Microchip Technology AT93C46A-10PC
- Part No.:
- AT93C46A-10PC
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
AT93C46A-10PC.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 1KBIT 3-WIRE 2MHZ 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
AT93C46A-10PC from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 1K-bit, 64-word × 16-bit serial EEPROM with three-wire interface, supporting 1.8V–5.5V and 2.7V–5.5V operation, 2 MHz clock rate at 5V, self-timed write cycle ≤10 ms, and automotive-grade reliability (1M write cycles, 100-year data retention). It serves as nonvolatile configuration storage in microcontroller-based industrial control modules.
For engineers reviewing the AT93C46A-10PC datasheet, AT93C46A-10PC pinout, AT93C46A-10PC application, or AT93C46A-10PC equivalent, key selection considerations include voltage range compatibility (1.8V/2.7V variants), PDIP package footprint, three-wire timing constraints (tSKH/tSKL ≥250 ns), and EWEN/EWDS instruction sequence requirements for secure write enable/disable.
Technical Context
The AT93C46A-10PC implements a synchronous three-wire serial interface (CS/SK/DI/DO) with instruction-set-driven operation including READ, WRITE, ERASE, EWEN, EWDS, ERAL, and WRAL. Memory organization is fixed at 64 × 16-bit words, with address decoding and output buffering integrated on-die.
It features dual-voltage support: one variant operates from 1.8V–5.5V (VIL2/VIH2 thresholds), another from 2.7V–5.5V (VIL1/VIH1 thresholds), both sharing identical AC timing (fSK up to 2 MHz at 5V, tWP ≤10 ms) and DC standby current specs (ISB1–ISB3).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 1024 bits (64 words × 16 bits); supports byte-aligned or word-aligned access via address field A5–A0 |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.8V–5.5V or 2.7V–5.5V; enables direct interfacing with 1.8V logic or legacy 5V systems without level shifters |
| Interface Protocol | Three-wire serial (CS/SK/DI/DO); requires no external clock source beyond host-provided SK, reducing BOM count |
| Max Clock Frequency | 2 MHz at VCC = 5V; limits maximum read throughput to ~32 kbps (16-bit word + overhead) |
| Write Cycle Time | ≤10 ms (self-timed); eliminates need for external write-complete polling delay or timeout circuitry |
| Data Retention | 100 years at TA ≤85°C; qualifies for long-lifecycle industrial deployments without periodic refresh |
| Endurance | 1 million write/erase cycles per word; supports frequent calibration or logging updates in embedded firmware |
Pinout & Package
AT93C46A-10PC is supplied in an 8-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual Inline Package) with 0.300" body width, compatible with through-hole PCB assembly and standard IC sockets.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select | Active-low enable; must be held low for ≥250 ns before SK edge to initiate valid instruction cycle |
| SK | Serial Clock | Host-generated edge-triggered clock; rising edge samples DI, falling edge outputs DO (synchronous read) |
| DI | Data Input | Serial instruction/data input; accepts start bit + op code + address (READ/EWEN) or data (WRITE) |
| DO | Data Output | Tri-state serial output; provides read data or ready/busy status (logic 0 = busy, 1 = ready) when CS rises mid-cycle |
| GND | Ground Reference | Primary return path for VCC and I/O; requires low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling into SK/DI |
| VCC | Power Supply | Single supply input; supports 1.8V–5.5V or 2.7V–5.5V depending on variant; decoupling capacitor mandatory |
| DC | Don't Connect | No internal connection; must remain unconnected or tied to GND per datasheet guidance to avoid leakage paths |
| NC | No Connect | Internally unused pin; electrically isolated; may be left floating or grounded per layout best practice |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed Write Cycle | Eliminates external timing control logic; device asserts busy status on DO until tWP completes, enabling simple host polling |
| Erase/Write Enable Lock | Requires explicit EWEN instruction before programming; prevents accidental overwrites during power-up or noise events |
| Dual-Voltage Operation | Single part number supports both 1.8V and 2.7V minimum VCC variants, simplifying BOM management across product families |
| Ready/Busy Status Reporting | DO pin repurposed as status indicator when CS goes high mid-cycle; enables real-time write progress monitoring without extra pins |
| Automotive-Grade Reliability | Rated for −40°C to +85°C operation with 1M endurance and 100-year retention; validated for under-hood and factory-floor environments |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Configuration Storage | Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing calibrated sensor offsets, I/O mapping tables, and firmware update flags in programmable logic controllers deployed in factory automation lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register; accessed infrequently during boot or maintenance mode using slow SK rates (≤100 kHz) for noise immunity. Use Value: Enables field-upgradable parameter sets without requiring reprogramming of main MCU flash, reducing service downtime and qualification effort. | Use Scenario: Holding door lock actuator profiles, lighting dimming curves, and seat position presets in automotive BCMs operating across −40°C to +85°C. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Persistent memory peripheral; communicates via dedicated MCU GPIOs with strict tCS/tCSS timing compliance to ensure robustness against EMI. Use Value: Meets AEC-Q100 stress test requirements for data integrity over vehicle lifetime, eliminating need for redundant storage schemes. |
| Medical Infusion Pump Calibration Data | Smart Energy Meter Firmware Parameters |
