Microchip Technology 93LC46B/SN
- Part No.:
- 93LC46B/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93LC46B/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,479
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Product details
Overview
93LC46B/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1K-bit, 64 × 16-bit organization serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V, supporting Industrial (−40°C to +85°C) and Automotive (−40°C to +125°C) temperature ranges, and featuring self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL/WRAL, and Ready/Busy status signaling - used for configuration storage in microcontroller-based embedded systems.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC46B/SN datasheet, 93LC46B/SN pinout, 93LC46B/SN application, or 93LC46B/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include voltage range compatibility (2.5–5.5 V), 16-bit word access requirement, SOIC-8 package footprint, RoHS-compliant Pb-free matte tin finish, and support for sequential read and auto-erase-before-write functionality.
Technical Context
The 93LC46B/SN implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, and DI/DO pins, requiring no ORG pin (dedicated x16 mode). It uses internal address counters and mode decode logic to execute READ, WRITE, ERASE, ERAL, WRAL, EWEN, and EWDS instructions via clocked opcode/address/data sequences on the rising edge of CLK.
Its nonvolatile memory array supports 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and >200 years data retention. Power-on/off protection disables all programming when VCC falls below 2.5 V (typical 1.5 V threshold), and the DO pin serves dual role: serial data output during READ and Ready/Busy status indicator during erase/write operations.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 1 Kbit (64 × 16-bit organization), fixed x16 word width - eliminates need for external byte-to-word alignment logic. |
| VCC Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - compatible with 3.3 V and 5 V microcontroller I/O domains without level shifting. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS, CLK, DI/DO) - minimal GPIO usage, no SPI mode bits or chip-select timing constraints beyond TCSL ≥250 ns. |
| Write Cycle Time | 6 ms typical (TWC) - enables deterministic firmware timeout handling for write completion polling via DO pin. |
| Data Retention | >200 years at 25°C - suitable for long-lifecycle industrial equipment where field reprogramming is infrequent. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - supports frequent calibration or logging updates in sensor nodes and control modules. |
| Temperature Range | Industrial (−40°C to +85°C) and Automotive (−40°C to +125°C) - validated for under-hood and factory-floor deployment. |
Pinout & Package
93LC46B/SN is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (SN) with 150-mil body width, Pb-free matte tin finish, and standard JEDEC MS-012AC footprint (5.3 mm × 4.4 mm × 1.75 mm height). Pin 1 marked by laser dot or notch.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; initiates self-timed write on falling edge (93LC series). |
| CLK | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers on rising edge; clock can be paused mid-sequence without state loss. |
| DI | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, opcodes, addresses, and write data; tied high with CS to detect Start condition. |
| DO | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); enters High-Z when CS goes low or during standby. |
| VSS | Ground | Reference for all digital and analog circuitry; requires low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling. |
| NC | No Internal Connection | Pin 7 in SOIC/SN package - must remain unconnected; not bonded internally. |
| VCC | Power Supply | Supplies core logic and memory array; includes internal POR circuit triggering at ~1.5 V. |
| ORG | Organization Select | Not present on 93LC46B - fixed 16-bit mode; NC functionally, no external tie required. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed Erase/Write | Eliminates external timing circuitry; firmware polls DO pin instead of managing fixed delays. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees full-array readiness before bulk write - prevents partial writes due to residual erased bits. |
| Power-On/Off Data Protection | Hardware-enforced write inhibition below VCC threshold (~1.5 V) - prevents corruption during brown-out or hot-plug events. |
| Ready/Busy Status on DO | Enables real-time status monitoring without additional pins or I²C/SPI status registers. |
| Sequential Read Mode | Reduces instruction overhead: holding CS high after first READ cycles through consecutive addresses automatically. |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration | Automotive ECU Configuration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing factory-calibrated offset/gain coefficients for analog sensor front-ends in programmable logic controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register accessed during system boot and runtime recalibration. Use Value: Enables field-upgradable calibration without firmware changes; 1M endurance supports periodic recalibration over 10+ years. | Use Scenario: Holding vehicle-specific settings (e.g., transmission shift points, lighting profiles) in body control modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Microwire-configurable parameter store interfaced directly to 8-bit/16-bit automotive MCUs. Use Value: −40°C to +125°C rating ensures reliability in engine bay environments; 2.5–5.5 V operation matches automotive supply rails. |
