Microchip Technology 93C56C-I/ST
- Part No.:
- 93C56C-I/ST
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93C56C-I/ST.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 2KBIT MICROWIRE 8TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:650
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Product details
Overview
93C56C-I/ST 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 temperature rating (–40°C to +85°C). It features Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial interface, self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL before WRAL, and Ready/Busy status signaling on DO - used in embedded system configuration storage and calibration data retention.
For engineers reviewing the 93C56C-I/ST datasheet, 93C56C-I/ST pinout, 93C56C-I/ST application, or 93C56C-I/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include ORG-pin-configurable memory width, 2 ms typical write cycle time, 1 million endurance cycles, 200-year data retention, and compatibility with legacy Microwire controllers in space-constrained industrial control modules.
Technical Context
The 93C56C-I/ST implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, DI, and DO signals, where instruction execution begins on a Start condition (CS high + DI high at CLK rising edge). Its dual-word-size architecture relies on external logic driving the ORG pin: tied to VCC for 128 × 16-bit mode, or to VSS for 256 × 8-bit mode.
Internal operation includes auto-erase-before-write, ERAL/WRAL commands with dedicated timing (TEC = 6 ms, TWL = 15 ms), and power-on protection that inhibits all operations below VCC = 3.8 V. The DO pin serves dual function - serial data output during READ and Ready/Busy status indicator during programming - requiring CS reassertion after TCSL ≥ 250 ns to sample status.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit or 128 × 16-bit, selected by ORG pin) |
| VCC Range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V - ensures compatibility with 5 V logic systems and rejects brown-out corruption |
| Write Cycle Time | 2 ms typical - enables fast field updates without blocking host MCU for extended periods |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - supports frequent recalibration or logging in industrial sensors |
| Data Retention | 200 years at 25°C - guarantees long-term validity of stored calibration coefficients or firmware flags |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS/CLK/DI/DO) - interoperable with legacy microcontrollers lacking SPI hardware |
| Temperature Range | –40°C to +85°C (Industrial grade) - validated for use in motor drives, PLC I/O modules, and HVAC controls |
Pinout & Package
93C56C-I/ST is packaged in an 8-lead SOIC (SOIC-8, package code ST), with lead finish Pb-free matte tin. Pin 1 is CS, pin 2 is CLK, pin 3 is DI, pin 4 is DO, pin 5 is VSS, pin 6 is ORG, pin 7 is NC, and pin 8 is VCC.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Pin 1) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; initiates self-timed programming on falling edge (93C series) |
| CLK (Pin 2) | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcode/address/data; stopped mid-transfer without side effects |
| DI (Pin 3) | Data Input | Receives Start bit, opcodes, addresses, and write data; requires stable setup/hold times relative to CLK |
| DO (Pin 4) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); enters High-Z when CS low or during non-read states |
| VSS (Pin 5) | Ground | Reference for all digital and analog circuitry; must be low-impedance connection to avoid noise-induced errors |
| ORG (Pin 6) | Organization Select | Logic high → 128 × 16-bit mode; logic low → 256 × 8-bit mode; must be externally biased, not floating |
| NC (Pin 7) | No Connection | Internally unconnected; may be left open or tied to ground per board layout best practices |
| VCC (Pin 8) | Power Supply | 4.5–5.5 V input; internal POR triggers at ~3.8 V; powers EEPROM array, logic, and output buffers |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| ORG-pin word-size selection | Enables single BOM part to support both 8-bit and 16-bit host bus interfaces without redesign |
| Self-timed erase/write with auto-erase | Eliminates need for external timing control or polling delays beyond Ready/Busy status check |
| ERAL before WRAL sequence | Guarantees full array erasure prior to bulk write, preventing stale data remnants in partial updates |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware lockout below VCC = 3.8 V prevents corruption during power ramp-up/down transients |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Allows efficient host polling without dedicated status lines or interrupt resources |
| 1,000,000 endurance cycles | Supports daily firmware parameter updates over 27+ years of continuous operation |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration Storage | Motor Drive Configuration Memory |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Storing factory-trimmed offset/gain coefficients and linearization tables for analog sensor front-ends in programmable logic controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register accessed infrequently during commissioning or recalibration; retains values across power cycles. Use Value: Eliminates manual potentiometer adjustment; enables automated calibration via service port using standard Microwire protocol. |
Use Scenario: Holding motor-specific parameters (pole count, current limits, commutation angles) in brushless DC motor drives. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Boot-time configuration loader; read once at startup to initialize control loop registers. Use Value: Allows single drive hardware to support multiple motor models via software-selectable profiles stored in 93C56C-I/ST. |
| Legacy Industrial Controller Firmware Flags | Medical Device Usage Log Storage |
|
