93C86AT-E/OT

The 93C86AT-E/OT is a popular nonvolatile memory element from the Signetics series of integrated circuits. It is an 8-pin Read/Write memory chip with a capacity of 32 bytes. Much like its larger cousin, the 93C46, the 93C86AT-E/OT can store up to two kilobits of data, or thirty-two bytes in the case of the 93C86AT-E/OT. It is often used in a wide variety of applications, ranging from automotive to consumer electronics.

Applications

The 93C86AT-E/OT is often used in automotive applications, as it is well-suited for storing data that needs to be preserved in the event of a power failure. Usually, this data will be vital to the functioning of the car\'s systems; for example, it may store information about the car\'s ECU settings, engine control settings, or interior lighting settings. It is also frequently used as a memory chip in computer systems, storing tiny amounts of data that do not require quick or continuous access.

The Signetics series of nonvolatile memories also includes variants such as the 93C86AT/OT and 93C86AT/ET. These versions enable the memory\'s content to be written, rewritten, or erased with low application voltages. They are used in a variety of situations, such as in consumer electronics, allowing the data to be stored without consuming additional power. They can also be used as a buffer memory in microprocessors and microcontrollers, where the data needs to be stored until the device\'s power is removed.

Working Principle

The 93C86AT-E/OT consists of an array of cells that each store one bit of data. Each cell is divided into two sections, known as the latch and the port. The latch section stores the data that is no longer needed for immediate processing, whereas the port section is responsible for supplying the data to the processor or other peripherals when needed.

The main advantage of the 93C86AT-E/OT over other commercial memory chips is that it can store data without the need for a transistor matrix. This reduces the number of components needed and also increases the chip\'s reliability and data security. Additionally, because the memory cells are nonvolatile, the data will remain stored even if the power is switched off or fails.

The 93C86AT-E/OT also has a built-in write-protect feature. This feature prevents any accidental or malicious erasure of data by preventing access to the writing and erasing blueprints. This adds an additional level of security, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.