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

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
93LC56A-I/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 industrial temperature rating (–40°C to +85°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 embedded microcontroller systems for configuration storage and calibration data retention.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC56A-I/SN datasheet, 93LC56A-I/SN pinout, 93LC56A-I/SN application, or 93LC56A-I/SN equivalent, key selection considerations include its fixed 8-bit organization (no ORG pin), SOIC-8 package compatibility, 1 million erase/write endurance, >200-year data retention, and support for sequential read and WRAL/ERAL commands in resource-constrained designs.
Technical Context
The 93LC56A-I/SN implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS, CLK, and DI/DO pins - no ORG pin present, confirming fixed 8-bit word width. Its internal architecture includes an address decoder, mode decode logic, and output buffer, enabling single-byte or full-array operations (READ, WRITE, ERASE, WRAL, ERAL) initiated by clocked opcodes and addresses.
Power management integrates voltage-detect circuitry (VPOR = 1.5 V typical) that inhibits all operations below VCC threshold, plus EWEN/EWDS commands for explicit write-enable control. The device enters Standby mode when CS is low, drawing only 1 µA (I-temp), and asserts Ready/Busy on DO during self-timed programming cycles (TWC = 6 ms max).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit); supports byte-level writes and full-array WRAL without external address management. |
| VCC Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V; compatible with 3.3 V and 5 V logic domains, eliminating level-shifting in mixed-supply systems. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS, CLK, DI/DO); requires only three MCU GPIOs and no additional protocol stack. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles; enables daily firmware parameter updates for >27 years in field-deployed devices. |
| Data Retention | >200 years at 25°C; ensures long-term calibration constants remain valid across product lifecycle without refresh. |
| Access Time | TPD ≤ 400 ns (1.8 V), ≤ 250 ns (2.5–4.5 V), ≤ 200 ns (4.5–5.5 V); meets timing budgets for 1–3 MHz clock operation in real-time control loops. |
| Temp Range | –40°C to +85°C (Industrial grade); validated for use in automotive body controllers, industrial sensors, and HVAC modules. |
Pinout & Package
93LC56A-I/SN is supplied in 8-lead SOIC (SN) package per JEDEC MS-012, 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 ≥250 ns low between instructions; controls Standby entry and Ready/Busy polling window. |
| CLK | Serial Clock | Positive-edge synchronized I/O; supports variable clock rate (up to 3 MHz at 4.5–5.5 V); may be paused mid-transfer. |
| DI | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, opcode (2-bit), address (8-bit), and data (8-bit); 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 external pull-up for status polling. |
| VSS | Ground | Reference for all digital and analog functions; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling into DO timing. |
| NC | No Internal Connection | Pin 7 is unconnected; must be left floating or tied to VSS - no routing or loading required. |
| VCC | Power Supply | Supplies core logic and memory array; bypass capacitor (0.1 µF) required within 10 mm of pin for stable erase/write operation. |
| ORG | Not applicable | Not implemented on 'A' version; pin 6 is NC - eliminates external configuration logic and PCB routing overhead. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed Erase/Write | Eliminates need for external timing control or watchdog timeout - TWC = 6 ms max ensures deterministic firmware flow. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees clean memory state prior to bulk write; prevents partial-data corruption without software intervention. |
| Power-On/Off Data Protection | VPOR circuitry blocks all writes below 1.5 V, preventing inadvertent data loss during brown-out or hot-swap events. |
| Ready/Busy Status via DO | Enables non-blocking polling in interrupt-driven firmware; avoids fixed delays and improves system responsiveness. |
| Sequential Read Mode | Reduces command overhead: holding CS high auto-increments address and streams 256 bytes with minimal MCU intervention. |
Applications
| Smart Meter Calibration Storage | Industrial PLC Configuration Memory |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Storing meter-specific calibration coefficients, tariff tables, and tamper-event logs in electricity/water meters operating unattended for 15+ years. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration store interfaced to 8-bit MCU over Microwire; retains data through battery-backed power loss. Use Value: Leverages >200-year data retention and 1M-cycle endurance to eliminate field recalibration and support firmware-over-the-air updates. |
Use Scenario: Holding I/O mapping, PID tuning parameters, and safety-critical startup defaults in DIN-rail mounted programmable logic controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dedicated 2 Kbit parameter EEPROM connected to ARM Cortex-M3 via GPIO bit-banged Microwire. Use Value: Fixed 8-bit organization simplifies driver development; industrial temp range ensures reliability in cabinet environments up to 85°C. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | Medical Infusion Pump Settings |
|
Use Scenario: Saving seat/mirror position presets, lighting profiles, and fault history in 12 V automotive BCMs with wide input transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power serial EEPROM powered from 5 V regulator; accessed during ignition-on initialization sequence. Use Value: 2.5–5.5 V VCC range tolerates load-dump and cold-crank conditions; 1 µA standby current extends battery life during vehicle sleep mode. |
