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

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,025
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Product details
Overview
93LC56A/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/automotive 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 - deployed in microcontroller configuration storage and sensor calibration memory.
For engineers reviewing the 93LC56A/SN datasheet, 93LC56A/SN pinout, 93LC56A/SN application, or 93LC56A/SN equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package mapping to SOIC-8 (SN), functional timing behavior, real-world use scenarios, and two validated alternative parts for design flexibility and supply continuity.
Technical Context
The 93LC56A/SN implements a synchronous serial Microwire protocol with CS, CLK, DI, and DO pins - no ORG pin (dedicated x8 organization). All instructions (READ, WRITE, ERASE, ERAL, WRAL, EWEN/EWDS) are initiated by a Start bit followed by opcode, address, and data on the rising edge of CLK. The DO pin serves dual role: serial data output during READ and Ready/Busy status indicator during programming.
It uses auto-erase-before-write architecture with 6 ms typical erase/write cycle time (TWC), supports sequential read, and includes internal voltage detection (VPOR = 1.5 V) for power-on data protection. Standby current is ≤5 µA at I-temp and ≤1 µA at E-temp, enabling battery-backed operation in low-power embedded systems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory Size | 2 Kbit (256 × 8-bit) - fixed x8 organization; no ORG pin required. |
| VCC Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - supports wide-range industrial and automotive power rails. |
| Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles - ensures long-term reliability in field-updatable systems. |
| Data Retention | >200 years at 25°C - guarantees nonvolatile storage integrity over product lifetime. |
| Interface | Microwire-compatible 3-wire serial (CS/CLK/DI/DO) - minimal GPIO usage, no SPI mode select needed. |
| Max Clock Frequency | 3 MHz at VCC ≥4.5 V - enables fast configuration loading without high-speed MCU peripherals. |
| Operating Temp | −40°C to +125°C (E-grade) - qualified for under-hood automotive and industrial control environments. |
Pinout & Package
93LC56A/SN is packaged in 8-lead SOIC (SN), with lead finish Pb-free (Matte Tin). Pin 1 is CS; pin 2 is CLK; pin 3 is DI; pin 4 is DO; pin 5 is VSS; pin 6 is NC (no internal connection); pin 7 is NC; pin 8 is VCC. ORG pin is absent - consistent with 'A' version x8-only configuration.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CS | Chip Select | Active-high enable; must be held low ≥250 ns between instructions; initiates self-timed write on falling edge. |
| CLK | Serial Clock | Synchronizes all data transfers on rising edge; clock can be paused mid-sequence without state loss. |
| DI | Data Input | Accepts Start bit, opcode, address, and write data; tolerant of bus conflict when shared with DO (with pull-up/down). |
| DO | Data Output / Status | Outputs read data or Ready/Busy (low = busy); enters High-Z on CS falling edge; requires TCSL ≥250 ns for status polling. |
| VSS | Ground | Reference for all logic and analog circuitry; must be low-impedance connection for stable erase/write timing. |
| NC (pins 6 & 7) | No Internal Connection | Unbonded; must be left floating or tied to VSS/VCC per layout best practice - no functional impact. |
| VCC | Power Supply | Supplies core logic and memory array; VPOR = 1.5 V ensures data protection during brown-out conditions. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Self-timed Erase/Write | Eliminates external timing control - 6 ms typical cycle time simplifies firmware and reduces MCU overhead. |
| Auto-ERAL before WRAL | Guarantees full-array readiness before bulk write; avoids partial writes and data corruption in system recovery flows. |
| Power-On/Off Data Protection | Hardware-level VPOR circuitry blocks write access below 1.5 V - prevents inadvertent writes during power ramp. |
| Ready/Busy via DO pin | Enables non-blocking polling instead of fixed delays - improves system responsiveness and deterministic timing. |
| 1,000,000 endurance cycles | Supports frequent recalibration or logging in industrial sensors without premature wear-out concerns. |
Applications
| Microcontroller Configuration Storage | Sensor Calibration Memory |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing boot-time configuration parameters (baud rate, I/O mapping, gain settings) for an automotive engine control unit. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile parameter register accessed at power-up via Microwire interface; supports single-byte or sequential reads. Use Value: Enables field-upgradable firmware without requiring reprogramming of main MCU flash; retains settings across 15+ year vehicle lifespan. |
Use Scenario: Holding factory-trimmed offset/gain coefficients for a MEMS pressure sensor in HVAC equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Read-only memory during sensor initialization; accessed once per power cycle with guaranteed 200-year retention. Use Value: Eliminates need for external trimming components; maintains accuracy across thermal cycling and long-term drift. |
| Industrial PLC I/O Mapping | Medical Device Settings Backup |
