Microchip Technology 93LC46AX/SN
- Part No.:
- 93LC46AX/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93LC46AX/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,545
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Product details
Overview
93LC46AX/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, and industrial temperature grade (–40°C to +85°C). It features self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL/WRAL support, and Ready/Busy status signaling via DO pin. Used for configuration storage in embedded microcontroller systems requiring nonvolatile parameter retention.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC46AX/SN datasheet, 93LC46AX/SN pinout, 93LC46AX/SN application, or 93LC46AX/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 8-bit organization (no ORG pin), SOIC-8 package compatibility, 1 million endurance cycles, >200-year data retention, and support for sequential read and power-on/off data protection.
Technical Context
This device implements a synchronous serial Microwire protocol with CS, CLK, DI, and DO signals - no ORG pin required (A-version). Communication uses rising-edge clocking for opcode/address/data input and output, with DO providing both data and Ready/Busy status during programming.
Internal architecture includes an address decoder, mode decode logic, and auto-erase/write control that initiates on CS falling edge (for 93LC46A/B), enabling deterministic timing without external delay management. Power-on reset circuitry ensures write inhibition below 1.5 V VCC.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 1 Kbit (128 × 8-bit organization) |
| VCC range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - supports mixed-voltage system integration with 3.3 V or 5 V hosts |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - enables frequent firmware or calibration updates |
| Data retention | >200 years at 25°C - guarantees long-term reliability in unpowered storage |
| Write cycle time | 6 ms typical - defines minimum interval between successive write operations |
| Max clock frequency | 3 MHz at VCC ≥ 4.5 V - sets upper bound for serial transaction throughput |
| Operating temp | –40°C to +85°C (Industrial) - validated for use in industrial control and automotive cabin modules |
Pinout & Package
93LC46AX/SN is supplied in an 8-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package with standard 150-mil body width and Pb-free Matte Tin finish. Pin 1 is marked by laser dot; pin 1 ID corner is bottom-left when notch faces up.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; controls standby entry/exit |
| CLK | Serial Clock | Rising-edge synchronized I/O; clocking stops during self-timed write; no clock required post-initiation |
| DI | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, opcode, address, and data; high-impedance when not selected |
| DO | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); enters High-Z on CS falling edge |
| VSS | Ground | Reference return path for all I/O and internal logic; must be low-impedance |
| NC | No Connection | Pin 7 is internally unconnected - must be left floating or tied to VSS per layout best practice |
| VCC | Power Supply | 2.5–5.5 V supply; internal POR circuit disables writes below ~1.5 V |
| ORG | Organization select | Not present on A-version - fixed 8-bit operation; pin 6 is NC |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates need for external timing control or software delays - reduces host MCU overhead |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Ensures full-array write integrity without separate erase command - simplifies firmware logic |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Enables polling-based flow control instead of fixed delays - improves system responsiveness |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware lockout below 1.5 V VCC prevents corruption during brown-out or hot-swap events |
| Sequential read mode | Allows continuous address increment on single CS assertion - accelerates bulk read operations |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration | Consumer Remote Control Memory |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing factory-trimmed sensor offset/gain coefficients in pressure or temperature transmitters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register accessed at boot by host MCU via Microwire interface. Use Value: Enables field-replaceable sensors without recalibration; 1M endurance supports lifetime recalibration cycles. | Use Scenario: Retaining user-programmed channel presets and volume settings in IR remote handsets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power serial memory holding volatile state across battery removal. Use Value: >200-year data retention ensures settings persist over product lifetime; 2.5 V min VCC supports coin-cell operation. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | Medical Diagnostic Device Settings |
Use Scenario: Saving seat/mirror position memory and lighting preferences in vehicle BCMs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dedicated 8-bit Microwire EEPROM interfaced to 8-bit microcontroller with minimal GPIO usage. Use Value: Industrial temp rating (–40°C to +85°C) meets under-hood ambient requirements; SOIC-8 eases rework and inspection. | Use Scenario: Storing calibration constants, patient history flags, and regulatory audit logs in portable diagnostic tools. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant nonvolatile storage with hardware write-protection (EWEN/EWDS). Use Value: Power-on data protection prevents corruption during clinical power cycling; RoHS compliance satisfies medical regulatory requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46BT/SN | 16-bit organization (64 × 16), same VCC/temp range, identical SOIC-8 package | Requires host software adaptation for 16-bit word access; incompatible with existing 8-bit firmware | Select only if system bus width or data structure mandates 16-bit words |
| AT25010B-MAU-1.8 | SPI interface (4-wire), 1.8–5.5 V, 1 Kbit (128 × 8), same endurance and retention | Requires different driver stack (SPI vs Microwire); pinout incompatible (SOIC-8 but different pin mapping) | Choose when migrating to SPI-based platforms or needing lower 1.8 V operation |
Compared with 93LC46BT/SN and AT25010B-MAU-1.8, the 93LC46AX/SN offers native Microwire compatibility with zero firmware porting effort for legacy 3-wire designs, while maintaining identical physical footprint and industrial temperature support.
