PIC16C54-H5I/SO - 8-Bit 20MHz OTP MCU | Microchip | 18-SOIC
MPN: PIC16C54-H5I/SO ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5.24 | $5.24 |
| 10 | $4.95 | $49.50 |
| 100 | $4.5 | $450.00 |
| 500 | $4.1 | $2,050.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.75 | $3,750.00 |
PIC16C54-H5I/SO Overview
An OTP microcontroller (One-Time-Programmable) is a class of non-volatile programmable logic device whose program memory is implemented using EPROM cells; once written, the code cannot be erased or rewritten, which makes these parts cost-optimized for high-volume production of fixed-function embedded products. PIC microcontrollers sit within the broader taxonomy: microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC, and they remain one of the most widely deployed 8-bit architectures in industrial, automotive, and consumer products.
Key features include a 20MHz clock input, 768 bytes (512 x 12 words) of OTP program memory, 32 bytes of data RAM, 12 bidirectional I/O lines, an 8-bit timer/counter with 8-bit prescaler, power-on reset (POR), watchdog timer (WDT), and an operating voltage range suited to 3V to 5.5V systems. The wide operating temperature range of -40C to +85C (industrial grade, indicated by the 'I' suffix) supports harsh-environment deployment.
The PIC16C5x architecture uses a Harvard design with separate program and data buses, enabling concurrent instruction fetch and operand access. The 12-bit instruction word is compact, and every instruction (except branches) executes in a single 200ns instruction cycle at 20MHz. The H5 speed variant indicates 20MHz maximum clock, with low-power CMOS construction that minimizes current draw in standby.
Typical applications include appliance control, smart sensors, industrial timers, simple motor control, LED lighting controllers, and low-cost remote-control transmitters. Because the PIC16C54 uses OTP memory rather than flash, it is best suited to mature, finalized firmware where code updates are not anticipated during the product lifecycle.
When designing with this part, ensure the MCLR reset circuit includes a 10k pull-up and decoupling of 100nF at VDD within 1 cm of the pin; the OSC1/OSC2 crystal or resonator choice must match the H5 speed grade to guarantee 20MHz stable oscillation across the -40C to +85C range.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-family alternatives, and practical design notes drawn from Microchip's PIC16C5x datasheet family, providing decision support that goes beyond what any single distributor page offers.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C54-H5I/SO — 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 PIC16C54-H5I/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory Size, Program Memory Type, Operating Temperature, Watchdog Timer.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C54-H5I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54C-20I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.15 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54CT-20I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54AT-20/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.15 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54A-20I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.15 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F54-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C54-H5I/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC (Harvard) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time-Programmable EPROM) |
| Program Memory Size | 768 bytes (512 x 12 words) |
| RAM Size | 32 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns at 20 MHz |
| I/O Pins | 12 |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit (TMR0) with 8-bit prescaler |
| Instruction Set Size | 33 single-word single-cycle instructions |
| Operating Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) |
| Package | 18-pin SOIC (SO), 300-mil |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (WDT, on-chip RC) |
| Power-on Reset | Yes |
| Brown-out Reset | No |
| Speed Grade | H5 (20 MHz) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16C54-H5I/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Port A bit 2 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Port A bit 3 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 3 | RA4/T0CKI — Port A bit 4 / Timer 0 clock input |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master Clear reset (active low) |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 7 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 8 | RB0 — Port B bit 0 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 9 | RB1 — Port B bit 1 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 10 | RB2 — Port B bit 2 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 11 | RB3 — Port B bit 3 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 12 | RB4 — Port B bit 4 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 13 | RB5 — Port B bit 5 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 14 | RB6 — Port B bit 6 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 15 | RB7 — Port B bit 7 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 16 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.0-5.5V) |
| Pin 17 | RA0 — Port A bit 0 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 18 | RA1 — Port A bit 1 (bidirectional I/O) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C54-H5I/SO is suitable for 7 applications: Appliance Control Board, Industrial Timer and Counter, Smart Sensor Front-End, LED Lighting Controller, Remote Control Transmitter, Automotive Aftermarket Accessory, Hobbyist and Educational Trainer.
