Microchip Technology 93LC56A-E/SN
- Part No.:
- 93LC56A-E/SN
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93LC56A-E/SN.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 2KBIT MICROWIRE 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
93LC56A-E/SN 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 operation (–40°C to +125°C). It features self-timed erase/write cycles, automatic ERAL before WRAL, Ready/Busy status signaling via DO pin, and 1,000,000 endurance cycles - used for parameter storage in engine control units and automotive sensor calibration.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC56A-E/SN datasheet, 93LC56A-E/SN pinout, 93LC56A-E/SN application, or 93LC56A-E/SN equivalent, key selection criteria include its 8-bit fixed organization (no ORG pin), automotive temperature rating, SOIC-8 package, 3-wire serial protocol timing compliance, and power-on data protection circuitry.
Technical Context
The 93LC56A-E/SN implements a synchronous serial interface with CS, CLK, and DI/DO pins, requiring no external clock source beyond master-generated CLK. Its internal logic decodes 8-bit opcodes (e.g., READ=10b, WRITE=01b, ERASE=11b) and supports sequential read mode when CS remains high.
It uses CMOS-based nonvolatile memory cells with on-chip charge pump for write/erase operations, enabling auto-erase-before-write and full-array ERAL/WRAL commands. Power-on reset circuitry holds writes disabled until VCC exceeds 1.5 V, and EWEN/EWDS commands provide additional software-level write protection.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit organization; fixed, no ORG pin) |
| VCC range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - supports wide-input automotive power rails without external regulation |
| Temperature grade | Automotive (E): –40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood and transmission control applications |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - enables long-term field calibration updates over vehicle lifetime |
| Data retention | 200 years at +85°C - ensures firmware parameter integrity across product lifecycle |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS/CLK/DI/DO) - minimal GPIO usage on microcontrollers |
| Write cycle time | 6 ms typical (TWC) - deterministic programming latency for real-time systems |
| Standby current | 1 µA max (ICCS, E-temp) - critical for always-on automotive modules with battery drain constraints |
Pinout & Package
93LC56A-E/SN is packaged in 8-lead SOIC (SN), with gull-wing leads, 1.27 mm pitch, and Pb-free Matte Tin finish. Pin 1 marked by laser dot or notch.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; controls Standby entry/exit |
| CLK | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks opcode/address/data; stoppable mid-transfer |
| DI | Data Input | Receives Start bit, opcodes, addresses, and write data; shares bus with DO only with external series resistor |
| DO | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); enters High-Z on CS falling edge |
| VSS | Ground | Reference for all I/O and internal logic; must be low-impedance connection |
| NC | No Connection | Pin 7 is unconnected internally; must be left floating or tied to VSS per layout best practice |
| VCC | Power Supply | Supplies core and interface logic; includes internal POR detection at ~1.5 V threshold |
| ORG | Organization Select | Not implemented on 'A' version - permanently disabled; pin 6 is NC |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates need for external timing control or polling delay loops in host firmware |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees clean memory state prior to full-array write, preventing partial corruption |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware lockout below 1.5 V VCC prevents inadvertent writes during brown-out or startup |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Enables efficient polling instead of fixed-delay waits, reducing CPU overhead in safety-critical tasks |
| 1,000,000 endurance cycles | Supports >100 calibrations/day for 27 years - exceeds OEM automotive functional safety requirements |
| Industry-standard 3-wire interface | Direct compatibility with legacy Microwire peripherals and widely supported MCU SPI hardware modes |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing adaptive fuel trim values, knock sensor learning offsets, and emission-related calibration tables that update dynamically during vehicle operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile parameter register accessed asynchronously by MCU during idle or cruise conditions; write operations scheduled during low-CPU-load windows. Use Value: Enables closed-loop engine optimization without requiring reprogramming; maintains settings across ignition cycles and battery disconnects. | Use Scenario: Retaining camera lens distortion coefficients, radar object tracking history, and lane-marking confidence thresholds across power cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dedicated configuration store for vision/radar SoCs; accessed at boot and during OTA updates using deterministic 6 ms write latency. Use Value: Ensures consistent sensor fusion behavior after cold start; eliminates need for factory recalibration after minor firmware patches. |
| Body Control Module (BCM) | Electric Power Steering (EPS) |
Use Scenario: Saving user preferences (mirror position, seat memory, lighting profiles) and door lock event logs for diagnostics and personalization. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power configuration EEPROM interfaced to 8-bit MCU; reads on wake-up, writes only on explicit user action or timeout. Use Value: Achieves <1 µA standby current in sleep mode while preserving state - meets ISO 11898-2 quiescent current targets. | Use Scenario: Storing torque sensor zero-point compensation, motor phase resistance calibration, and fault history for steering assist algorithms. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-relevant parameter store with write-protection via EWEN/EWDS; accessed only by ASIL-B certified firmware partition. Use Value: Supports ISO 26262 ASIL B decomposition by isolating volatile calibration data from main MCU flash, enabling independent verification and rollback. |
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/SN | 128 × 16-bit organization; same VCC/temp/package; requires 16-bit host interface alignment | Used where MCU has native 16-bit serial peripheral or memory-mapped I/O constraints favor wider word access | Select only if system architecture mandates 16-bit data path; not drop-in compatible due to address/data width mismatch |
| AT25DF021-SSH-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 2 Mbit density, 2.7–3.6 V only, no ERAL/WRAL, 100k endurance | Targeted at firmware code storage, not parameter logging; lacks automotive temp grade and auto-erase functionality | Consider only for non-automotive, higher-density, lower-endurance use cases; requires SPI driver rewrite and voltage rail redesign |
Compared with 93LC56B-E/SN, the 93LC56A-E/SN provides byte-aligned 8-bit access ideal for small-parameter storage without packing overhead; compared with AT25DF021-SSH-T, it delivers guaranteed automotive qualification, superior endurance, and hardware-assisted full-array erase - essential for safety-critical calibration retention.
