Microchip Technology 93C46C-I/P

Overview

93C46C-I/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 range (−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 where nonvolatile memory with flexible data width and robust power-on protection is required.

For engineers reviewing the 93C46C-I/P datasheet, 93C46C-I/P pinout, 93C46C-I/P application, or 93C46C-I/P equivalent, key selection criteria include V_CC range (4.5–5.5 V), ORG-configurable organization, 2 ms write cycle time, 1 million endurance cycles, and PDIP-8 package compatibility with legacy board layouts.

Technical Context

The 93C46C-I/P 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 capability is controlled solely by the external logic level on the ORG pin-V_CC selects x16 mode (64 words × 16 bits), V_SS selects x8 mode (128 words × 8 bits).

Write and erase operations are fully self-timed: for 93C variants, the rising edge of CLK on the final data bit initiates auto-erase-and-write; Ready/Busy status is polled via DO while CS is high after ≥250 ns low time (T_{C SL}). Power-on reset circuitry disables all programming below 3.8 V, and EWEN/EWDS commands enforce explicit write-enable discipline.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

93C46C-I/P is supplied in an 8-lead plastic dual in-line package (PDIP) with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or laser dot; the package is Pb-free with Matte Tin (Sn) finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 93LC46C-I/P and 93AA46C-I/P, the 93C46C-I/P delivers highest noise immunity and write reliability in pure 5 V industrial environments, while sacrificing multi-voltage flexibility - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, fixed-rail legacy designs.

Availability

93C46C-I/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, automotive body electronics, and medical device calibration storage requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant through-hole packaging.

Supply support for 93C46C-I/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 components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 93Cxx family was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained embedded systems requiring reliable, low-pin-count nonvolatile storage - emphasizing ease of integration, power-supply robustness, and long-term data integrity.

FAQ

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

The ORG pin on the 93C46C-I/P determines memory organization: tied to V_CC, it configures the device as 64 × 16-bit (x16); tied to V_SS, it configures as 128 × 8-bit (x8). This pin is functional and mandatory - unlike 'A' or 'B' variants where ORG is NC. The 93C46C-I/P requires external biasing of ORG to select word width at power-up.

Does the 93C46C-I/P support 3.3 V operation?

No, the 93C46C-I/P does not support 3.3 V operation. Its specified V_CC range is strictly 4.5 V to 5.5 V. Attempting to operate below 4.5 V risks failure of ERAL, WRAL, and write operations due to insufficient voltage for internal charge pumps. For 3.3 V systems, consider the 93LC46C-I/P (2.5–5.5 V) or 93AA46C-I/P (1.8–5.5 V) instead.

How is Ready/Busy status monitored on the 93C46C-I/P?

Ready/Busy status on the 93C46C-I/P is monitored by reading the DO pin while CS is high, provided CS was held low for ≥250 ns (T_{C SL}) before being raised. DO = low indicates ongoing erase/write; DO = high indicates completion. The status remains valid until the next Start condition, and DO returns to High-Z when CS goes low.

What is the minimum pulse width required for CS low time between commands on the 93C46C-I/P?

The minimum Chip Select low time (T_{C SL}) between consecutive instructions on the 93C46C-I/P is 250 ns across its full operating voltage and temperature range. This ensures internal state machine reset and prevents command misinterpretation. Violating this spec may cause undefined behavior or skipped instructions.

Can the 93C46C-I/P be used in automotive applications requiring AEC-Q200 qualification?

The 93C46C-I/P is rated for Industrial temperature (−40°C to +85°C) and is not AEC-Q200 qualified. For automotive applications, Microchip offers the 93C46C-E/P variant (−40°C to +125°C, Automotive grade), which undergoes additional stress testing and traceability controls. The 93C46C-I/P should not be deployed in under-hood or safety-critical automotive systems without formal qualification.