Encyclopedia Entry: 93C46CT-E/SN

Product Overview

Category

The 93C46CT-E/SN 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, automotive systems, and consumer electronics.

Characteristics

• Non-volatile: The 93C46CT-E/SN 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 designed to occupy minimal space on a circuit board.
• Low power consumption: It operates efficiently with low power requirements.
• High reliability: The 93C46CT-E/SN offers robust performance and long-term data retention.

Package and Quantity

The 93C46CT-E/SN is available in a small outline integrated circuit (SOIC) package. It is typically sold in reels containing a specific quantity, such as 2500 units per reel.

Specifications

• Memory capacity: 1 kilobit (128 bytes)
• Operating 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 93C46CT-E/SN chip has a total of 8 pins, each serving a specific function. The pin configuration is as follows:

1. Chip Select (/CS): Enables or disables the chip for communication.
2. Serial Clock (CLK): Provides timing for data transfer.
3. Serial Data Input (DI): Receives data during write operations.
4. Serial Data Output (DO): Transmits data during read operations.
5. Ground (GND): Connects to the ground reference of the circuit.
6. Write Protect (/WP): Enables or disables write protection.
7. VCC: Connects to the positive power supply.
8. Serial Data Output (DO): Transmits data during write operations.

Functional Features

• Sequential read and write operations: The chip allows for easy sequential access to stored data.
• Hardware and software protection: Write protection can be enabled to prevent accidental modification of data.
• Self-timed programming cycle: The chip automatically manages the timing of write and erase operations.
• High-speed operation: The 93C46CT-E/SN supports fast data transfer rates.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• Compact size and low power consumption make it suitable for space-constrained devices.
• Electrically erasable and reprogrammable nature provides flexibility in data storage.
• High reliability ensures long-term data retention.
• Hardware and software protection features enhance data security.

Disadvantages

• Limited memory capacity compared to other EEPROM chips.
• Relatively slower write and erase cycles compared to some newer memory technologies.

Working Principles

The 93C46CT-E/SN utilizes a floating gate transistor structure to store and retrieve data. When data is written, an electrical charge is trapped in the floating gate, altering the transistor's behavior. This change is detected during read operations, allowing the retrieval of stored information.

Application Field Plans

The 93C46CT-E/SN finds applications in various fields, including: 1. Microcontroller-based systems: Used for storing configuration settings, calibration data, and firmware updates. 2. Automotive electronics: Employed in vehicle control modules, immobilizer systems, and instrument clusters. 3. Consumer electronics: Integrated into devices like smart TVs, set-top boxes, and home automation systems.

Alternative Models

For those seeking alternatives to the 93C46CT-E/SN, the following models offer similar functionality: - 93C46C: A compatible variant from the same manufacturer. - AT93C46: An alternative EEPROM chip manufactured by Atmel. - CAT93C46: Another viable option produced by Catalyst Semiconductor.

In conclusion, the 93C46CT-E/SN is a compact and reliable EEPROM chip widely used for non-volatile data storage in various electronic devices. Its electrically erasable nature, small form factor, and high reliability make it a popular choice among designers and engineers.

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