Microchip Technology 93C76CT-E/SN

Overview

93C76CT-E/SN from Microchip Technology is an 8Kbit, 4.5–5.5V serial EEPROM with 1024 × 8-bit organization, Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface (CS/CLK/DI/DO), and integrated Program Enable (PE) and ORG pins for write protection and word-size selection. It delivers 1 million erase/write cycles, >200-year data retention, and operates across –40°C to +125°C for automotive applications.

For engineers reviewing the 93C76CT-E/SN datasheet, 93C76CT-E/SN pinout, 93C76CT-E/SN application, or 93C76CT-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its automotive-grade temperature range, PE-enabled hardware write-protection, self-timed 2 ms write cycle, Ready/Busy status via DO pin, and compatibility with legacy Microwire controllers in space-constrained embedded systems.

Technical Context

This device implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with dedicated CS, CLK, DI, and DO lines, supporting READ, WRITE, ERASE, ERAL, WRAL, EWEN, and EWDS instructions. Its internal logic includes auto-erase-before-write, automatic ERAL before WRAL, and power-on/off data protection circuitry.

The 93C76CT-E/SN uses CMOS technology with VCC voltage detect at 3.8V (typical), requires PE = VCC to enable programming, and relies on external logic levels at ORG to select between 8-bit (ORG = VSS) or 16-bit (ORG = VCC) memory configuration - though as a 'C' variant, it supports both modes, unlike fixed 'A' or 'B' versions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

93C76CT-E/SN is housed in an 8-lead SOIC package (SN suffix), with lead pitch 1.27 mm, body width 3.9 mm, and RoHS-compliant matte tin finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 93C76CT-E/SN, the 93C76CT-I/SN sacrifices automotive qualification for lower cost, while AT25DF041A-SHN-T trades Microwire simplicity and hardware write protection for SPI speed and density - neither offers drop-in replacement capability due to interface, voltage, or safety architecture differences.

Availability

93C76CT-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive control units, ADAS subsystems, and industrial human-machine interfaces requiring stable component supply, extended temperature operation, and long-term data integrity.

Supply support for 93C76CT-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 memory solutions, specializing in high-reliability semiconductor products for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The 93C76CT-E/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained embedded systems requiring robust nonvolatile storage with minimal external components and proven automotive qualification.

FAQ

What is the function of the PE pin on the 93C76CT-E/SN?

The PE (Program Enable) pin on the 93C76CT-E/SN must be driven high to allow any erase or write operation. When tied low, it permanently disables all programming functions - including ERASE, WRITE, ERAL, and WRAL - providing hardware-level write protection independent of firmware state. This feature is essential for preventing corruption during power transients in automotive applications.

Does the 93C76CT-E/SN support both 8-bit and 16-bit memory organization?

Yes, the 93C76CT-E/SN supports both configurations via the ORG pin: logic low selects 1024 × 8-bit mode, and logic high selects 512 × 16-bit mode. Unlike fixed-organization variants (e.g., 93C76A or 93C76B), the 'C' suffix denotes this dual-mode capability, enabling flexible firmware design without changing the physical part number.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 93C76CT-E/SN?

The 93C76CT-E/SN supports up to 3 MHz clock frequency when VCC is 4.5–5.5 V. At this rate, instruction execution times remain within specification - for example, READ requires 22 clock cycles, and WRITE requires 22 clock cycles in 8-bit mode. Lower frequencies are acceptable and often used to simplify timing margins in noise-prone environments.

How does the Ready/Busy status work on the 93C76CT-E/SN?

The DO pin of the 93C76CT-E/SN outputs Ready/Busy status during erase or write cycles: logic low indicates ongoing programming, and logic high confirms completion. To read status, CS must be brought high for ≥250 ns after TCSL; DO returns to High-Z when CS goes low. This allows real-time polling without fixed delays, improving system efficiency.

Is the 93C76CT-E/SN pin-compatible with other 93XX76 devices in SOIC packages?

Yes, the 93C76CT-E/SN shares identical 8-lead SOIC (SN) pinout with all 93XX76A/B/C variants, including CS, CLK, DI, DO, VSS, ORG, PE, and VCC assignments. However, functional compatibility depends on feature set: only 'C' versions include ORG and PE pins; 'A' and 'B' variants omit them and fix organization, so direct substitution requires firmware and schematic validation.