Use Scenario: Persisting user-defined I/O assignment tables and alarm thresholds in a programmable logic controller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Write-once-during-setup, read-frequently memory; supports WRAL for full-table updates after firmware upgrades. Use Value: Allows end-user customization without MCU code changes; withstands 1M+ write cycles over 10+ years of maintenance cycles. |
Use Scenario: Backing up therapy parameters (dose, duration, safety limits) in a portable insulin pump. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power, tamper-resistant storage; accessed only during setup or battery replacement; operates down to 2.5 V. Use Value: Meets IEC 62304 Class C software requirements for data integrity; supports battery-backed operation during main power loss. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93LC56B/SN | 128 × 16-bit organization; same VCC range, timing, and package - but incompatible word size and instruction set. | Requires 16-bit MCU data path and modified driver firmware; not drop-in for x8 systems. | Select only if system architecture mandates 16-bit word access and firmware can be updated accordingly. |
| AT25020B-MAU-T | SPI interface (4-wire), 2 Kbit (256 × 8), 1.8–5.5 V, 20 MHz max clock - higher speed but different protocol stack. | Needs SPI peripheral and driver rewrite; lacks ERAL/WRAL atomic operations; no built-in VPOR. | Choose when higher throughput is critical and MCU has spare SPI hardware; verify brown-out resilience separately. |
Compared with 93LC56B/SN and AT25020B-MAU-T, the 93LC56A/SN offers native Microwire compatibility with minimal pin count, integrated power-fail protection, and atomic bulk operations - making it optimal for resource-constrained, safety-aware embedded designs where protocol simplicity and data integrity are prioritized over raw speed.
Availability
93LC56A/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive control units, industrial PLCs, and medical device calibration requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and multi-year production lifecycles.
Supply support for 93LC56A/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, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.
The 93LC56A/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for low-pin-count, low-power, nonvolatile memory in cost-sensitive and thermally demanding embedded applications.
FAQ
What is the memory organization of the 93LC56A/SN?
The 93LC56A/SN has a fixed 256 × 8-bit (2 Kbit) organization with no ORG pin - unlike 'C' variants, it does not support x16 mode. This makes it compatible with 8-bit microcontroller data buses and simplifies driver implementation without configuration dependency.
Does the 93LC56A/SN require an external pull-up resistor on the DO line?
The 93LC56A/SN does not require an external pull-up on DO for standard operation, as it actively drives high/low during READ and Ready/Busy states. However, if DI and DO are wired together (shared bus), a 10 kΩ series resistor is recommended to prevent bus conflict during dummy-zero read phases.
What is the minimum VCC required for reliable write operation in the 93LC56A/SN?
The 93LC56A/SN requires VCC ≥2.5 V for all operations, but reliable erase/write execution demands VCC ≥4.5 V for ERAL and WRAL commands. For standard byte WRITE, 2.5 V is sufficient - confirmed by DC Characteristic D11 (VPOR = 1.5 V) and AC Table A12 (TWC spec applies across full 2.5–5.5 V range).
Can the 93LC56A/SN be used in automotive applications?
Yes - the 93LC56A/SN is qualified for Automotive (E) grade with operating temperature range −40°C to +125°C and meets AEC-Q100 stress test requirements per Microchip's qualification documentation. Its VPOR circuitry and 200-year data retention make it suitable for under-hood and infotainment subsystems.
How does the 93LC56A/SN handle power loss during a write cycle?
The 93LC56A/SN incorporates hardware-level power-loss protection: if VCC drops below 1.5 V (VPOR threshold), all write/erase operations are immediately inhibited and the memory array remains unaltered. No data corruption occurs, and the device resumes normal operation once VCC stabilizes above threshold.
93LC56A/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:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
93LC56A/SN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 93LC56A/SN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 93LC56A/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/SN reliable?
The price and inventory of 93LC56A/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/SN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 93LC56A/SN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 93LC56A/SN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 93LC56A/SN?
93LC56A/SN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 93LC56A/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/SN?
For technical support, including 93LC56A/SN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 93LC56A/SN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 93LC56A/SN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 93LC56A/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/SN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 93LC56A/SN?
All 93LC56A/SN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 93LC56A/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/SN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 93LC56A/SN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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