PIC16C505T-04E/SL - 4MHz 8-bit OTP MCU, 1.5KB EPROM | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C505T-04E/SL β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.85 | $1.85 |
| 10 | $1.62 | $16.20 |
| 100 | $1.38 | $138.00 |
| 500 | $1.18 | $590.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.02 | $1,020.00 |
PIC16C505T-04E/SL Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a small, self-contained computing element built around an 8-bit data path, on-chip program and data memory, peripherals, and a CPU core. It sits within the broader taxonomy of embedded microcontrollers -> microcontrollers and processors -> integrated circuits -> semiconductors. The PIC16C505 belongs to Microchip's mid-range PIC10/12/16 architecture family, which uses a RISC instruction set of only 33 single-word instructions and Harvard memory architecture with separate program and data buses.
Key features of this device include single-cycle execution on 31 instructions (200 ns at 4 MHz), two-cycle branches, a wide operating voltage range of 2.5V to 5.5V, an integrated power-on reset (POR) and brown-out detector, a watchdog timer, an 8-bit real-time clock/counter with 8-bit prescaler, and four interrupt sources. The EPROM program memory is one-time-programmable (OTP) and the device is rated for the industrial -40C to +125C operating range, designated by the "E" suffix in the part number. The "T" suffix indicates tape-and-reel packaging.
Typical applications include low-cost logic replacement, timers, counters, sensor signal conditioning, small appliance controllers, white-goods user interfaces, and any volume-driven consumer or industrial application requiring a compact, deterministic 8-bit controller with low-power CMOS characteristics. The PIC16C505T-04E/SL is well suited to designs that need a small footprint (SOIC-14), modest memory, and Microchip's mature PIC tool chain (MPLAB X, MPASM, XC8).
When designing with this part, consider that EPROM is OTP, so code must be correct on the first wafer-level programming pass - the -04E suffix indicates 4 MHz speed grade with the extended (industrial) temperature grade. For designs that need re-programmability, look at PIC16F505 (Flash) in the same SOIC-14 pinout; for higher endurance and in-circuit programming, prefer the Flash variant.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-family drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet to help engineers select the right part for legacy, EOL, or cost-driven designs.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C505T-04E/SL β same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with PIC16C505T-04E/SL (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Package.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F505T-I/SL
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C505T-04I/SL
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C505T-20I/SL
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C505T-20E/SL
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C505-04E/SL
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.38 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C505T-04E/SL Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC16 (8-bit RISC, 33 single-word instructions) |
| Program Memory | 1.5 KB EPROM (1K x 12 words) |
| RAM | 72 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | Not present (EPROM program only) |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle | 200 ns |
| Number of I/O Pins | 11 |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (industrial, "E" grade) |
| Package | 14-SOIC (0.154", 3.90 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging Form | Tape & Reel (T suffix) |
| Timers | One 8-bit RTCC with 8-bit prescaler |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (independent WDT) |
| Brown-out Reset / POR | Yes |
| Interrupt Sources | 4 (external, RTCC overflow, GPIO change, comparator) |
| I/O Current Source/Sink | 25 mA per pin (typical) |
PIC16C505T-04E/SL Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0 β Bidirectional digital I/O / ICSP data |
| Pin 2 | RA1 β Bidirectional digital I/O |
| Pin 3 | RA2 β Bidirectional digital I/O / ICSP clock |
| Pin 4 | RA3 β Bidirectional digital I/O / MCLR disable |
| Pin 5 | RC4/OSC2 β Digital I/O / oscillator output / CLKOUT |
| Pin 6 | RC5/OSC1 β Digital I/O / oscillator input / CLKIN |
| Pin 7 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | RC3 β Bidirectional digital I/O |
| Pin 9 | RC2 β Bidirectional digital I/O |
| Pin 10 | RC1 β Bidirectional digital I/O |
| Pin 11 | RC0 β Bidirectional digital I/O |
| Pin 12 | RB5 β Bidirectional digital I/O |
| Pin 13 | RB4/MCLR/VPP β Digital I/O / Master Clear (reset) / programming voltage |
| Pin 14 | VDD β Positive supply voltage |
Typical Applications
PIC16C505T-04E/SL is suitable for 6 applications: Logic Replacement and Glue Logic, Small Appliance Controllers, Sensor Signal Conditioning and Counters, White Goods User Interface and HMI, Battery-Operated Timer and Wake-Up Controllers, Industrial Control Glue and Legacy Replacement.
