PIC16C54T-LP/SO - 8-Bit 40MHz OTP MCU 768B | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C54T-LP/SO ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.2 | $3.20 |
| 10 | $2.95 | $29.50 |
| 100 | $2.6 | $260.00 |
| 500 | $2.25 | $1,125.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.95 | $1,950.00 |
PIC16C54T-LP/SO Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, program memory, data RAM, and peripheral I/O on a single silicon die. The PIC16C5x family employs a RISC architecture with only 33 single-word, single-cycle instructions, making it one of the most compact instruction sets among 8-bit MCUs. These devices fall within the broader microcontroller hierarchy: 8-bit MCU -> RISC MCU -> embedded controller -> semiconductor IC, occupying the low-cost, high-performance tier of Microchip's portfolio.
Key features include a wide operating voltage range of 2.5 V to 6.25 V, 12 I/O pins, an 8-bit timer/counter, and a 2-level hardware stack. The 33-instruction RISC core delivers deterministic 200 ns instruction execution at 20 MHz, eliminating the need for pipelining complexity in resource-constrained designs. Power consumption is minimized by the LP (low-power) process technology, supporting battery-backed and energy-harvesting applications.
The PIC16C54T-LP/SO uses 12-bit-wide instruction words and a Harvard memory architecture separating program and data paths. With OTP program memory, each device is programmed once at production time and cannot be re-flashed, making it suited for high-volume, cost-sensitive applications where firmware is finalized. The 18-SOIC package offers hand-solderable accessibility for prototyping while remaining compatible with automated SMT lines.
Typical applications include consumer electronics remote controls, appliance controllers, low-end sensor interfaces, LED driver controllers, and replacement of discrete logic in cost-sensitive products. Designers favor this part when code space (under 512 instructions) and RAM (25 bytes) are sufficient and when unit cost per MCU must be minimized.
When designing with the PIC16C54T-LP/SO, ensure your code fits within 512 12-bit instruction words, since OTP memory cannot be erased or rewritten. Programming is performed via Microchip's PICkit or MPLAB ICD tools. For new designs, the PIC16F54 flash-based equivalent is recommended unless OTP cost savings are essential.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and engineering design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C54T-LP/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 PIC16C54T-LP/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Size, Program Memory Type, Package, Core Architecture, RoHS Status.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C54CT-04/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C54C-04/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.38 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54-LPE/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.89 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54-10/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.02 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54-RC/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.74 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54T-LP/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit RISC |
| Core Processor | PIC16C5x |
| Instruction Set | 33 single-word instructions |
| Instruction Width | 12-bit |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 40 MHz (note: LP variant operates at 20 MHz max) |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns at 20 MHz |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 768 bytes (512 x 12 bits) |
| RAM Size | 25 x 8 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 12 |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit (TMR0) |
| Stack Levels | 2 |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 6.25 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0 C to +70 C |
| Package | 18-SOIC (0.295", 7.50 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging Type | Tape & Reel |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16C54T-LP/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 3 |
| Pin 3 | T0CKI — Timer0 external clock input / RA4 |
| Pin 4 | GND — Ground reference |
| Pin 5 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5 V to 6.25 V) |
| Pin 6 | RB0 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 0 |
| 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 |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 5 |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 6 |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 7 |
| Pin 14 | MCLR — Master Clear (reset) input, active low |
| Pin 15 | OSC2 — Oscillator output / CLKOUT |
| Pin 16 | OSC1 — Oscillator input / CLKIN |
| Pin 17 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 0 |
| Pin 18 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 1 |
Typical Applications
PIC16C54T-LP/SO is suitable for 7 applications: Consumer Remote Control, Small Appliance Controller, LED Lighting Controller, Toy and Hobby Electronics, Sensor Signal Conditioning, Automotive Aftermarket Accessories, Industrial Logic Replacement.
Consumer Remote Control
The PIC16C54T-LP/SO is well-suited for IR remote control transmitters in TVs, set-top boxes, and audio equipment. Its 33-instruction RISC core and 200 ns instruction cycle at 20 MHz easily handle NEC, RC5, and SIRC protocol encoding without external timing peripherals. The 12 I/O pins provide ample matrix-scanning capability for up to 16 keys via a 4x4 matrix, and the 768-byte OTP memory fits typical remote control firmware (~200-400 12-bit instructions). The LP-grade low-power process minimizes quiescent current drain on coin-cell or AAA batteries.
Recommended
Small Appliance Controller
For toasters, coffee makers, fans, and other small kitchen appliances, the PIC16C54T-LP/SO offers a deterministic RISC core, 12 I/O pins for keypad/LED/relay interfacing, and a 2.5V to 6.25V supply range that directly accepts regulated 5V rails. The 8-bit TMR0 counter handles time-of-day and PWM generation for heating element control. With OTP pricing at under USD 2 in volume, it is a cost-optimized replacement for discrete 555-timer-based control boards in high-volume consumer products.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controller
The PIC16C54T-LP/SO drives multi-channel LED strings in decorative lighting, signage, and architectural fixtures. Its 12 I/O pins can source 25 mA each (per I/O spec), enabling direct LED driving without buffer transistors in low-current designs. The 8-bit TMR0 with software PWM provides 8-bit dimming resolution at refresh rates above 100 Hz, eliminating visible flicker. The 20 MHz LP clock supports bit-banged WS2812-like protocols when firmware-controlled timing is acceptable.