| Medical Device Settings Storage | Consumer Appliance User Preferences |
Use Scenario: Retaining user-adjusted therapy parameters (e.g., pressure, duration) in portable respiratory devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, low-power configuration memory accessed only during setup or power-up. Use Value: >200-year data retention meets FDA long-term device traceability requirements; RoHS compliance satisfies global medical regulations. | Use Scenario: Saving cooking modes, timers, and display brightness preferences in smart ovens and microwaves. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Cost-optimized serial EEPROM interfaced to 8-bit MCU with limited GPIO resources. Use Value: SOIC-8 package simplifies PCB layout; 3-wire interface reduces BOM count vs. SPI flash; 6 ms write time allows responsive UI feedback. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46A/SN | 64 × 8-bit organization; identical VCC, timing, and package - requires software byte-access logic. | Used where 8-bit MCU data bus alignment simplifies firmware; unsuitable for 16-bit native word access. | Select 93LC46A/SN only if system architecture mandates byte-oriented storage and avoids 16-bit address arithmetic. |
| AT25010B-MAHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 1 Kbit (128 × 8), 1.8–5.5 V, 10 MHz max clock - different protocol stack and command set. | Preferred in designs already using SPI peripherals; incompatible with Microwire state machines. | Choose AT25010B-MAHL-T only when migrating from legacy Microwire to SPI infrastructure or when higher clock speed is critical. |
Compared with 93LC46A/SN, the 93LC46B/SN delivers native 16-bit word access without software bit-packing, reducing CPU cycles per write. Versus AT25010B-MAHL-T, it retains Microwire compatibility for existing 3-wire designs but trades off maximum clock speed for simpler control logic and lower pin count.
Availability
93LC46B/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, automotive ECU configuration, and medical device settings storage requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for 93LC46B/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, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 93LC46B belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-pin-count embedded systems requiring reliable nonvolatile storage with minimal external components.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93LC46B/SN?
The 93LC46B/SN has a fixed 64 × 16-bit organization (1 Kbit total), meaning it stores 64 words of 16 bits each. Unlike the 'C' variants, it does not have an ORG pin - the 16-bit width is hardwired, eliminating configuration overhead and ensuring deterministic addressing in firmware.
Does the 93LC46B/SN require an external pull-up resistor on the DO pin?
No, the 93LC46B/SN does not require an external pull-up on DO. The pin actively drives high/low during READ and Ready/Busy status reporting, and enters High-Z when deselected. However, a 10 kΩ pull-down on CS is recommended per Microchip's application guidance to prevent spurious activation.
What is the minimum VCC required for reliable operation of the 93LC46B/SN?
The 93LC46B/SN incorporates a power-on reset (POR) circuit that inhibits all programming functions below approximately 1.5 V. Reliable read/write operation requires VCC ≥2.5 V, with full specification compliance across 2.5–5.5 V - this ensures robustness during brown-out conditions in battery-powered systems.
Can the 93LC46B/SN be used in automotive applications?
Yes, the 93LC46B/SN is qualified for Automotive (E) temperature range (−40°C to +125°C) and is listed in the device selection table with E-temp support. Its 2.5–5.5 V VCC range aligns with automotive 12 V system regulation, and its RoHS-compliant matte tin finish meets automotive soldering and reliability standards.
How does the 93LC46B/SN handle write protection?
The 93LC46B/SN uses hardware-enabled Erase/Write Disable (EWDS) mode at power-up. An Erase/Write Enable (EWEN) instruction must precede any ERASE or WRITE command. After programming, issuing EWDS restores protection - preventing accidental overwrites during noise events or firmware glitches without requiring external lock bits or voltage supervisors.
93LC46B/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:
- 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:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
93LC46B/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC46B/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC46B/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 93LC46B/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC46B/SN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93LC46B/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC46B/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC46B/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC46B/SN?
93LC46B/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC46B/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 93LC46B/SN?
For technical support, including 93LC46B/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC46B/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC46B/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC46B/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 93LC46B/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC46B/SN?
All 93LC46B/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC46B/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 93LC46B/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC46B/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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