PIC16C54-XTI/P - 4MHz 8-Bit OTP MCU, 12 I/O | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C54-XTI/P ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.69 | $1.69 |
| 10 | $1.52 | $15.20 |
| 100 | $1.36 | $136.00 |
| 500 | $1.21 | $605.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.08 | $1,080.00 |
PIC16C54-XTI/P Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that contains a CPU, memory, and programmable I/O peripherals. In the system hierarchy, MCUs sit below microprocessors (MPUs) and above discrete logic, with the PIC16C5x family being one of the earliest commercial RISC MCU architectures, designed for cost-sensitive embedded control. The PIC16C5x architecture uses a Harvard-style separate program/data bus with a 12-bit wide instruction word, allowing most instructions to execute in a single instruction cycle (4 clock periods).
Key features include 4 MHz maximum clock frequency, 12 I/O pins arranged across PORT A (5) and PORT B (8), an 8-bit timer/counter (TMR0) with 8-bit prescaler, power-on reset, watchdog timer, and an operating temperature range of -40C to +85C. The XT oscillator suffix denotes a standard crystal/ceramic resonator clock input (typically up to 4 MHz), making it suitable for precise timing applications.
Architecturally, the PIC16C54 uses a 12-bit instruction set with a fixed 2-level hardware stack, meaning nested subroutines beyond depth 2 are not supported. Program memory is OTP (one-time programmable), so code is permanently written at production or development programming. The 25-byte RAM limits data-intensive processing, restricting the device to small state machines and control loops.
Typical applications include appliance control (microwave ovens, washing machines), industrial timers, simple sensor interfaces, automotive interior accessories, and low-cost consumer electronics where the small footprint and proven PIC ecosystem offset the absence of flash memory. The PDIP-18 package is favored for breadboarding and educational use.
When designing with this device, consider migrating to flash-based equivalents (PIC16F54, PIC16F84A) for prototyping where repeated reprogramming is required. The OTP nature of the PIC16C54 makes it best suited for volume production where code is finalized. Ensure adequate decoupling (0.1 uF on VDD) and use a crystal that matches the XT oscillator loading capacitance specification.
This page synthesizes verified distributor pricing, drop-in compatible alternatives from the PIC16C5x family, and practical design notes sourced from Microchip documentation - content not aggregated on DigiKey or Mouser product listings.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C54-XTI/P — 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-XTI/P (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Timers, Operating Temperature, Program Memory Size, RoHS Status.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C54-XTE/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.32 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54-10I/P
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54C-04/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.71 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56-XTI/P
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F54-I/P
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C54-XTI/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC RISC |
| Family | PIC16C5x |
| Program Memory | 768 B (512 x 12) OTP |
| RAM | 25 B |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| I/O Pins | 12 |
| Supply Voltage | 3.0 V to 6.25 V |
| Oscillator Type | XT (Crystal/Resonator) |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit (TMR0 with 8-bit prescaler) |
| Instruction Set Width | 12-bit |
| Number of Instructions | 33 |
| Stack Depth | 2-level hardware |
| Package | PDIP-18 (P) |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| Programming Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Peripherals | POR, WDT |
PIC16C54-XTI/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 3 |
| Pin 3 | RA4/T0CKI — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 4 / Timer0 external clock input |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master Clear (active-low reset) |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0/INT — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 0 / External interrupt |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 1 |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 2 |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 3 |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 4 (interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 5 (interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 6 (interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 7 (interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.0V-6.25V) |
| Pin 15 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator crystal output / Clock output (Fosc/4) |
| Pin 16 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator crystal input / External clock input |
| Pin 17 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 0 |
| Pin 18 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 1 |
Typical Applications
PIC16C54-XTI/P is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Timer Control, Industrial Counter and Event Logger, Automotive Interior Accessories, Educational Microcontroller Trainer, Simple Sensor Interface Hub, Consumer Toy and Game Electronics.
Appliance Timer Control
The PIC16C54-XTI/P's 768-byte OTP program memory and 4 MHz instruction cycle make it a strong fit for fixed-cycle appliance timers such as microwave ovens, washing machines, and dishwasher controllers. The 8-bit TMR0 with 8-bit prescaler provides 1:256 prescaling from a 4 MHz crystal, enabling accurate sub-second timing intervals for motor and heater sequencing without additional timing components. Its 12 I/O pins can directly switch low-side relay drivers and indicator LEDs at 25 mA per pin. With operating temperature range of -40C to +85C, the part withstands the thermal envelope behind a kitchen-appliance control panel. Designers should add a 0.1 uF ceramic bypass capacitor adjacent to pin 14 (VDD) to suppress relay-induced supply transients.
Recommended
Industrial Counter and Event Logger
In conveyor counters, footfall sensors, and machine-cycle counters, the PIC16C54-XTI/P excels because its RA4/T0CKI pin accepts an external event clock for the TMR0 counter, allowing pulse counting without CPU overhead. The 25-byte RAM supports small rolling counters and last-event timestamps, while 12 I/O pins provide ample drive for seven-segment displays or BCD encoder chips. The XT oscillator mode at 4 MHz delivers 1 us instruction cycles for real-time debouncing of mechanical switches. NRND status means new industrial designs should plan to migrate to PIC16F54-I/P for firmware revision flexibility.
