Microchip Technology 93C56C-E/SN

Overview

93C56C-E/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2 Kbit low-voltage serial EEPROM with configurable 8-/16-bit word organization via the ORG pin, 4.5–5.5 V supply range, and industrial/automotive temperature support (–40°C to +125°C). It features Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial interface, self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL before WRAL, and 1 million endurance cycles - used for parameter storage in automotive body control modules.

For engineers reviewing the 93C56C-E/SN datasheet, 93C56C-E/SN pinout, 93C56C-E/SN application, or 93C56C-E/SN equivalent, key selection considerations include ORG-pin-configurable memory width, VCC-dependent timing (e.g., 3 MHz max clock at 4.5–5.5 V), Ready/Busy status polling on DO, and mandatory EWEN/EWDS sequence for write enable/disable.

Technical Context

The 93C56C-E/SN implements a synchronous Microwire-compatible serial interface with CS, CLK, DI, and DO signals plus ORG for runtime word-size selection. Its internal architecture includes address decoder, data register, mode decode logic, and output buffer - enabling sequential read, auto-erase-before-write, and ERAL/WRAL bulk operations.

Write initiation differs by family: for 93C versions, the rising edge of CLK on the final data bit triggers the self-timed cycle; ERAL and WRAL require VCC ≥4.5 V and are fully self-timed. Power-on reset circuitry enforces write protection below 3.8 V, and the device powers up in EWDS (Erase/Write Disable) state.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

93C56C-E/SN is packaged in 8-lead SOIC (SN) with Pb-free Matte Tin finish. Pin 1 is CS; pin 2 is CLK; pin 3 is DI; pin 4 is DO; pin 5 is VSS; pin 6 is ORG (functional - selects x8/x16 mode); pin 7 is NC; pin 8 is VCC.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 93C56C-E/SN, the 93LC56C-E/SN extends voltage flexibility downward to 2.5 V while retaining identical timing and feature set, whereas the 93AA56C-E/SN further lowers the minimum VCC to 1.8 V and improves standby current - both maintain pin compatibility and ORG-driven word-width selection.

Availability

93C56C-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial programmable logic controllers, and medical infusion pump designs requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for 93C56C-E/SN 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, low-power serial EEPROM applications in automotive and industrial environments - emphasizing robustness, configurability, and long-term data integrity under harsh thermal and electrical conditions.

FAQ

What is the function of the ORG pin on the 93C56C-E/SN?

The ORG pin on the 93C56C-E/SN selects memory organization: logic high (VCC) configures 128 × 16-bit mode; logic low (VSS) configures 256 × 8-bit mode. This pin must be statically tied before operation and is not sampled dynamically. The 93C56C-E/SN requires this pin to be functional - unlike A/B variants where ORG is NC.

Does the 93C56C-E/SN support sequential read operation?

Yes, the 93C56C-E/SN supports sequential read: when CS remains high after a READ instruction, the internal address counter automatically increments, and subsequent clock edges output the next memory location's data on DO. This eliminates the need to retransmit the address for consecutive bytes or words.

What is the minimum VCC required for reliable write operation on the 93C56C-E/SN?

The 93C56C-E/SN requires VCC ≥4.5 V for all write, erase, ERAL, and WRAL operations. Its internal voltage detector locks out programming below 3.8 V - meaning write attempts at 4.0 V will fail silently. This threshold is higher than 93LC56C (2.5 V min) and 93AA56C (1.8 V min).

How does the 93C56C-E/SN indicate Ready/Busy status during a write cycle?

The 93C56C-E/SN outputs Ready/Busy status on the DO pin: DO = low indicates ongoing erase/write; DO = high indicates completion. To read status, CS must be brought high for ≥250 ns after the initial CS low pulse - DO then reflects status until next command. DO returns to High-Z when CS is low.

Is the 93C56C-E/SN pin-compatible with other members of the 93XX56 family?

Yes, the 93C56C-E/SN shares identical 8-lead SOIC (SN) pinout with all 93XX56A/B/C variants, including CS, CLK, DI, DO, VSS, ORG/NC, NC, and VCC assignments. However, ORG is functional only on 'C' versions; on 'A'/'B' parts it is NC. Electrical timing and VCC ranges differ across sub-families.