Microchip Technology 93LC56A-I/ST
- Part No.:
- 93LC56A-I/ST
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
93LC56A-I/ST.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 2KBIT MICROWIRE 8TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
93LC56A-I/ST from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit) low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V, rated for -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range, and housed in an 8-lead TSSOP package. It delivers 1 million erase/write cycles, >200 years data retention, and integrated power-on/off data protection for embedded configuration storage.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC56A-I/ST datasheet, 93LC56A-I/ST pinout, 93LC56A-I/ST application, or 93LC56A-I/ST equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 8-bit organization (no ORG pin), self-timed erase/write (6 ms typical), Ready/Busy status via DO pin, and compatibility with microcontroller SPI-like serial masters requiring nonvolatile parameter storage.
Technical Context
The 93LC56A-I/ST implements a synchronous serial Microwire protocol with CS, CLK, and DI/DO signals - no ORG pin present, enforcing dedicated 8-bit word access. All instructions (READ, WRITE, ERASE, ERAL, WRAL, EWEN/EWDS) are initiated by a Start bit followed by opcode, address, and optional data, clocked on rising CLK edges.
Internal logic includes automatic erase-before-write, ERAL-initiated full-array erase, and hardware-based VCC brown-out detection (1.5 V threshold) that inhibits all operations below safe supply voltage. The DO pin serves dual function: serial data output during READ and active-low Ready/Busy indicator during programming cycles.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit); supports compact firmware parameter or calibration data storage without external address latching. |
| VCC range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V; compatible with 3.3 V and 5 V logic systems, eliminating level-shifting in mixed-voltage designs. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles; enables reliable field-updatable settings in devices requiring frequent reconfiguration. |
| Data retention | >200 years at 25°C; ensures long-term validity of stored calibration, serial numbers, or security keys over product lifetime. |
| Write cycle time | 6 ms typical (TWC); deterministic timing allows precise host software polling or timeout handling during write operations. |
| Interface | 3-wire Microwire-compatible (CS, CLK, DI/DO); minimal GPIO usage on resource-constrained MCUs, no MISO/MOSI separation required. |
| Temp range | -40°C to +85°C (Industrial grade); validated for operation in industrial control panels, metering equipment, and automotive body electronics. |
Pinout & Package
8-lead TSSOP (ST) package, 3.0 mm × 4.4 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, exposed pad optional (not electrically connected per datasheet).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (CS) | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held high ≥250 ns between commands; falling edge initiates self-timed write/erase on 93LC devices. |
| 2 (CLK) | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers; rising edge clocks in opcode/address/data and clocks out read data/status. |
| 3 (DI) | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, instruction opcodes, addresses, and write data; tied to DO only with series resistor to avoid bus conflict. |
| 4 (DO) | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or provides active-low Ready/Busy signal during programming; enters High-Z when CS low. |
| 5 (VSS) | Ground | Reference return path for all I/O and internal circuitry; requires low-impedance connection to system ground plane. |
| 6 (NC) | No Connect | Internally unconnected; must remain floating or tied to VSS/VCC per board layout best practice - no functional role. |
| 7 (NC) | No Connect | Internally unconnected; same as Pin 6 - no routing or loading required. |
| 8 (VCC) | Power Supply | Supplies core logic and memory array; requires local 0.1 µF ceramic decoupling placed within 5 mm of pin. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed erase/write | Eliminates need for external timing control or busy-wait loops beyond DO polling; reduces MCU firmware complexity. |
| Automatic ERAL before WRAL | Ensures full-array write reliability without separate erase command sequence - simplifies host driver implementation. |
| Power-on/off data protection | Hardware VCC monitor disables writes below 1.5 V, preventing corruption during brown-out or power ramp conditions. |
| Ready/Busy status on DO | Enables efficient polling-based write completion detection without additional pins or interrupts - saves GPIO resources. |
| Pb-free & RoHS compliant | Meets global environmental compliance requirements for industrial and consumer electronics manufacturing. |
Applications
| Smart Energy Metering | Industrial PLC Configuration |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing tariff tables, meter calibration constants, and tamper-event logs in utility-grade electricity meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration storage with guaranteed data integrity across 20+ year field deployment and repeated firmware updates. Use Value: 1M endurance and >200-year retention ensure accurate billing data persistence without periodic backup or refresh. | Use Scenario: Holding I/O mapping, PID loop parameters, and user-defined alarm thresholds in programmable logic controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serial parameter store interfaced directly to PLC's main MCU via 3-wire Microwire, enabling field reconfiguration. Use Value: 2.5–5.5 V operation and -40°C to +85°C rating support reliable operation in harsh factory environments. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | Medical Diagnostic Equipment |
