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Microchip Technology 93LC46A/SN
- Part No.:
- 93LC46A/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93LC46A/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,645
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Product details
Overview
93LC46A/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1Kbit (128 × 8-bit), low-voltage, serial Microwire-compatible EEPROM IC used for nonvolatile configuration storage in embedded control systems. It operates from 2.5V to 5.5V, supports industrial and extended temperature ranges (–40°C to +85°C and –40°C to +125°C), features self-timed erase/write cycles, and delivers 1,000,000 endurance cycles with >200 years data retention.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC46A/SN datasheet, 93LC46A/SN pinout, 93LC46A/SN application, or 93LC46A/SN equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specs, package mapping to SOIC-8 (SN), functional timing behavior, real-world use cases in power management and sensor calibration, and validated alternative parts with documented differences.
Technical Context
The 93LC46A/SN implements a synchronous 3-wire serial interface (CS, CLK, DI/DO) compliant with Microwire protocol, with no ORG pin-fixed 8-bit word organization. It uses internal auto-erase before write, supports ERAL (Erase All) and WRAL (Write All) commands, and asserts Ready/Busy status on DO during programming.
Power-on/off data protection is enforced via VCC voltage detection (VPOR = 1.5V typical), and the device powers up in EWDS (Erase/Write Disable) mode. Standby current is ≤1 µA at I-temp, and read/write operations are inhibited below VPOR, ensuring robustness against brown-out conditions.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit); fixed x8 organization-no ORG pin required, simplifying PCB layout and firmware address handling. |
| VCC Range | 2.5V to 5.5V; enables direct integration with 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers without level-shifting. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles; supports frequent field updates in calibration or logging applications. |
| Data Retention | >200 years at 25°C; ensures long-term reliability in unattended or maintenance-free deployments. |
| Max Clock Frequency | 3 MHz at VCC ≥ 4.5V; allows fast configuration loading while maintaining compatibility with legacy Microwire masters. |
| Write Cycle Time | 6 ms typical (TWC); deterministic self-timed programming eliminates need for external timeout logic. |
| Standby Current | ≤1 µA (I-temp); critical for battery-powered devices where quiescent power must be minimized. |
Pinout & Package
93LC46A/SN is packaged in 8-lead SOIC (SN), with Pb-free Matte Tin finish. Pin 1 is marked by laser dot; package dimensions conform to JEDEC MS-012AA.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; deselects device into standby but completes ongoing writes. |
| CLK | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcodes, addresses, and data; stoppable mid-sequence for master flexibility. |
| DI | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, instruction opcodes, addresses, and write data; shares signal path with DO in bus-shared configurations (with series resistor). |
| DO | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data and Ready/Busy status; low = busy, high = ready; enters High-Z when CS is low or after status polling. |
| VSS | Ground | Reference for all digital and analog functions; requires low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling during write cycles. |
| NC | No Internal Connection | Pin 7 in SOIC-8 (SN); must be left floating or tied to ground per layout best practice-no internal circuitry attached. |
| VCC | Power Supply | Supplies core logic and memory array; internal POR circuit triggers at ~1.5V to block unsafe operation during power ramp. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed Erase/Write | Eliminates external timing control-device manages full auto-erase-and-program sequence internally in 6 ms. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | WRAL command includes built-in Erase All, removing need for separate ERAL instruction and reducing firmware complexity. |
| Power-On/Off Data Protection | VCC monitoring circuit disables all write operations below 1.5V, preventing corruption during brown-out or power-up transitions. |
| Industry Standard 3-Wire Interface | Direct drop-in replacement for legacy Microwire EEPROMs; no protocol translation or driver layer needed in existing firmware. |
| Ready/Busy Status on DO | Enables polling-based flow control-firmware checks DO after CS high pulse instead of using fixed delays, improving system responsiveness. |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration | Power Supply Configuration Storage |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing factory-trimmed gain/offset coefficients and temperature compensation tables in smart pressure sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register accessed at boot and during field recalibration; serial interface minimizes MCU pin count. Use Value: 128 × 8-bit capacity holds full calibration dataset; 1M endurance supports lifetime recalibration; >200-year retention ensures accuracy over product lifespan. |
Use Scenario: Saving user-defined output voltage/current limits, soft-start settings, and fault thresholds in programmable DC-DC modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Persistent parameter store interfaced to MCU via dedicated Microwire port; accessed only during setup or recovery. Use Value: 2.5–5.5V VCC range matches supply rail; 1 µA standby current avoids loading auxiliary bias rails; WRAL enables bulk parameter reload after firmware update. |
| Medical Device Settings Backup | Automotive Body Control Module NVM |
Use Scenario: Retaining user preferences (e.g., display brightness, alarm volume) and operational history in portable diagnostic tools. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power configuration EEPROM accessed infrequently; powered from main battery or USB VBUS. Use Value: ≤1 µA ICCS extends battery life; RoHS-compliant Pb-free SN package meets medical regulatory requirements; -40°C to +85°C rating covers clinical environments. |
