Microchip Technology 93LC46BT-I/ST

Product Summary 93LC46BT-I/ST EEPROM by Microchip Technology

The 93LC46BT-I/ST from Microchip Technology is a 1Kbit serial Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM) designed for nonvolatile data storage in embedded systems. It features compatibility with the industry-standard Microwire 3-wire serial interface and is housed in the compact 8-lead Thin Shrink Small Outline Package (TSSOP). With a maximum operating frequency of up to 2 MHz and advanced low-power CMOS process technology, the 93LC46BT-I/ST offers a robust solution for a variety of memory storage needs while supporting both industrial (-40°C to +85°C) and automotive (-40°C to +125°C) temperature ranges.

The device is suitable for data retention applications that demand endurance, reliability, and protection against accidental programming—all of which position it as an ideal candidate for configuration settings, calibration data, identification codes, and other critical embedded values.

Main Attributes of the 93LC46BT-I/ST EEPROM from Microchip Technology

The 93LC46BT-I/ST integrates a series of functions and protections essential for modern embedded design. Notable features include:

Low-power CMOS technology for minimal system impact.

Selectable word organization (x8 or x16) via the ORG pin, enabling flexibility depending on byte or word-oriented systems.

Organizational options: 128 x 8-bit (A-versions), 64 x 16-bit (B-versions), both without ORG in dedicated configurations.

Self-timed erase and write cycles, including automatic erase all (ERAL) prior to write all (WRAL) commands.

Power-on/off data protection mechanisms to prevent unintentional data corruption.

Support for 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and data retention exceeding 200 years.

Ready/Busy status signal for efficient monitoring during programming.

Industry-standard 3-wire serial I/O interface for broad compatibility with MCUs and microprocessors.

RoHS compliance and a full suite of package options for optimal environmental and form factor adaptation.

Memory Structure and Available Versions of the 93LC46BT-I/ST EEPROM Lineup

Microchip’s 93LC46BT-I/ST is one of several variants in the broader 93XX46A/B/C EEPROM series, which covers multiple voltages, organizations, and package types. Key model distinctions include:

Organization selection: The ORG pin on 'C' versions allows switching between x8 (byte) and x16 (word) formats. 'A' versions are fixed at x8; 'B' versions at x16.

Voltage options: 'AA' (1.8V), 'LC' (2.5V), and 'C' (5V) models accommodate different platform power rails.

Package options: PDIP, SOIC, MSOP, SOT-23, TDFN, DFN, and TSSOP, providing engineers flexibility for standard or space-constrained layouts.

Dedicated communication: Devices are available for both 8-bit and 16-bit serial communications, optimizing design fit for the target MCU data width.

Choosing the appropriate 93LC46BT-I/ST variant involves consideration of available I/O pins, controller compatibility, space constraints, and memory organization requirements.

Electrical Specifications and Environmental Tolerances of the 93LC46BT-I/ST EEPROM

The 93LC46BT-I/ST supports robust operating conditions and guarantees stable performance in demanding environments:

Absolute Maximum Ratings: Vcc tolerance up to 7.0V, input/output voltage tolerance from -0.6V to Vcc+1.0V, and storage temperatures from -65°C to +150°C.

Operation: Industrial (-40°C to +85°C) and automotive (-40°C to +125°C) temperature grades available, with ESD protection ≥ 4 kV.

Data integrity: Power-on/off circuitry and voltage detection circuits safeguard memory contents from accidental erasure or writing under brown-out conditions.

Endurance: Rated for more than 1,000,000 write/erase cycles and a minimum 200-year data retention span, supporting long-life applications.

Supply voltage: For reliable ERAL and WRAL operations, Vcc must be ≥ 4.5V.

Timings: Support for up to 2 MHz clock frequency, enabling high data throughput with MCU or FPGA controllers.

These parameters ensure engineers can confidently deploy 93LC46BT-I/ST in mission-critical and high-reliability embedded solutions.

