PIC16C54-HS/SS - 8-Bit EPROM MCU 20MHz | Microchip Technology
MPN: PIC16C54-HS/SS ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.3398 | $1.34 |
| 10 | $1.21 | $12.10 |
| 100 | $1.05 | $105.00 |
| 500 | $0.92 | $460.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.81 | $810.00 |
PIC16C54-HS/SS Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller is a small computer-on-a-chip integrating a CPU, RAM, ROM/EPROM program memory, and peripherals such as timers and I/O ports onto a single die. The PIC16C5X family belongs to the broader category of microcontrollers (MCU), which sit within the integrated circuit hierarchy: microcontroller -> microprocessor -> semiconductor device -> electronic component. These MCUs are used wherever embedded logic, simple control loops, or glue logic replacement are needed in cost-sensitive designs.
Key features of the PIC16C54-HS/SS include a two-level deep hardware stack for subroutine nesting, an 8-bit real-time clock/counter (TMR0) with 8-bit prescaler, direct/indirect/relative addressing modes for data and instructions, and seven or eight special function hardware registers. Its RISC architecture delivers roughly an order-of-magnitude higher performance than competing 8-bit MCUs at the same price point, with 12-bit-wide instructions providing 2:1 code compression versus 8-bit instruction MCUs.
The PIC16C54 utilizes a fully-static CMOS process with EPROM program memory, allowing UV-eraseable reprogramming during development. The 12-bit instruction word and 8-bit data path are asymmetric by design - a hallmark of the PIC architecture that simplifies decoding and enables single-cycle execution. Power-saving SLEEP mode and a watchdog timer (on derivative parts) further enhance field reliability for unattended applications.
Typical applications for this part include simple logic replacement in white goods and appliances, automotive sub-system controllers (under-hood lighting, seat controllers), industrial timer/counter modules, remote control transmitters, security keypads, low-end toys and educational hardware, and battery-powered sensor reading nodes. The 20-pin SSOP package offers a compact footprint suitable for space-constrained designs.
When designing with the PIC16C54-HS/SS, ensure the chosen oscillator mode (HS = high-speed crystal/ceramic resonator up to 20 MHz) is matched to a crystal or resonator with appropriate load capacitors. The /SS package is the SSOP-20 variant suitable for surface-mount production.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing for the PIC16C54-HS/SS, drop-in SSOP-20 alternatives, and practical design notes not aggregated in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C54-HS/SS — 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-HS/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory Size, Core Architecture, Operating Temperature, Program Memory Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C54C-04/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54C-20I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.74 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54CT-04/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.38 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54CT-20E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.89 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F54-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C54-HS/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC16 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | EPROM (OTP window on JW package) |
| Program Memory Size | 512 words x 12 bits |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 20 MHz (HS oscillator) |
| Instruction Set | 33 single-word/single-cycle instructions |
| I/O Pins | 12 |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V nominal (operating range per datasheet) |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (commercial) |
| Package | 20-pin SSOP (SS) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Stack Depth | 2 levels (hardware) |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit (TMR0) with 8-bit prescaler |
| Addressing Modes | Direct, Indirect, Relative |
| Special Function Registers | 7 to 8 |
PIC16C54-HS/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — I/O port A bit 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — I/O port A bit 3 |
| Pin 3 | RTCC — TMR0 real-time clock/counter input |
| Pin 4 | OSC1 — Crystal/oscillator input (HS mode: 4-20 MHz) |
| Pin 5 | OSC2 — Crystal/oscillator output |
| Pin 6 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (5 V nominal) |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | RB0 — I/O port B bit 0 |
| Pin 9 | RB1 — I/O port B bit 1 |
| Pin 10 | RB2 — I/O port B bit 2 |
| Pin 11 | RB3 — I/O port B bit 3 |
| Pin 12 | RB4 — I/O port B bit 4 |
| Pin 13 | RB5 — I/O port B bit 5 |
| Pin 14 | RB6 — I/O port B bit 6 |
| Pin 15 | RB7 — I/O port B bit 7 |
| Pin 16 | RA0 — I/O port A bit 0 |
| Pin 17 | RA1 — I/O port A bit 1 |
| Pin 18 | T0CKI — Timer 0 clock input (alternate function) |
| Pin 19 | MCLR — Master clear reset (active low) |
| Pin 20 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C54-HS/SS is suitable for 7 applications: Simple Logic Replacement, White Goods and Appliance Controllers, Remote Control Transmitters, Security and Keypad Systems, Automotive Sub-System Controllers, Battery-Powered Sensor Nodes, Educational and Hobbyist Hardware.