Appliance Control Board
The PIC16C54-H5I/SO fits appliance control boards (washers, microwaves, dishwashers) because its 20MHz RISC core provides enough throughput for motor-control PWM loops and user-interface scanning in a single chip. The 12 bidirectional I/O pins directly drive 7-segment indicators, relay coils, and key-matrix inputs without external buffers, and each pin's 20mA sink capability supports LED arrays. With 768 bytes of OTP program memory, the firmware for fixed-function appliance behavior fits comfortably. The -40C to +85C industrial temperature range handles the thermal stress of a kitchen or laundry environment, while the PIC16C5x Harvard architecture guarantees deterministic sub-microsecond interrupt response needed for safety shutoff timers.
Recommended
Industrial Timer and Counter
For industrial interval timers, event counters, and process-trigger modules, the PIC16C54-H5I/SO provides a deterministic 200ns instruction cycle and an on-chip 8-bit timer with an 8-bit prescaler. Its watchdog timer adds robustness against firmware lockup in unattended equipment, and the power-on reset ensures clean startup after brownout events common on factory floors. The 32-byte RAM holds counters, debounce state machines, and LED multiplexing buffers. OTP memory suits mature timing products whose firmware has been validated and frozen. The 18-SOIC footprint also simplifies conformal-coated PCB assembly because the SOIC leads are easier to clean than DIP versions used on legacy designs.
Recommended
Smart Sensor Front-End
The PIC16C54-H5I/SO serves as a low-cost sensor-conditioning front-end, scanning 12 digital inputs from limit switches, photointerrupters, or Hall sensors and producing a clean logic-level output. Its 20MHz CPU rate lets the firmware implement debouncing, hysteresis, and linearization in software, eliminating analog filter components. The 32-byte RAM handles the state tables, while the 768-byte OTP memory stores calibration constants and product-specific mapping curves. The CMOS construction draws only a few mA at full speed, making the part appropriate for solar or battery-powered wireless sensor nodes that spend most of the time in sleep and wake briefly for measurement cycles.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controller
The PIC16C54-H5I/SO is well suited to LED driver and lighting controllers where PWM dimming and pattern generation are required. Its 20MHz instruction rate supports multiplexed LED matrix scanning at refresh rates above 100Hz to eliminate visible flicker. Each I/O pin can sink 20mA, directly driving small LED segments, while larger arrays are driven by external MOSFETs gated from the PIC. The OTP memory prevents accidental field reprogramming that might invalidate safety or photometric certifications. Operating from 3.0V to 5.5V, the part accepts both 3.3V logic-level commands and 5V LED string voltages, simplifying the power tree in architectural and signage lighting.
Recommended
Remote Control Transmitter
For IR/RF remote-control transmitters in consumer electronics, the PIC16C54-H5I/SO offers low cost, low power, and enough I/O for 4x4 key-matrix scanning without external logic. Its 20MHz core generates accurate 38kHz or 40kHz carrier frequencies for IR protocols such as RC5 and NEC using timer-driven interrupts. Sleep current is microamp-level when the key-matrix wake-up line is idle, extending battery life in handheld remotes. The 768-byte OTP stores the device protocol table and manufacturer code, which is sufficient for universal remote designs. The 18-SOIC package is small enough for thin remote housings and reflow-compatible for high-volume assembly.
Recommended
Automotive Aftermarket Accessory
The PIC16C54-H5I/SO is used in automotive aftermarket accessories (alarm add-ons, gauge drivers, light controllers) where mature OTP silicon and proven -40C to +85C operation outweigh the need for in-field firmware updates. Its 20MHz core and 12 I/O pins drive relays, FETs, and status LEDs in compact under-dash modules. The 33-instruction RISC architecture simplifies the qualification of firmware for automotive EMC and ESD tests because deterministic timing eliminates compiler-introduced jitter. While the part is NRND, the long-term automotive aftermarket supply chain continues to source PIC16C5x inventory, and the same 18-SOIC footprint supports a migration path to PIC16F54-I/SO for next-generation designs.