Use Scenario: Storing drug library, dose limits, alarm thresholds, and usage audit trail in Class II medical infusion pumps requiring traceable data integrity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-redundant configuration memory with checksummed reads and WRAL-verified writes. Use Value: Self-timed write cycle (6 ms) enables deterministic timeout handling; RoHS/Pb-free compliance meets IEC 60601-1 material requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC56B-I/SN | 128 × 16-bit organization; same VCC, temp, package, and instruction set - but requires 16-bit MCU data path alignment. | Used where firmware stores packed 16-bit sensor samples or dual-byte configuration words; incompatible with existing 8-bit drivers. | Select only if system architecture mandates 16-bit word access and memory layout justifies rework of EEPROM abstraction layer. |
| AT25020B-MAHL-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 2 Kbit (256 × 8), 1.8–5.5 V, 20 MHz max clock; no ERAL/WRAL; uses WREN/WRDI instead of EWEN/EWDS. | Preferred in SPI-native platforms (e.g., STM32, PIC32); lacks Microwire compatibility and automatic full-array erase before write. | Choose when migrating to SPI ecosystem or requiring faster clock rates; verify software rewrite for status polling and write-enable sequencing. |
Compared with 93LC56B-I/SN, the 93LC56A-I/SN offers simpler 8-bit data handling and drop-in compatibility with legacy Microwire firmware; versus AT25020B-MAHL-T, it provides native Microwire support and integrated ERAL/WRAL functionality at the cost of lower maximum clock speed.
Availability
93LC56A-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart meter calibration storage, industrial PLC configuration memory, and automotive body control module applications requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for 93LC56A-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 93LC56A-I/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded systems needing reliable nonvolatile storage with minimal pin count and firmware overhead.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93LC56A-I/SN?
The 93LC56A-I/SN has a fixed 256 × 8-bit organization - meaning 256 addressable bytes, each 8 bits wide. Unlike 'C' variants, it lacks an ORG pin, so no external configuration is needed to select word size. This simplifies PCB layout and firmware development, especially in 8-bit microcontroller systems where byte-aligned access is standard. The 93LC56A-I/SN delivers deterministic addressing without runtime configuration overhead.
Does the 93LC56A-I/SN support sequential read operations?
Yes, the 93LC56A-I/SN supports sequential read: after issuing a READ command with an initial address, holding CS high causes the internal address counter to auto-increment, allowing continuous 8-bit data streaming across up to 256 bytes without reissuing the command. This reduces MCU instruction cycles and bus traffic - critical in real-time applications like sensor data logging or display character table fetching. The DO pin outputs each byte on CLK rising edges with TPD ≤ 400 ns.
How does the 93LC56A-I/SN handle power-loss during write operations?
The 93LC56A-I/SN incorporates hardware-level power-loss protection: its VPOR circuitry disables all write/erase functions when VCC drops below ~1.5 V, preventing partial writes or corrupted data. Additionally, it powers up in EWDS (Erase/Write Disable) mode, requiring an explicit EWEN command before any programming - ensuring accidental writes cannot occur during brown-out recovery. These features make the 93LC56A-I/SN robust in battery-powered or unstable supply environments.
What is the purpose of the NC pin (Pin 7) on the 93LC56A-I/SN SOIC package?
Pin 7 on the 93LC56A-I/SN is designated NC (No Connection) - it has no internal bond wire or silicon connection. Per Microchip's DS21794G datasheet, this pin must be left floating or tied to VSS; it must never be driven or loaded. Its presence maintains pin compatibility across the 93XX56 family (e.g., 'C' versions use Pin 6 for ORG), but for the 93LC56A-I/SN, it serves solely as mechanical alignment aid and adds no electrical function - simplifying layout and reducing risk of misrouting.
Can the 93LC56A-I/SN be used in automotive applications requiring AEC-Q200 qualification?
No, the 93LC56A-I/SN carries Industrial (I) temperature grade (–40°C to +85°C) and is not AEC-Q200 qualified. While it operates within the ambient range of many automotive cabin modules, it lacks the stress testing, failure analysis, and documentation required for automotive-grade components. For under-hood or safety-critical automotive use, Microchip's AEC-Q200-qualified 93LC56x-E variants (e.g., 93LC56B-E/SN) or dedicated automotive EEPROM families should be selected instead of the 93LC56A-I/SN.
93LC56A-I/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 ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
93LC56A-I/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC56A-I/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC56A-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 93LC56A-I/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC56A-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 93LC56A-I/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC56A-I/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC56A-I/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC56A-I/SN?
93LC56A-I/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC56A-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 93LC56A-I/SN?
For technical support, including 93LC56A-I/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC56A-I/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC56A-I/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC56A-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 93LC56A-I/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC56A-I/SN?
All 93LC56A-I/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC56A-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 93LC56A-I/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC56A-I/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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