Microchip Technology 93LC76C-I/MS

Overview

93LC76C-I/MS from Microchip Technology Inc. is an 8Kbit, low-voltage, serial Microwire-compatible EEPROM with user-selectable 8-bit or 16-bit word organization via the ORG pin, program enable (PE) write protection, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). It operates from 2.5V to 5.5V, supports self-timed erase/write cycles, and delivers 1 million endurance cycles with >200 years data retention - used in embedded system configuration storage and calibration data logging.

For engineers reviewing the 93LC76C-I/MS datasheet, 93LC76C-I/MS pinout, 93LC76C-I/MS application, or 93LC76C-I/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC operating range (2.5–5.5V), ORG/PE pin dependency for memory configuration and write-enable control, Ready/Busy status polling via DO, sequential read capability, and MSOP-8 package compatibility with space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The 93LC76C-I/MS implements a synchronous 3-wire Microwire interface (CS, CLK, DI/DO) with start-bit detection and opcode-based command execution. Memory organization (x8/x16) is dynamically selected by the logic level on the ORG pin, while the PE pin must be driven high to permit erase/write operations - both pins are exclusive to the 'C' variant.

It features automatic ERAL before WRAL, power-on/off data protection, and device status signaling via DO pin (Ready/Busy). All programming modes require prior EWEN instruction, and the device powers up in EWDS (write-disabled) state - ensuring robust immunity against accidental writes during power transitions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package), 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, exposed pad optional (VSS or floating), Pb-free Matte Tin finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 93LC76B-I/MS and AT25080B-MAU-10, the 93LC76C-I/MS uniquely combines hardware-selectable word size, dedicated write-enable control, and Microwire compatibility - making it optimal for mixed-architecture designs requiring both 8-bit and 16-bit firmware support without layout or driver changes.

Availability

93LC76C-I/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, medical device configuration, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for 93LC76C-I/MS 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, specializing in embedded control and connectivity technologies.

The 93LC76C belongs to Microchip's legacy 93XX serial EEPROM family, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power, nonvolatile data storage in resource-constrained embedded systems with Microwire-compatible host interfaces.

FAQ

What is the function of the ORG pin on the 93LC76C-I/MS?

The ORG pin on the 93LC76C-I/MS selects memory word size: logic high configures the device as 512 × 16-bit, and logic low configures it as 1024 × 8-bit. This pin is absent on 'A' and 'B' variants and must be externally biased - it has no internal pull-up or pull-down. The 93LC76C-I/MS uses this pin to maintain backward compatibility with both 8-bit and 16-bit microcontroller architectures without requiring separate part numbers.

How does the PE pin protect against accidental writes in the 93LC76C-I/MS?

The PE (Program Enable) pin on the 93LC76C-I/MS must be driven high to allow any erase or write operation; tying it low disables all programming functions permanently until PE is asserted. Unlike software locks, this hardware-level protection remains active during power transients, brown-outs, or MCU resets - ensuring the 93LC76C-I/MS array cannot be corrupted even if firmware executes errant commands.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 93LC76C-I/MS at 3.3V operation?

At VCC = 3.3V (within the 2.5–5.5V range), the 93LC76C-I/MS supports a maximum clock frequency of 2 MHz, as specified in Table 1-2 (A1 parameter, 2.5V ≤ VCC < 4.5V). Exceeding this limit risks setup/hold violations and unreliable command execution - system designers must configure the host controller's serial clock generator accordingly for stable 93LC76C-I/MS communication.

Does the 93LC76C-I/MS require an external pull-up resistor on the DO pin?

No, the 93LC76C-I/MS does not require an external pull-up on the DO pin. The output buffer actively drives high or low during read/status cycles and enters High-Z when inactive (e.g., after CS goes low). However, if DI and DO are shorted (shared bus configuration), a series resistor (~1 kΩ) is recommended to prevent bus contention when A0 = high during the dummy zero phase of read operations - per Section 2.2 of the 93LC76C-I/MS datasheet.

Can the 93LC76C-I/MS be used in automotive applications requiring AEC-Q200 qualification?

The 93LC76C-I/MS is rated for Industrial temperature (–40°C to +85°C) and is not AEC-Q200 qualified. For automotive applications, Microchip offers the 93LC76C-E/MS variant ('E' suffix), which is qualified to AEC-Q200 Grade 2 (–40°C to +105°C) and undergoes additional stress testing. The 93LC76C-I/MS should only be deployed in automotive subsystems outside the engine compartment or cabin air control modules where ambient temperatures remain within its specified industrial range.