Use Scenario: Archiving flow-rate calibration coefficients, motor step counts, and alarm thresholds in Class II medical devices subject to IEC 62304 software lifecycle controls. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-critical configuration store; write operations gated by EWEN/EWDS sequence and verified via post-write READ, ensuring deterministic behavior. Use Value: Supports traceable calibration history and audit-ready data retention logs compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. | Use Scenario: Storing tariff schedules, metering constants, and communication protocol keys in ANSI C12.22-compliant smart meters deployed in utility grids. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure parameter vault; uses ERAL/WRAL instructions only during factory provisioning, with EWDS enforced post-configuration. Use Value: Prevents unauthorized runtime modification of billing parameters while maintaining low-power standby current (<50 µA at 5V) for battery-backed operation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| M95128-WMN6TP | 128 Kbit SPI interface (4-wire), 5 MHz max clock, 5 ms write cycle; no EWEN/EWDS lock mechanism | Higher density but lacks instruction-level write protection; requires SPI controller instead of GPIO-bitbanged three-wire | Select when system already uses SPI peripherals and needs >1K capacity; not drop-in due to interface and security model differences |
| 25AA010A-I/P | 1 Kbit SPI interface, 10 MHz clock, 5 ms write cycle, 1M endurance; supports HOLD pin for bus arbitration | Same density but SPI-based; includes hardware HOLD for multi-master conflict avoidance not present in AT93C46A-10PC | Prefer for new designs with SPI infrastructure; AT93C46A-10PC remains optimal where minimal GPIO count and instruction-level security are prioritized |
Compared with M95128-WMN6TP and 25AA010A-I/P, the AT93C46A-10PC offers unique three-wire simplicity and explicit EWEN/EWDS instruction locking-critical for safety-critical or resource-constrained systems where GPIO count and deterministic write enable control outweigh raw speed or density.
Availability
AT93C46A-10PC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC configuration storage, automotive body control modules, and medical infusion pump calibration data requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for AT93C46A-10PC 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 nonvolatile memory solutions, with broad industrial and automotive qualification portfolios.
The AT93C46A-10PC belongs to Microchip's legacy Atmel serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for low-pin-count, low-power, instruction-secure configuration storage in cost-sensitive embedded systems.
FAQ
What voltage ranges does the AT93C46A-10PC support, and how do they affect interface timing?
The AT93C46A-10PC supports two voltage ranges: 1.8V–5.5V and 2.7V–5.5V. The selected range determines input threshold levels (VIL/VIH) and impacts AC timing-specifically, tSKH/tSKL minimums increase to 1000 ns at 1.8V versus 250 ns at 5V. Designers must configure host timing accordingly per VCC level; the AT93C46A-10PC itself auto-adapts without external configuration.
Does the AT93C46A-10PC require an external erase cycle before writing data?
No, the AT93C46A-10PC does not require a separate erase cycle before writing. Its write operation is self-timed and automatically erases the target word prior to programming. The AT93C46A-10PC only enters write mode after successful execution of the EWEN instruction, and the entire process-including erase and program-is completed within the specified tWP ≤10 ms window.
How is write protection implemented in the AT93C46A-10PC, and can it prevent accidental writes during power transitions?
Write protection in the AT93C46A-10PC is implemented via the EWEN (Erase/Write Enable) and EWDS (Erase/Write Disable) instructions. On power-up, the device defaults to EWDS state-no programming is possible until EWEN is issued. This ensures immunity to spurious writes during brown-out or reset conditions. The AT93C46A-10PC maintains this locked state until explicitly enabled, making it robust for systems with unstable power sequencing.
What is the function of the DC and NC pins on the AT93C46A-10PC PDIP package?
On the AT93C46A-10PC in 8-lead PDIP, Pin 6 is labeled "DC" (Don't Connect) and Pin 7 is "NC" (No Connect). Neither pin has internal connectivity: DC must remain unconnected or tied to GND per Microchip's layout guidance to avoid leakage, while NC is fully isolated and may be left floating. Incorrect routing of either pin risks violating absolute maximum ratings or inducing parasitic coupling into adjacent signal lines.
Can the AT93C46A-10PC be used in automotive applications, and what qualifications does it meet?
Yes, the AT93C46A-10PC is qualified for automotive applications. It meets extended temperature operation (−40°C to +85°C), carries AEC-Q100 stress test alignment per its automotive-grade data sheet revision, and is offered in lead-free/halogen-free packaging. Its 1M write endurance and 100-year data retention are validated under automotive thermal cycling and humidity bias conditions, making it suitable for body electronics and powertrain sub-systems where long-term reliability is mandated.
AT93C46A-10PC Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 1Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 128 x 8, 64 x 16
- Memory Interface:
- 3-Wire Serial
- Clock Frequency:
- 2 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 10ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TC)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
AT93C46A-10PC FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AT93C46A-10PC through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AT93C46A-10PC 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 AT93C46A-10PC reliable?
The price and inventory of AT93C46A-10PC are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AT93C46A-10PC is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AT93C46A-10PC?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AT93C46A-10PC transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AT93C46A-10PC?
AT93C46A-10PC orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AT93C46A-10PC 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 AT93C46A-10PC?
For technical support, including AT93C46A-10PC datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AT93C46A-10PC requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AT93C46A-10PC is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AT93C46A-10PC 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 AT93C46A-10PC meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AT93C46A-10PC?
All AT93C46A-10PC units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AT93C46A-10PC, 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 AT93C46A-10PC part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AT93C46A-10PC:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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