Use Scenario: Storing door lock logic states, mirror position memories, and lighting profiles in automotive BCMs operating across extended temperature range. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: AEC-Q100 qualified (E-temp variant) nonvolatile memory for safety-critical configuration; accessed via dedicated MCU SPI/Microwire peripheral. Use Value: Extended temp support (–40°C to +125°C) ensures reliability under hood; 1.5V VPOR prevents corruption during cold cranking; 3-wire interface reduces routing congestion on dense BCM PCBs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46B/SN | 64 × 16-bit organization; same VCC range, timing, and package-but requires 16-bit data framing and different address depth. | Used where wider word access improves throughput (e.g., storing 16-bit ADC calibration values), but incompatible with 8-bit firmware drivers. | Select only if system firmware and host controller fully support x16 addressing and data width; not a drop-in replacement. |
| AT25010B-MAHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 1 Kbit (128 × 8), 1.8–5.5V, 20 MHz max clock; no Ready/Busy pin-relies on WIP flag polling via STATUS register. | Requires SPI-capable MCU and different driver stack; lacks DO-based status polling, increasing software overhead for write completion detection. | Choose when migrating to SPI infrastructure or needing higher clock speed; verify firmware compatibility with status register polling model. |
Compared with 93LC46B/SN, the 93LC46A/SN offers simpler 8-bit firmware integration and identical timing, while AT25010B-MAHL-T trades Microwire simplicity for SPI speed and broader voltage support-but adds driver complexity due to status register dependency.
Availability
93LC46A/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, power supply configuration storage, and medical device settings backup requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.
Supply support for 93LC46A/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 microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 93LC46A/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy Microwire EEPROM product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-pin-count embedded systems requiring reliable, low-power nonvolatile storage with minimal firmware overhead.
FAQ
What is the memory organization and capacity of the 93LC46A/SN?
The 93LC46A/SN is a fixed 128 × 8-bit (1 Kbit) serial EEPROM with no ORG pin-unlike 'C' variants, it does not support configurable word size. This simplifies hardware design and firmware implementation, as all read/write operations use consistent 8-bit data framing and 7-bit addressing. The 93LC46A/SN is optimized for systems where byte-level access suffices and pin count is constrained.
Does the 93LC46A/SN support both industrial and automotive temperature ranges?
Yes-the 93LC46A/SN is specified for Industrial (–40°C to +85°C) and Extended (–40°C to +125°C) temperature ranges. The 'E' suffix denotes the automotive-grade version (e.g., 93LC46A-I/SN vs. 93LC46A-E/SN), both sharing identical electrical specs and SOIC-8 packaging. The 93LC46A/SN part number refers to the standard industrial variant unless explicitly ordered with E-temp qualification.
How does the Ready/Busy status work on the 93LC46A/SN DO pin?
The DO pin of the 93LC46A/SN serves dual function: data output during READ and Ready/Busy indicator during programming. After initiating ERASE, WRITE, ERAL, or WRAL, bring CS high for ≥250 ns, then sample DO-low indicates active programming, high confirms completion. The 93LC46A/SN does not require external delay timers, enabling efficient polling-based firmware control without fixed wait loops.
What is the purpose of the NC pin on the 93LC46A/SN SOIC-8 package?
Pin 7 of the 93LC46A/SN in SOIC-8 (SN) package is designated NC (No internal connection). It is not bonded to any die circuitry and must be left unconnected-neither tied to VCC nor VSS. While some layouts connect NC pins to ground for mechanical stability, Microchip's datasheet specifies no internal function, and doing so has no electrical effect on 93LC46A/SN operation or reliability.
Can the 93LC46A/SN be used with a 3.3V microcontroller without level shifting?
Yes-the 93LC46A/SN operates from 2.5V to 5.5V, making it fully compatible with 3.3V I/O domains. Its VIH1 threshold is 2.0V (min) at VCC ≥ 2.7V, and VIL2 is 0.2×VCC (max), ensuring reliable logic recognition from standard 3.3V GPIOs. No level-shifting circuitry is required, reducing BOM cost and board space in 3.3V embedded designs.
93LC46A/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:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
93LC46A/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC46A/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC46A/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/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC46A/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/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC46A/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC46A/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC46A/SN?
93LC46A/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC46A/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/SN?
For technical support, including 93LC46A/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC46A/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC46A/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC46A/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/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC46A/SN?
All 93LC46A/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC46A/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/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC46A/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
93LC46A/SN Tags
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M24C02-WMN6TP
STMicroelectronics
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AT24C02C-XHM-T
Microchip Technology
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AT21CS01-STUM10-T
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24LC01BT-I/OT
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M24C02-FMC6TG
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AT24CS02-SSHM-T
Microchip Technology
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93LC46BT-I/OT
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AT24C04C-SSHM-T
Microchip Technology
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24LC01BT-I/SN
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24AA02UIDT-I/OT
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AT24C08C-STUM-T
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