Availability
93LC56A-E/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive control units, ADAS sensor modules, and body electronics requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q100-compliant traceability and extended temperature support.
Supply support for 93LC56A-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, FPGA, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 93LC56A-E/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power, automotive-qualified nonvolatile storage where deterministic timing and hardware write protection are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93LC56A-E/SN?
The 93LC56A-E/SN has a fixed 256 × 8-bit organization (2 Kbit total), with no ORG pin - unlike 'C' variants, it does not support configurable word size. This simplifies PCB layout and firmware design by eliminating external ORG biasing components and ensuring consistent 8-bit data framing across all transactions. The 93LC56A-E/SN is optimized for systems where byte-addressable parameter storage is required without width negotiation.
Does the 93LC56A-E/SN support automatic erase before write?
Yes, the 93LC56A-E/SN performs automatic erase before each write operation at the addressed location, and also executes automatic ERAL (Erase All) before any WRAL (Write All) command. This eliminates risk of residual bit corruption and guarantees clean programming states. The 93LC56A-E/SN implements this in hardware with no host intervention required - a key differentiator from basic SPI EEPROMs that require separate erase commands.
What is the purpose of the DO pin during programming on the 93LC56A-E/SN?
On the 93LC56A-E/SN, the DO pin serves dual function: during READ operations, it outputs memory data; during ERASE/WRITE cycles, it signals Ready/Busy status - low indicates active programming, high confirms completion. This allows efficient polling instead of fixed delays. The 93LC56A-E/SN requires CS to be brought high for ≥250 ns after TCSL to activate status reporting, and DO returns to High-Z on CS falling edge.
Is the 93LC56A-E/SN pin-compatible with other 93XX56 variants in SOIC-8 package?
Yes, the 93LC56A-E/SN shares identical SOIC-8 (SN) pinout and footprint with 93LC56B-E/SN and 93LC56C-E/SN, including CS/CLK/DI/DO/VSS/NC/VCC pin assignments. However, functional compatibility is limited: 93LC56B-E/SN uses 16-bit addressing, and 93LC56C-E/SN requires ORG pin control. The 93LC56A-E/SN is electrically and mechanically interchangeable but requires matching firmware for 8-bit protocol handling.
What write protection mechanisms does the 93LC56A-E/SN implement?
The 93LC56A-E/SN implements three-tiered write protection: (1) hardware POR lockout below 1.5 V VCC, (2) EWEN/EWDS command gating - powers up in EWDS (disabled) state requiring explicit EWEN before any write, and (3) CS-controlled standby mode that halts ongoing operations. These ensure robust immunity against spurious writes during power transients, ESD events, or firmware faults - critical for automotive ASIL-compliant designs using the 93LC56A-E/SN.
93LC56A-E/SN Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- 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:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
93LC56A-E/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC56A-E/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC56A-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 93LC56A-E/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC56A-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 93LC56A-E/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC56A-E/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC56A-E/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC56A-E/SN?
93LC56A-E/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC56A-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 93LC56A-E/SN?
For technical support, including 93LC56A-E/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC56A-E/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC56A-E/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC56A-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 93LC56A-E/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC56A-E/SN?
All 93LC56A-E/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC56A-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 93LC56A-E/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC56A-E/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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