Use Scenario: Saving seat/mirror position presets, lighting profiles, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) in BCMs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power EEPROM accessed during vehicle wake-up or ignition cycles to restore user preferences. Use Value: 5 µA standby current (ICCS) minimizes battery drain during vehicle sleep mode. | Use Scenario: Storing sensor calibration coefficients, device serial numbers, and regulatory compliance flags in portable ultrasound units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, traceable nonvolatile memory for FDA-required device identity and calibration history. Use Value: Hardware write-protection (EWEN/EWDS) prevents accidental overwrite of critical calibration data during service. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT25020B-SSHL-T | 2 Kbit SPI interface (4-wire), 1.8–5.5 V, 5 MHz max clock, no Ready/Busy pin - uses status register polling. | Requires SPI master with status register read capability; lacks DO-driven Ready/Busy signal for simple polling. | Select if existing design uses SPI peripherals and can accommodate status register reads instead of DO pin monitoring. |
| BR24G02NUX-5TR | 2 Kbit I²C interface (2-wire), 1.7–5.5 V, 1 MHz max clock, built-in write protect pin (WP), no ORG pin. | Requires I²C master; WP pin enables hardware write lock independent of command sequence. | Choose when board already implements I²C bus and hardware write protection is preferred over EWEN/EWDS command flow. |
Compared with AT25020B-SSHL-T and BR24G02NUX-5TR, the 93LC56A-I/ST offers direct Ready/Busy signaling on DO and Microwire compatibility for legacy MCU peripherals lacking SPI/I²C hardware - reducing firmware overhead in cost-sensitive embedded systems.
Availability
93LC56A-I/ST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart energy metering, industrial PLC configuration, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-life data retention, and industrial-temperature-rated serial EEPROMs.
Supply support for 93LC56A-I/ST 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, serving industrial, automotive, and consumer markets globally.
The 93LC56A-I/ST belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for low-pin-count, low-power, nonvolatile storage in space-constrained embedded systems using Microwire-compatible interfaces.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93LC56A-I/ST?
The 93LC56A-I/ST has a fixed 256 × 8-bit organization. Unlike 'C' variants, it lacks an ORG pin and does not support 16-bit word access. This simplifies interface design by eliminating external logic for word-size selection and guarantees consistent 8-bit data framing in all applications.
Does the 93LC56A-I/ST require an external pull-up resistor on the DO pin?
No - the 93LC56A-I/ST drives DO actively during READ and Ready/Busy status reporting. A pull-up is unnecessary and may interfere with correct low-level assertion. However, if DI and DO are shorted (shared bus), a 1–10 kΩ series resistor is required to prevent bus conflict during dummy-zero read phases.
What is the minimum VCC required to guarantee write inhibition on the 93LC56A-I/ST?
The 93LC56A-I/ST incorporates hardware VCC detection with a nominal threshold of 1.5 V. Below this voltage, all write, erase, and EWEN operations are automatically inhibited - ensuring data integrity during power-up, power-down, or brown-out events without external supervision circuits.
How is the Ready/Busy status monitored on the 93LC56A-I/ST?
During an erase or write cycle, the DO pin outputs active-low Ready/Busy status: logic '0' indicates ongoing programming, logic '1' indicates completion. To read status, CS must be brought high for ≥250 ns after TCSL; DO returns to High-Z when CS is low. No status register read is needed.
Is the 93LC56A-I/ST pin-compatible with other 93XX56 variants in the ST package?
Yes - all 93XX56A/B/C devices in the 8-lead TSSOP (ST) package share identical pinout and footprint. However, functional differences exist: 93LC56B supports 128 × 16-bit mode, and 93LC56C adds ORG pin functionality; substituting without verifying firmware compatibility may cause communication failure.
93LC56A-I/ST Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm 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-TSSOP
93LC56A-I/ST FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC56A-I/ST through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC56A-I/ST 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/ST reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC56A-I/ST 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/ST is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC56A-I/ST?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC56A-I/ST transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC56A-I/ST?
93LC56A-I/ST orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC56A-I/ST 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/ST?
For technical support, including 93LC56A-I/ST datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC56A-I/ST requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC56A-I/ST is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC56A-I/ST 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/ST meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC56A-I/ST?
All 93LC56A-I/ST units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC56A-I/ST, 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/ST part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC56A-I/ST:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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