Microchip Technology 93C86-E/P

Overview

93C86-E/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8 or 1024 × 16) Microwire-compatible serial EEPROM with single 5.0 V supply, ORG-pin-selectable memory organization, and integrated power-on/off data protection. It delivers 1 mA typical active current, supports 2 MHz clock frequency, and guarantees 1,000,000 erase/write cycles with >200 years data retention - used in industrial control panels for nonvolatile parameter storage.

For engineers reviewing the 93C86-E/P datasheet, 93C86-E/P pinout, 93C86-E/P application, or 93C86-E/P equivalent, key selection considerations include its 8-pin PDIP package, x8/x16 configurable architecture via ORG pin, self-timed erase/write with RDY/BSY status on DO, and automotive-grade temperature range (–40°C to +125°C).

Technical Context

The 93C86-E/P implements a synchronous 3-wire Microwire interface (CS, CLK, DI/DO) with start-bit detection and opcode-driven command set including READ, WRITE, ERASE, ERAL, WRAL, EWEN, and EWDS. Its internal logic includes address decoder, data register, counter, and mode decode generator supporting sequential read and auto-erase-before-write behavior.

Memory configuration is determined by the ORG pin: tied to VCC selects 1024 × 16-bit mode (11-bit addressing); tied to VSS selects 2048 × 8-bit mode (12-bit addressing). The PE pin enables hardware write protection, and DO provides real-time Ready/Busy status during programming cycles without requiring external polling circuitry.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-pin PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package), 300 mil body width, through-hole mount. Pin 1 marked with notch or dot; leads are tin-plated, RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 93C86-E/P, the 93LC86C-I/P offers wider voltage operation and better ESD immunity but requires firmware rework for instruction compatibility, while the AT25160B-PU trades Microwire simplicity for SPI flexibility and higher endurance at the cost of hardware write protection and memory organization control.

Availability

93C86-E/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, automotive body electronics, medical diagnostic equipment, and smart energy metering requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for 93C86-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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and nonvolatile memory solutions for embedded applications.

The 93Cxx family was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-pin-count systems needing simple, reliable serial EEPROM with hardware write protection and automotive-grade qualification - targeting legacy industrial and automotive platforms where Microwire compatibility is entrenched.

FAQ

What is the memory organization of 93C86-E/P and how is it selected?

The 93C86-E/P supports two memory organizations: 2048 × 8-bit (x8) or 1024 × 16-bit (x16), selected by the ORG pin. When ORG is tied to VSS, the device operates in x8 mode with 12-bit addressing; when tied to VCC, it uses x16 mode with 11-bit addressing. An internal pull-up resistor defaults ORG to VCC, so x16 mode is active if the pin is left unconnected. This configuration is fixed at power-up and cannot be changed dynamically during operation.

Does 93C86-E/P require external components for basic operation?

No external components are required for basic read/write functionality of the 93C86-E/P. The device includes internal pull-up on ORG and PE pins, eliminating mandatory external resistors. However, a 0.1 µF decoupling capacitor between VCC and VSS is strongly recommended near the package to suppress supply noise during write cycles. No external clock source, level shifters, or termination resistors are needed for standard 5 V Microwire interfacing.

How does the Program Enable (PE) pin protect memory in 93C86-E/P?

The PE pin on the 93C86-E/P provides hardware-level write inhibition: when tied to VSS, all erase and write operations (including EWEN, ERASE, WRITE, ERAL, WRAL) are blocked regardless of command sequence or power state. If PE is left floating or connected to VCC, programming is enabled. This feature prevents accidental overwrites during firmware updates, ESD events, or power transients - a critical safeguard in automotive and industrial deployments where data corruption could compromise system safety.

What is the role of the DO pin during programming cycles in 93C86-E/P?

In the 93C86-E/P, the DO pin serves dual functions: during READ operations, it outputs data bits synchronized to CLK; during erase/write cycles, it acts as a Ready/Busy status indicator. When CS is high, DO goes low to signal "busy" and returns high when the operation completes. This allows firmware to poll DO instead of using fixed delays, improving system responsiveness and reducing worst-case timing margins - especially valuable in real-time applications where deterministic latency matters.

Is 93C86-E/P still recommended for new designs?

No - Microchip explicitly states "Not recommended for new designs" in the 93C76/86 datasheet (DS21132F), advising migration to the 93LCxxC series (e.g., 93LC86C). The 93C86-E/P remains fully supported for existing production and legacy repair, with full electrical and thermal specifications maintained. Its discontinuation notice reflects roadmap consolidation, not obsolescence or reliability concerns; Aetrix Electronics maintains active inventory and long-term supply assurance for ongoing programs.