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Microchip Technology 93LC56A-E/P
- Part No.:
- 93LC56A-E/P
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
93LC56A-E/P.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 2KBIT MICROWIRE 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,073
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Product details
Overview
93LC56A-E/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit) low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, 2.5–5.5 V supply range, and automotive-grade temperature support (−40°C to +125°C). It features self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL before WRAL, power-on/off data protection, and 1,000,000 endurance cycles - used for configuration storage in automotive control modules.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC56A-E/P datasheet, 93LC56A-E/P pinout, 93LC56A-E/P application, or 93LC56A-E/P equivalent, key selection criteria include its 8-bit fixed organization (no ORG pin), automotive qualification, 6 ms write cycle time, industry-standard serial timing, and compatibility with microcontroller SPI-like masters requiring Microwire protocol support.
Technical Context
The 93LC56A-E/P implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, DI, and DO pins - no ORG pin (dedicated x8 mode). Communication uses start-bit detection followed by opcode, address, and data bits clocked on rising CLK edges; DO provides both read data and Ready/Busy status polling during programming.
Its internal architecture includes an address decoder, data register, output buffer, and memory array with auto-erase-before-write logic. All erase/write operations are self-timed and initiated by CS falling edge (for 93LC versions), with VCC ≥4.5 V required for ERAL and WRAL commands.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit); fixed x8 organization - no external ORG pin needed, simplifying PCB layout and firmware addressing. |
| VCC range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - supports wide input rails including 3.3 V and 5 V systems without level-shifting. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - enables frequent reconfiguration in automotive diagnostics or calibration updates. |
| Data retention | 200 years at 25°C - ensures long-term reliability for safety-critical nonvolatile storage over vehicle lifetime. |
| Write cycle time | 6 ms typical - defines minimum interval between successive write instructions; impacts firmware update latency. |
| Max clock frequency | 3 MHz at VCC ≥4.5 V - sets maximum serial throughput; lower at reduced VCC (2 MHz at 2.5 V). |
| Temperature grade | Automotive (E): −40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood and powertrain applications per AEC-Q100 stress requirements. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 8-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package), Pb-free Matte Tin finish, through-hole mounting.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; deselects device into standby but allows ongoing write completion. |
| CLK | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcode/address/data and clocks out read data/Ready-Busy status. |
| DI | Data Input | Receives start bit, instruction opcodes, addresses, and write data; high-impedance when not selected. |
| DO | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); enters High-Z on CS falling edge; requires CS high ≥250 ns to sample status. |
| VSS | Ground | Reference return path for all signals; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling into serial interface. |
| NC | No Connection | Pin 7 is unconnected internally - must remain floating or tied to ground per layout best practice; no routing required. |
| VCC | Power Supply | 2.5–5.5 V supply; internal voltage detect (VPOR ≈1.5 V) prevents operation below safe threshold. |
| ORG | Organization (Not present) | Not implemented on 93LC56A - pin 6 is NC; eliminates need for external pull-up/down and reduces BOM count. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates external timing control - firmware only waits for DO high or polls status, reducing CPU overhead and interrupt dependency. |
| Auto-ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees full-array erasure prior to bulk write - prevents partial writes and ensures deterministic initialization of all 256 bytes. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware-level lockout below VPOR (1.5 V) - prevents corruption during brown-out or hot-plug events without software intervention. |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Enables non-blocking polling instead of fixed delays - improves system responsiveness and avoids unnecessary wait states. |
| Industry-standard 3-wire interface | Direct compatibility with legacy Microwire peripherals and many MCU hardware SPI modules configured for 3-wire mode. |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Calibration Storage | Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing fuel map coefficients, idle air control parameters, and emission-related trim values subject to dealer reprogramming. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration memory interfaced via MCU's Microwire-compatible peripheral; accessed during boot and service mode. Use Value: 200-year data retention and 1M endurance ensure calibration integrity across 15+ year vehicle lifetimes and repeated dealership updates. | Use Scenario: Holding door lock/unlock settings, mirror position presets, and lighting configuration profiles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serial EEPROM providing user-persistent state storage; accessed asynchronously during wake-up or button press events. Use Value: Automotive temperature rating (−40°C to +125°C) guarantees reliable operation in trunk-mounted BCMs exposed to extreme thermal cycling. |
| Industrial Motor Drive Parameter Backup | Medical Infusion Pump Configuration |