Pinout Details and Functional Description of the 93LC46BT-I/ST EEPROM Device

The device utilizes an 8-lead configuration with key functions assigned as follows:

CS (Chip Select): Enables device communication and manages standby/power-down status to minimize power usage.

CLK (Serial Clock): Synchronizes data transfer; instructions and addresses are sampled on the rising edge.

DI (Data In): Serial input for instructions, addresses, and data.

DO (Data Out): Serial output for data and status feedback; supports High-Z state, normal in bus-sharing systems.

ORG (Organization): For C-variants, selects x8 or x16 format according to system needs.

Remaining pins: Vcc (power supply) and Vss (ground).

Functional operation is tailored to a 3-wire serial protocol where instructions are loaded via DI and CLK, data read out via DO, and chip select controls access. Read/Write/Erase functions are managed through a clear instruction set and status polling.

Serial Interface Protocol and Command Set for the 93LC46BT-I/ST EEPROM

The 93LC46BT-I/ST supports a comprehensive instruction set for flexible memory management:

Read: Outputs data from the addressed memory location, with sequential read capability for block data access.

Write: Stores data to a specific address, incorporating self-timed erase-and-write cycles for reliability.

Erase: Sets addressed data bits to logical '1'; full-array erasure (ERAL) is supported.

Write All (WRAL): Programs the entire array with specified data, including automatic pre-erasure.

EWEN/EWDS (Erase/Write Enable/Disable): Ensures data protection by disabling programming after operations, with enable required for any subsequent programming.

Status feedback: The Ready/Busy signal via DO enables polling for programming cycle completion, critical for applications requiring synchronization and minimal downtime.

The straightforward Microwire protocol allows integration with a wide range of microcontrollers, and timing specifications ensure compatibility with high-speed system clocks.

Packaging Details of the 93LC46BT-I/ST EEPROM by Microchip Technology

Microchip offers the 93LC46BT-I/ST in several packages tailored for both standard and high-density PCB layouts:

8-lead TSSOP: Ideal for space-sensitive designs while maintaining solderability and traceability.

Alternatives: PDIP, MSOP, SOIC, SOT-23, DFN, and TDFN packages are available across the series, offering engineers broad selection for prototyping, mass-production, and automated assembly environments.

Recommended land patterns: Current package drawings and layout guidelines are available from Microchip for optimal thermal and electrical performance.

Understanding package selection is crucial in achieving desired board mechanical compatibility and electrical performance.

Comparable or Replacement Options for the 93LC46BT-I/ST EEPROM

For engineers seeking alternatives or cross selections for the 93LC46BT-I/ST, the Microchip 93XX46 family offers several options:

93LC46A-I/MS: 1Kbit, 128x8 organization, MSOP package.

93LC46BT-I/OT: 1Kbit, 64x16 organization, SOT-23 package.

93LC46B-I/ST: 1Kbit, 64x16 organization, TSSOP package.

93LC46CT-I/MNY: 1Kbit, 128x8 or 64x16 organization, TDFN package.

Related series: 93AA46 and 93C46 families provide similar function at different supply voltages or package formats.

Selection should be based on required operating voltage, organizational format, and preferred package type. Additionally, similar devices from other manufacturers may be considered, but engineers should validate protocol compatibility and electrical parameters.

Conclusion

: Application insights and selection guidelines for 93LC46BT-I/ST Microchip Technology EEPROM

The Microchip 93LC46BT-I/ST EEPROM provides a mature, reliable solution for nonvolatile memory storage with flexible organization, robust endurance, and comprehensive protection features. Its wide suite of packaging and voltage options, along with proven Microwire serial protocol support, make it the preferred choice for configuration storage in embedded controllers, industrial automation, automotive ECUs, and calibration modules.

When selecting the appropriate model, engineers should weigh word organization, supply voltage, interface compatibility, and package engineering constraints. Endurance, data retention, and environmental ratings support long-term deployment in fields demanding high-reliability memory solutions.

Overall, the 93LC46BT-I/ST positions itself as a versatile and dependable serial EEPROM, well suited for a broad range of electronic applications where persistent, secure, and flexible data storage is paramount.