Microchip Technology 93C56BT-I/MC

Overview

93C56BT-I/MC 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 temperature rating (−40°C to +85°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 system configuration storage and calibration data retention.

For engineers reviewing the 93C56BT-I/MC datasheet, 93C56BT-I/MC pinout, 93C56BT-I/MC application, or 93C56BT-I/MC equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package mapping to 8-lead 2×3 DFN (MC), functional timing behavior, and real-world selection guidance for nonvolatile memory in space-constrained industrial control modules.

Technical Context

The 93C56BT-I/MC implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, DI, and DO signals. It operates exclusively in fixed 8-bit organization (no ORG pin functionality), requiring no external logic for word-size selection. Its internal architecture includes an address decoder, data register, mode decode logic, and output buffer, all optimized for single-byte read/write and bulk operations (ERAL/WRAL).

Write operations are initiated by falling edge of CS (for 93C-series), with auto-erase preceding write. The DO pin serves dual role: serial data output during READ and Ready/Busy status indicator during programming - high-Z when idle, low during active erase/write, high upon completion. VCC detection threshold is 3.8 V for power-up protection.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-lead 2×3 mm DFN (exposed pad), Pb-free Matte Tin finish, marked per Microchip specification "3C56BT" with "I" temperature grade and traceability code.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.

Compared with 93LC56BT-I/MC, the 93C56BT-I/MC offers tighter V_CC regulation (4.5–5.5 V) and hardware-automated ERAL/WRAL, simplifying firmware for full-array updates; versus AT25020B-MAHL-T, it trades SPI speed for deterministic Microwire timing and integrated bulk operations - critical for resource-constrained 8-bit MCUs.

Availability

93C56BT-I/MC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, medical instrumentation, automotive body electronics, and smart metering applications requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for 93C56BT-I/MC 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 devices, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 93Cxx series was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained embedded systems requiring reliable, low-pin-count serial EEPROM with robust power-supply immunity and simplified firmware integration.

FAQ

What is the function of the ORG pin on the 93C56BT-I/MC?

The ORG pin is not functional on the 93C56BT-I/MC - it is a no-connect (NC) terminal per Microchip's device selection table and pin function table. This variant is fixed 8-bit organization (256 × 8), unlike the 'C' versions (e.g., 93C56C) where ORG selects x8/x16 mode. On 93C56BT-I/MC, ORG must be left unconnected or tied to VSS per layout guidelines.

Does the 93C56BT-I/MC support sequential read operation?

Yes, the 93C56BT-I/MC supports sequential read: when CS remains high after a READ instruction, the internal address counter automatically increments, and subsequent clock cycles output consecutive memory bytes on DO. This eliminates the need to resend address bits for multi-byte reads, reducing transaction overhead in firmware implementations.

What is the minimum V_CC required for reliable write operation on the 93C56BT-I/MC?

The 93C56BT-I/MC requires V_CC ≥ 4.5 V for all operations, and its internal power-on reset (POR) circuit enforces a 3.8 V threshold to inhibit erase/write below safe levels. Writing at voltages below 4.5 V is not characterized and may result in incomplete programming or data corruption - confirmed by Table 1-1 Parameter D11 in DS21794G.

How does the Ready/Busy status work on the 93C56BT-I/MC DO pin?

During erase or write cycles, the DO pin outputs Ready/Busy status: logic low indicates ongoing programming, logic high signals completion. To read status, CS must be brought high for ≥250 ns after TCSL, then sampled on subsequent CLK edges. DO returns to High-Z when CS is low, and status is cleared by issuing a Start bit followed by CS low.

Is the 93C56BT-I/MC pin-compatible with other 93xx56 variants in the same package?

Yes - the 93C56BT-I/MC shares identical 8-lead DFN (MC) pinout and footprint with all 93AA56/93LC56/93C56 variants in the MC package, including matching CS/CLK/DI/DO/VSS/NC/ORG/VCC assignments. However, functional differences (e.g., V_CC range, ORG usage, timing) require firmware validation before substitution.