Microchip Technology 93LC76/P

Overview

93LC76/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is an 8K-bit (1024 × 8 or 512 × 16) low-voltage serial EEPROM with Microwire-compatible 3-wire interface, single-supply operation down to 2.5V, 1 mA typical active current, and 5 µA typical standby current at 3.0V. It features ORG-pin-selectable memory organization, self-timed erase/write cycles, and integrated power-on/off data protection - deployed in embedded system configuration storage, sensor calibration data retention, and industrial controller parameter backup.

For engineers reviewing the 93LC76/P datasheet, 93LC76/P pinout, 93LC76/P application, or 93LC76/P equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed timing parameters (e.g., 3 MHz max clock at VCC ≥ 4.5V), real-world use cases, and two documented alternative parts with explicit functional and application-level differences.

Technical Context

The 93LC76/P implements a synchronous serial Microwire interface with CS/CLK/DI/DO signaling, supporting x8 or x16 organization via the ORG pin. Its internal logic includes address decoder, data register, counter, and mode decode generator - enabling sequential read, ERAL (Erase All), WRAL (Write All), and status polling via DO pin during programming.

It uses CMOS technology with on-chip power-up/down protection (inhibits programming below 1.4V), EWEN/EWDS command-based write-enable control, and automatic ERAL before WRAL execution. The device operates across commercial (0°C to +70°C) and industrial (–40°C to +85°C) temperature ranges in 8-pin PDIP package.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-pin PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package), 300-mil body width, through-hole mounting. Pin 1 marked by notch or dot; pin numbering counterclockwise from top-left corner when viewed from top with notch left.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 93LC76/P, the 93LC76C-I/P offers identical functionality with tighter timing tolerances and broader temperature qualification, while the 25LC080A-I/P trades Microwire compatibility for higher speed and SPI ecosystem alignment - neither is pin-compatible, and both require firmware and layout adjustments.

Availability

93LC76/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC configuration storage, automotive sensor calibration data retention, and medical device setup parameter backup requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for 93LC76/P 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 U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and nonvolatile memory solutions for embedded control applications.

The 93LC76/P belongs to Microchip's legacy Microwire serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power, and space-constrained systems requiring simple 3-wire configuration storage with hardware write protection.

FAQ

What is the memory organization flexibility of the 93LC76/P?

The 93LC76/P supports dual memory configurations: 1024 × 8-bit (x8) when ORG is tied to VSS, or 512 × 16-bit (x16) when ORG is tied to VCC. An internal pull-up ensures x16 mode if ORG is left unconnected. This allows the same 93LC76/P device to serve either byte-addressed or word-addressed firmware storage needs without changing the part number or PCB layout.

How does the 93LC76/P handle write protection?

The 93LC76/P uses two independent hardware mechanisms: the PE (Program Enable) pin and the EWEN/EWDS instruction sequence. Tying PE to VSS permanently disables all erase/write operations, while software-controlled EWEN enables programming until EWDS is issued or power is cycled. Both methods protect against accidental writes - critical for maintaining calibrated sensor data or safety-critical configuration values in the 93LC76/P.

What is the role of the DO pin during programming cycles in the 93LC76/P?

In the 93LC76/P, the DO pin serves dual roles: it outputs read data during READ instructions and provides real-time Ready/Busy status during erase/write operations. When CS is high and a programming cycle is active, DO outputs low while busy and transitions high upon completion - enabling polling-based synchronization without additional status registers or interrupts, simplifying firmware design for the 93LC76/P.

Does the 93LC76/P support sequential read, and how is it implemented?

Yes, the 93LC76/P supports sequential read: when CS remains high and CLK continues toggling after a READ instruction, the internal address pointer automatically increments and outputs subsequent memory locations. This eliminates the need to reissue the READ command and address for each byte/word - reducing bus overhead and accelerating bulk configuration retrieval in systems using the 93LC76/P.

Why is the 93LC76/P marked "Not recommended for new designs"?

The 93LC76/P is marked "Not recommended for new designs" because Microchip has superseded it with the 93LC76C series, which features improved AC timing specifications, enhanced ESD robustness (4 kV HBM), and extended qualification across industrial temperature ranges. While the 93LC76/P remains fully functional and supported for legacy production, new designs should use 93LC76C-I/P or newer alternatives to ensure long-term supply and compliance with current reliability standards.