Encyclopedia Entry: 93LC46BXT-I/SN

Product Overview

Category

The 93LC46BXT-I/SN belongs to the category of electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) chips.

Use

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

Characteristics

• Electrically erasable: The 93LC46BXT-I/SN can be erased and reprogrammed electronically, eliminating the need for physical erasure.
• Non-volatile: The stored data remains intact even when power is removed.
• High density: This chip offers a storage capacity of 1 kilobit (128 bytes).
• Low power consumption: It operates on low power, making it suitable for battery-powered devices.
• Small form factor: The 93LC46BXT-I/SN comes in a compact package, allowing for space-efficient integration into electronic circuits.

Package and Quantity

The 93LC46BXT-I/SN is packaged in an industry-standard 8-pin small outline integrated circuit (SOIC) package. It is typically sold in reels containing multiple units.

Specifications

• Storage Capacity: 1 kilobit (128 bytes)
• Supply Voltage: 2.5V to 5.5V
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C
• Interface: Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI)
• Write Endurance: 1 million cycles
• Data Retention: 200 years

Pin Configuration

The 93LC46BXT-I/SN features the following pin configuration:

| Pin Number | Pin Name | Function | |------------|----------|----------| | 1 | CS | Chip Select | | 2 | DO | Data Output | | 3 | GND | Ground | | 4 | VCC | Supply Voltage | | 5 | DI | Data Input | | 6 | CLK | Clock Input | | 7 | NC | No Connection | | 8 | WP | Write Protect |

Functional Features

• Sequential Read and Write: The chip allows sequential reading and writing of data, enabling efficient data access.
• Hardware Write Protection: The WP pin can be used to protect the stored data from accidental overwriting.
• Self-Timed Programming Cycle: The programming cycle is internally controlled, simplifying the integration process.
• Software and Hardware Data Protection: Various mechanisms are in place to prevent unauthorized access or modification of data.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• High reliability and durability due to non-volatile storage
• Compact size for space-constrained applications
• Low power consumption, suitable for battery-powered devices
• Easy integration with microcontrollers and other electronic circuits
• Efficient sequential read and write operations

Disadvantages

• Limited storage capacity compared to other memory technologies
• Relatively slower read and write speeds compared to volatile memory types
• Higher cost per byte compared to some alternative memory solutions

Working Principles

The 93LC46BXT-I/SN utilizes a floating-gate transistor structure to store data. When programmed, charge is trapped in the floating gate, representing a logical "1." Erasing the chip removes the charge, resulting in a logical "0." The stored data can be accessed by applying appropriate voltage levels to the control pins and using the SPI interface.

Application Field Plans

The 93LC46BXT-I/SN finds applications in various fields, including: - Automotive electronics: Used for storing critical vehicle data, such as mileage and diagnostic information. - Industrial automation: Enables configuration storage and parameter settings in programmable logic controllers (PLCs). - Consumer electronics: Used in devices like smart TVs, set-top boxes, and gaming consoles for firmware storage and customization. - Medical devices: Stores patient data, calibration settings, and device configurations in medical equipment.

Alternative Models

Several alternative models with similar functionality to the 93LC46BXT-I/SN include: - 93LC66BXT-I/SN: Offers double the storage capacity (2 kilobits) in the same package. - 93LC56BXT-I/SN: Provides a smaller storage capacity (256 bytes) for applications with lower memory requirements. - 93LC86BXT-I/SN: Offers higher storage capacity (8 kilobits) for more data-intensive applications.

In conclusion, the 93LC46BXT-I/SN is an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory chip that provides non-volatile data storage in a compact form factor. With its high reliability, low power consumption, and sequential read/write capabilities, it finds applications in various industries. While it has limitations in terms of storage capacity and speed, alternative models are available to cater