93LC46B-E/ST EEPROM Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 93LC46B-E/ST is a 1Kbit EEPROM memory IC manufactured by Microchip Technology, utilizing Microwire serial interface protocol. This non-volatile memory device operates across a 2.5V to 5.5V supply range and supports 2 MHz clock frequency with 6ms write cycle time. The component is housed in an 8-TSSOP surface mount package and maintains active product status with full RoHS3 compliance.

Substitute parts become necessary when the primary component experiences supply constraints, inventory limitations, or when design requirements permit operation within broader electrical or thermal specifications. The BR93L46RFV-WE2 from Rohm Semiconductor represents a qualified alternative that maintains core functional compatibility while offering extended supply voltage range and alternative packaging format.

Substiute Parts

93LC46B-E/ST

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 194093LC46B-E/ST Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

BR93L46RFV-WE2

Rohm SemiconductorIn Stock: 2895BR93L46RFV-WE2 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 93LC46B-E/ST is determined by strict alignment across the following critical parameters:

Memory Capacity & Organization: The substitute must maintain 1Kbit capacity with 64 x 16 organization to ensure software compatibility and address mapping equivalence.

Serial Interface Protocol: Microwire interface compatibility is mandatory. The protocol defines signal timing, data transmission sequence, and control logic requirements that cannot be altered without firmware modification.

Clock Frequency: 2 MHz operation ensures timing compatibility with existing circuit designs and firmware implementations.

Package Footprint & Pinout: Surface mount packages with equivalent pin configurations (8-pin TSSOP or 8-pin LSSOP variants) permit direct PCB substitution without layout redesign.

Voltage Supply Range: The substitute must operate within or encompass the 2.5V to 5.5V range specified for the primary part. Extended ranges (such as 1.8V to 5.5V) are acceptable as they provide backward compatibility.

Temperature Operating Range: The substitute must support the -40°C to 125°C specification or a subset thereof. Narrower ranges may be acceptable depending on application requirements.

Compliance & Certifications: RoHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status must be maintained for regulatory equivalence.

The BR93L46RFV-WE2 meets all substitution criteria with the exception of operating temperature range (limited to -40°C to 85°C) and write cycle time (5ms versus 6ms), both of which represent improvements or acceptable variations for most applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Part (93LC46B-E/ST): Recommended for new designs requiring active product status and extended operating temperature range to 125°C. Microchip Technology maintains full production support and long-term availability commitment for this component.

Substitute Part (BR93L46RFV-WE2): Acceptable for existing designs or applications where operating temperature does not exceed 85°C. The extended supply voltage range (1.8V minimum) provides additional design flexibility for low-power applications. Note that this part carries "Not For New Designs" status, indicating limited future availability and manufacturer support. Use only when primary part supply is constrained or when the narrower temperature range aligns with application requirements.

Both parts maintain RoHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, ensuring regulatory equivalence for industrial and commercial applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can BR93L46RFV-WE2 be used as a direct replacement for 93LC46B-E/ST in all applications?

A: Direct substitution is possible for applications operating within -40°C to 85°C temperature range. If your design requires operation above 85°C, the primary part must be used. The extended supply voltage range of the substitute (1.8V minimum) is backward compatible with the primary part's 2.5V minimum specification.

Q: What is the significance of the "Not For New Designs" status on the BR93L46RFV-WE2?

A: This designation indicates that Rohm Semiconductor is not actively promoting this part for new product development and may have limited production capacity or planned discontinuation. It remains suitable for legacy system maintenance or when supply of the primary part is unavailable, but should not be selected for new designs where alternatives exist.

Q: Are the 8-TSSOP and 8-LSSOP packages pin-compatible?

A: Both packages are 8-pin surface mount variants with equivalent pinout and 0.173" width. They are mechanically and electrically compatible for PCB substitution without layout modification, though the LSSOP variant has slightly different body dimensions. Verify footprint compatibility with your PCB design files before assembly.

Q: Does the 5ms write cycle time of the substitute affect firmware compatibility?

A: No. The 5ms write cycle time of BR93L46RFV-WE2 is faster than the 6ms specification of the primary part. Firmware designed for 6ms write cycles will function correctly with the faster substitute without modification.

Q: What compliance certifications apply to both parts?

A: Both the 93LC46B-E/ST and BR93L46RFV-WE2 are RoHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected. They carry identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8542.32.0051) classifications, ensuring regulatory equivalence for export and procurement purposes.