Microchip Technology AT93C86-10PC-2.7

Overview

AT93C86-10PC-2.7 from Microchip Technology is a 16-kbit serial EEPROM organized as 2,048 × 8 or 1,024 × 16, supporting both 8-bit and 16-bit word configurations, with 2.7–5.5 V supply voltage, 10 MHz SPI-compatible clock rate, and industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C). It serves as nonvolatile configuration memory in microcontroller-based systems requiring reliable parameter storage.

For engineers reviewing the AT93C86-10PC-2.7 datasheet, AT93C86-10PC-2.7 pinout, AT93C86-10PC-2.7 application, or AT93C86-10PC-2.7 equivalent, key selection factors include dual-word-width support, write-cycle endurance (1,000,000 cycles), data retention (100 years), software-write-protection capability, and compatibility with legacy Atmel AT93Cxx serial EEPROM interfaces.

Technical Context

The AT93C86-10PC-2.7 implements a Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial interface (CS, SK, DI/DO) with dual-mode addressing-supporting both 8-bit and 16-bit word access via ORG pin configuration. It uses CMOS process technology and includes an internal write-timer for automatic end-of-write detection.

It features software-controlled write protection (via WRAL and EWEN instructions), sequential read capability across full memory array, and built-in power-on reset circuitry that inhibits writes during power-up until V_CC stabilizes above 2.7 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AT93C86-10PC-2.7 is housed in an 8-pin PDIP package (0.300" wide), with lead finish matte tin and RoHS compliance. Pin functions are validated per Microchip's official AT93C86 datasheet (Doc #21719D).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AT93C46-10PC-2.7 and M95128-DRMN3TP/K, the AT93C86-10PC-2.7 uniquely balances 16-kbit density, Microwire compatibility, dual-word-width flexibility, and industrial-grade reliability in an 8-pin PDIP footprint-making it optimal for retrofitting legacy designs or space-constrained industrial controllers.

Availability

AT93C86-10PC-2.7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, automotive body control modules, and network equipment configuration requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for AT93C86-10PC-2.7 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and nonvolatile memory solutions for embedded control applications.

The AT93Cxx family was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-pin-count systems needing simple, reliable serial configuration memory with minimal MCU resource overhead.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the AT93C86-10PC-2.7?

The AT93C86-10PC-2.7 supports a maximum clock frequency of 10 MHz when V_CC is ≥ 4.5 V. At lower supply voltages (2.7–4.4 V), the maximum clock rate is reduced to 5 MHz per Microchip's DC characteristics table. This ensures reliable data sampling and setup/hold timing margins across its full operating voltage range. The AT93C86-10PC-2.7 does not require external clock dividers or firmware throttling to meet timing specifications.

How does the ORG pin affect memory organization in the AT93C86-10PC-2.7?

The ORG pin on the AT93C86-10PC-2.7 determines whether the 16-kbit array is interpreted as 2,048 × 8-bit bytes (ORG = low) or 1,024 × 16-bit words (ORG = high). This configuration is latched at power-up and remains fixed until the next reset cycle. The AT93C86-10PC-2.7 uses this single pin to eliminate firmware address mapping complexity and reduce PCB routing compared to fixed-width alternatives.

Does the AT93C86-10PC-2.7 support hardware write protection?

No, the AT93C86-10PC-2.7 does not include hardware write-protect pins such as WP or SRAM-style lock bits. Instead, it implements software-controlled write protection using the EWEN (Enable Write) and WRAL (Write All) instructions. Once disabled via WRAL, writes are blocked until EWEN is re-executed. This design gives the host MCU full control over protection granularity without requiring additional board-level components. The AT93C86-10PC-2.7 relies entirely on command-level security rather than physical pin assertion.

What is the write endurance specification for the AT93C86-10PC-2.7?

The AT93C86-10PC-2.7 guarantees a minimum write endurance of 1,000,000 cycles per memory location under specified operating conditions (V_CC = 2.7–5.5 V, T_A = −40°C to +85°C). This rating applies to individual addresses-not the entire array-and is validated per JEDEC standard JESD22-A117. Field use of the AT93C86-10PC-2.7 in calibration logging or configuration updates remains viable for decades even with weekly writes to dedicated sectors.

Is the AT93C86-10PC-2.7 compatible with SPI bus protocols?

The AT93C86-10PC-2.7 implements a Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface (CS, SK, DI/DO), not a standard 4-wire SPI interface. While many SPI-capable MCUs can emulate Microwire timing and command structure, the AT93C86-10PC-2.7 lacks a dedicated SO (serial out) line and uses bidirectional DI/DO sharing. Therefore, direct SPI hardware peripheral use may require firmware bit-banging or careful mode configuration-unlike true SPI EEPROMs such as the 25AAxxx series. The AT93C86-10PC-2.7 is optimized for legacy Atmel-compatible systems.