Microchip Technology 93C86-E/SN

Overview

93C86-E/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit Microwire-compatible serial EEPROM with dual memory organization (2048 × 8 or 1024 × 16), single 5.0 V supply, 2 MHz max clock frequency, and industrial-temperature operation (–40°C to +125°C). It serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in embedded controllers, power supplies, and automotive subsystems requiring data retention >200 years and 1 million erase/write cycles.

For engineers reviewing the 93C86-E/SN datasheet, 93C86-E/SN pinout, 93C86-E/SN application, or 93C86-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include ORG-pin-selectable x8/x16 organization, integrated power-on/off data protection, self-timed erase/write with RDY/BSY status via DO pin, and compatibility with legacy Microwire host interfaces in space-constrained SOIC-8 layouts.

Technical Context

The 93C86-E/SN implements a synchronous 3-wire Microwire interface (CS/CLK/DI/DO) with start-bit detection and opcode-driven command set. Memory organization is dynamically selected via the ORG pin (VCC = x16, VSS = x8), enabling flexible byte- or word-oriented access without hardware redesign.

It features dedicated Program Enable (PE) pin for hardware write protection, automatic ERAL before WRAL execution, and device-status signaling during all programming operations - all managed through a self-timed internal state machine that eliminates external timing control requirements.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-pin SOIC (SN) package with 150 mil body width, JEDEC MS-012 compliant, lead-free matte tin finish. Pin 1 marked by notch or dot; pin numbering follows standard SOIC convention (counterclockwise from notch).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 93C86-E/SN, the 93LC86C-I/SN offers improved voltage flexibility and ESD immunity while maintaining pinout and command compatibility, whereas the AT25128B-MAHL-T trades Microwire simplicity for SPI speed and density but removes hardware write protection and dual-organization capability.

Availability

93C86-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, automotive electronics, power supply calibration, and medical device configuration storage requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

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

The 93C86-E/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy Microwire EEPROM product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained systems requiring simple 3-wire serial configuration storage with automotive-grade reliability.

FAQ

What memory organization options does the 93C86-E/SN support?

The 93C86-E/SN supports two memory organizations selected via the ORG pin: when ORG = VCC, it configures as 1024 × 16-bit (x16); when ORG = VSS, it configures as 2048 × 8-bit (x8). An internal pull-up resistor defaults to x16 mode if ORG is left unconnected. This flexibility allows the same 93C86-E/SN to serve both word-oriented and byte-oriented host architectures without changing the bill of materials.

How does the 93C86-E/SN protect against accidental writes during power transitions?

The 93C86-E/SN incorporates hardware power-rail monitoring that inhibits all erase/write operations until VCC rises above 1.4 V during power-up and blocks programming when VCC falls below that threshold during power-down. Additionally, the PE pin provides hardware-level write disable - tying PE to VSS prevents any erase or write command from executing, even if EWEN is issued. These dual mechanisms ensure data integrity across brown-out and hot-swap conditions.

What is the purpose of the DO pin during programming operations?

During erase or write cycles, the DO pin of the 93C86-E/SN functions as a Ready/Busy status indicator: DO = low indicates the operation is still in progress, while DO = high signals completion and readiness for the next command. This polling capability eliminates the need for fixed delay timers in host firmware. The status remains valid as long as CS stays high and persists until the next Start bit is detected.

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

No, the 93C86-E/SN operates autonomously with only VCC, VSS, and the three Microwire signals (CS, CLK, DI/DO). It contains an internal charge pump for programming voltage generation and requires no external capacitors, resistors, or voltage translators. The ORG and PE pins may be directly tied to VCC or VSS for fixed configuration, or left floating (with internal pull-ups active) for default behavior - simplifying schematic design and reducing BOM count.

Is the 93C86-E/SN pin-compatible with other members of the 93C76/86 family?

Yes, the 93C86-E/SN shares identical pinout, package (SOIC-8), and electrical interface with all 93C76/86 variants including 93C76-E/SN, 93C86-I/SN, and 93C76-C/P. All devices use the same CS/CLK/DI/DO/VSS/PE/VCC/ORG arrangement and support identical instruction sets and timing. However, memory size differs: 93C76 is 8 Kbit, while 93C86 is 16 Kbit - requiring host software alignment with the correct address space.