Microchip Technology 93LC86T-I/SN

Overview

93LC86T-I/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8 or 1024 × 16) low-voltage Microwire-compatible serial EEPROM with single-supply operation down to 2.5 V, 1 mA typical active current, and 5 µA standby current at 3.0 V. It features ORG-pin-selectable memory organization, self-timed erase/write cycles, and integrated power-on/off data protection - deployed in industrial temperature-grade SOIC-8 packages for embedded system configuration storage.

For engineers reviewing the 93LC86T-I/SN datasheet, 93LC86T-I/SN pinout, 93LC86T-I/SN application, or 93LC86T-I/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its 3 MHz max clock frequency at 4.5–6.0 V, 1 million erase/write endurance, >200-year data retention, industry-standard 3-wire serial interface (CS/CLK/DI/DO), and dual x8/x16 memory mapping via ORG pin.

Technical Context

The 93LC86T-I/SN implements a synchronous Microwire protocol with start-bit detection, opcode-driven instruction set (READ, WRITE, ERASE, WRAL, ERAL, EWEN/EWDS), and Ready/Busy status reporting via DO pin during programming. Its internal logic includes address decoder, data register, counter, and mode decode generator supporting sequential read and auto-erase-before-write behavior.

Memory organization is dynamically selected by ORG pin voltage: tied to VCC enables 1024 × 16-bit mode; tied to VSS enables 2048 × 8-bit mode. Program Enable (PE) pin provides hardware write-protection, and power-up/down protection circuitry inhibits programming below 1.4 V, ensuring robust nonvolatile storage in brown-out conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-pin SOIC package (150 mil body width), surface-mount, RoHS-compliant, with standard lead finish. Pin 1 marked by notch or dot; pin numbering follows counterclockwise convention from top-left corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.

Compared with 93LC86T-I/SN, the 93LC86C-I/SN offers identical functionality with improved robustness for new designs, while the AT25160B requires interface redesign and forfeits ORG-based memory flexibility - making 93LC86C-I/SN the preferred drop-in upgrade path.

Availability

93LC86T-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, automotive electronics, and medical device applications requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence management, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for 93LC86T-I/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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and nonvolatile memory solutions for embedded systems.

The 93LC86T-I/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy Microwire EEPROM product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power applications needing simple 3-wire serial configuration storage in industrial and automotive environments.

FAQ

What is the memory organization flexibility of the 93LC86T-I/SN?

The 93LC86T-I/SN supports two memory configurations via the ORG pin: when tied to VSS, it operates as 2048 × 8-bit (x8 mode); when tied to VCC, it operates as 1024 × 16-bit (x16 mode). This allows matching the host processor's data bus width and optimizing address space usage. The internal pull-up on ORG defaults to x16 mode if left unconnected, and both modes are fully supported across the full temperature and voltage range of the 93LC86T-I/SN.

How does the 93LC86T-I/SN protect against accidental writes during power transitions?

The 93LC86T-I/SN incorporates hardware power-on/off data protection that inhibits all erase/write operations when VCC falls below or rises above 1.4 V. Additionally, the Program Enable (PE) pin provides physical write-lock capability: tying PE to VSS disables all programming functions regardless of command input. These dual safeguards ensure data integrity during brown-out, cold-start, or hot-swap events in systems using the 93LC86T-I/SN.

What is the role of the DO pin during programming operations in the 93LC86T-I/SN?

In the 93LC86T-I/SN, the DO pin serves dual roles: during READ operations, it outputs data bits synchronized to CLK; during ERASE, WRITE, ERAL, or WRAL cycles, it reports Ready/Busy status - low indicates active programming, high indicates completion. This real-time status feedback eliminates need for fixed delay loops and enables efficient polling-based firmware control of the 93LC86T-I/SN.

Is the 93LC86T-I/SN pin-compatible with newer Microchip EEPROMs like the 93LC86C-I/SN?

Yes, the 93LC86T-I/SN is pin-compatible and functionally identical to the 93LC86C-I/SN, sharing the same SOIC-8 package, pinout, instruction set, and electrical specifications. The 93LC86C-I/SN is a revised version with enhanced ESD performance and tighter AC timing, and Microchip explicitly recommends it for new designs. Migration to 93LC86C-I/SN requires no PCB or firmware changes - making it a seamless upgrade path for the 93LC86T-I/SN.

What are the timing constraints for consecutive instructions on the 93LC86T-I/SN?

The 93LC86T-I/SN requires a minimum Chip Select low time (TCSL) of 250 ns between consecutive instructions to reset internal logic. If CS remains high, sequential read is supported without inter-instruction gaps. However, for discrete commands (e.g., WRITE followed by READ), CS must go low for ≥250 ns to ensure proper instruction boundary detection - a requirement enforced by the 93LC86T-I/SN's Microwire protocol engine.