling without external timers.
Is the 93C46C-E/ST pin-compatible with the 93C46B-E/ST?
Yes, the 93C46C-E/ST and 93C46B-E/ST share identical 8-lead SOIC (ST) packaging and pinout, including CS, CLK, DI, DO, VSS, NC, VCC. However, the 93C46B-E/ST lacks the ORG pin (replaced by NC), fixing memory to 64 × 16-bit mode only - hardware replacement requires ORG pin removal or grounding.
93C46C-E/ST Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 1Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 128 x 8, 64 x 16
- Memory Interface:
- Microwire
- Clock Frequency:
- 3 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-TSSOP
93C46C-E/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C46C-E/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C46C-E/ST 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 93C46C-E/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C46C-E/ST are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93C46C-E/ST is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C46C-E/ST?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C46C-E/ST transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C46C-E/ST?
93C46C-E/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C46C-E/ST 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 93C46C-E/ST?
For technical support, including 93C46C-E/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C46C-E/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C46C-E/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C46C-E/ST 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 93C46C-E/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C46C-E/ST?
All 93C46C-E/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C46C-E/ST, 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 93C46C-E/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C46C-E/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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