Microchip Technology 93LC46B-E/ST
- Part No.:
- 93LC46B-E/ST
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93LC46B-E/ST.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
93LC46B-E/ST from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1Kbit (64 × 16-bit) low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V, supporting Industrial and Automotive temperature ranges (−40°C to +125°C), and housed in an 8-lead SOIC package (ST). It delivers self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL/WRAL support, and 1,000,000 endurance cycles for embedded configuration storage in automotive control modules.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC46B-E/ST datasheet, 93LC46B-E/ST pinout, 93LC46B-E/ST application, or 93LC46B-E/ST equivalent, key selection considerations include its fixed 16-bit word organization (no ORG pin), automotive-grade reliability, 6 ms program cycle time, Ready/Busy status signaling via DO, and compatibility with legacy Microwire host controllers requiring deterministic timing and nonvolatile parameter retention.
Technical Context
The 93LC46B-E/ST implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, and DI/DO pins - no ORG pin present (dedicated x16 mode). All instructions (READ, WRITE, ERASE, ERAL, WRAL, EWEN/EWDS) are initiated by a Start bit followed by opcode, address, and data bits clocked on CLK rising edges.
It features hardware-based power-on/off data protection, automatic erase-before-write, and a dedicated Ready/Busy status output on DO during programming - verified by polling after CS high assertion following ≥250 ns CS low time (TCSL). Endurance and retention are specified at 1M cycles and >200 years respectively under rated conditions.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 1 Kbit (64 words × 16 bits) - fixed x16 organization; no ORG pin; supports compact 16-bit configuration storage without external word-width logic. |
| VCC Range | 2.5V to 5.5V - enables direct interfacing with 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers without level-shifting in automotive and industrial systems. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS, CLK, DI/DO) - requires only three MCU GPIOs; no I²C pull-ups or SPI SS complexity. |
| Write Cycle Time | 6 ms typical (TWC) - deterministic self-timed erase+write; eliminates need for software timeout tuning in safety-critical firmware. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - sufficient for frequent calibration updates or runtime parameter logging in automotive ECUs. |
| Data Retention | >200 years at +25°C - ensures long-term integrity of factory-trimmed coefficients and security keys across product lifetime. |
| Temp Range | −40°C to +125°C (Automotive E grade) - qualified for under-hood and transmission control unit deployment. |
| Package | 8-lead SOIC (ST) - industry-standard footprint; RoHS-compliant matte tin finish; compatible with automated SMT assembly. |
Pinout & Package
8-lead SOIC (ST) package with standard pinout: Pin 1 = CS, Pin 2 = CLK, Pin 3 = DI, Pin 4 = DO, Pin 5 = VSS, Pin 6 = NC (no internal connection), Pin 7 = NC, Pin 8 = VCC. No ORG pin - device is permanently configured for 16-bit word access.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between commands (TCSL); deselects device into standby (ICCS ≤ 5 µA). |
| CLK (Pin 2) | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcode/address/data; stoppable mid-sequence without corruption. |
| DI (Pin 3) | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, instruction opcodes, addresses, and write data; shares no internal path with DO (no bus conflict in x16 mode). |
| DO (Pin 4) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy status (low = busy); enters High-Z when CS low or during non-read operations. |
| VSS (Pin 5) | Ground | Reference return for all signals; must be low-impedance; ties to system ground plane. |
| NC (Pin 6, 7) | No Connection | Internally unconnected; may be left floating or tied to VSS per layout best practice; no functional role. |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Power Supply | 2.5–5.5V supply; includes on-chip POR detection (VPOR = 1.5V typ); powers internal logic and memory array. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed Erase/Write | Eliminates external timing control - firmware waits only for DO high or polls status; reduces CPU overhead and interrupt latency. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Ensures full-array write success without separate erase command - simplifies firmware for factory reset or firmware update rollback. |
| Power-On/Off Data Protection | Hardware lockout below VCC = 1.5V prevents partial writes during brown-out or hot-plug events - critical for automotive power sequencing. |
| Ready/Busy Status on DO | Enables real-time polling without additional pins or interrupts - supports deterministic timing in ASIL-B software stacks. |
| 1,000,000 Endurance Cycles | Supports daily calibration updates over 27 years at 100 cycles/day - exceeds OEM requirements for engine control and ADAS modules. |
| RoHS-Compliant Matte Tin Finish | Meets automotive ELV directive and JEDEC J-STD-020 reflow profiles - ensures solderability and long-term intermetallic stability. |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Trim Storage | Body Control Module (BCM) Configuration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing fuel injection timing trims, sensor offset corrections, and adaptive learning values updated during vehicle operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register bank accessed via Microwire during boot and runtime calibration routines. Use Value: Enables field-updatable calibration without external FRAM or flash; 16-bit word size matches ECU register map alignment. | Use Scenario: Holding door lock logic states, lighting profiles, and seat position presets across ignition cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Persistent parameter store interfaced to 8-bit MCU with limited GPIO; accessed during power-up initialization. Use Value: Eliminates battery-backed RAM; 2.5V min VCC allows operation during cranking (≥6.5V battery dip). |
| Transmission Control Unit (TCU) Fault Logs | Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Sensor Calibration |