Availability
93LC46AX/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, consumer remote control memory, and automotive body control module applications requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for 93LC46AX/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 components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona.
The 93LC46A series belongs to Microchip's legacy Microwire-compatible serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-pin-count embedded systems requiring reliable nonvolatile storage with minimal host resource usage.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93LC46AX/SN?
The 93LC46AX/SN has a fixed 128 × 8-bit organization - it is an "A" variant, meaning no ORG pin is present and word size is permanently set to 8 bits. This eliminates external configuration logic and simplifies PCB design versus C-variant devices requiring ORG pin biasing. The 93LC46AX/SN does not support 16-bit operation.
Does the 93LC46AX/SN require an external pull-up resistor on the DO pin?
No, the 93LC46AX/SN does not require an external pull-up on DO. The DO pin actively drives high/low during read or Ready/Busy status reporting and enters High-Z when deselected or idle. However, if DI and DO are shorted (shared bus), a current-limiting resistor (e.g., 10 kΩ) is recommended to prevent bus conflict during dummy-zero read phases.
What is the minimum VCC level at which the 93LC46AX/SN guarantees write protection?
The 93LC46AX/SN guarantees write inhibition below approximately 1.5 V VCC, enforced by an internal power-on reset (POR) circuit. This prevents unintended writes during power ramp-up, brown-out, or battery depletion - a critical feature for systems where voltage stability cannot be assumed. Operation outside 2.5–5.5 V is not characterized.
Can the 93LC46AX/SN be used in automotive under-hood applications?
The 93LC46AX/SN is rated for Industrial temperature (–40°C to +85°C), not Automotive (–40°C to +125°C). While it may function in some under-hood locations, Microchip specifies the "E" grade (e.g., 93LC46AE/SN) for full automotive qualification. For under-hood use, the 93LC46AX/SN should be validated per AEC-Q100 requirements and derated per thermal analysis - it is not officially qualified.
How does the 93LC46AX/SN handle sequential reads across address boundaries?
The 93LC46AX/SN supports true sequential read: after issuing a READ instruction with any starting address, holding CS high causes automatic address increment on each subsequent CLK rising edge, wrapping from address 127 back to 0. This enables efficient block reads without reissuing opcodes - reducing host MCU instruction overhead and improving throughput for configuration table loading.
93LC46AX/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:
- Not 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
93LC46AX/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC46AX/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC46AX/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 93LC46AX/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC46AX/SN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93LC46AX/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC46AX/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC46AX/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC46AX/SN?
93LC46AX/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC46AX/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 93LC46AX/SN?
For technical support, including 93LC46AX/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC46AX/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC46AX/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC46AX/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 93LC46AX/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC46AX/SN?
All 93LC46AX/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC46AX/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 93LC46AX/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC46AX/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
93LC46AX/SN Tags

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