Use Scenario: Saving motor tuning parameters (PID gains, current limits) and fault history logs after power loss. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fault-tolerant backup memory; write-protected during runtime using EWDS/EWEN commands. Use Value: Power-on data protection and automatic erase-before-write prevent parameter corruption during unexpected AC dropout or brown-out conditions. | Use Scenario: Storing drug library definitions, dose rate limits, and clinician access credentials in battery-backed devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-critical nonvolatile memory; accessed only during setup or maintenance mode with hardware write-protection enabled. Use Value: Pb-free RoHS compliance and 2.5 V minimum VCC support enable integration into compact, low-power portable medical designs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC56B-E/P | 128 × 16-bit organization; same VCC range, temp grade, and package - but requires 16-bit firmware handling and different address mapping. | Used where wider word access reduces transaction count (e.g., storing 16-bit ADC calibration offsets), but incompatible with existing 8-bit read/write routines. | Select only if system firmware supports 16-bit word reads/writes and memory layout benefits outweigh code changes. |
| AT25020B-MAHL-T | 2 Kbit SPI EEPROM (not Microwire); 1.8–5.5 V; 20 MHz max clock; no ERAL/WRAL; standard SPI command set. | Requires SPI master configuration instead of Microwire; lacks auto-ERAL and dedicated WRAL - needs explicit erase before bulk write. | Choose for higher-speed interfaces or when migrating to SPI-based platforms; verify firmware compatibility with SPI opcodes and absence of Microwire-specific features. |
Compared with 93LC56B-E/P, the 93LC56A-E/P offers simpler 8-bit addressing and direct firmware compatibility; versus AT25020B-MAHL-T, it provides Microwire-native timing and integrated ERAL/WRAL - critical for deterministic calibration updates in legacy automotive designs.
Availability
93LC56A-E/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive control units, industrial motor drives, and medical infusion pump designs requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-aligned qualification.
Supply support for 93LC56A-E/P 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 93LCxx series was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power serial EEPROM applications in automotive, industrial, and consumer systems requiring robust Microwire compatibility and extended temperature operation.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93LC56A-E/P?
The 93LC56A-E/P has a fixed 256 × 8-bit (2 Kbit) organization with no ORG pin - unlike 'C' variants, it does not support configurable word size. This simplifies hardware design by eliminating external ORG biasing and ensures consistent 8-bit data framing in firmware drivers. The 93LC56A-E/P is fully compatible with legacy 8-bit Microwire EEPROM code bases without modification.
Does the 93LC56A-E/P require an external pull-up resistor on the CS pin?
Yes, Microchip recommends a 10 kΩ external pull-down resistor on the CS pin for added protection against spurious activation during power-up or noise events. While not strictly mandatory for basic operation, this resistor ensures CS remains low during reset and prevents unintended start-bit detection. The 93LC56A-E/P powers up in EWDS (Erase/Write Disable) mode, but robust CS control remains essential for reliable command sequencing.
What is the minimum VCC required for the 93LC56A-E/P to operate correctly?
The 93LC56A-E/P requires VCC ≥2.5 V for guaranteed operation across its full automotive temperature range (−40°C to +125°C). Its internal voltage detect circuit (VPOR) holds the device in reset below approximately 1.5 V, preventing invalid reads/writes during brown-out. Operation at 2.5 V is fully characterized - including 2 MHz max clock and 500 µA standby current - making it suitable for low-voltage battery-backed systems.
How does the Ready/Busy status work on the DO pin of the 93LC56A-E/P?
The DO pin of the 93LC56A-E/P outputs Ready/Busy status during erase/write cycles: DO = low indicates active programming, DO = high means complete. To sample status, CS must be brought high for ≥250 ns after TCSL, then read on the next CLK rising edge. After completion, issuing a Start bit followed by CS low clears the status flag. This polling mechanism replaces fixed delays and improves real-time system efficiency.
Is the 93LC56A-E/P RoHS compliant and lead-free?
Yes, the 93LC56A-E/P is Pb-free and RoHS compliant, with a Matte Tin (Sn) finish on its PDIP leads. This meets EU Directive 2011/65/EU and supports environmentally responsible manufacturing. The "E" in the part number denotes automotive temperature grade (−40°C to +125°C), while "/P" specifies the 8-lead PDIP package - both fully aligned with RoHS material declarations published by Microchip.
93LC56A-E/P Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 2Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 256 x 8
- Memory Interface:
- Microwire
- Clock Frequency:
- 2 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 6ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
93LC56A-E/P FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC56A-E/P through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC56A-E/P 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 93LC56A-E/P reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC56A-E/P are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 93LC56A-E/P is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC56A-E/P?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC56A-E/P transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC56A-E/P?
93LC56A-E/P orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC56A-E/P 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 93LC56A-E/P?
For technical support, including 93LC56A-E/P datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC56A-E/P requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC56A-E/P is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC56A-E/P 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 93LC56A-E/P meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC56A-E/P?
All 93LC56A-E/P units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC56A-E/P, 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 93LC56A-E/P part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC56A-E/P:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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