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Microchip Technology 93LC46/SN
- Part No.:
- 93LC46/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93LC46/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT MICROWIRE 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:623
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Product details
Overview
93LC46/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 1K-bit Microwire-compatible serial EEPROM with dual memory organization (128 × 8 or 64 × 16 bits), single-supply operation down to 2.5V, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It features self-timed erase/write cycles, power-on/off data protection, and 3-wire serial interface for embedded nonvolatile storage in microcontroller peripherals and configuration memory.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC46/SN datasheet, 93LC46/SN pinout, 93LC46/SN application, or 93LC46/SN equivalent, this device supports low-power system-level configuration storage where voltage flexibility, long data retention (>200 years), and guaranteed 1 million endurance cycles are critical selection criteria.
Technical Context
The 93LC46/SN implements a synchronous 3-wire Microwire interface (CS, CLK, DI/DO) with ORG-pin-selectable x8/x16 memory mapping. Its internal logic includes start-bit detection, opcode decoding, address counter, and status polling via DO pin during erase/write operations.
It uses CMOS technology with active read current of 100 µA at 2.5V and standby current of 3 µA at 2.5V. Programming is enabled only after EWEN command, and automatic ERAL precedes WRAL - ensuring data integrity without external timing control.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 1 Kbit (128 × 8 or 64 × 16 organization selectable via ORG pin) |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5V to 5.5V - enables direct interfacing with 2.5V, 3.3V, and 5V logic systems |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS, CLK, DI/DO) - minimal GPIO usage on host MCU |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - suitable for frequent configuration updates in field-deployed devices |
| Data Retention | Greater than 200 years at 25°C - ensures long-term reliability in unpowered storage applications |
| Operating Temp | –40°C to +85°C (Industrial grade) - validated for use in automotive body electronics and industrial controls |
| Write Cycle Time | 4 ms typical per word - deterministic timing for host firmware scheduling |
Pinout & Package
93LC46/SN is housed in an 8-lead narrow SOIC (SN) package per JEDEC MS-012, with 150-mil body width and gull-wing leads. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or notch.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select | Active-high enable signal; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions to reset internal state |
| CLK (Pin 2) | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcode/address/data and clocks out read data |
| DI (Pin 3) | Data Input | Receives start bit, instruction opcodes, addresses, and write data; shares no internal bus with DO |
| DO (Pin 4) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy status (low = busy); high-Z when inactive or during write/erase unless polled |
| VSS (Pin 5) | Ground | Reference return path for all I/O and core logic; must be connected before VCC during power-up |
| ORG (Pin 6) | Memory Organization | High = x16 mode (64 words × 16 bits); low = x8 mode (128 bytes × 8 bits); floating allowed only ≤1 MHz in x16 |
| NU (Pin 7) | No Connect | Internally unconnected; must remain unconnected on PCB - no pull-up/down or routing |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Power Supply | 2.5V–5.5V supply with built-in power-on/off protection; inhibits programming until >1.4V is reached |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| ORG-pin memory configuration | Selects 128×8 or 64×16 layout at hardware level - eliminates need for software re-mapping or external logic |
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates external timing circuitry; host only needs to poll DO pin for completion - simplifies firmware design |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware-enforced lockout below 1.4V prevents corruption during brown-out or hot-plug events |
| EWEN/EWDS security control | Explicit enable/disable commands prevent accidental writes - required before every erase/write sequence |
| Sequential read capability | Continuous CS-high read cycles auto-increment address - reduces overhead for bulk configuration reads |
Applications
| Printer Configuration Storage | Industrial Sensor Calibration Data |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Storing printer model-specific settings (paper tray mapping, default DPI, font tables) across power cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register accessed during boot via MCU's SPI-compatible Microwire peripheral. Use Value: Enables field-upgradable settings without requiring external flash controller or larger memory footprint. |
Use Scenario: Retaining factory-calibrated offset/gain coefficients for analog sensor front-ends in programmable logic controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power, infrequently written parameter store interfaced directly to sensor ADC's host MCU. Use Value: Guarantees >200-year data retention and 1M-cycle endurance - exceeds PLC service life requirements. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | Consumer Appliance User Preferences |
|
