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CAT93C56VI-GT3 Equivalent & Substitute Parts
Part Overview
The CAT93C56VI-GT3 is a 2Kbit EEPROM memory IC manufactured by onsemi, featuring Microwire interface protocol and 8-SOIC surface mount packaging. This device operates across a wide supply voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V and supports memory organization of 256 x 8 or 128 x 16 bits. The part is currently classified as obsolete, making equivalent and substitute parts essential for ongoing system support and new design implementations.
Substiute Parts
Key Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Memory Type | Non-Volatile EEPROM |
| Memory Size | 2Kbit |
| Memory Organization | 256 x 8, 128 x 16 |
| Memory Interface | Microwire |
| Clock Frequency | 2 MHz |
| Voltage Supply Range | 1.8V ~ 5.5V |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C |
| Package Type | 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | ROHS3 Compliant |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level | 1 (Unlimited) |
Substitute Part Grouping Explanation
Substitution for the CAT93C56VI-GT3 is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:
Core Compatibility Requirements:
- Memory capacity: 2Kbit
- Memory interface: Microwire protocol
- Package type: 8-SOIC form factor
- Mounting type: Surface mount
- Memory organization: 256 x 8 or 128 x 16 bits
Voltage and Temperature Considerations: Substitute parts must support the minimum voltage requirement of 1.8V supply and maintain operation within the -40°C to 85°C temperature range. Parts with extended voltage ranges (2.5V minimum) or extended temperature ranges (-40°C to 125°C) are functionally compatible but represent enhanced specifications.
Clock Frequency Variations: The main part operates at 2 MHz. Substitute parts operating at 3 MHz are backward compatible, as higher clock frequencies support lower-speed applications. Write cycle time differences do not affect substitutability when the interface protocol and memory capacity remain constant.
Packaging and Compliance: All substitute parts maintain 8-SOIC packaging, ROHS3 compliance, and MSL 1 rating, ensuring mechanical and environmental compatibility.
Parameter Comparison
| Part Number | Manufacturer | Memory Size | Clock Frequency | Voltage Supply | Operating Temperature | Write Cycle Time | Product Status | Packaging |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAT93C56VI-GT3 | onsemi | 2Kbit | 2 MHz | 1.8V ~ 5.5V | -40°C ~ 85°C | — | Obsolete | Tube |
| CAV93C56VE-GT3 | onsemi | 2Kbit | 2 MHz | 2.5V ~ 5.5V | -40°C ~ 125°C | — | Active | Tape & Reel |
| 93AA56-I/SN | Microchip Technology | 2Kbit | 2 MHz | 1.8V ~ 5.5V | -40°C ~ 85°C | 10ms | Active | Tube |
| 93AA56C-I/SN | Microchip Technology | 2Kbit | 3 MHz | 1.8V ~ 5.5V | -40°C ~ 85°C | 6ms | Active | Tube |
| 93AA56CT-I/SN | Microchip Technology | 2Kbit | 3 MHz | 1.8V ~ 5.5V | -40°C ~ 85°C | 6ms | Active | Tape & Reel |
| 93AA56CX-I/SN | Microchip Technology | 2Kbit | 3 MHz | 1.8V ~ 5.5V | -40°C ~ 85°C | 6ms | Active | Tube |
| 93AA56CXT-I/SN | Microchip Technology | 2Kbit | 3 MHz | 1.8V ~ 5.5V | -40°C ~ 85°C | 6ms | Active | Tape & Reel |
| 93AA56T-I/SN | Microchip Technology | 2Kbit | 2 MHz | 1.8V ~ 5.5V | -40°C ~ 85°C | 10ms | Active | Tape & Reel |
| 93AA56T/SN | Microchip Technology | 2Kbit | 2 MHz | 1.8V ~ 5.5V | -40°C ~ 85°C | 10ms | Active | Tape & Reel |
| 93C56C-E/SN | Microchip Technology | 2Kbit | 3 MHz | 4.5V ~ 5.5V | -40°C ~ 125°C | 2ms | Active | Tube |
| 93C56C-I/SN | Microchip Technology | 2Kbit | 3 MHz | 4.5V ~ 5.5V | -40°C ~ 85°C | 2ms | Active | Tube |
Engineering Selection Recommendations
Primary Substitutes (Exact Specification Match): The 93AA56-I/SN and 93AA56T-I/SN from Microchip Technology provide direct functional equivalence to the CAT93C56VI-GT3. Both maintain identical voltage supply range (1.8V ~ 5.5V), operating temperature (-40°C ~ 85°C), clock frequency (2 MHz), and 8-SOIC packaging. These parts are active products with verified programmability status.
Enhanced Specification Alternatives: The 93AA56C-I/SN, 93AA56CT-I/SN, 93AA56CX-I/SN, and 93AA56CXT-I/SN variants operate at 3 MHz with improved write cycle times (6ms versus 10ms). These parts maintain full backward compatibility with the original specification while offering performance enhancements. Selection between tube and tape & reel packaging depends on production volume requirements.
Extended Temperature Range Option: The CAV93C56VE-GT3 from onsemi extends the operating temperature range to -40°C ~ 125°C and is available in active product status. This part is suitable for applications requiring enhanced thermal performance, though it specifies a minimum supply voltage of 2.5V rather than 1.8V.
Restricted Voltage Range Alternatives: The 93C56C-E/SN and 93C56C-I/SN are limited to 4.5V ~ 5.5V supply voltage and are suitable only for applications that do not require operation below 4.5V. These parts offer faster write cycle times (2ms) and extended temperature range (-40°C ~ 125°C for the E variant).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a 3 MHz part as a substitute for the 2 MHz CAT93C56VI-GT3?
A: Yes. The 93AA56C-I/SN, 93AA56CT-I/SN, 93AA56CX-I/SN, and 93AA56CXT-I/SN operate at 3 MHz and are fully compatible. Higher clock frequency parts support lower-speed applications without functional degradation.
Q: What is the difference between tube and tape & reel packaging?
A: Tube packaging is suitable for lower-volume applications and manual assembly. Tape & reel packaging is designed for automated pick-and-place assembly in high-volume production. Both formats contain identical die and electrical specifications.
Q: Does the CAV93C56VE-GT3 require circuit modifications?
A: The CAV93C56VE-GT3 specifies a minimum supply voltage of 2.5V compared to 1.8V for the original part. If your application operates below 2.5V, this substitute is not suitable. For applications operating at 2.5V or higher, no circuit modifications are required.
Q: Are the 93C56C-E/SN and 93C56C-I/SN suitable for my design?
A: These parts are suitable only if your application operates within the 4.5V ~ 5.5V supply voltage range. They are not compatible with lower voltage applications. Verify your circuit's minimum supply voltage requirement before selection.
Q: What is the significance of the write cycle time difference?
A: Write cycle time indicates the duration required to complete a single write operation. The 93AA56 series (10ms) and 93C56C series (2ms) differ in write performance. For most applications, this difference does not affect system functionality, as write operations are typically infrequent. Select based on your application's write frequency requirements.
Q: Can I mix different substitute parts in the same production batch?
A: All listed substitutes maintain identical pinout, package footprint, and Microwire interface protocol. Mixing different part numbers is electrically feasible but not recommended for production consistency. Standardize on a single part number per design revision.
Q: Is the onsemi CAV93C56VE-GT3 preferable to Microchip alternatives?
A: Selection depends on application requirements. The CAV93C56VE-GT3 offers active product status and extended temperature range but requires minimum 2.5V supply. Microchip 93AA56 series variants provide wider voltage range (1.8V minimum) and active product status. Choose based on your specific voltage and temperature requirements.
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