Simple Logic Replacement
The PIC16C54-HS/SS is well-suited for replacing discrete 74-series TTL/CMOS glue logic in cost-sensitive designs. With 12 I/O pins, 33 RISC instructions, and 20 MHz throughput (5 MIPS at HS mode), a single PIC16C54 replaces dozens of logic gates while adding programmability and design flexibility. Engineers commonly use it to consolidate multiple 74HC00/74HC138/74HC245 functions into one chip, reducing BOM cost and PCB area. The 25-byte RAM and 512-word EPROM handle straightforward state machines, encoder/decoder logic, and timer-based sequencing.
Recommended
White Goods and Appliance Controllers
The PIC16C54-HS/SS is widely used as the control MCU in washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens, and similar home appliances where its 12 I/O pins handle keypads, LED indicators, relays, and triac interfaces. The 20 MHz HS oscillator provides sufficient speed for sensor sampling and motor timing loops, while the 0C to +70C commercial temperature range covers indoor appliance environments. The CMOS low-power design supports energy-efficient standby modes required by modern appliance energy regulations. The SSOP-20 surface-mount package suits automated SMT production lines used in high-volume appliance manufacturing.
Recommended
Remote Control Transmitters
Infrared and RF remote control transmitters benefit from the PIC16C54-HS/SS's compact SSOP-20 footprint, low cost, and sufficient program memory (512 words) for command encoding schemes like RC5, SIRC, or proprietary protocols. The TMR0 8-bit timer with 8-bit prescaler supports accurate carrier frequency generation (typically 36-40 kHz for IR), while the SLEEP mode minimizes battery drain between button presses. The 12 I/O pins handle 4x3 keypads plus status LEDs. Many commercial TV/VCR/DVD remote controls from the late 1990s and early 2000s used this exact part.
Recommended
Security and Keypad Systems
Security keypads, access control panels, and alarm system sub-controllers use the PIC16C54-HS/SS to scan matrix keypads (3x4 or 4x4), debounce inputs, drive status LEDs and piezo buzzers, and communicate with host controllers via simple serial protocols. The 33-instruction RISC set handles BCD/hex conversion and rolling-code storage within the 512-word program memory. The EPROM memory is sufficient for fixed-function security devices where firmware changes are rare. Industrial temperature variants (-40C to +85C with 'I' suffix) extend deployment to outdoor or unconditioned environments.
Recommended
Automotive Sub-System Controllers
The PIC16C54-HS/SS historically served in non-safety-critical automotive applications such as interior lighting controllers, seat position memory, mirror adjusters, and simple body control modules. The 12 I/O pins drive relays and sense switches for these functions, while the 20 MHz clock provides fast response for motor PWM and debounce timing. Automotive-grade variants (PIC16C54A and later with /I temperature grade) support -40C to +85C under-hood and cabin environments. Note: modern automotive designs migrate to AEC-Q100-qualified PIC16F families for improved reliability and traceability.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Sensor Nodes
Low-duty-cycle sensor reading applications like weather stations, irrigation controllers, and remote telemetry use the PIC16C54-HS/SS in low-power oscillator (LP) variants for 32 kHz operation and SLEEP-mode current below 1 uA. The TMR0 timer can wake the MCU from SLEEP at programmable intervals, enabling multi-year battery life from two AA cells. The 12 I/O pins interface to temperature sensors, soil moisture probes, and low-power RF transmitters. Engineers often pair this MCU with 318/433 MHz SAW-resonator transmitters for low-cost wireless sensor networks.
