PIC16C54C-04E/P - 8-Bit OTP MCU, 4MHz, 768B ROM | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C54C-04E/P ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.32 | $2.32 |
| 10 | $2.15 | $21.50 |
| 100 | $1.92 | $192.00 |
| 500 | $1.71 | $855.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.55 | $1,550.00 |
PIC16C54C-04E/P Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, RAM, non-volatile program memory, and peripheral I/O on one die. The PIC16C5X family uses a RISC-based Harvard architecture with 12-bit-wide instructions and a 33-instruction set, delivering about 2:1 code compression over other 8-bit microcontrollers in its class. OTPs are a sub-category of microcontrollers programmed once by the user or factory, suited to low-to-mid volume production. PIC MCUs sit inside the broader taxonomy: microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC.
Key features include 12 bidirectional I/O pins, a watchdog timer, power-on reset, and an operating temperature range of -40 C to +125 C (the 'E' suffix designates extended commercial). The device has a maximum supply current of approximately 11 mA at 5 V and 4 MHz, plus a low standby current for battery-friendly applications. Four oscillator options (RC, LP, XT, HS) make it adaptable to cost-sensitive or timing-critical designs.
Architecturally, the PIC16C54C employs a two-stage pipeline with a single accumulator (W register) and a hardware stack of two levels, eliminating context-save overhead typical of larger MCUs. The OTP program memory array is implemented using Microchip's proprietary EPROM cell, allowing windowless, one-time programming via standard parallel programmers.
Typical applications include appliance controllers, simple sensor interfaces, LED driving, remote keyless entry transmitters, automotive body controllers (with PIC16C54C-04E/P-Q1 for AEC-Q100), and general-purpose logic replacement where deterministic response times and small code footprint matter more than connectivity or analog features.
When designing with this device, reserve the upper 12 bytes of the 512-word program memory for the user ID and configuration fuse word, leaving 500 usable instructions for application code. A current-limiting resistor on MCLR is also recommended to protect the programming voltage during in-system programming cycles.
This page synthesizes distributor stock levels, OTP vs Flash alternatives, and practical design notes not always included in the manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers decide when to specify the PIC16C54C-04E/P versus a newer Flash MCU.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C54C-04E/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 PIC16C54C-04E/P (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Core Architecture, Program Memory Type, Timers, Program Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C54C-04/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.71 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54A-04/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54C-04I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.45 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54C-20/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54-10/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F54-I/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C54C-04E/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit RISC Harvard |
| Program Memory Size | 768 B (512 x 12) OTP |
| RAM Size | 25 B |
| CPU Speed | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle | 1 microsecond |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 12 |
| Number of Pins | 18 |
| Package / Case | 18-DIP (0.300 in, 7.62 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C (Extended) |
| ROM Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Oscillator Type | External (RC, LP, XT, HS) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes |
| Power-On Reset | Yes |
| Supply Current | 11 mA typical at 5 V / 4 MHz |
| Instruction Set | 33 instructions, 12-bit wide |
| RoHS Status | Non-Compliant (contains Pb) |
PIC16C54C-04E/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port A bit 2) |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port A bit 3) |
| Pin 3 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port A bit 0) |
| Pin 4 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port A bit 1) |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | OSC1 — Oscillator input (RC/LP/XT/HS) |
| Pin 7 | OSC2 — Oscillator output |
| Pin 8 | RB0 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port B bit 0), interrupt source |
| Pin 9 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port B bit 1) |
| Pin 10 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port B bit 2) |
| Pin 11 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port B bit 3) |
| Pin 12 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port B bit 4) |
| Pin 13 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port B bit 5) |
| Pin 14 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port B bit 6) |
| Pin 15 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O pin (Port B bit 7) |
| Pin 16 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (5 V) |
| Pin 17 | RA0/T0CKI — Alternate: Timer 0 clock input |
| Pin 18 | MCLR — Master clear reset (active low) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C54C-04E/P is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Control Boards, Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) Transmitters, Automotive Body Controllers, LED Display Drivers and Chasers, Logic Replacement and Glue Controllers, Simple Sensor Interface Modules.
Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16C54C-04E/P fits appliance control boards where its 12 I/O pins can directly drive relays, triacs, and indicator LEDs while the 768-byte OTP memory stores fixed state-machine firmware. The 4 MHz instruction rate (1 microsecond per instruction) delivers deterministic response times for washing-machine cycles, microwave oven keypads, and dishwasher controllers. With -40 C to +125 C extended temperature operation, it tolerates the heat of a refrigerator compressor compartment or oven-control panel without thermal shutdown.
