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Microchip Technology 93LC46A-E/SN
- Part No.:
- 93LC46A-E/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93LC46A-E/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,573
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Product details
Overview
93LC46A-E/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1Kbit (128 × 8-bit) low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, 2.5–5.5 V supply range, industrial and automotive temperature support (−40°C to +125°C), and 1 million erase/write cycles. It provides nonvolatile memory storage for configuration data in microcontroller-based systems requiring compact, reliable, and low-power persistent storage.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC46A-E/SN datasheet, 93LC46A-E/SN pinout, 93LC46A-E/SN application, or 93LC46A-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 8-bit organization (no ORG pin), automotive-grade qualification, SOIC-8 package, Ready/Busy status signaling via DO, and self-timed erase/write with automatic ERAL before WRAL.
Technical Context
The 93LC46A-E/SN implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, DI, and DO signals - no ORG pin required due to fixed x8 organization. Communication uses start-bit detection followed by opcode, address (7-bit), and data (8-bit), with all operations synchronized to the rising edge of CLK.
It features on-chip power-on/off protection, automatic erase-before-write, and EWEN/EWDS command-based write enable/disable logic. The DO pin serves dual function: serial data output during READ and Ready/Busy status indicator during programming - high = ready, low = busy - after CS reassertion following TCSL ≥ 250 ns.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit) - fixed x8 organization; no ORG pin; supports 128-byte configuration storage. |
| VCC Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - compatible with 3.3 V and 5 V systems; POR threshold at 1.5 V ensures data retention during brown-out. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS, CLK, DI/DO) - no I²C or SPI; requires master-controlled clock and bit-serial protocol. |
| Write Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - validated at 25°C, VCC = 5.0 V; enables long-term field calibration or firmware parameter logging. |
| Data Retention | 200 years - guaranteed nonvolatile data hold at rated temperature; suitable for lifetime-critical configuration storage. |
| Temp Range | −40°C to +125°C (Automotive E-grade) - qualified per AEC-Q100 stress requirements for under-hood and powertrain applications. |
| Max Clock Frequency | 2 MHz at VCC = 2.5 V - limits maximum READ/WRITE throughput to ~114 kbps (18 clocks per byte + overhead). |
| Standby Current | 5 µA max (E-temp) - enables ultra-low-power operation in battery-backed or energy-harvesting systems. |
Pinout & Package
93LC46A-E/SN is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) with Pb-free Matte Tin finish (SN suffix). Pin 1 is marked by laser dot; package meets JEDEC MS-012 standards.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; deselects device into standby but allows ongoing write completion. |
| CLK (Pin 2) | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcode/address/data; stoppable at any point without corruption. |
| DI (Pin 3) | Data Input | Receives start bit, opcode (2-bit), address (7-bit), and write data (8-bit); shares no internal path with DO. |
| DO (Pin 4) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data (8-bit + dummy zero); indicates Ready/Busy during programming - high = ready, low = busy - only when CS is reasserted post-TCSL. |
| VSS (Pin 5) | Ground | Reference for all digital and analog circuitry; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling into DO timing. |
| NC (Pin 6) | No Internal Connection | Unbonded pad; must be left floating or tied to VSS - no functional role; distinguishes A/B versions from C-version with ORG. |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Power Supply | Supplies core logic and memory array; voltage detect (VPOR = 1.5 V) prevents writes during power ramp; decoupling capacitor required. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write cycle | 6 ms typical (TWC) - eliminates need for external timing control; auto-erase ensures clean write without prior manual erase step. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Full-array erase initiated automatically prior to Write All - guarantees consistent state before bulk update; reduces host firmware complexity. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Internal voltage monitor disables all write operations below 1.5 V - prevents corruption during brown-out or uncontrolled power-down sequences. |
| EWEN/EWDS command lockout | Device powers up in EWDS (write-disabled) state; explicit EWEN required before first write - prevents accidental overwrites during initialization. |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Single-pin status reporting - avoids need for separate BUSY line or polling delay loops; simplifies host driver implementation. |
Applications
| Motor Control Configuration | Industrial Sensor Calibration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing motor phase alignment offsets, current limit thresholds, and PID tuning parameters in BLDC motor drives operating across −40°C to +125°C ambient. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register accessed at startup and updated during field calibration; retains values across power cycles and thermal stress. Use Value: Enables factory-set and field-updatable motor parameters without external MCU flash wear; 1M endurance supports >10 years of recalibration events at 100/year. | Use Scenario: Holding sensor-specific gain/offset coefficients and linearization tables in pressure or temperature transmitters deployed in oil & gas monitoring systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dedicated calibration memory mapped via MCU GPIO-driven Microwire interface; accessed only during commissioning or maintenance mode. Use Value: Eliminates need for MCU internal flash partitioning; 200-year data retention ensures calibration validity over full product lifecycle without periodic refresh. |
| Automotive Body Controller NVM | Medical Device Settings Storage |
