Microchip Technology AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T

Overview

AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 1K-bit three-wire serial EEPROM with user-selectable 128 × 8 or 64 × 16 organization, operating from 2.7V to 5.5V, featuring 2 MHz clock rate at 5V, 10 ms max self-timed write cycle, and automotive-grade temperature range (−40°C to +85°C). It is used for configuration storage in industrial control modules, sensor calibration data retention, and boot parameter storage in embedded microcontrollers.

For engineers reviewing the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T datasheet, AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T pinout, AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T application, or AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T equivalent, key selection criteria include supply voltage compatibility (2.7–5.5 V), x8/x16 organization flexibility via ORG pin, three-wire interface timing constraints, standby current at 2.7 V (6.0–10.0 µA), and industrial temperature qualification.

Technical Context

The AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T implements a synchronous three-wire serial interface (CS, SK, DI/DO) with start-bit–driven instruction decoding and no external clock dependency beyond SK. Its internal architecture supports dual memory organizations selected by the ORG pin state-ground for 128 × 8, VCC for 64 × 16-and includes on-chip write enable/disable logic (EWEN/EWDS) to prevent accidental writes.

It uses a self-timed write/erase mechanism with Ready/Busy status output on DO when CS is raised during programming, eliminating need for external timing control. The device supports full-array operations (ERAL/WRAL) only at VCC = 4.5–5.5 V and does not require pre-erase before write, enabling direct byte-level updates in system-level firmware.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T is housed in an 8-lead JEDEC SOIC (8S1) package: 0.150" wide body, 5.0 mm × 4.0 mm footprint, gull-wing leads, RoHS-compliant lead finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with M95128-WMN6TP and 25AA010A-I/SN, the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T offers unique three-wire simplicity and ORG-pin organization flexibility at the cost of lower speed and density - making it optimal for resource-constrained 8-bit MCU designs where GPIO count and firmware overhead are critical.

Availability

AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, embedded boot configuration, and motor drive parameter storage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T 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 is a global semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, with a focus on reliability, longevity, and industrial-grade qualification.

The AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T belongs to Microchip's legacy serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for low-pin-count, low-power, and high-reliability configuration storage in industrial, automotive, and consumer electronics.

FAQ

What is the memory organization of the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T and how is it selected?

The AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T supports two memory organizations: 128 × 8 bits (128 words × 8 bits) or 64 × 16 bits (64 words × 16 bits). Selection is controlled by the ORG pin: tying ORG to GND configures x8 mode; connecting ORG to VCC selects x16 mode. If left unconnected, the internal 1 MΩ pull-up defaults to x16 mode. This flexibility allows the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T to match either 8-bit or 16-bit host data bus widths without hardware redesign.

Does the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T require an external erase cycle before writing?

No, the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T does not require a separate erase cycle before writing. Each WRITE instruction automatically erases and reprograms the target memory location in a single self-timed operation. The device enters Erase/Write Enable (EWEN) state only after explicit EWEN command, and remains enabled until EWDS is issued or power is cycled. This eliminates firmware complexity associated with pre-erase sequencing in the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T implementation.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T at 2.7 V supply?

At VCC = 2.7 V, the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T supports a maximum SK clock frequency of 1 MHz, as specified in Table 4 AC Characteristics. This is lower than its 2 MHz rating at 4.5–5.5 V. Designers must ensure host MCU clock generation complies with tSKH/tSKL minima (250 ns each) and timing margins across voltage and temperature to maintain reliable communication with the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T.

How does the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T indicate readiness during a write operation?

The AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T outputs Ready/Busy status on the DO pin when CS is brought high after initiating a WRITE or ERASE instruction. A logic "1" on DO indicates completion and readiness for next command; a logic "0" means programming is still in progress. This status is valid only if CS is raised after ≥250 ns (tCS) from SK edge and before end of tWP (10 ms max). The AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T does not provide status once tWP expires.

Is the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T pin-compatible with newer Microchip serial EEPROMs like the AT93C46A?

No, the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T is not pin-compatible with the AT93C46A. While both share the same 8-lead SOIC package and basic pin functions, the AT93C46A introduces enhanced features including improved noise immunity, tighter AC timing, and modified instruction handling - requiring validation of timing margins and firmware logic. Microchip explicitly recommends AT93C46A for new designs, indicating functional divergence that affects direct substitution of the AT93C46-10SI-2.7-T.