Use Scenario: Saving seat/mirror position memory and lighting presets in 12V vehicle systems with wide input transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Microwire EEPROM interfaced to 5V-tolerant MCU GPIOs with VCC decoupled to local 3.3V rail. Use Value: 2.5V–5.5V operation tolerates battery voltage fluctuations; industrial temp rating supports under-hood placement. |
Use Scenario: Holding user-selected modes (temperature setpoints, cycle timers, display brightness) in smart thermostats and ovens. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standby-current-optimized (3 µA at 2.5V) nonvolatile memory accessed only during setup or power-up. Use Value: Minimizes battery drain in backup-powered units while supporting frequent read access and rare write events. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC46C-I/SN | Enhanced revision with improved ESD robustness (≥4 kV HBM), same pinout and instruction set | Preferred for new designs requiring higher reliability in noisy environments | Select 93LC46C-I/SN if long-term availability and enhanced latch-up immunity are required |
| AT25010B-MAHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 1 Kbit, 1.8–5.5V, 20 MHz max clock, different command protocol | Requires SPI-capable host; not Microwire-compatible - firmware rewrite needed | Choose only if existing design already uses SPI peripherals and board layout allows 4-wire routing |
Compared with 93LC46/SN, the 93LC46C-I/SN offers identical functionality with improved robustness and full backward compatibility, while the AT25010B-MAHL-T requires interface redesign but delivers faster clock rates and broader voltage support.
Availability
93LC46/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for printer firmware storage, industrial sensor calibration, automotive body control modules, and consumer appliance preference retention requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for 93LC46/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 93LC46/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy Microwire EEPROM product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded systems requiring simple 3-wire nonvolatile storage with hardware-configurable memory width.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93LC46/SN and how is it selected?
The 93LC46/SN supports two memory organizations: 128 × 8 bits or 64 × 16 bits. Selection is controlled by the ORG pin - tied to VCC for x16 mode, or to VSS for x8 mode. The 93LC46/SN datasheet confirms this behavior is implemented in silicon and verified across the industrial temperature range.
Does the 93LC46/SN require external timing components for erase or write operations?
No. The 93LC46/SN features fully self-timed erase and write cycles - including auto-erase before write - eliminating the need for external timers or watchdog supervision. Host firmware only needs to poll the DO pin for Ready/Busy status, as specified in the 93LC46/SN functional description.
What is the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation of the 93LC46/SN?
The 93LC46/SN operates reliably down to 2.5V, with guaranteed performance across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). At 2.5V, typical active read current is 100 µA and standby current is 3 µA, both confirmed in the DC characteristics table of the 93LC46/SN datasheet.
How does the 93LC46/SN protect against accidental writes during power transitions?
The 93LC46/SN incorporates hardware power-on/off data protection that inhibits all programming modes until VCC rises above 1.4V, and re-enables protection when VCC falls below that threshold. Additionally, the 93LC46/SN requires explicit EWEN command before any erase/write - enforced even after power cycling.
Is the 93LC46/SN pin-compatible with newer Microchip EEPROMs like the 93LC46C-I/SN?
Yes. The 93LC46/SN and 93LC46C-I/SN share identical pinout, package (SN), electrical specifications, instruction set, and timing - the latter is a direct drop-in replacement with enhanced ESD and latch-up performance. Migration to 93LC46C-I/SN requires no PCB or firmware changes.
93LC46/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, 64 x 16
- Memory Interface:
- Microwire
- Clock Frequency:
- 2 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 10ms
- 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
93LC46/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC46/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC46/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 93LC46/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC46/SN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93LC46/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC46/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC46/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC46/SN?
93LC46/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC46/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 93LC46/SN?
For technical support, including 93LC46/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC46/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC46/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC46/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 93LC46/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC46/SN?
All 93LC46/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC46/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 93LC46/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC46/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
93LC46/SN Tags
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