Microchip Technology 93C46CT-E/SN
- Part No.:
- 93C46CT-E/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93C46CT-E/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
93C46CT-E/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit) low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, operating at 4.5–5.5 V, supporting Industrial and Automotive temperature ranges (−40°C to +125°C), and featuring self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL/WRAL, and Ready/Busy status signaling - used for configuration storage in automotive body control modules.
For engineers reviewing the 93C46CT-E/SN datasheet, 93C46CT-E/SN pinout, 93C46CT-E/SN application, or 93C46CT-E/SN equivalent, key selection considerations include its fixed 8-bit organization (no ORG pin), automotive-grade qualification, 2 ms write cycle time, 1 million endurance cycles, and SOIC-8 (SN) packaging with Pb-free Matte Tin finish.
Technical Context
This device implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, and DI/DO pins, using rising-edge clocking for instruction and data transfer. It executes READ, WRITE, ERASE, ERAL, WRAL, EWEN, and EWDS commands via 9- or 10-bit opcode sequences, with status polling via DO pin during programming.
Unlike 'C' variants, the 93C46T-E/SN has no ORG pin (dedicated x8 organization), and requires VCC ≥ 4.5 V for ERAL/WRAL operations. Its power-on protection disables writes below 3.8 V, and it enters EWDS mode at power-up - requiring explicit EWEN before any erase/write.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit) - fixed x8 organization; no ORG pin; no word-size reconfiguration. |
| VCC range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V - operation disabled below 3.8 V (VPOR threshold); incompatible with 3.3 V or 1.8 V systems. |
| Write cycle time | 2 ms - self-timed auto-erase-and-write; eliminates need for external timing control. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - validated at 25°C, VCC = 5.0 V; supports long-life embedded logging. |
| Data retention | 200 years - nonvolatile storage integrity maintained over full automotive lifecycle without refresh. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS, CLK, DI/DO) - requires master-controlled clock; no SPI or I²C protocol support. |
| Temperature grade | Automotive (E): −40°C to +125°C - qualified per AEC-Q100 stress test requirements for under-hood use. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 8-lead SOIC (SN), Pb-free Matte Tin finish, 3.9 mm × 4.9 mm body, 1.27 mm pitch. Pin 1 marked by laser dot or notch.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 CS | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; deselects device into standby but does not abort ongoing write. |
| 2 CLK | Serial Clock | Rising-edge synchronized I/O; clocking stops during self-timed write; no clock required post-instruction initiation. |
| 3 DI | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, opcodes (e.g., 01 for WRITE), addresses (A6–A0), and data (D7–D0); shares net with DO only with series resistor to prevent bus conflict. |
| 4 DO | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data (D7–D0) or Ready/Busy status (low = busy); high-Z when CS low or during non-read states. |
| 5 VSS | Ground | Reference return path for all I/O and internal logic; must be low-impedance connection to avoid timing violations. |
| 6 NC | No Connection | Internally unconnected; must be left floating or tied to VSS per layout best practice; not usable as ORG or auxiliary signal. |
| 7 NC | No Connection | Second no-connect pin; confirmed NC on all 93C46A/B devices per Pin Function Table and package diagrams. |
| 8 VCC | Power Supply | 4.5–5.5 V supply; internal POR circuit blocks writes below 3.8 V; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF) required near pin. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates external timing circuitry; 2 ms guaranteed completion enables deterministic firmware wait loops. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Ensures full array erasure prior to bulk write - prevents partial-data corruption without host software intervention. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware-enforced write inhibition below 3.8 V prevents inadvertent corruption during brown-out or power ramp. |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Enables polling-based operation without interrupt lines; reduces MCU GPIO count and simplifies driver implementation. |
| 1M endurance / 200-year retention | Validated for automotive ECU calibration storage, where infrequent but mission-critical updates occur over 15+ year service life. |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module | Industrial PLC Configuration Storage |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing door lock settings, mirror position presets, and lighting profiles across ignition cycles in a vehicle BCM. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register holding user-customized parameters; accessed during boot and runtime via Microwire interface. Use Value: Ensures parameter persistence after battery disconnect; automotive temp rating guarantees reliability in under-dash environments (−40°C to +125°C). |
Use Scenario: Retaining I/O mapping, scaling factors, and alarm thresholds in modular industrial PLC backplanes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serial configuration EEPROM interfaced to PLC's microcontroller via dedicated Microwire bus. Use Value: Enables field-upgradable configuration without firmware reflashing; 1M endurance supports decades of maintenance cycles. |
| Medical Infusion Pump Calibration | Smart Energy Meter Firmware Patch Storage |