Recommended
Automotive Interior Accessories
For non-safety automotive interior accessories such as dome-light delay modules, seat-position memory encoders, and HVAC mode selectors, the PIC16C54-XTI/P provides 12 I/O pins and 5V operation compatible with 12V-clamped automotive rails. The industrial -40C to +85C temperature range covers cabin and trunk environments but excludes under-hood applications. Its 768-byte OTP accommodates short fixed-function code, and the 2-level hardware stack is sufficient for single-state-machine implementations. Automotive designs targeting AEC-Q100 should choose PIC16C54-XTI/P only for non-critical accessories, with the PIC16F84A or PIC16F1939 serving safety-relevant functions.
Recommended
Educational Microcontroller Trainer
The PIC16C54-XTI/P's PDIP-18 through-hole package makes it ideal for breadboard-based educational kits, university microcontroller courses, and STEM classroom trainers. The exposed DIP pins are robust against repeated insertion and tolerate student wiring errors better than fine-pitch SMD packages. With only 33 instructions and a 2-level stack, learners can master the entire instruction set in a single lab session. Programming is done via the Microchip PM3 or PICkit 3 with a DIP socket adapter. Universities preferring a flash-based lab experience should provide PIC16F84A or PIC16F54 alongside the PIC16C54 for code-rewrite exercises.
Recommended
Simple Sensor Interface Hub
The PIC16C54-XTI/P serves as a cost-optimized hub for interfacing mechanical sensors (reed switches, thermistors in voltage-divider configuration, and mechanical rotary encoders) to digital systems. Its 12-bit instruction set, while narrow by modern standards, efficiently handles bit-banged protocols such as one-wire communication to temperature sensors. The 25-byte RAM supports smoothing filters for noisy sensor inputs. At a per-unit cost under $1.50 in volume, the part fits sensor modules where BOM cost dominates design decisions. For designs requiring more RAM for sensor fusion, the PIC16F84A with 68 bytes is a logical upgrade.
Recommended
Consumer Toy and Game Electronics
In low-cost consumer toys, electronic dice, sound-effect modules, and LED chase-light game controllers, the PIC16C54-XTI/P delivers just enough capability at minimum cost. The 4 MHz instruction rate animates 12 LEDs with smooth PWM-emulated brightness control via software bit-banging, while 25 bytes of RAM supports short look-up tables for sound effects and animation patterns. The OTP nature secures firmware against unauthorized read-back, important for toy manufacturers protecting proprietary sound libraries. For high-volume toy production, the PIC16F54-I/P in the same PDIP-18 footprint offers flash reprogrammability for last-minute design changes.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C54-XTI/P — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C54-XTE/P | PIC16C54C-04/P | PIC16C56-XTI/P | PIC16F54-I/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | PDIP-18 | PDIP-18 - same | PDIP-18 - same | PDIP-18 - same | PDIP-18 - same |
| Program Memory | 768 B OTP (512 x 12) | 768 B OTP (512 x 12) | 768 B OTP (512 x 12) | 1 KB OTP (1024 x 12) - +33% | 512 words Flash (reprogrammable) |
| RAM | 25 B | 25 B | 25 B | 25 B | 25 B |
| Max Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) | OTP | OTP | OTP | Flash (reprogrammable) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +125C (Extended) | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
Key Differentiators
- XT oscillator variant explicitly characterized for 4 MHz crystal/resonator operation (vs PIC16C54-10I/P (RC oscillator variant))
- Industrial -40C to +85C operating temperature range (vs PIC16C54C-04/P (Commercial 0C to +70C))
- 768-byte OTP program memory within PIC16C5x family (vs PIC16C56-XTI/P (1 KB OTP))
Design Notes
The PIC16C54-XTI/P requires a 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor placed within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 14), with a low-impedance ground return to pin 5 (VSS). For battery-powered designs operating at 3.3V, an additional 10 uF bulk capacitor at the regulator output is recommended to handle inrush during oscillator startup. Estimated: at 4 MHz with 5V supply, typical IDD is approximately 2-5 mA depending on I/O loading, so a small LDO with 50 mA rating is sufficient.
For the XT oscillator mode, place the 4 MHz crystal and its two 15-22 pF load capacitors adjacent to pins 15 (OSC2) and 16 (OSC1), with traces kept short and surrounded by a ground guard ring to minimize EMI coupling. Keep crystal traces away from RB7 (pin 13) which is adjacent and can inject oscillator noise into the digital I/O bus. The MCLR pin (pin 4) requires a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD; if not used, leave the pull-up but disable the MCLR function via the configuration word to repurpose the pin as GP3 in PIC16C5x terminology.
Three critical pitfalls when migrating code from PIC16C54 to PIC16F84A: (1) The PIC16F84A uses a 14-bit instruction set vs the PIC16C54's 12-bit set - existing hex files are not compatible and must be recompiled; (2) The PIC16F84A has 68 bytes of RAM vs 25 bytes, but the GPR/SFR mapping differs - port initialization code must be updated; (3) The PIC16F84A adds an 8-level hardware stack vs the PIC16C54's 2-level stack, so deeply nested subroutines that were silently buggy on PIC16C54 will now execute differently. Always verify with the target compiler's device header file before assuming register compatibility.
Compliance Information
Compliance data not explicitly provided in verified web data; lead-free status of the PDIP-18 variant may differ from lead-free SOIC versions. Verify with Microchip product documentation or distributor compliance letters before assuming RoHS compliance for the specific shipping tube lot.
