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

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,867
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
93LC46B-I/ST from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1 Kbit (64 × 16-bit) low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, operating from 2.5 V to 5.5 V, rated for industrial temperature (−40°C to +85°C), and housed in an 8-lead SOIC package (ST). It features self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL before WRAL, Ready/Busy status via DO pin, and 1,000,000 endurance cycles - used for configuration storage in microcontroller-based embedded systems.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC46B-I/ST datasheet, 93LC46B-I/ST pinout, 93LC46B-I/ST application, or 93LC46B-I/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 16-bit word organization (no ORG pin), industrial-grade temperature support, SOIC-8 package compatibility, and Microwire protocol timing compliance at up to 2 MHz (VCC ≥ 2.5 V).
Technical Context
The 93LC46B-I/ST implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, and DI/DO pins - no ORG pin (dedicated x16 mode). It uses internal auto-erase-before-write logic and supports sequential read, ERAL, WRAL, EWEN/EWDS protection, and status polling via DO pin during programming.
Its architecture includes a 64-word × 16-bit memory array, address counter, mode decode logic, and output buffer. Power-on data protection activates below 1.5 V VCC threshold, and all instructions require a Start bit (CS high + DI high on CLK rising edge) followed by opcode, address, and data bits clocked on CLK rising edges.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 1 Kbit (64 × 16-bit organization; fixed, no ORG pin) |
| VCC range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - supports wide supply margin in industrial 3.3 V and 5 V systems |
| Temperature grade | Industrial (−40°C to +85°C) - qualified for non-automotive embedded operation |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS, CLK, DI/DO) - minimal GPIO usage, no SPI mode select needed |
| Write cycle time | 6 ms typical - enables predictable firmware timeout handling for write completion |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - suitable for frequent calibration or logging updates |
| Data retention | 200 years at 25°C - ensures long-term configuration integrity without refresh |
| Package | 8-lead SOIC (ST suffix) - industry-standard footprint, compatible with automated assembly |
Pinout & Package
8-lead SOIC (ST) package with 1.27 mm pitch; pin 1 marked by laser dot or notch; RoHS-compliant matte tin finish; exposed pad not present (unlike DFN/TDFN variants).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (CS) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; deselects device into standby |
| 2 (CLK) | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcode/address/data; stoppable mid-sequence |
| 3 (DI) | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, opcode, address, and write data; tied high with CS to initiate instruction |
| 4 (DO) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); enters High-Z when CS low or after status read |
| 5 (VSS) | Ground | Reference return path for all signals; must be low-impedance connection |
| 6 (NC) | No Connect | Internally unconnected; must be left floating or tied to VSS per layout best practice |
| 7 (NC) | No Connect | Internally unconnected; same as pin 6 - no routing required |
| 8 (VCC) | Power Supply | 2.5–5.5 V supply; includes on-chip POR circuit triggering at ~1.5 V |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates external timing control; firmware only needs to poll DO pin for completion |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees full-array readiness before bulk write - prevents partial writes or corruption |
| EWEN/EWDS security | Hardware-level write protection: device powers up in EWDS state, requiring explicit EWEN before any write |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Enables non-blocking polling - avoids fixed delays and improves system responsiveness |
| 1,000,000 endurance cycles | Supports >100 daily writes over 27 years - viable for field-updatable parameter storage |
| Power-on/off data protection | Blocks all operations when VCC drops below 1.5 V - prevents inadvertent writes during brown-out |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration | Consumer Remote Control Memory |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing factory-trimmed sensor offset/gain coefficients in HVAC or pressure transmitters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration storage accessed once at power-up; 16-bit word size matches ADC register width. Use Value: Eliminates external trimming components; enables post-manufacture calibration and field recalibration via MCU firmware. | Use Scenario: Retaining user-programmed channel presets and volume settings in IR remote controls. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power serial memory interfaced to 8-bit MCU; accessed infrequently during setup or button press events. Use Value: Maintains settings across battery replacement; 2.5 V minimum VCC allows direct use with single alkaline cell (1.5 V) + boost or dual-cell (3 V) supply. |
| Medical Device Configuration | Industrial PLC Parameter Storage |
