Microchip Technology 93LC56T-I/SN

Overview

93LC56T-I/SN from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 2 Kbit (256 × 8 or 128 × 16) low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire™ interface, ORG-pin-selectable memory organization, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It operates down to 2.5 V, features self-timed erase/write cycles, and delivers 1,000,000 endurance cycles with >200-year data retention - used for configuration storage in embedded microcontroller systems.

For engineers reviewing the 93LC56T-I/SN datasheet, 93LC56T-I/SN pinout, 93LC56T-I/SN application, or 93LC56T-I/SN equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specs, SOIC-8 pin mapping, real-world use cases, and validated alternative parts for legacy design continuity and supply assurance.

Technical Context

The 93LC56T-I/SN implements a 3-wire synchronous serial interface (CS, CLK, DI/DO) with start-bit detection and opcode-based command execution. Memory organization (x8 or x16) is determined by the logic level on the ORG pin at power-up, and all programming operations require explicit EWEN/EWDS control for data integrity.

It uses CMOS technology with active read current of 100 µA at 2.5 V and standby current as low as 3 µA at 2.5 V. Erase/write timing is self-timed: typical 4 ms per word for ERASE/WRITE, 8 ms for ERAL, and 16 ms for WRAL - all confirmed at VCC = 5 V ±10%.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-lead narrow SOIC (SN) package per JEDEC MS-012, 150-mil width, RoHS-compliant matte tin finish. Pin 1 marked by notch or dot; pin 7 is VSS (ground); pin 8 is VCC (2.5–5.5 V).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.

Compared with 93LC56T-I/SN, the 93LC56C-I/SN offers higher robustness for automotive use but requires validation of timing margins, while the AT25020B-MAHL-T trades Microwire simplicity for faster SPI throughput and broader voltage support - neither is pin- or instruction-compatible.

Availability

93LC56T-I/SN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, automotive body control modules, medical infusion pump settings, and consumer remote control ID storage requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for 93LC56T-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, and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 93LC56T-I/SN belongs to Microchip's legacy Microwire EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-pin-count embedded systems requiring reliable nonvolatile storage with minimal MCU resource usage.

FAQ

What is the memory organization of the 93LC56T-I/SN and how is it selected?

The 93LC56T-I/SN supports two memory organizations: 256 × 8 bits (byte mode) or 128 × 16 bits (word mode), selected by the logic level applied to the ORG pin at power-up. When ORG is tied to VCC, the x16 mode activates; when tied to VSS, the x8 mode activates. This hardware-selectable configuration avoids firmware overhead and ensures deterministic addressing behavior in the 93LC56T-I/SN.

Does the 93LC56T-I/SN require external timing components for erase or write operations?

No, the 93LC56T-I/SN performs fully self-timed erase and write cycles - including auto-erase before write - without external capacitors or clocks. The device initiates internal timing upon the falling edge of CS after instruction completion. Typical durations are 4 ms per word for WRITE/ERASE, 8 ms for ERAL, and 16 ms for WRAL, all confirmed at VCC = 5 V ±10%. This eliminates timing-critical host code in the 93LC56T-I/SN.

How does the 93LC56T-I/SN protect against inadvertent writes during power transitions?

The 93LC56T-I/SN incorporates built-in power-on/off data protection: programming modes are inhibited until VCC rises above 1.4 V, and disabled again when VCC falls below that threshold. Additionally, the device powers up in EWDS (Erase/Write Disable) mode, requiring an explicit EWEN command before any ERASE or WRITE instruction executes - providing dual-layer protection against corruption in the 93LC56T-I/SN.

Can the 93LC56T-I/SN be used with a microcontroller that only supports SPI communication?

The 93LC56T-I/SN uses a proprietary Microwire™ 3-wire interface (CS, CLK, DI/DO), not standard SPI. While its signal timing resembles SPI Mode 0, it lacks dedicated SO/SI lines and relies on start-bit detection and opcode-based command framing. Direct SPI peripheral use is not supported; bit-banged GPIO emulation is required, and the 93LC56T-I/SN must be initialized with correct Microwire-specific opcodes (e.g., 0b10 for READ).

What is the significance of the "T" suffix in 93LC56T-I/SN?

The "T" in 93LC56T-I/SN denotes tape-and-reel packaging - indicating the part is supplied in industry-standard embossed carrier tape on reels, optimized for automated SMT placement. This format differs from the tube-packaged 93LC56-I/SN and ensures consistent feeding, reduced handling damage, and seamless integration into high-volume production lines using the 93LC56T-I/SN.