Microchip Technology 93C56CT-E/SN
- Part No.:
- 93C56CT-E/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93C56CT-E/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 2KBIT MICROWIRE 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
93C56CT-E/SN 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 automotive body control modules for calibration storage.
For engineers reviewing the 93C56CT-E/SN datasheet, 93C56CT-E/SN pinout, 93C56CT-E/SN application, or 93C56CT-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC operating range (4.5–5.5 V), automotive-grade temperature rating (−40°C to +125°C), 8-bit organization (no ORG pin), 2-ms write cycle time, and SOIC-8 (SN) package compatibility with legacy PCB layouts.
Technical Context
The 93C56CT-E/SN implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, and DI/DO pins - no ORG pin (fixed 8-bit x256 organization). Its internal logic enforces power-on write protection: VCC must exceed 3.8 V before enabling EWEN, and all programming requires explicit Erase/Write Enable (EWEN) prior to ERASE or WRITE commands.
Timing behavior is differentiated from AA/LC variants: write/erase initiation occurs on the rising edge of CLK at the final data bit (not falling CS edge), and ERAL/WRAL require VCC ≥ 4.5 V. The DO pin serves dual function - serial data output during READ and open-drain Ready/Busy status indicator during programming.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit) - fixed x8 organization; no ORG pin; supports byte-level addressing without word alignment overhead. |
| VCC Operating Range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V - designed for stable 5 V automotive and industrial rails; invalid below 3.8 V (VPOR threshold disables programming). |
| Temperature Range | −40°C to +125°C (Automotive E grade) - qualified for under-hood and powertrain applications per AEC-Q100 stress requirements. |
| Write Cycle Time | 2 ms typical - self-timed auto-erase-and-write; eliminates need for external timing control or polling delay estimation. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - ensures >10-year reliability in firmware update or configuration logging use cases. |
| Data Retention | 200 years at +85°C - validated retention under accelerated high-temp aging; suitable for long-lifecycle automotive ECUs. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS/CLK/DI/DO) - interoperable with legacy microcontrollers lacking SPI hardware but supporting bit-banged Microwire protocols. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 8-lead SOIC (SN), Pb-free Matte Tin finish, 3.9 mm × 4.9 mm body, 1.27 mm pitch. Pin 1 marked by laser dot; pin 1 corner identified by beveled edge.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (CS) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; device enters standby when low; minimum 250 ns CS low time required between instructions. |
| 2 (CLK) | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcode/address/data; stopped mid-transfer without corruption. |
| 3 (DI) | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, instruction opcodes, addresses, and write data; high-impedance when not selected. |
| 4 (DO) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); tri-states on CS falling edge; requires external pull-up for status polling. |
| 5 (VSS) | Ground | Reference return path; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling into serial interface. |
| 6 (NC) | No Connect | Internally unconnected; must be left floating or tied to VSS per layout best practice; no routing required. |
| 7 (NC) | No Connect | Same as Pin 6; dual NC pins accommodate family pinout compatibility across A/B/C variants. |
| 8 (VCC) | Power Supply | 4.5–5.5 V supply; decoupling capacitor (100 nF ceramic) required within 5 mm of pin for stable write operation. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates external timing circuitry or software delay loops; guarantees completion within 2 ms regardless of VCC or temperature. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Ensures full array erasure prior to bulk write - prevents partial writes or data corruption during firmware updates. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware lockout below 3.8 V prevents inadvertent writes during brown-out or power ramp; no software initialization needed. |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Enables efficient polling without dedicated status lines; reduces GPIO count and simplifies host firmware state machine. |
| 1,000,000 endurance cycles | Supports daily reprogramming over 27 years - sufficient for OTA update logging, adaptive learning, or diagnostic event storage. |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Calibration Storage | Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing fuel trim tables, ignition timing maps, and sensor offset corrections that persist across ignition cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory interfaced directly to 8-bit MCU via bit-banged Microwire; accessed during boot and runtime recalibration. Use Value: 256 × 8-bit capacity matches typical ECU parameter set size; 125°C rating ensures operation near engine bay heat sources. | Use Scenario: Holding door lock/unlock history, window position memory, and lighting configuration preferences. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serial EEPROM providing persistent user settings storage; accessed infrequently but requiring guaranteed data integrity over 15+ year vehicle life. Use Value: 200-year data retention at 85°C exceeds automotive lifecycle requirements; SOIC-8 footprint enables drop-in replacement in existing BCM designs. |
| Industrial PLC Configuration Backup | Medical Infusion Pump Parameter Storage |
