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Microchip Technology 93C56A-E/P
- Part No.:
- 93C56A-E/P
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
93C56A-E/P.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 2KBIT MICROWIRE 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,733
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Product details
Overview
93C56A-E/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit) low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, 4.5–5.5 V supply range, and industrial/automotive temperature support (−40°C to +125°C). It features self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL before WRAL, power-on/off data protection, and 1,000,000 endurance cycles - used for configuration storage in automotive control modules.
For engineers reviewing the 93C56A-E/P datasheet, 93C56A-E/P pinout, 93C56A-E/P application, or 93C56A-E/P equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package mapping to 8-lead PDIP, functional timing behavior, real-world use cases, and two validated alternative parts with documented differences in voltage range and organization flexibility.
Technical Context
The 93C56A-E/P implements a synchronous serial Microwire protocol with CS/CLK/DI/DO signals and no ORG pin - fixed 8-bit word organization. Its internal architecture includes auto-erase-before-write logic, Ready/Busy status output via DO, and EWEN/EWDS command-based write protection.
It operates exclusively within 4.5–5.5 V, requiring ≥4.5 V for ERAL and WRAL functions. Write cycle time is 2 ms (typical), with clock frequency up to 3 MHz at VCC ≥ 4.5 V, and supports sequential read without address retransmission when CS remains high.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit) - fixed x8 organization; no ORG pin; no word-size selection. |
| VCC operating range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V - incompatible with 3.3 V or 2.5 V systems; requires stable 5 V rail. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - supports frequent field updates in automotive calibration storage. |
| Data retention | 200 years at 85°C - ensures long-term reliability in sealed automotive ECUs. |
| Write cycle time | 2 ms maximum - enables fast firmware parameter updates without blocking host MCU. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS/CLK/DI/DO) - minimal GPIO usage; no SPI mode or quad I/O. |
| Temperature range | −40°C to +125°C (Automotive E-grade) - qualified for under-hood engine control units. |
Pinout & Package
8-lead PDIP (P package), through-hole mounting, RoHS-compliant matte tin finish. Pin 1 marked by notch or dot; pin 1 ID confirmed per Microchip DS21794G-page 17.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (CS) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; initiates self-timed write on falling edge for 93C devices. |
| 2 (CLK) | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcode/address/data; stops freely during transmission. |
| 3 (DI) | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, instruction opcodes, addresses, and write data; tied to VSS or VCC for EWDS/EWEN commands. |
| 4 (DO) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy status (low = busy); enters High-Z on CS falling edge. |
| 5 (VSS) | Ground | Reference return path; must be low-impedance; shared with system GND plane. |
| 6 (NC) | No Connection | Internally unconnected; must be left floating or tied to GND per layout best practice - not ORG. |
| 7 (NC) | No Connection | Second NC pin; no internal bond; avoid routing signals or traces to this pad. |
| 8 (VCC) | Power Supply | 4.5–5.5 V only; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF ceramic) required within 5 mm of pin. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates external timing control - host MCU polls DO for completion instead of managing fixed delays. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees full-array readiness before bulk write; prevents partial writes due to residual data. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware lockout below 3.8 V VCC threshold - prevents corruption during brown-out or hot-swap events. |
| EWEN/EWDS command security | Requires explicit enable before any write/erase; default power-up state is write-disabled - critical for safety-critical firmware. |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Enables non-blocking host operation - MCU can perform other tasks while waiting for write completion. |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Calibration Storage | Body Control Module (BCM) Configuration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing fuel map coefficients, idle speed targets, and emission thresholds updated during dealer reprogramming. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory interfaced directly to 8-bit microcontroller via Microwire; accessed infrequently but must survive 15+ year vehicle life. Use Value: 200-year data retention and 1M endurance ensure calibration integrity across full vehicle service life without refresh. | Use Scenario: Holding door lock logic states, lighting profiles, and window position limits configured via CAN diagnostics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serial EEPROM providing persistent settings for distributed body electronics; powered from 5 V bus with transient immunity. Use Value: Automotive-grade −40°C to +125°C operation and 4.5–5.5 V tolerance match BCM power domain without level-shifting. |
| Instrument Cluster Display Settings | Transmission Control Module (TCM) Gear Strategy |
Use Scenario: Saving user-selected display brightness, unit preferences (km/h vs mph), and warning thresholds. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-pin-count memory for human-machine interface personalization; accessed at startup and during menu navigation. Use Value: 2-ms write time enables responsive UI updates; sequential read simplifies firmware implementation for multi-parameter recall. | Use Scenario: Storing adaptive shift points, torque converter lockup schedules, and clutch wear compensation values. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-relevant nonvolatile storage for adaptive learning parameters; write-protected by EWEN/EWDS during runtime. Use Value: Hardware VCC lockout below 3.8 V prevents corruption during battery voltage sag during cranking. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC56B-E/P | 128 × 16-bit organization; same 2.5–5.5 V range; includes ORG pin (NC on B version). | Supports 16-bit microcontrollers natively; wider word access reduces transaction count for large parameter sets. | Select if system uses 16-bit data paths or requires higher density per access; verify compatibility with existing 8-bit firmware interface. |
| AT25020B-MAHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 2 Kbit (256 × 8), 1.8–5.5 V, 20 MHz max clock, built-in write protect pin. | Higher speed and broader VCC range; requires SPI peripheral instead of custom Microwire bit-banging. | Choose for new designs needing faster throughput or multi-voltage support; not drop-in compatible due to protocol and pinout differences. |
Compared with 93LC56B-E/P, the 93C56A-E/P offers tighter VCC tolerance and automotive qualification but lacks 16-bit flexibility; versus AT25020B-MAHL-T, it trades SPI speed and voltage range for Microwire simplicity and proven automotive robustness in legacy 5 V systems.
