Microchip Technology 93C86CT-E/MNY

Overview

93C86CT-E/MNY from Microchip Technology is a 16 Kbit Microwire-compatible serial EEPROM with 8-bit organization, 4.5–5.5 V supply range, and industrial/automotive temperature support (–40°C to +125°C). It features 1,000,000 erase/write cycles, >200-year data retention, and integrated power-on/off data protection. Used for configuration storage in automotive control modules.

For engineers reviewing the 93C86CT-E/MNY datasheet, 93C86CT-E/MNY pinout, 93C86CT-E/MNY application, or 93C86CT-E/MNY equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2 ms program cycle time, PE/ORG pin-controlled write-enable and word-size selection, Ready/Busy status signaling via DO, and compatibility with legacy Microwire host controllers in safety-critical embedded systems.

Technical Context

The 93C86CT-E/MNY implements a synchronous 3-wire Microwire interface (CS, CLK, DI/DO) with self-timed erase/write cycles and automatic ERAL before WRAL. Its internal logic requires a high-level signal on the PE pin prior to the final data bit of any write operation, and ORG pin state determines x8/x16 memory mapping - though this part is fixed as x8 (no ORG function active per device type).

Power-on reset detection triggers at VCC ≥ 3.8 V; below that threshold, all operations are inhibited. The DO pin serves dual roles: serial data output during READ and Ready/Busy status indicator during programming - requiring CS re-assertion after TCSL ≥ 250 ns to sample status.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

93C86CT-E/MNY is packaged in an 8-lead TSSOP (ST) with Pb-free Matte Tin finish. Pin 1 is marked by laser; package dimensions conform to Microchip standard MS012AA.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 93C86C-I/MNY, the 93C86CT-E/MNY adds automotive-grade reliability and guaranteed 125°C operation; versus AT25160B-MAHL-T, it preserves legacy Microwire timing and hardware write-enable control but trades off speed for deterministic interface behavior.

Availability

93C86CT-E/MNY is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive control units, ADAS subsystems, and electric power steering modules requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for 93C86CT-E/MNY 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 specifically for robust, low-power nonvolatile storage in automotive and industrial systems where Microwire compatibility, hardware write protection, and extended temperature operation are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 93C86CT-E/MNY?

The 93C86CT-E/MNY supports up to 3 MHz clock frequency when VCC is 4.5–5.5 V. This timing allows reliable communication with standard 5 V automotive MCUs while maintaining margin for signal integrity across PCB traces and connectors.

Does the 93C86CT-E/MNY require external pull-up resistors on its I/O lines?

No external pull-ups are required on CS, CLK, or DI - these inputs have internal weak pull-downs. However, DO is open-drain and requires an external pull-up resistor (typically 4.7 kΩ to VCC) to ensure valid logic-high levels during Read and Ready/Busy status sampling.

How does the Program Enable (PE) pin function on the 93C86CT-E/MNY?

The PE pin on the 93C86CT-E/MNY must be driven high to permit any WRITE or ERASE operation. If PE is low, all programming functions are disabled regardless of EWEN command state. This hardware lock provides fail-safe write protection independent of firmware control.

Can the 93C86CT-E/MNY be used in a shared bus configuration with other Microwire devices?

Yes - the 93C86CT-E/MNY uses dedicated CS input, enabling multiple devices on one CLK/DI/DO bus. Each device responds only when its CS is asserted, allowing mixed-density EEPROMs (e.g., 93C46, 93C66) to coexist without address conflicts or protocol arbitration.

What happens if VCC drops below 3.8 V during a WRITE operation on the 93C86CT-E/MNY?

If VCC falls below 3.8 V during a WRITE, the 93C86CT-E/MNY automatically aborts the operation and holds DO in High-Z. No partial write occurs, and the memory contents remain unaltered - ensuring data integrity during brown-out conditions common in automotive electrical systems.