Use Scenario: Saving I/O mapping, PID loop coefficients, and alarm thresholds during power loss in programmable logic controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fail-safe nonvolatile memory holding critical operational parameters; accessed only during startup or configuration change. Use Value: 4.5–5.5 V operation aligns with standard 5 V PLC backplane rails; 1M endurance supports frequent field reconfiguration. | Use Scenario: Storing drug delivery profiles, dose limits, and calibration constants that must survive battery replacement and sterilization cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Certified medical-grade EEPROM storing safety-critical therapy parameters; accessed during pump initialization and dose verification. Use Value: Automotive-grade temperature qualification (−40°C to +125°C) covers extended thermal validation ranges required for medical device sterilization. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC56BT-E/SN | 128 × 16-bit organization; same 4.5–5.5 V range and −40°C to +125°C rating; requires 16-bit data handling in firmware. | Used where wider word access improves throughput (e.g., storing 16-bit ADC calibration coefficients). | Select if system bus width or firmware architecture favors 16-bit word access; otherwise 93C56CT-E/SN offers simpler byte-aligned addressing. |
| AT25DF021-SSH-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 2 Mbit density, 2.7–3.6 V operation; no automotive temp grade; supports sector erase and fast read. | Targeted at higher-density, lower-voltage consumer or industrial applications with SPI-native MCUs. | Not suitable for 5 V or automotive environments; choose only if migrating to SPI infrastructure and accepting reduced temperature margin. |
Compared with 93LC56BT-E/SN, the 93C56CT-E/SN provides native 8-bit addressing without firmware bit-packing; compared with AT25DF021-SSH-T, it delivers guaranteed automotive qualification and 5 V compatibility at lower density - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, safety-critical 5 V embedded systems.
Availability
93C56CT-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics, industrial control systems, and medical device design requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for 93C56CT-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 microcontroller, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 93Cxx EEPROM product line was engineered for robust, low-pin-count nonvolatile memory in resource-constrained embedded systems - emphasizing reliability, wide temperature operation, and compatibility with legacy Microwire interfaces.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93C56CT-E/SN?
The 93C56CT-E/SN has a fixed 256 × 8-bit (2 Kbit) organization. Unlike 'C'-suffix variants, it lacks an ORG pin and is not configurable for 16-bit mode - it operates exclusively in x8 mode, simplifying address decoding and firmware implementation for byte-oriented data structures.
Does the 93C56CT-E/SN require an external pull-up resistor on the DO pin?
Yes, the 93C56CT-E/SN requires an external pull-up resistor (typically 4.7 kΩ to VCC) on the DO pin to ensure valid logic-high levels during Ready/Busy status polling and read operations. Without it, the open-drain DO output cannot drive a high signal, causing communication failure or incorrect status interpretation.
What is the minimum VCC voltage required to enable write operations on the 93C56CT-E/SN?
The 93C56CT-E/SN requires VCC ≥ 3.8 V to enable erase/write functions - this is its VPOR (VCC Power-On Reset) threshold. Below 3.8 V, the internal write-protection circuit blocks EWEN execution, preventing accidental writes during power-up/down transitions or brown-out conditions.
How does the 93C56CT-E/SN differ from the 93AA56A/SN in terms of voltage range and temperature grade?
The 93C56CT-E/SN operates from 4.5–5.5 V and is rated for −40°C to +125°C (Automotive E grade), while the 93AA56A/SN supports 1.8–5.5 V and is rated only for −40°C to +85°C (Industrial I grade). This makes the 93C56CT-E/SN suitable for under-hood automotive applications where higher VCC stability and extended temperature tolerance are mandatory.
Can the 93C56CT-E/SN be used as a direct replacement for the 93C56A/SN?
Yes, the 93C56CT-E/SN is a functional and pin-compatible replacement for the 93C56A/SN. Both share identical 256 × 8-bit organization, SOIC-8 (SN) package, 4.5–5.5 V operation, and −40°C to +125°C rating; the 'T' suffix denotes tape-and-reel packaging, with no electrical or timing differences.
93C56CT-E/SN Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- 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 ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
93C56CT-E/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C56CT-E/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C56CT-E/SN 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 93C56CT-E/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C56CT-E/SN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93C56CT-E/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C56CT-E/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C56CT-E/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C56CT-E/SN?
93C56CT-E/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C56CT-E/SN 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 93C56CT-E/SN?
For technical support, including 93C56CT-E/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C56CT-E/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C56CT-E/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C56CT-E/SN 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 93C56CT-E/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C56CT-E/SN?
All 93C56CT-E/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C56CT-E/SN, 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 93C56CT-E/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C56CT-E/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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