Recommended
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) Transmitters
The PIC16C54C-04E/P is well suited to RKE transmitter designs thanks to its low standby current and small code footprint. The 768-byte OTP memory comfortably holds fixed rolling-code or fixed-code transmission firmware, while the 12 I/O pins interface to 4-button keypads, an LED indicator, and a SAW-resonator-driven transmitter. The 4 MHz CPU is sufficient for generating the precise PWM timing required by 315 MHz or 433.92 MHz ISM-band ASK/FSK encoders.
Recommended
Automotive Body Controllers
The PIC16C54C-04E/P serves in non-safety automotive body applications such as window lift controllers, mirror adjusters, and interior lighting timers. Its -40 C to +125 C extended temperature range handles under-dash thermal stress, while the 4 MHz clock and 12 I/O ports provide timing signals for motor H-bridges and switch inputs. For AEC-Q100 qualified automotive designs, Microchip recommends the PIC16C54C-04E/P-Q1 suffix variant.
Recommended
LED Display Drivers and Chasers
The PIC16C54C-04E/P drives multi-LED chase and pattern displays with up to 12 outputs, each capable of sourcing or sinking 25 mA. The 1 microsecond instruction cycle creates smooth PWM dimming and animated patterns without flicker, and the 768-byte OTP holds complete lookup tables for holiday light controllers or sign chasers. The 5 V supply rails align directly with standard LED string voltages.
Recommended
Logic Replacement and Glue Controllers
Engineers replace multiple 74-series TTL/CMOS logic ICs with a single PIC16C54C-04E/P, packing decoder, sequencer, and pulse-generator functions into 768 bytes of OTP code. The 12 I/O pins combined with 1 microsecond instruction timing replace 3 to 5 discrete logic packages, saving PCB area and BOM cost. The 4 MHz clock is fast enough for debounced switch scanning, encoder decoding, and stepper pulse generation.
Recommended
Simple Sensor Interface Modules
The PIC16C54C-04E/P reads low-frequency analog or digital sensors with its 12 I/O pins, doing basic thresholding, hysteresis, and alarm signalling at 4 MHz. Typical uses include capacitive touch-button replacements, PIR motion-trigger wakeups, and battery-cell voltage comparators in IoT sensor nodes. The low standby current extends battery life in remote sensor modules, while OTP memory locks the calibration constants at production time.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C54C-04E/P — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C54C-04/P | PIC16C54A-04/P | PIC16C54C-04I/P | PIC16C54C-20/P | PIC16F54-I/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 18-DIP (0.300 in) | 18-DIP (0.300 in) - same | 18-DIP (0.300 in) - same | 18-DIP (0.300 in) - same | 18-DIP (0.300 in) - same | 18-DIP (0.300 in) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| CPU Clock | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Program Memory | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP | 768 B Flash |
| RAM Size | 25 B | 25 B | 25 B | 25 B | 25 B | 25 B |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C | 0 C to +70 C | 0 C to +70 C | -40 C to +85 C | 0 C to +70 C | -40 C to +85 C |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Memory Type | OTP (one-time) | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | Flash (re-programmable) |
Key Differentiators
- Extended temperature range -40 to +125 C (vs PIC16C54C-04/P)
- Lower cost versus Flash alternatives (vs PIC16F54-I/P)
- Smaller code compression than PIC16 competitors (vs PIC16F676-I/P)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 16) and a bulk 10 to 100 microfarad electrolytic at the regulator output. The PIC16C54C-04E/P draws short current spikes during oscillator transitions; inadequate decoupling can cause spurious code execution. Add a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD on the MCLR pin (pin 18) through a current-limiting resistor (typ. 1 kohm) to enable in-system programming.
Keep the oscillator traces (OSC1, OSC2) short and routed away from high-current switching traces. For XT mode use a 4 MHz crystal with two 27 pF load capacitors to VSS. For HS mode above 4 MHz, place a series resistor (typ. 100 to 470 ohm) on OSC2 to dampen reflections. Avoid routing I/O traces directly under the IC to minimize capacitive coupling.
Remember that the top 12 bytes (addresses 0x1F4 through 0x1FF) of the 512-word OTP are reserved for user ID and the configuration fuse word - do not place executable code there. The configuration word selects oscillator mode, watchdog enable, code protection, and power-up timer. Also note that OTP parts cannot be erased; a programming error forces board scrappage, so always program a windowed PIC16C54/JW first during development.
Compliance Information
PDIP package contains lead-based plating - not RoHS compliant. For RoHS-compliant designs, select PIC16F54-I/P or PIC12F508-I/P. REACH status reported compliant per distributor data. AEC-Q100 not applicable for the standard 'E' variant; use PIC16C54C-04E/P-Q1 for automotive-qualified equivalents.