Use Scenario: Saving user preferences (window position, mirror angle, seat memory) and fault log history in automotive body control modules (BCM) compliant with AEC-Q100 Grade 0/1. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Automotive-grade EEPROM interfaced to 8-bit/16-bit MCU via dedicated Microwire peripheral; withstands repeated ignition cycling and load dump transients. Use Value: Meets automotive reliability requirements without derating; 5 µA standby current extends battery life in always-on modules during vehicle sleep mode. | Use Scenario: Preserving therapy parameters, alarm thresholds, and usage counters in portable infusion pumps and diagnostic handhelds requiring FDA Class II compliance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-critical configuration store isolated from main application processor; accessed only during boot or service mode with hardware write-protection enabled. Use Value: Supports IEC 62304 software lifecycle requirements; EWEN/EWDS commands enforce controlled write access, preventing runtime corruption. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46B-E/SN | 16-bit organization (64 × 16), same VCC/temp/package - requires different address/data framing and no dummy zero in READ. | Used where host system natively handles 16-bit words; incompatible with existing 8-bit firmware without protocol layer changes. | Select only if host controller expects x16 data width and can accommodate 18-clock READ/WRITE cycles instead of 18/18 vs. 93LC46A's 18/18. |
| AT25010B-MAHL-T | 1 Kbit SPI interface (4-wire), 1.8–5.5 V, 20 MHz max clock, same endurance/retention - lacks Ready/Busy pin; uses WIP flag polling. | Requires SPI master peripheral instead of Microwire; higher throughput but adds software polling overhead and extra CS/WP/HOLD lines. | Choose when migrating to SPI-based platforms or when >2× faster communication is required; verify layout supports 4-wire routing. |
Compared with 93LC46B-E/SN and AT25010B-MAHL-T, the 93LC46A-E/SN offers deterministic 8-bit Microwire compatibility with integrated Ready/Busy signaling - reducing host CPU load and eliminating timing uncertainty in safety-critical or resource-constrained designs.
Availability
93LC46A-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial sensor calibration, medical device configuration, and motor control applications requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for 93LC46A-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 devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design, manufacturing, and sales operations.
The 93LC46A-E/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power, and high-reliability nonvolatile storage in automotive, industrial, and medical systems where Microwire interface simplicity and AEC-Q100 qualification are critical.
FAQ
What is the memory organization and capacity of the 93LC46A-E/SN?
The 93LC46A-E/SN is a 1 Kbit serial EEPROM organized as 128 words × 8 bits (128 × 8). It has no ORG pin and is fixed to 8-bit operation - unlike 'C' variants which support configurable x8/x16 via the ORG pin. This makes the 93LC46A-E/SN ideal for systems requiring simple byte-level configuration storage without address/data width negotiation logic.
Does the 93LC46A-E/SN support automotive temperature range and qualification?
Yes, the 93LC46A-E/SN is rated for −40°C to +125°C (Automotive E-grade) and is manufactured and tested to meet AEC-Q100 reliability requirements. Its datasheet specifies electrical characteristics across this full range, including 2.5–5.5 V operation, 5 µA max standby current, and 1 million endurance cycles - making it suitable for under-hood and powertrain applications where thermal robustness is mandatory.
How does the Ready/Busy status work on the 93LC46A-E/SN DO pin?
The DO pin of the 93LC46A-E/SN doubles as a Ready/Busy indicator during erase and write operations. After initiating a WRITE or ERASE command, the host must lower CS for ≥250 ns (TCSL), then raise CS again - only then will DO reflect status: low = busy, high = ready. This eliminates need for fixed delay loops and enables efficient polling. The 93LC46A-E/SN does not support continuous BUSY output without CS toggling.
What is the purpose of the EWEN and EWDS commands in the 93LC46A-E/SN?
The 93LC46A-E/SN powers up in EWDS (Erase/Write Disable) mode, blocking all programming until an EWEN (Erase/Write Enable) command is issued. EWEN must precede every ERASE or WRITE instruction. After programming, issuing EWDS relocks the memory - preventing accidental overwrites during noise events or firmware glitches. This two-step enable/disable mechanism is critical for data integrity in safety-critical systems using the 93LC46A-E/SN.
Can the 93LC46A-E/SN be used with a shared DI/DO bus line?
No - the 93LC46A-E/SN does not support true bidirectional bus sharing. While DI and DO are separate pins, connecting them externally risks "bus conflict" during the dummy zero preceding READ if address bit A0 is high, causing undefined voltage levels on DO. Microchip recommends using separate DI and DO traces. If board space constraints require shared wiring, a series resistor (e.g., 10 kΩ) must be placed between DI and DO to limit current and stabilize logic levels - but this degrades timing margins and is not recommended for production designs using the 93LC46A-E/SN.
93LC46A-E/SN Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 1Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 128 x 8
- Memory Interface:
- Microwire
- Clock Frequency:
- 2 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 6ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
93LC46A-E/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC46A-E/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC46A-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 93LC46A-E/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC46A-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 93LC46A-E/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC46A-E/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC46A-E/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC46A-E/SN?
93LC46A-E/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC46A-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 93LC46A-E/SN?
For technical support, including 93LC46A-E/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC46A-E/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC46A-E/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC46A-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 93LC46A-E/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC46A-E/SN?
All 93LC46A-E/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC46A-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 93LC46A-E/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC46A-E/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
93LC46A-E/SN Tags
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AT24C02C-XHM-T
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