Recommended
Hobbyist and Educational Trainer
The PIC16C54-H5I/SO remains a popular part on educational trainer boards and hobbyist kits because of its simple 33-instruction RISC architecture, well-documented instruction set, and predictable timing. Students learn assembly-level embedded programming on this part before moving to more complex PIC16F or PIC18 devices. The 18-SOIC package fits breadboard-adapter PCBs, and the 20MHz clocking supports real-time demonstrations of timers, interrupts, and I/O control. The OTP program memory means student projects are committed permanently, which is appropriate for take-home lab kits but limits reuse; instructors typically pair PIC16C54 trainers with flash-based PIC16F54 dev kits for iterative coursework.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C54-H5I/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C54C-20I/SO | PIC16C54CT-20I/SO | PIC16C54AT-20/SO | PIC16C54A-20I/SO | PIC16F54-I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 18-SOIC | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM (512 x 12) | OTP EPROM (512 x 12) | OTP EPROM (512 x 12) | OTP EPROM (512 x 12) | OTP EPROM (512 x 12) | Flash (reprogrammable) |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| RAM Size | 32 bytes | 32 bytes | 32 bytes | 32 bytes | 32 bytes | 32 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Operating Voltage | 3.0 V to 5.5 V | 3.0 V to 5.5 V | 3.0 V to 5.5 V | 3.0 V to 5.5 V | 3.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V (wider) |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | 0 C to +70 C (commercial) | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C |
| In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) | No (OTP only) | No (OTP only) | No (OTP only) | No (OTP only) | No (OTP only) | Yes (Flash, ICSP) |
Key Differentiators
- 20MHz H5 speed grade headroom (vs PIC16C54C-04I/SO (4 MHz C-grade))
- Field-upgradable flash alternative (vs PIC16F54-I/SO (Flash variant))
- Cross-family pin compatibility (vs PIC16C55/56/57/58A)
Design Notes
Place a 100nF ceramic decoupling capacitor as close as possible (within 1 cm) to the VDD pin (16) and a bulk 10uF tantalum or aluminum capacitor at the board's power entry. The PIC16C5x core draws a few mA at 20MHz and spikes during I/O transitions; without local decoupling, voltage droops can cause code runaway or POR events. For battery-powered designs, switching the oscillator to a lower frequency (e.g., 32kHz watch crystal) drops supply current into the microamp range, extending battery life substantially.
Route the MCLR pin (4) with a 10k pull-up to VDD and, for noisy industrial environments, add a 100nF capacitor from MCLR to VSS to filter ESD strikes. Keep the OSC1/OSC2 traces short (under 1 cm) and surround them with a ground guard ring to reduce EMI pickup. The 18-SOIC land pattern should follow IPC-7351 nominal density to ensure reliable solder joints, especially because the SOIC gull-wing leads are more sensitive to thermal stress than PDIP packages during rework.
Do not assume OTP memory can be erased or rewritten - it cannot. Once programmed, PIC16C54 firmware is permanent, so always validate code on a PIC16F54 flash equivalent (same pinout) before committing to OTP production. Also, the H5 speed grade is the only one supporting 20MHz; PIC16C54-04 (4MHz) and PIC16C54-10 (10MHz) variants look pin-identical but will fail timing-critical loops at 20MHz. Always confirm the dash-number ordering code matches the speed grade required by your firmware timing analysis.
Estimated: At 20MHz and 5.0V VDD with all 12 I/O pins switching at 50% duty, the dynamic supply current is approximately 10mA, leading to 50mW power dissipation and a junction temperature rise of roughly 4 C above ambient (assuming 80 C/W theta_JA for SOIC-18). Thermal management is therefore not a constraint for typical 18-SOIC designs, but designers should derate at ambient temperatures above 70 C because the part's 125 C absolute maximum junction rating has only 55 C margin at 85 C ambient.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per distributor listings. Industrial temperature grade (-40C to +85C) is qualified for non-automotive harsh environments; for AEC-Q100 automotive qualification, consider PIC16F54-E/SO flash variants or higher-tier PIC18 devices.