Recommended
Educational and Hobbyist Hardware
The PIC16C54-HS/SS has long been a teaching staple for introductory embedded systems courses and hobbyist projects due to its simple RISC architecture, minimal peripherals, and predictable timing. With only 33 instructions to learn, students master assembly programming fundamentals without distraction from complex peripherals. The PIC16C5X instruction set forms the basis for later PIC16F and PIC18 instruction set extensions, so learning transfers to modern PIC families. The windowed JW package variant supports UV-eraseable reprogramming for student laboratories, while SSOP-20 is used in production kits.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C54-HS/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F54-I/SS | PIC16C54C-20I/SS | PIC16C54CT-20E/SS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | ||
| Package | SSOP-20 | SSOP-20 - same | SSOP-20 - same | SSOP-20 - same | SSOP-20 - same | SSOP-20 - same |
| Program Memory | 512 x 12-bit EPROM | 512 x 14-bit Flash | 512 x 12-bit EPROM | 512 x 12-bit EPROM | 512 x 12-bit EPROM | 512 x 12-bit EPROM |
| Max Clock Frequency | 20 MHz (HS) | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz (-80%) | 4 MHz (-80%) |
| Temperature Range | 0C to +70C (commercial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | -40C to +125C (extended) | 0C to +70C (commercial) | 0C to +70C (commercial) |
| RAM | 25 bytes | 25 bytes - same | 25 bytes - same | 25 bytes - same | 25 bytes - same | 25 bytes - same |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 - same | 12 - same | 12 - same | 12 - same | 12 - same |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete (replaced by PIC16F54) | Active (recommended successor) | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Established legacy part with extensive design references (vs PIC16F54-I/SS)
- OTP EPROM one-time programmable memory (vs PIC16F54-I/SS flash memory)
- HS suffix specifies high-speed oscillator mode up to 20 MHz (vs PIC16C54-04/SS (04 = 4 MHz))
Design Notes
The PIC16C54-HS/SS requires a high-speed (HS) oscillator mode for 20 MHz operation. Estimated: with a 20 MHz fundamental crystal and CL = 15 pF load capacitance, use ceramic capacitors of approximately 22-33 pF on each of OSC1 and OSC2, calculated as CL = (C1 * C2) / (C1 + C2) + Cstray, where Cstray is typically 5-10 pF for PCB traces. Keep crystal traces short and surrounded by ground pour to minimize EMI. Avoid running HS-mode signals near sensitive analog traces.
Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor between VDD (pin 6) and VSS (pin 7) within 5 mm of the IC pins, plus a 10 uF bulk tantalum or ceramic capacitor on the same supply rail. The SSOP-20 package has moderate thermal resistance (~80 C/W) suitable for typical MCU dissipation well under 100 mW. Add a ground pour under the IC and stitch vias around the perimeter for EMI suppression. The MCLR pin (pin 19) requires a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD and a 100 nF capacitor to ground for proper reset operation.
Common pitfalls for PIC16C54-HS/SS designs include: (1) forgetting that the PIC16C5X instruction set differs from later PIC16F families - code written for PIC16C54 will not run on PIC16F1xxx without reassembly; (2) assuming 512 words of EPROM is byte-addressable - it is 12-bit word-addressable, so 512 words equals approximately 768 bytes; (3) using the wrong oscillator type suffix - HS = high-speed crystal, XT = standard crystal, LP = low-power crystal, RC = resistor-capacitor; (4) overlooking that SSOP /SS package is not windowed - use JW package for UV-eraseable development; (5) ignoring two-level hardware stack depth - PIC16C54 has only 2 hardware stack levels, limiting to one subroutine call depth.
For new designs or production maintenance, migrate from PIC16C54-HS/SS to PIC16F54-I/SS in the same SSOP-20 footprint. PIC16F54 offers flash memory (in-circuit programmable, 10K erase cycles), wider voltage range (2.0-5.5 V), and is actively in production per Microchip's product page. Pinout and core peripherals are compatible - the main code change required is updating CONFIG fuse definitions from PIC16C5X format to PIC16F5X format. Stocking PIC16F54 now avoids the long lead times and price volatility of obsolete PIC16C54 inventory.
Compliance Information
PIC16C54-HS/SS is an obsolete EPROM-based MCU from the late 1990s. RoHS/REACH compliance status not explicitly stated in the verified web data; this part may predate or be grandfathered under RoHS exemption 7(c)-I for lead-containing glass frit in EPROM packages. For new designs, use flash-based PIC16F54 which has clear RoHS compliance. AEC-Q100 is not_applicable - this part does not carry automotive qualification (consider PIC16C54A or PIC16F variants with /VAO suffix for automotive).