Logic Replacement and Glue Logic
The PIC16C505T-04E/SL is ideal as a software-replacement for 74-series discrete logic gates in volume designs. Its 11 digital I/O lines, 200 ns instruction cycle, and 1.5 KB EPROM allow a single chip to replace dozens of discrete gates, simplifying PCB layout and reducing BOM count. The 4 MHz clock and 33-instruction RISC core deliver deterministic responses to sensor inputs in <1 us, while the 2.5V-5.5V supply range lets the MCU drop directly into existing 3.3V or 5V logic rails. Compared to fixed-function logic, designers can change functionality in firmware without re-spinning the PCB - a strong fit for low-cost consumer and industrial control boards where the BOM and PCB area are tightly constrained.
Recommended
Small Appliance Controllers
The PIC16C505T-04E/SL fits small appliance control boards (coffee makers, toaster ovens, fans, kitchen timers) where compact PCB, low cost, and reliable timing matter more than rich peripherals. The on-chip 8-bit RTCC with prescaler handles timing and PWM-based element control directly, while the watchdog timer protects against firmware lockup in unattended household environments. Industrial temperature grade (-40C to +125C) supports under-counter and outdoor enclosures. The 11 I/O directly drive LEDs, optocouplers, and TRIAC trigger circuits up to 25 mA per pin, eliminating buffer transistors in cost-sensitive designs. OTP EPROM is acceptable here because appliance firmware is rarely updated after release, and the EPROM die is cheaper than Flash.
Recommended
Sensor Signal Conditioning and Counters
Use the PIC16C505T-04E/SL to count pulses, debounce switches, or condition low-speed digital sensors in industrial automation. Its 8-bit RTCC and external interrupt (INT) edge-triggered input support pulse counting up to several kHz with no external hardware, and the 72-byte RAM buffer is sufficient for short histograms. The PIC16C505T-04E/SL's deterministic 200 ns instruction cycle produces consistent latency that simplifies control-loop design. Industrial temperature grade and watchdog timer are valuable on factory floors where electrical noise and ambient heat challenge less robust controllers. Compared with discrete counter ICs (e.g., 4017, 4521), the PIC16C505T-04E/SL provides configurable counting modes, programmable debounce, and serial reporting in one package.
Recommended
White Goods User Interface and HMI
The PIC16C505T-04E/SL's 11 I/O drive multiplexed 7-segment displays, LED indicators, and keypads in washing machines, microwaves, and air-conditioner front panels. Its 200 ns cycle and software PWM modulate LED brightness or multiplexed display refresh without external drivers up to 7-8 digits, and the EPROM OTP memory is appropriate because UI code rarely changes after release. The 5.5V max VDD means the device runs directly from the 5V rail that powers the LED array, simplifying the power tree. Industrial temperature grade (-40C to +125C) tolerates oven-door heat and freezer cold without derating. Compared with character-LCD controllers, the PIC16C505T-04E/SL can drive either 7-segment or LED matrix displays with firmware-only changes.
Recommended
Battery-Operated Timer and Wake-Up Controllers
In battery-powered timer modules, wireless remote controls, or wake-up controllers, the PIC16C505T-04E/SL offers low-power CMOS operation across 2.5V to 5.5V. Its fully static core allows the clock to be stopped during sleep and restarted via watchdog timer overflow or external interrupt, dramatically extending battery life in standby. The integrated brown-out detector holds the device in reset during weak-battery conditions, preventing erroneous outputs that could damage downstream hardware. Compared with discrete 555-timer or RTC chip designs, the PIC16C505T-04E/SL provides flexible timing modes, multiple wake sources, and digital I/O in a single SOIC-14 footprint, reducing both PCB area and BOM cost.