Use Scenario: Holding safety-critical operational modes and alarm thresholds in portable diagnostic equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure configuration store with EWEN/EWDS enforcement; accessed during boot and service mode. Use Value: Prevents accidental overwrite during runtime; 200-year data retention meets medical device lifecycle requirements. | Use Scenario: Saving I/O mapping, scaling factors, and communication parameters in modular PLC backplanes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Industrial-grade EEPROM interfaced to ARM Cortex-M host; withstands repeated firmware updates. Use Value: −40°C to +85°C rating ensures reliability in cabinet-mounted controllers; SOIC-8 simplifies board-level repair and replacement. |
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/SN | Same electrical specs and pinout; packaged in 8-lead PDIP instead of SOIC | Used in through-hole prototyping or legacy industrial boards where SOIC reflow is unavailable | Select for hand-soldering, breadboarding, or backward compatibility with PDIP footprints |
| AT25010B-SSHL-T | 1 Kbit SPI interface (4-wire), 1.8–5.5 V, 20 MHz max clock; no Ready/Busy pin - relies on WIP flag polling | Requires SPI peripheral instead of generic GPIO bit-banging; higher speed but less deterministic timing | Select when MCU has dedicated SPI hardware and higher throughput is needed; verify software overhead for flag polling vs. DO status |
Compared with 93LC46B-I/SN, the 93LC46B-I/ST offers identical functionality in surface-mount form for automated production; versus AT25010B-SSHL-T, it trades SPI speed for simpler 3-wire control and integrated Ready/Busy signaling - reducing firmware complexity in resource-constrained designs.
Availability
93LC46B-I/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, consumer remote control memory, medical device configuration, and industrial PLC parameter storage requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence management, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for 93LC46B-I/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 microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 93LC46B-I/ST belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for low-pin-count, low-power, nonvolatile configuration storage in cost-sensitive embedded systems where Microwire compatibility and robust write protection are essential.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93LC46B-I/ST?
The 93LC46B-I/ST has a fixed 64 × 16-bit (1 Kbit) organization. Unlike 'C' variants, it lacks an ORG pin and is permanently configured for 16-bit word access - eliminating external configuration logic and simplifying interface timing for 16-bit data paths.
Does the 93LC46B-I/ST require an external pull-up resistor on the DO pin?
No, the 93LC46B-I/ST does not require an external pull-up on DO. The pin actively drives high/low during Read or Ready/Busy status, and enters High-Z when inactive. However, a 10 kΩ pull-down on CS is recommended per Microchip's application guidance to prevent spurious activation.
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 93LC46B-I/ST?
The 93LC46B-I/ST supports up to 2 MHz clock frequency when VCC is between 2.5 V and 5.5 V. At lower voltages (e.g., 1.8 V), the max clock drops to 1 MHz - but this does not apply to the 93LC46B-I/ST, as its minimum VCC is 2.5 V.
How does write protection work on the 93LC46B-I/ST?
The 93LC46B-I/ST powers up in Erase/Write Disable (EWDS) mode. An Erase/Write Enable (EWEN) command must be issued before any ERASE or WRITE instruction. After each write, executing EWDS restores protection - preventing accidental overwrites during noise events or power transients.
Can the 93LC46B-I/ST be used in automotive applications?
No, the 93LC46B-I/ST is rated for industrial temperature only (−40°C to +85°C). For automotive use, Microchip offers the 93LC46B-E/ST variant, qualified to AEC-Q100 Grade 2 (−40°C to +105°C) or Grade 1 (−40°C to +125°C), with identical pinout and functionality but extended qualification testing.
93LC46B-I/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 ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-TSSOP
93LC46B-I/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC46B-I/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC46B-I/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-I/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC46B-I/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-I/ST is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC46B-I/ST?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC46B-I/ST transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC46B-I/ST?
93LC46B-I/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC46B-I/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-I/ST?
For technical support, including 93LC46B-I/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC46B-I/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC46B-I/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC46B-I/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-I/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC46B-I/ST?
All 93LC46B-I/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC46B-I/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-I/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC46B-I/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
93LC46B-I/ST Tags

-
M24C02-WMN6TP
STMicroelectronics
-
AT24C02C-XHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
AT21CS01-STUM10-T
Microchip Technology

-
AT24C02C-SSHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
24LC01BT-I/OT
Microchip Technology
-
M24C02-FMC6TG
STMicroelectronics

-
AT24CS02-SSHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
93LC46BT-I/OT
Microchip Technology

-
AT24C04C-SSHM-T
Microchip Technology

-
24LC01BT-I/SN
Microchip Technology

-
24AA02UIDT-I/OT
Microchip Technology

-
AT24C08C-STUM-T
Microchip Technology
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