Availability
93C56A-E/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive control units, instrument clusters, and body electronics requiring stable component supply with guaranteed automotive-grade qualification and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for 93C56A-E/P includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog components, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 93Cxx series was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained automotive and industrial systems requiring reliable, low-pin-count serial EEPROM with hardware-level data protection and extended temperature operation.
FAQ
What is the minimum VCC voltage required for reliable operation of the 93C56A-E/P?
The 93C56A-E/P requires a minimum VCC of 4.5 V for all operations. Below 4.5 V, the device enters hardware write-protection mode - all erase/write functions are inhibited, and the memory remains read-only. This threshold is fixed at 3.8 V (typical) per DS21794G-page 4, Table 1-1, D11, ensuring data integrity during brown-out conditions in automotive 5 V rails.
Does the 93C56A-E/P support 16-bit word organization?
No, the 93C56A-E/P is strictly a 256 × 8-bit (x8) device with no ORG pin. Unlike the 'C' variants (e.g., 93C56C), it does not support configurable word size. The 'A' suffix explicitly denotes fixed 8-bit organization - confirmed in the Device Selection Table (DS21794G-page 1) and Pin Function Table (page 12), where ORG is marked NC on A/B versions.
How is write protection implemented on the 93C56A-E/P?
Write protection is enforced via dual mechanisms: (1) hardware VCC lockout below 3.8 V, and (2) software-controlled EWEN/EWDS commands. The device powers up in EWDS (Erase/Write Disable) mode; an explicit EWEN instruction must precede any ERASE or WRITE. After programming, issuing EWDS restores protection - a requirement stated in Section 2.6 and Figure 2-5/2-6 of DS21794G.
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 93C56A-E/P at 5.0 V VCC?
At VCC = 5.0 V (within 4.5–5.5 V range), the 93C56A-E/P supports a maximum clock frequency of 3 MHz, as specified in Table 1-2, A1 (FCLK) for "4.5V ≤ VCC < 5.5V, 93XX56C only" - and clarified in footnote on page 4 stating "93C versions" follow same timing. This is validated by TCKH/TCKL minima of 200 ns/100 ns respectively.
Can the 93C56A-E/P be used in place of the 93AA56A-E/P?
No - the 93C56A-E/P is not a functional substitute for the 93AA56A-E/P. While both are 256 × 8-bit EEPROMs, they differ critically in VCC range (93C: 4.5–5.5 V; 93AA: 1.8–5.5 V) and power-on behavior (93C requires ≥4.5 V for ERAL/WRAL; 93AA operates down to 1.8 V). Substitution would cause failure in low-voltage systems and invalidate automotive qualification margins.
93C56A-E/P Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 2Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 256 x 8
- Memory Interface:
- Microwire
- Clock Frequency:
- 2 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 2ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
93C56A-E/P FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C56A-E/P through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C56A-E/P on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 93C56A-E/P reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C56A-E/P are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93C56A-E/P is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C56A-E/P?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C56A-E/P transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C56A-E/P?
93C56A-E/P orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C56A-E/P order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 93C56A-E/P?
For technical support, including 93C56A-E/P datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C56A-E/P requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C56A-E/P is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C56A-E/P products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 93C56A-E/P meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C56A-E/P?
All 93C56A-E/P units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C56A-E/P, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 93C56A-E/P part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C56A-E/P:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
93C56A-E/P Tags
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AT24C02C-XHM-T
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