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

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,311
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Product details
Overview
93C56CT-I/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2 Kbit serial EEPROM IC with 256 × 8-bit organization, operating over 4.5–5.5 V supply and rated for industrial temperature range (−40°C to +85°C). It features Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial interface (CS/CLK/DI/DO), self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL before WRAL, and power-on/off data protection. It is used in microcontroller-based systems for storing calibration data, configuration settings, or firmware patches.
For engineers reviewing the 93C56CT-I/SN datasheet, 93C56CT-I/SN pinout, 93C56CT-I/SN application, or 93C56CT-I/SN equivalent, key selection considerations include its fixed 8-bit word size (no ORG pin), 2 ms program cycle time, 1 million endurance cycles, 200-year data retention, and SOIC-8 (SN) package compatibility with legacy board layouts.
Technical Context
This device implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with start-bit detection, opcode-driven command set (READ/WRITE/ERASE/ERAL/WRAL/EWEN/EWDS), and Ready/Busy status polling via DO pin. Its internal architecture includes address decoder, mode decode logic, clock register, and output buffer - all optimized for low-power nonvolatile storage in resource-constrained embedded systems.
Unlike C-variant parts, the 93C56T-I/SN lacks an ORG pin and is permanently configured for 8-bit operation. Its erase/write timing is initiated by the rising edge of CLK on the final data bit, distinguishing it from AA/LC variants that use CS falling edge. VCC brown-out protection activates at 3.8 V, ensuring data integrity during power transitions.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit) - provides compact, byte-addressable nonvolatile storage for small configuration tables or device IDs. |
| VCC Range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V - compatible with standard 5 V logic systems; brown-out protection triggers below 3.8 V to prevent corruption. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS/CLK/DI/DO) - requires only four signals, minimizing MCU GPIO usage and PCB routing complexity. |
| Write Cycle Time | 2 ms max - enables fast field updates without blocking host processor for extended periods; no external delay needed. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - supports frequent reprogramming in applications like metering or adaptive control. |
| Data Retention | 200 years at 25°C - ensures long-term reliability in unattended or sealed-system deployments without refresh. |
| Temperature Range | −40°C to +85°C (Industrial) - validated for operation in industrial automation, HVAC, and automotive under-hood auxiliary modules. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 8-lead SOIC (SN), Pb-free Matte Tin finish, 3.9 mm × 4.9 mm body, 1.27 mm pitch.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 CS | Chip Select | Active-high enable signal; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; deselects device into standby mode. |
| 2 CLK | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcodes, addresses, and data; stoppable at any point. |
| 3 DI | Data Input | Receives start bit, instruction opcodes, memory addresses, and write data; high-impedance when not selected. |
| 4 DO | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy status (low = busy); enters High-Z when CS is low or during non-read operations. |
| 5 VSS | Ground | Reference return path for all digital and analog circuitry; must be low-impedance connection to system ground plane. |
| 6 NC | No Internal Connection | Unbonded pad; must be left floating or tied to VSS per layout best practice; no electrical function. |
| 7 NC | No Internal Connection | Unbonded pad; identical to Pin 6 - no routing or termination required. |
| 8 VCC | Power Supply | +4.5 V to +5.5 V supply input; requires local 0.1 µF ceramic decoupling capacitor placed within 5 mm of pin. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write cycles | Eliminates need for external timing control or software delays - host MCU proceeds immediately after initiating command. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees full array erasure prior to bulk write, preventing partial writes and data corruption without host intervention. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware-level VCC monitoring disables writes below 3.8 V, preventing inadvertent programming during power ramp-up/down. |
| Erase/Write Enable/Disable (EWEN/EWDS) | Prevents accidental writes during normal operation; device powers up in EWDS state, requiring explicit EWEN before programming. |
| Sequential read capability | Enables efficient block reads (e.g., 32-byte config table) by holding CS high - reduces transaction overhead vs. individual byte reads. |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration | Consumer Appliance Configuration |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Storing factory-calibrated sensor offset/gain coefficients in pressure transmitters deployed in oil & gas pipelines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration store accessed once at power-up; retains values across 15+ year service life without battery backup. Use Value: Eliminates manual potentiometer adjustment and enables field recalibration via firmware update, reducing maintenance cost and downtime. |
