Encyclopedia Entry: 93LC46C-I/P

Product Overview

Category

The 93LC46C-I/P belongs to the category of electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) chips.

Use

This chip is commonly used for non-volatile data storage in various electronic devices, such as microcontrollers, computers, and consumer electronics.

Characteristics

• Non-volatile: The 93LC46C-I/P retains stored data even when power is removed.
• Electrically erasable: Data can be erased and reprogrammed electronically, eliminating the need for physical removal or replacement.
• Small form factor: The chip is compact and designed for space-constrained applications.
• Low power consumption: It operates efficiently, minimizing energy requirements.
• High reliability: The 93LC46C-I/P offers robust performance and long-term data retention.

Package and Quantity

The 93LC46C-I/P is available in a DIP (Dual Inline Package) format. Each package contains one chip.

Specifications

• Memory capacity: 1 kilobit (128 bytes)
• Supply voltage: 2.5V to 5.5V
• Operating temperature range: -40°C to +85°C
• Write endurance: 1 million cycles
• Data retention: 100 years

Pin Configuration

The 93LC46C-I/P features an 8-pin DIP package with the following pin configuration:

| Pin Number | Pin Name | Function | |------------|----------|----------| | 1 | CS | Chip Select | | 2 | SK | Serial Clock | | 3 | DI | Data Input | | 4 | VSS | Ground | | 5 | DO | Data Output | | 6 | HOLD | Hold Input | | 7 | VCC | Supply Voltage | | 8 | WP | Write Protect |

Functional Features

• Serial communication: The chip supports a serial interface for easy integration with microcontrollers and other devices.
• Byte-level read/write operations: Data can be accessed and modified at the byte level, allowing for efficient data management.
• Hardware write protection: The WP pin can be used to protect the stored data from accidental modification.
• Software-controlled erase and programming: The chip can be easily programmed and erased using software commands.

Advantages

• Compact size: The small form factor enables integration into space-constrained designs.
• High reliability: The 93LC46C-I/P offers excellent data retention and endurance characteristics.
• Low power consumption: It operates efficiently, minimizing energy requirements.
• Easy integration: The chip's serial interface simplifies connectivity with other devices.

Disadvantages

• Limited memory capacity: With only 1 kilobit of storage, the chip may not be suitable for applications requiring larger data storage.
• Slower write speed: Compared to some other memory technologies, EEPROMs generally have slower write speeds.

Working Principles

The 93LC46C-I/P utilizes an electrically controlled floating gate to store and retain data. When data needs to be written or erased, high voltages are applied to specific pins, modifying the charge on the floating gate. This charge alteration determines the stored data value.

Application Field Plans

The 93LC46C-I/P finds applications in various fields, including: - Automotive electronics: Used for storing critical vehicle data, such as mileage and diagnostic information. - Industrial control systems: Enables non-volatile storage of configuration parameters and calibration data. - Consumer electronics: Integrated into devices like smart TVs, set-top boxes, and gaming consoles for data storage purposes. - Medical devices: Utilized for storing patient information, device settings, and usage logs.

Alternative Models

• 93LC46B-I/P: Similar to the 93LC46C-I/P, but with a different pin configuration.
• 93LC46D-I/P: Offers extended temperature range compared to the 93LC46C-I/P.
• 93LC66C-I/P: Provides double the memory capacity (2 kilobits) compared to the 93LC46C-I/P.

In conclusion, the 93LC46C-I/P is a compact and reliable EEPROM chip commonly used for non-volatile data storage in various electronic devices. Its small form factor, low power consumption, and easy integration make it suitable for a wide range of applications. However, its limited memory capacity and slower write speed should be considered when selecting an appropriate memory solution.