Recommended
Toy and Hobby Electronics
Toys, hobby RC controllers, and educational electronics kits leverage the PIC16C54T-LP/SO's low BOM cost and simple programming model. The 25-byte RAM is sufficient for state-machine-based toy logic, while the 12 I/O pins interface with motors, sound chips, and sensor inputs. Operating from 2.5V to 6.25V, it accepts 2x AA or 2x AAA battery packs directly. The Harvard architecture simplifies timing-critical sound generation via tight instruction loops in firmware.
Recommended
Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16C54T-LP/SO conditions and preprocesses analog sensor data in low-cost embedded sensor nodes. Its 12 I/O pins accept digital sensor outputs (e.g., DHT11, simple thermistor bridge comparators) and drive indicator LEDs or relay outputs. The 200 ns instruction cycle enables fast sampling of pulse-train sensors like HC-SR04 ultrasonic rangefinders, where the 8-bit TMR0 captures echo timing with microsecond resolution. The wide 2.5V-6.25V supply range accommodates unregulated battery rails.
Recommended
Automotive Aftermarket Accessories
In non-safety automotive aftermarket applications (LED accent lighting, custom gauge controllers, alarm remotes), the PIC16C54T-LP/SO provides RISC performance at minimal cost. Its 0C to +70C commercial temperature range covers cabin environments, and the 2.5V to 6.25V supply accepts 12V automotive rails after regulation. The 8-bit TMR0 generates accurate timing for sequential turn signals, alarm chirps, and gauge sweep animations. Note: this commercial-grade part is not AEC-Q100 qualified; for under-hood applications, use the PIC16C54-LPE/SO extended-temperature variant.
Recommended
Industrial Logic Replacement
The PIC16C54T-LP/SO replaces legacy 4000-series CMOS logic and small PLAs in industrial control boards, consolidating discrete gates into a single programmable device. With 12 I/O pins, the MCU implements encoders, decoders, multiplexers, and sequencers in firmware. The Harvard architecture ensures deterministic timing for safety-related sequencing logic. The 18-SOIC package fits existing PCB footprints where through-hole 4000-series parts were previously used, enabling board-level cost reduction in mature industrial designs.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C54T-LP/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C54CT-04/SO | PIC16C54C-04/SO | PIC16C54-LPE/SO | PIC16C54-10/SO | PIC16C54-RC/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 18-SOIC | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same |
| Max Clock Frequency | 20 MHz (LP grade) | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 10 MHz | 4 MHz (internal RC) |
| Program Memory | 768 B (512 x 12) OTP | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 6.25 V | 3.0 V to 6.25 V | 3.0 V to 6.25 V | 2.5 V to 6.25 V | 3.0 V to 6.25 V | 3.0 V to 6.25 V |
| Operating Temperature | 0 C to +70 C | 0 C to +70 C | 0 C to +70 C | -40 C to +85 C | 0 C to +70 C | 0 C to +70 C |
| Memory Type | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP |
Key Differentiators
- 20 MHz LP-grade performance in 18-SOIC (vs PIC16C54C-04/SO)
- Tape & Reel packaging for SMT assembly (vs PIC16C54-LP/SO (tube))
- Low-power process technology (vs PIC16C54T-HS/SO)
Design Notes
The PIC16C54T-LP/SO LP grade draws approximately 1.5 mA at 5 V and 4 MHz versus 2.5 mA for the HS grade. Estimated: I_DD ~= 1.5 mA at VDD=5V, FOSC=4 MHz, all outputs unloaded. For battery applications below 4 MHz, the LP grade is preferred. Place a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 5), and add a 10 uF bulk capacitor on the same supply rail to handle inrush current when the device wakes from MCLR reset.
The 18-SOIC package has a 1.27 mm (50 mil) pin pitch, suitable for hand-soldering and standard SMT lines. Keep oscillator traces (OSC1/OSC2, pins 15-16) short and routed away from high-current switching traces. The MCLR pin (14) requires a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD for normal operation; adding a 100 nF cap on MCLR improves reset noise immunity. Exposed die attach pad on bottom is not present on SOIC variants, so no thermal pad layout is required.
Critical: OTP memory cannot be erased or rewritten. Once programmed, a code bug requires replacing the device. Always program production parts only after full firmware validation on a PIC16F54 or PIC16C54 flash/UV-erasable equivalent. Also note the 2-level hardware stack - deeply nested subroutine calls (more than 2 deep) will corrupt the return address. Refactor recursive or deeply nested C/assembly code to use iterative loops. The 25-byte RAM is shared with the stack and general-purpose storage; reserve at least 2 bytes for stack use.
When using the internal RC oscillator variant (PIC16C54-RC/SO), oscillator accuracy is typically +/- 5% over voltage and temperature, which may be inadequate for UART or timing-critical protocols. For serial communication, use the crystal/ceramic resonator variants (LP, XT, HS grades) with appropriate load capacitors (typically 15-33 pF on each OSC pin). Keep clock trace lengths under 5 mm and route them over a continuous ground plane for noise immunity.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Microchip product documentation. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - commercial grade only. For automotive applications, contact Microchip for AEC-Q100 qualified alternatives in the PIC16F family.
