PIC16C558-04I/P - 4MHz 8-Bit OTP MCU 13 I/O 18-PDIP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C558-04I/P β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.85 | $1.85 |
| 10 | $1.65 | $16.50 |
| 100 | $1.42 | $142.00 |
| 500 | $1.21 | $605.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.05 | $1,050.00 |
PIC16C558-04I/P Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer containing a CPU, non-volatile program memory (ROM/OTP/Flash), working RAM, and programmable peripherals. PIC microcontrollers use a Harvard RISC architecture with separate program and data buses, enabling deterministic instruction timing critical for real-time control. The PIC16C55x family targets low-cost embedded control and belongs to the broader category: microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC.
Key features of the PIC16C558-04I/P include its 4 MHz maximum operating frequency (the -04 speed grade), 13 I/O pins across PORTA (5 bits) and PORTB (8 bits), a 2-level hardware stack, direct/indirect/relative addressing modes, and 8-bit real-time clock/counter TMR0 with software-programmable prescaler. The OTP (One-Time Programmable) program memory enables low per-unit cost in production volumes.
The architecture uses a 12-bit wide instruction word with an 8-bit data path, maximizing code density. Seven special-function hardware registers plus two file-select registers govern I/O and control. The device supports in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) via RB6/RB7, enabling firmware update after PCB assembly. The "I" industrial temperature suffix extends operation to -40C to +85C.
Typical applications include automotive body controllers, industrial sensor interfaces, appliance control boards, security system keypads, and low-end consumer electronics. The wide 2.5V-5.5V range supports both 3.3V and 5V system designs with a single BOM.
When designing with this device, ensure MCLR is tied high through a 10 kohm pull-up for normal operation; tie low only for reset. Place a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor on VDD within 5 mm of the pin, with a bulk 1-10 uF cap on the same rail. Watchdog timer and power-on reset defaults must be configured in software at startup.
This page synthesizes current distributor pricing, drop-in PIC16C55x alternatives from Microchip's parametric family, and practical through-hole PCB layout notes not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C558-04I/P β 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 PIC16C558-04I/P (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Timers, Program Memory Size, Package, Program Memory Type, Watchdog Timer.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C554-04I/P
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$2.2 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C556-04I/P
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C558-04/P
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$4.2 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C558-20I/P
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$2.78 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16F57-I/P
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F54-I/P
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C558-04I/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Manufacturer | Microchip Technology |
| Series | PIC 16C |
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-bit |
| Program Memory Type | OTP |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5KB (2K x 14) |
| Data RAM Size | 128 B |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns |
| Number of I/O Pins | 13 |
| ADC | None |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit (TMR0 with 8-bit prescaler) |
| Operating Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial, 'I' suffix) |
| Package / Case | 18-PDIP (0.300 inch / 7.62 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Through Hole |
| Packaging | Tube |
| Speed Grade | -04 (4 MHz) |
| Hardware Stack | 2-level |
| Instruction Set Size | 35 single-word instructions |
PIC16C558-04I/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 β Bidirectional I/O pin, PORTA bit 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3 β Bidirectional I/O pin, PORTA bit 3 |
| Pin 3 | RA4/T0CKI β Bidirectional I/O pin / Timer0 clock input, PORTA bit 4 |
| Pin 4 | MCLR β Master Clear (reset) input, active low; tie through 10 kohm to VDD |
| Pin 5 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0/INT β Bidirectional I/O pin PORTB bit 0 / External interrupt input |
| Pin 7 | RB1 β Bidirectional I/O pin, PORTB bit 1 |
| Pin 8 | RB2 β Bidirectional I/O pin, PORTB bit 2 |
| Pin 9 | RB3 β Bidirectional I/O pin, PORTB bit 3 |
| Pin 10 | RB4 β Bidirectional I/O pin, PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 11 | RB5 β Bidirectional I/O pin, PORTB bit 5 |
| Pin 12 | RB6 β Bidirectional I/O pin, PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 13 | RB7 β Bidirectional I/O pin, PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data |
| Pin 14 | VDD β Positive supply voltage, 2.5V to 5.5V |
| Pin 15 | OSC2/CLKOUT β Oscillator crystal output / CLKOUT (Fosc/4) in RC mode |
| Pin 16 | OSC1/CLKIN β Oscillator crystal input / External clock input in RC mode |
| Pin 17 | RA0 β Bidirectional I/O pin, PORTA bit 0 |
| Pin 18 | RA1 β Bidirectional I/O pin, PORTA bit 1 |
Typical Applications
PIC16C558-04I/P is suitable for 7 applications: Industrial Sensor Interface Module, Automotive Body Control Module, Security Keypad and Access Controller, Home Appliance Control Board, Hobbyist and Educational Development Platform, Low-Cost Consumer Remote Control, Battery-Powered Wireless Sensor Node.
Industrial Sensor Interface Module
The PIC16C558-04I/P fits industrial sensor interface modules because its 4 MHz clock and 200 ns instruction cycle support real-time polling of 4-8 sensors at sub-millisecond rates, while the 3.5KB OTP program memory holds linearization tables for thermocouple or RTD signal conditioning. The 13 digital I/O pins drive LED status indicators and accept discrete limit-switch inputs without external logic. The 2.5V-5.5V supply range operates directly from a regulated 24V-to-5V industrial bus, eliminating level shifters.