Use Scenario: Recording gear shift error codes, solenoid test results, and thermal history for diagnostic retrieval via OBD-II. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Event-triggered write buffer with guaranteed atomicity; WRAL used for full log reset after service. Use Value: 6 ms write time enables logging within 10 ms interrupt latency budgets; automotive temp grade ensures reliability at 125°C under hood. | Use Scenario: Storing camera lens distortion coefficients and radar beam alignment offsets calibrated at end-of-line test. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Factory-programmed one-time or infrequent update storage; accessed during sensor initialization sequence. Use Value: >200-year data retention guarantees coefficient validity over vehicle lifetime; 16-bit format matches DSP register width. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46B-I/ST | Same 64×16-bit organization and SOIC-8 package, but rated for −40°C to +85°C (Industrial grade only). | Lacks automotive temperature qualification; unsuitable for under-hood or transmission environments. | Select only for cost-sensitive consumer or industrial control where ambient temperature remains ≤85°C. |
| AT25010B-SSHL-T | 1 Kbit SPI EEPROM (128×8), 2.5–5.5V, SOIC-8, but uses SPI interface (4-wire) and lacks WRAL/ERAL commands. | Requires different driver stack; no auto-erase-all functionality; lower write endurance (100K cycles). | Choose only if existing design uses SPI peripherals and firmware cannot accommodate Microwire timing or instruction set. |
Compared with 93LC46B-I/ST, the 93LC46B-E/ST adds automotive-grade thermal robustness and extended lifecycle validation; compared with AT25010B-SSHL-T, it provides deterministic Microwire timing, higher endurance, and integrated ERAL/WRAL - making it optimal for safety-critical automotive firmware storage.
Availability
93LC46B-E/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive control units, industrial PLCs, and medical diagnostics equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and AEC-Q200-aligned reliability.
Supply support for 93LC46B-E/ST 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, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets globally.
The 93LC46 series belongs to Microchip's legacy Microwire EEPROM product line, designed specifically for cost-effective, low-pin-count nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems requiring deterministic timing and high reliability.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93LC46B-E/ST?
The 93LC46B-E/ST has a fixed 64-word × 16-bit (1 Kbit) organization. It does not include an ORG pin - unlike 'C' variants - so word size is permanently set to 16 bits. This eliminates external configuration logic and simplifies interface design for systems requiring native 16-bit parameter storage, such as automotive ECU trim tables. The 93LC46B-E/ST supports sequential read and single-word write operations aligned to this x16 structure.
Does the 93LC46B-E/ST require an external pull-up resistor on the DO pin?
No, the 93LC46B-E/ST does not require an external pull-up on DO. The DO pin actively drives high or low during READ or Ready/Busy status reporting and enters High-Z when inactive (e.g., during WRITE setup or when CS is low). Pull-ups are unnecessary and may interfere with status polling accuracy. The 93LC46B-E/ST datasheet confirms DO is a true tri-state output with defined VOH/VOL specifications under load.
What is the minimum VCC required for reliable operation of the 93LC46B-E/ST?
The 93LC46B-E/ST requires a minimum VCC of 2.5V for full specification compliance across its rated temperature range (−40°C to +125°C). Below 2.5V, internal voltage detection (VPOR ≈ 1.5V) disables all write operations to prevent data corruption, but read functionality may become unreliable. Operation at 2.5V is validated for all AC/DC parameters including 6 ms TWC and 3 MHz FCLK - critical for automotive cranking scenarios.
Can the 93LC46B-E/ST be used as a drop-in replacement for the 93LC46B-I/ST?
The 93LC46B-E/ST is pin-compatible and functionally identical to the 93LC46B-I/ST, differing only in temperature grade (E = −40°C to +125°C vs. I = −40°C to +85°C) and qualification testing. No PCB or firmware changes are needed for migration - all electrical, timing, and instruction-set behavior is identical. However, the 93LC46B-E/ST undergoes additional automotive stress screening per AEC-Q200, making it suitable for under-hood deployment where the 93LC46B-I/ST is not rated.
How does the 93LC46B-E/ST handle power loss during a write cycle?
The 93LC46B-E/ST incorporates hardware power-loss protection: if VCC drops below ~1.5V (VPOR threshold) during an erase or write cycle, the device aborts the operation and retains the pre-write data state. No partial writes occur. This behavior is guaranteed by on-chip circuitry - not firmware - and applies across the full automotive temperature range. The 93LC46B-E/ST must be re-enabled via EWEN after power restoration before subsequent writes.
93LC46B-E/ST Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 1Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 64 x 16
- 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-TSSOP
93LC46B-E/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC46B-E/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC46B-E/ST 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 93LC46B-E/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC46B-E/ST are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93LC46B-E/ST is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC46B-E/ST?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC46B-E/ST transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC46B-E/ST?
93LC46B-E/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC46B-E/ST 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 93LC46B-E/ST?
For technical support, including 93LC46B-E/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC46B-E/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC46B-E/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC46B-E/ST 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 93LC46B-E/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC46B-E/ST?
All 93LC46B-E/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC46B-E/ST, 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 93LC46B-E/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC46B-E/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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