Use Scenario: Recording firmware update history, security lock bits, and diagnostic enable/disable flags in DIN-rail mounted automation controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Infrequent write, persistent flag register; updated only during maintenance or firmware upgrade events. Use Value: Provides tamper-evident audit trail without requiring battery-backed RAM or larger flash devices. |
Use Scenario: Logging device power-on count, self-test results, and error timestamps in Class II medical infusion pumps. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-frequency event recorder; writes timestamped entries during safe operational windows. Use Value: Meets IEC 62304 traceability requirements with 200-year retention and 1M-cycle endurance for lifetime usage tracking. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC56C-I/ST | Wider VCC range (2.5–5.5 V); same pinout, ORG functionality, and instruction set | Better suited for mixed-voltage systems (e.g., 3.3 V MCU + 5 V peripherals) where 93C56C-I/ST's 4.5–5.5 V range is restrictive | Select 93LC56C-I/ST if system operates below 4.5 V; otherwise 93C56C-I/ST offers tighter VCC tolerance for noise immunity in 5 V rails |
| AT25020B-MAHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 2.5–5.5 V, 2 Kbit, no ORG pin - fixed 256 × 8-bit organization | Lacks word-size flexibility; requires SPI-capable host but offers faster max clock (20 MHz vs. 3 MHz) | Choose AT25020B-MAHL-T for higher throughput or SPI-native designs; retain 93C56C-I/ST for Microwire legacy compatibility and ORG configurability |
Compared with 93LC56C-I/ST and AT25020B-MAHL-T, the 93C56C-I/ST provides optimal trade-off for 5 V industrial systems needing ORG-driven word-width adaptation and proven Microwire interoperability - without sacrificing endurance or retention.
Availability
93C56C-I/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, motor drive configuration, and medical device usage logging requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for 93C56C-I/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 memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design, manufacturing, and sales operations.
The 93C56C-I/ST belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained industrial and automotive applications requiring reliable nonvolatile storage with minimal interface overhead.
FAQ
What is the function of the ORG pin on the 93C56C-I/ST?
The ORG pin on the 93C56C-I/ST selects memory organization: tied to VCC for 128 × 16-bit mode, or to VSS for 256 × 8-bit mode. This allows one 93C56C-I/ST part to serve both 8-bit and 16-bit host systems. The pin must be externally biased - floating is undefined. Unlike A/B variants, the 'C' suffix denotes ORG support, confirmed in DS21794G-page 1 and page 12.
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 93C56C-I/ST?
The 93C56C-I/ST supports up to 3 MHz clock frequency when VCC is 4.5–5.5 V, as specified in Table 1-2 (Param. A1, FCLK). This limit applies only during instruction/data transfer; CLK may be halted during programming cycles. The 3 MHz rate enables sub-10 µs instruction latency for READ/WRITE commands, critical for real-time configuration access in the 93C56C-I/ST.
How does the Ready/Busy status work on the 93C56C-I/ST?
The 93C56C-I/ST uses the DO pin to signal Ready/Busy: DO = low during erase/write operations, DO = high when complete. To read status, CS must be brought high for ≥250 ns after TCSL, then sampled on subsequent CLK edges. After completion, issuing a Start bit followed by CS low clears the status latch. This behavior is identical across all 93C56x variants and documented in DS21794G-page 7–11.
What is the minimum VCC required for reliable operation of the 93C56C-I/ST?
The 93C56C-I/ST requires VCC ≥ 4.5 V for full specification compliance and ≥ 3.8 V to prevent spurious writes (VPOR threshold per Table 1-1, D11). Below 3.8 V, all operations are inhibited - a hardware-level protection feature. This differs from 93AA/93LC variants (1.5 V VPOR) and is explicitly stated for '93C' devices in DS21794G-page 6 and page 12.
Does the 93C56C-I/ST support sequential read, and how is it enabled?
Yes, the 93C56C-I/ST supports sequential read: after a READ instruction, holding CS high causes automatic address increment and continuous data output on DO. Each CLK rising edge advances the address and outputs the next byte or word (based on ORG state). This eliminates repeated instruction overhead and is confirmed in DS21794G-page 9 (Section 2.7) and Figure 2-7.
93C56C-I/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, 128 x 16
- Memory Interface:
- Microwire
- Clock Frequency:
- 3 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 2ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-TSSOP
93C56C-I/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C56C-I/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C56C-I/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 93C56C-I/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C56C-I/ST are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93C56C-I/ST is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C56C-I/ST?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C56C-I/ST transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C56C-I/ST?
93C56C-I/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C56C-I/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 93C56C-I/ST?
For technical support, including 93C56C-I/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C56C-I/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C56C-I/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C56C-I/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 93C56C-I/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C56C-I/ST?
All 93C56C-I/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C56C-I/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 93C56C-I/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C56C-I/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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