Recommended
Automotive Body Control Module
The PIC16C558-04I/P fits cost-sensitive automotive body control modules (window lifters, seat controllers, mirror adjusters) where its 13 I/O pins drive relay coils and read switch positions with 25 mA sink/source per pin. The 4 MHz clock delivers deterministic H-bridge PWM at 8-bit resolution sufficient for motor soft-start. Industrial temperature rating (-40C to +85C) tolerates cabin and under-hood thermal environments, though it lacks AEC-Q100 qualification so it is used only in non-safety body electronics.
Recommended
Security Keypad and Access Controller
The PIC16C558-04I/P serves in security keypads and access controllers where its 8-bit PORTB drives 4x4 matrix scan with 8 I/O pins (4 row + 4 column) and PORTA provides additional relay/buzzer control. The 3.5KB program memory stores credential lookup tables for up to 50 user codes, and 128B RAM buffers debounce state. OTP memory prevents reverse-engineering of access logic. The 18-PDIP package simplifies through-hole keypad PCB assembly and field service replacement.
Recommended
Home Appliance Control Board
The PIC16C558-04I/P fits washing machine, dishwasher, and microwave control boards where 13 I/O pins control valve solenoids, motor triacs, and 7-segment displays while TMR0 provides the timing base for cycle sequencing. The 3.5KB OTP memory holds appliance firmware (wash cycles, fault codes) cost-effectively for high-volume production. Industrial temperature range supports appliance thermal exposure, and 2.5V-5.5V supply operates from rectified mains-derived rails without additional regulators.
Recommended
Hobbyist and Educational Development Platform
The PIC16C558-04I/P serves educational microcontroller training kits and hobbyist projects because the 18-PDIP package is breadboard-friendly and the simple 35-instruction PIC instruction set is widely documented in textbooks. The 4 MHz speed grade (vs -20 variant) is sufficient for learning fundamentals without overshoot noise. Microchip's MPLAB IDE and PICSTART Plus programmer support in-circuit serial programming, though OTP means students must commit code per device (PIC16F alternatives better for classroom reuse).
Recommended
Low-Cost Consumer Remote Control
The PIC16C558-04I/P fits IR/RF remote controls for TVs, fans, and motorized blinds where 13 I/O pins scan button matrices and drive an IR LED or 433 MHz transmitter. The 4 MHz clock with TMR0 generates carrier frequencies and button-repeat timing without additional hardware. 128B RAM buffers button debouncing and protocol frames. The 18-PDIP package is suitable for hand-held remote enclosures, and the OTP memory prevents firmware cloning by competitors.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Wireless Sensor Node
The PIC16C558-04I/P serves as the controller in battery-powered wireless sensor nodes where the 2.5V low-end of its supply range allows operation from a single Li-ion cell (3.0V nominal, 2.5V cutoff) without boost regulators. Sleep current under firmware control (WDT disabled) draws microamps, extending coin-cell battery life. The 4 MHz clock provides enough compute for sensor sampling and protocol framing. 13 I/O pins accept analog-multiplexed sensors via external ADC or digital sensor I/O directly.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C558-04I/P β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C554-04I/P | PIC16C556-04I/P | PIC16C558-04/P | PIC16C558-20I/P | PIC16F57-I/P | PIC16F54-I/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 18-PDIP | 18-PDIP - same | 18-PDIP - same | 18-PDIP - same | 18-PDIP - same | 18-PDIP - same | 18-PDIP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (3.5KB / 2Kx14) | OTP 768B | OTP 1KB | OTP 3.5KB | OTP 3.5KB | Flash 3.5KB | Flash 768B |
| Data RAM | 128 B | 128 B | 128 B | 128 B | 128 B | 128 B | 25 B |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Number of I/O Pins | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C |
| Operating Voltage | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.0V to 5.5V | 2.0V to 5.5V |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | Active | Active |
Key Differentiators
- Same package but with Flash memory and active lifecycle status (vs PIC16F57-I/P)
- More program memory than other PIC16C55x family members (vs PIC16C554-04I/P)
- Industrial temperature range with same die as commercial variant (vs PIC16C558-04/P)
Design Notes
Place a 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 14) to suppress high-frequency switching noise, and add a bulk 1-10 uF electrolytic or tantalum capacitor on the same rail for low-frequency transient suppression. For battery-powered designs, place a 10 kohm pull-up on MCLR (pin 4) to prevent spurious resets during brownout, and consider an external voltage supervisor for VDD < 2.7V applications.
When laying out the 18-PDIP footprint, allow 0.300 inch (7.62 mm) row spacing and use 0.040 inch (1.0 mm) through-hole pads per standard DIP-18 mechanical drawings. Keep the RC oscillator components (R, C) or crystal within 5 mm of pins 15-16 (OSC1/OSC2) to minimize parasitic capacitance that could shift the oscillator off-frequency. Route the MCLR trace away from switching nodes and I/O driver traces to avoid capacitive coupling-induced resets.
The OTP memory on PIC16C558-04I/P can only be programmed once - verify firmware with PIC16F57 or PIC16F84A flash equivalents during development before committing to OTP production. The -04 speed grade limits clock to 4 MHz maximum; do not substitute a -20 grade part without confirming code timing budget. PORTB RB0 doubles as the external interrupt input - if not using INT, configure RB0 as digital output but disable the INTE bit in the OPTION/INTCON register to avoid spurious interrupts on firmware startup.
Compliance Information
AEC-Q100 not qualified per Microchip product page. RoHS/REACH compliance status not explicitly stated in provided data; OTP microcontrollers in PDIP package typically predate RoHS directives and may require exemption analysis. Conflict Minerals compliance per Microchip corporate statement.
