The Microchip 93AA46CT-I/SN: A Compact Powerhouse for Serial Data Storage

In the realm of embedded systems and electronics, reliable non-volatile memory is a fundamental component for storing critical parameters, configuration data, and event logging. The Microchip 93AA46CT-I/SN stands out as a robust and efficient solution, offering 1Kbits of memory organized as 64 x 16 or 128 x 8 bits. This serial EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) chip utilizes the simple yet effective Microwire serial interface, making it an ideal choice for a wide array of applications where space, power, and reliability are paramount.

Housed in an 8-lead SOIC package, the 93AA46CT-I/SN is designed for space-constrained environments. Its low-power operation is a key feature, with an active current of just 1 mA and a standby current of only 1 µA, which is crucial for battery-powered devices. The chip supports a broad voltage range from 2.5V to 5.5V, ensuring compatibility with various logic levels and system voltages. Furthermore, it boasts a impressive endurance of 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and a data retention period of over 200 years, guaranteeing data integrity and long-term performance.

Communication with a host microcontroller is streamlined through the 3-wire Microwire protocol, consisting of Chip Select (CS), Data In (DI), and Data Out (DO) lines, synchronized by a clock signal (SK). This simple interface reduces the number of required I/O pins on the microcontroller, simplifying board design and layout. The memory array features a built-in write-protect mechanism that can be enabled via software commands to prevent accidental data corruption. The 93AA46CT-I/SN also includes a dedicated Organizational (ORG) pin, allowing the user to select either a 16-bit or 8-bit memory structure for optimal flexibility in different system architectures.

The combination of its tiny form factor, minimal power consumption, and high reliability makes this EEPROM perfectly suited for application in:

Automotive electronics (e.g., dashboards, sensors)

Industrial control systems

Consumer appliances

Telecommunication devices

Portable medical instruments

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip 93AA46CT-I/SN is a highly reliable, low-power, and compact serial EEPROM. Its simple Microwire interface, excellent endurance, and long data retention make it a superior choice for designers seeking a hassle-free non-volatile memory solution for their next-generation embedded products.

Keywords: Microwire Serial EEPROM, Low-Power Operation, High Endurance, Non-Volatile Memory, SOIC Package.