Use Scenario: Storing calibrated flow rate coefficients and safety limits updated during factory calibration and service. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Tamper-resistant calibration memory accessed only during authorized service mode; write-protected via EWDS/EWEN sequence. Use Value: Prevents accidental overwrite during operation; 200-year retention ensures calibration validity over equipment lifetime. |
Use Scenario: Holding signed firmware patch images and version metadata for secure over-the-air updates in utility meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure boot auxiliary storage holding verified update payloads prior to flash programming. Use Value: Provides isolated, reliable staging area for patches; automotive-grade reliability ensures integrity in outdoor meter enclosures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46BT-E/SN | Same 8-lead SOIC package, but 2.5–5.5 V VCC range and 16-bit organization (x16); includes ORG pin (tied high). | Requires host firmware adaptation for 16-bit data framing; unsuitable for legacy 8-bit Microwire controllers. | Select only if system already uses 16-bit addressing and needs wider voltage tolerance; not drop-in compatible. |
| AT25010B-SSHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 1.8–5.5 V, 1 Kbit x8, 5 ms write time, industrial temp only (−40°C to +85°C). | Requires SPI master instead of Microwire; lacks automotive qualification and ERAL/WRAL auto-erase features. | Choose for cost-sensitive industrial designs with existing SPI infrastructure; avoid for automotive or Microwire-dependent systems. |
Compared with 93LC46BT-E/SN and AT25010B-SSHL-T, the 93C46CT-E/SN provides guaranteed automotive qualification, fixed 8-bit compatibility, and faster 2 ms writes - making it optimal for legacy Microwire-based automotive ECUs where interface and qualification alignment outweigh voltage flexibility.
Availability
93C46CT-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics, industrial control systems, and medical device manufacturing requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-compliant nonvolatile memory.
Supply support for 93C46CT-E/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 93C46CT-E/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-pin-count embedded systems requiring robust nonvolatile storage with Microwire compatibility and automotive reliability.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93C46CT-E/SN?
The 93C46CT-E/SN is a fixed 128 × 8-bit (1 Kbit) device with no ORG pin - unlike 'C' variants, it does not support x16 configuration. Its organization is permanently x8, matching the 'A' suffix designation in Microchip's 93C46A family. This eliminates external ORG routing and simplifies PCB layout for legacy Microwire systems.
Does the 93C46CT-E/SN support 3.3 V operation?
No, the 93C46CT-E/SN requires 4.5–5.5 V supply and is not rated for 3.3 V operation. Its power-on reset threshold is 3.8 V, meaning writes are inhibited below that voltage. For 3.3 V systems, consider the 93LC46A series (2.5–5.5 V) or 93AA46A series (1.8–5.5 V), both available in SOIC-8.
How is write protection implemented on the 93C46CT-E/SN?
Write protection is enforced through dual hardware and command-level mechanisms: (1) Power-on reset blocks writes below 3.8 V, and (2) the device powers up in EWDS (Erase/Write Disable) mode, requiring an explicit EWEN command before any ERASE or WRITE instruction. An EWDS command should follow each write to restore protection.
What is the purpose of the two NC pins on the 93C46CT-E/SN SOIC package?
Pins 6 and 7 on the 93C46CT-E/SN SOIC-8 package are confirmed No Connect (NC) - internally unconnected and unused. They must be left floating or tied to VSS per Microchip's layout guidance; neither serves as ORG (absent on 'A'/'B' variants) nor any other functional role. This distinguishes it from 93C46C variants which use Pin 6 for ORG.
Can the 93C46CT-E/SN be used in place of the 93C46A-SN?
Yes - the 93C46CT-E/SN is functionally identical to the 93C46A-SN except for temperature grade: 'T-E' denotes Automotive (−40°C to +125°C) qualification, while standard 'A' is Industrial (−40°C to +85°C). Both share identical pinout, timing, instructions, and electrical specs within their respective VCC and temp ranges.
93C46CT-E/SN Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not 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-SOIC
93C46CT-E/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C46CT-E/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C46CT-E/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 93C46CT-E/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C46CT-E/SN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93C46CT-E/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C46CT-E/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C46CT-E/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C46CT-E/SN?
93C46CT-E/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C46CT-E/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 93C46CT-E/SN?
For technical support, including 93C46CT-E/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C46CT-E/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C46CT-E/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C46CT-E/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 93C46CT-E/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C46CT-E/SN?
All 93C46CT-E/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C46CT-E/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 93C46CT-E/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C46CT-E/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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