Use Scenario: Holding user-selected cooking modes, timer presets, and display brightness levels in smart microwave ovens. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Persistent parameter storage updated infrequently (<100 writes/year); survives AC power cycling and EMI events. Use Value: Maintains user preferences across power loss, supporting regulatory compliance for energy-saving "soft-off" modes. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | Medical Diagnostic Equipment |
|
Use Scenario: Recording door lock/unlock history, mirror position memory, and lighting configuration in vehicle BCMs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Industrial-temp EEPROM interfaced to 8-bit MCU via dedicated Microwire peripheral; withstands under-dash thermal cycling. Use Value: Enables OEM personalization features without adding FRAM or battery-backed SRAM, lowering BOM cost and design complexity. |
Use Scenario: Storing device serial number, calibration date, and firmware revision in portable ultrasound probes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Tamper-resistant, long-life memory for regulatory traceability data; accessed only during probe initialization or service mode. Use Value: Meets IEC 62304 software lifecycle requirements for permanent device identification and audit trail retention. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC56BT-I/SN | Same 2 Kbit size and SOIC-8 package, but 2.5–5.5 V VCC range and 128 × 16-bit organization. | Requires 16-bit MCU interface; unsuitable for 8-bit systems without bit-packing logic. | Select only if host supports 16-bit word access and wider voltage margin is needed. |
| AT25020B-MAHL-T | 2 Kbit SPI EEPROM (not Microwire), 1.8–5.5 V, 10 MHz max clock, 5 ms write cycle. | Uses SPI protocol (4-wire) and different command set; requires firmware porting and layout change for CS/CLK/MOSI/MISO. | Choose for higher-speed communication or where SPI is already standardized across the BOM. |
Compared with 93LC56BT-I/SN and AT25020B-MAHL-T, the 93C56CT-I/SN offers deterministic 2 ms writes and native 8-bit compatibility for legacy 5 V designs, avoiding protocol conversion or voltage translation while maintaining industrial temperature rating and proven field reliability.
Availability
93C56CT-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, consumer appliance configuration, and automotive body control module applications requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for 93C56CT-I/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 embedded systems needing reliable serial EEPROM with minimal pin count and robust data integrity - targeting industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93C56CT-I/SN?
The 93C56CT-I/SN has a fixed 256 × 8-bit organization. It belongs to the 'A' variant family and does not include an ORG pin, so word size cannot be changed. This differs from 'C' variants (e.g., 93C56CT-I/SN is not the same as 93C56CT-I/SN with ORG pin enabled), and ensures consistent 8-bit data transfers without external configuration logic.
Does the 93C56CT-I/SN support 3.3 V operation?
No, the 93C56CT-I/SN requires a minimum VCC of 4.5 V and operates only within 4.5–5.5 V. Attempting to run it at 3.3 V will result in undefined behavior and failure to execute commands. For 3.3 V systems, consider the 93LC56A series (2.5–5.5 V range) instead of the 93C56CT-I/SN.
How is write protection implemented on the 93C56CT-I/SN?
The 93C56CT-I/SN uses hardware-enforced write protection: it powers up in Erase/Write Disable (EWDS) mode, and all programming commands (WRITE, ERASE, WRAL, ERAL) require a preceding EWEN instruction. Additionally, VCC brown-out protection disables writes below 3.8 V, providing dual-layer safeguard against accidental modification.
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 93C56CT-I/SN?
The 93C56CT-I/SN supports up to 3 MHz clock frequency when VCC is 4.5–5.5 V. At this speed, minimum clock high/low times are 200 ns and 100 ns respectively. Slower clocks (e.g., 100 kHz) are fully compatible and often used in noise-sensitive environments or with slower MCUs.
Can the 93C56CT-I/SN be used in place of the 93AA56A-I/SN?
No - although both are 256 × 8-bit EEPROMs in SOIC-8 packages, the 93C56CT-I/SN has different timing behavior (CLK-edge-initiated write vs. CS-edge for 93AA56A), higher VCC minimum (4.5 V vs. 1.8 V), and distinct brown-out threshold (3.8 V vs. 1.5 V). Firmware and power design must be verified before substitution.
93C56CT-I/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 ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
93C56CT-I/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93C56CT-I/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93C56CT-I/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-I/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93C56CT-I/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-I/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93C56CT-I/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93C56CT-I/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93C56CT-I/SN?
93C56CT-I/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93C56CT-I/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-I/SN?
For technical support, including 93C56CT-I/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93C56CT-I/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93C56CT-I/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93C56CT-I/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-I/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93C56CT-I/SN?
All 93C56CT-I/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93C56CT-I/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-I/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93C56CT-I/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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