Microchip Technology 93C56A-E/ST
- Part No.:
- 93C56A-E/ST
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93C56A-E/ST.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 2KBIT MICROWIRE 8TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
93C56A-E/ST 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 Ready/Busy status signaling via DO pin - used in embedded microcontroller configuration storage and calibration data retention.
For engineers reviewing the 93C56A-E/ST datasheet, 93C56A-E/ST pinout, 93C56A-E/ST application, or 93C56A-E/ST equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package mapping to 8-lead TSSOP (ST), functional timing behavior, real-world use scenarios, and two validated alternative parts for design flexibility.
Technical Context
The 93C56A-E/ST implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, and DI/DO pins - no ORG pin (dedicated x8 organization). Erase/write operations are initiated by rising CLK edge on final data bit (93C-series behavior), not CS falling edge, distinguishing it from 93AA/93LC variants. Its VCC detect threshold is 3.8 V, enabling robust power-fail protection during write cycles.
It supports sequential read, automatic ERAL prior to WRAL, and EWEN/EWDS command-based write enable/disable logic. Standby current is ≤5 µA at I-temp and ≤1 µA at E-temp, with write current up to 2 mA at 2.5 V and 500 µA at 5.5 V - optimized for automotive-grade low-power nonvolatile memory applications requiring high reliability over 200-year data retention.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit); fixed x8 organization - no ORG pin required, simplifying PCB layout vs. C-variants. |
| VCC operating range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V; 3.8 V VCC detect threshold prevents writes during brown-out - critical for automotive ECU firmware storage. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles; ensures >10 years of daily reprogramming in field-upgradeable systems. |
| Data retention | 200 years at +25°C; validated for long-life industrial control modules where firmware parameters must persist across product lifetime. |
| Write cycle time | 2 ms typical (TWC); enables fast parameter updates without blocking host MCU execution for extended periods. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS/CLK/DI/DO); requires only 4 GPIOs - ideal for resource-constrained 8-bit microcontrollers. |
| Temperature grade | Automotive (E): −40°C to +125°C; qualified per AEC-Q100 stress test requirements for under-hood applications. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 8-lead TSSOP (ST), Pb-free Matte Tin finish, body dimensions 4.4 mm × 3.0 mm × 1.2 mm (JEDEC MO-153).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 CS | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; deselects device into standby (≤1 µA ICCS) but completes ongoing write. |
| 2 CLK | Serial Clock | Rising-edge synchronized I/O; clocking stops during self-timed write - no external timing dependency after command launch. |
| 3 DI | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, opcode, address (A7–A0), and data (D7–D0); tied to DO only with series resistor to avoid bus conflict during dummy-zero read phase. |
| 4 DO | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); enters High-Z on CS falling edge - enables multi-drop bus sharing with pull-up. |
| 5 VSS | Ground | Reference for all I/O and internal logic; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise-induced write errors. |
| 6 NC | No Connection | Internally unconnected; left floating or grounded per layout best practice - no functional impact on 93C56A operation. |
| 7 NC | No Connection | Same as Pin 6; confirmed NC for all A/B versions per DS21794G-page 12 Pin Function Table. |
| 8 VCC | Power Supply | 4.5–5.5 V input; internal POR circuit blocks writes below 3.8 V - eliminates need for external supervisor IC in many designs. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates external timing control - host MCU initiates command and polls DO for completion, reducing firmware complexity. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees full-array erase prior to bulk write; prevents partial-data corruption when updating entire configuration table. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware-enforced write inhibition below 3.8 V VCC - meets ISO 16750-2 automotive power supply transient immunity requirements. |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Enables efficient polling without dedicated status lines; reduces pin count vs. parallel EEPROMs in space-constrained modules. |
| 1,000,000 endurance cycles | Supports frequent field updates (e.g., sensor calibration logs, OTA firmware metadata) over full product lifecycle. |
| Pb-free & RoHS compliant | Matte Tin (Sn) finish meets J-STD-609 Class 1 moisture sensitivity; compatible with lead-free reflow profiles (J-STD-020). |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Industrial PLC Configuration |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Storing fuel map coefficients, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and adaptive learning values subject to frequent updates during vehicle operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile parameter storage with guaranteed write integrity during engine cranking (VCC dip to 4.5 V). Use Value: 3.8 V VCC detect and 2 ms write time ensure valid writes complete before battery recovery, preventing corrupted calibration data. |
Use Scenario: Retaining I/O mapping tables, PID tuning parameters, and user-defined alarm thresholds across power cycles in factory automation controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serial configuration memory interfaced to ARM Cortex-M3/M4 microcontrollers via GPIO bit-banged Microwire. Use Value: 8-pin TSSOP footprint minimizes PCB area vs. SOIC; 1M endurance supports weekly firmware updates over 20-year deployment. |