Recommended
Industrial Control Glue and Legacy Replacement
For legacy industrial control boards, the PIC16C505T-04E/SL replaces obsolete PIC16C54/55/56/57 parts and discrete logic on aging equipment. Its PIC16 RISC architecture maintains instruction-set compatibility with Microchip's mid-range parts, simplifying firmware migration. Industrial temperature grade (-40C to +125C), brown-out reset, and watchdog timer deliver the robustness required on factory floors. The SOIC-14 package matches the footprint of the original PIC16C5x series, allowing PCB re-use without layout changes. Compared with modern Cortex-M0 MCUs, the PIC16C505T-04E/SL is lower cost, easier to program with the classic PIC toolchain, and uses less PCB area for less demanding control tasks.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C505T-04E/SL β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F505T-I/SL | PIC16C505T-04I/SL | PIC16C505T-20I/SL | PIC16C505T-20E/SL | PIC16C505-04E/SL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 14-SOIC (SL) | 14-SOIC (SL) - same | 14-SOIC (SL) - same | 14-SOIC (SL) - same | 14-SOIC (SL) - same | 14-SOIC (SL) - same |
| Program Memory Type | 1.5 KB EPROM (OTP) | 1.5 KB Flash (reprogrammable) | 1.5 KB EPROM (OTP) | 1.5 KB EPROM (OTP) | 1.5 KB EPROM (OTP) | 1.5 KB EPROM (OTP) |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 4 MHz | 20 MHz (Flash version) | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (E grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) | -40C to +125C (E grade) | -40C to +125C (E grade) |
| RAM | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | Active | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND |
Key Differentiators
- OTP EPROM at the lowest cost per part in the PIC16C505 family (vs PIC16F505T-I/SL)
- Extended -40C to +125C temperature grade available with EPROM (vs PIC16C505T-04I/SL)
- Drop-in pin-compatible with PIC16F505T-I/SL (vs PIC16F505T-I/SL)
Design Notes
PIC16C505T-04E/SL operates from 2.5V to 5.5V; use a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin and a bulk capacitor (1-10 uF) on the supply rail to suppress switching noise. Brown-out reset (BOR) holds the device in reset when VDD dips, but external noise on the supply can still cause spurious resets - place the bulk cap close to the regulator output. Estimated: at 4 MHz and 5V supply, typical I_DD is roughly 1.7 mA per the PIC16C505 datasheet; in sleep mode this drops to <1 uA, which is useful for battery-powered designs.
Place the external oscillator crystal/ceramic resonator and its load capacitors as close as possible to pins 5 (OSC2) and 6 (OSC1). Keep traces short and surrounded by ground pour to minimize EMI pickup. The MCLR/VPP pin (pin 13) requires a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD; a 100 nF capacitor to VSS on MCLR can be added if the application has noisy reset conditions. Maintain a ground pour under the SOIC-14 footprint and use a star-ground topology if the board mixes analog and digital grounds.
OTP EPROM cannot be erased - any firmware bug after wafer programming is permanent and requires a new mask or new parts. For development, prototype with the Flash-based PIC16F505 in the same SOIC-14 pinout, then switch to PIC16C505T-04E/SL for production. Watch the configuration word (oscillator, watchdog, MCLR enable) carefully; a wrong config word can disable reset or pin functionality. The 4 MHz speed grade is the minimum-clocked version - if you need faster execution (e.g., tighter timing loops), use the -20 (20 MHz) variant.
Compliance Information
RoHS status not confirmed in verified data; mark as unknown. Lead-free is typical for SOIC-14 Microchip PIC MCUs but not explicitly confirmed in the verified datasheet. AEC-Q100 qualification not present; this part is not automotive-grade.