| Medical Infusion Pump | Smart Meter Firmware Metadata |
|
Use Scenario: Holding drug library definitions, dose history logs, and safety-critical calibration offsets requiring FDA 21 CFR Part 11 audit trails. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant storage with hardware write-protection (EWDS/EWEN commands) and 200-year retention. Use Value: Automatic ERAL+WRAL sequence ensures clean firmware update state; no risk of partial writes corrupting therapy parameters. |
Use Scenario: Recording firmware version stamps, cryptographic key counters, and tariff schedule timestamps in utility meters deployed for 15+ years. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Long-term metadata repository interfaced to metrology SoCs with minimal GPIO overhead. Use Value: 200-year data retention and −40°C to +125°C operation guarantee timestamp validity across outdoor meter lifetime without refresh. |
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/ST | 2.5–5.5 V VCC range; 128 × 16-bit organization; same TSSOP-8 package and pinout. | Requires 16-bit MCU interface; lower VCC min enables operation with 3.3 V logic rails - unsuitable for 5 V-only systems. | Select if system uses 16-bit data paths and requires wider voltage margin; verify ORG pin handling (not present on B-version). |
| AT25020B-MAHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 2.5–5.5 V, 2 Kbit x8, 10 MHz max clock, 5 ms write time. | Requires additional CS line and SPI peripheral; slower write time increases MCU blocking duration. | Choose for SPI-native platforms needing higher clock speed; not drop-in - firmware and layout changes required. |
Compared with 93LC56B-E/ST, the 93C56A-E/ST offers tighter VCC tolerance (4.5–5.5 V) and faster 2 ms writes but lacks 3.3 V compatibility; versus AT25020B-MAHL-T, it uses simpler 3-wire Microwire with no extra CS line but trades off maximum clock rate for deterministic timing control.
Availability
93C56A-E/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU development, industrial PLC configuration storage, and medical device calibration data retention requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for 93C56A-E/ST 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 microcontroller, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets globally.
The 93Cxx EEPROM family was designed for cost-sensitive, low-pin-count embedded systems requiring reliable nonvolatile storage with minimal MCU resource usage - especially where Microwire compatibility and automotive qualification are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the minimum VCC voltage that permits write operations for the 93C56A-E/ST?
The 93C56A-E/ST incorporates a built-in voltage detector with a 3.8 V threshold (VPOR). Write operations are automatically inhibited when VCC falls below this level, preventing data corruption during power brown-out events. This feature eliminates the need for external reset supervisors in automotive applications where battery voltage dips during cranking.
Does the 93C56A-E/ST require an ORG pin connection?
No. The 93C56A-E/ST is an 'A'-version device with fixed 256 × 8-bit organization and no ORG pin. Pins 6 and 7 are marked NC (No Connection) in the TSSOP-8 package. This simplifies layout and removes configuration uncertainty compared to 'C'-version parts that require external logic to set word size.
How does the 93C56A-E/ST indicate readiness after a write command?
The 93C56A-E/ST asserts Ready/Busy status on the DO pin: DO = low indicates active erase/write in progress; DO = high confirms completion. To poll, the host must bring CS high for ≥250 ns after initiating the command, then sample DO - no additional clocking is needed during the self-timed 2 ms cycle.
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 93C56A-E/ST at 5.5 V?
At VCC = 4.5–5.5 V, the 93C56A-E/ST supports a maximum clock frequency (FCLK) of 3 MHz. This allows high-speed command loading while maintaining timing margins for reliable operation in electrically noisy automotive environments.
Is the 93C56A-E/ST pin-compatible with other 93XX56 variants in TSSOP-8 packaging?
Yes - all 93XX56A/B/C devices in ST (TSSOP-8) share identical pinout: CS/CLK/DI/DO/VSS/NC/NC/VCC. However, functional differences exist: 'A' versions lack ORG and support only x8 mode; 'B' versions are x16-only; 'C' versions require ORG for configuration. Electrical compatibility depends on VCC range and timing specs.
93C56A-E/ST Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not 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:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-TSSOP
93C56A-E/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C56A-E/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C56A-E/ST 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/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C56A-E/ST 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/ST is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C56A-E/ST?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C56A-E/ST transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C56A-E/ST?
93C56A-E/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C56A-E/ST 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/ST?
For technical support, including 93C56A-E/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C56A-E/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C56A-E/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C56A-E/ST 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/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C56A-E/ST?
All 93C56A-E/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C56A-E/ST, 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/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C56A-E/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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