PIC16C55T-10E/SS - 8-Bit 10MHz OTP MCU, 768B | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C55T-10E/SS β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.85 | $3.85 |
| 10 | $3.5 | $35.00 |
| 100 | $3.05 | $305.00 |
| 500 | $2.72 | $1,360.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.4 | $2,400.00 |
PIC16C55T-10E/SS Overview
What is an 8-bit OTP microcontroller? An OTP (One-Time Programmable) microcontroller is a class of microcontroller whose program memory can be written exactly once after manufacture, using EPROM-style programming. It sits within the broader hierarchy of microcontroller -> embedded controller -> semiconductor device, providing a low-cost, non-volatile solution that cannot be reprogrammed in-circuit. Compared to flash-based MCUs, OTP variants trade re-programmability for lower unit cost and higher density, making them common in high-volume consumer and industrial products where firmware is finalized during production.
Key features include 20 I/O pins, a 12-bit instruction set with 2:1 code compression over typical 8-bit MCUs in the same class, a wide operating voltage range, and a small instruction set designed to reduce development time. The CMOS process technology minimizes power consumption, making the device suitable for both battery-powered and line-powered applications.
The PIC16C55 architecture uses a Harvard-style RISC design with separate program and data paths. Its 33 single-cycle instructions (excluding branches) provide predictable execution timing at four clock cycles per instruction cycle, delivering approximately 2.5 MIPS at 10 MHz. The internal data memory comprises 24 to 72 bytes of general-purpose RAM depending on the exact variant.
Typical applications for the PIC16C55T-10E/SS include appliance control, sensor interfacing, low-end motor control, LED display driving, security peripherals, and simple consumer products. Its compact 28-SSOP footprint suits space-constrained PCB designs while the SSOP package's 5.30mm body width provides easier hand-soldering than narrower SSOP variants.
When designing with this part, plan firmware development and code-burn prior to PCB assembly since OTP memory cannot be updated in the field. Use the 'E' (Extended) temperature grade for industrial environments.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives within the PIC16C5X family, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C55T-10E/SS 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 PIC16C55T-10E/SS (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Program Memory Size, Package, Program Memory Type, RAM Size, Operating Temperature Range.
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Request AlternativesPIC16C55T-10E/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Manufacturer | Microchip Technology |
| Series | PIC16C5X |
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-bit |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 10 MHz |
| Program Memory Size | 768 B (512 x 12) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP |
| Number of I/O Pins | 20 |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (Extended, 'E' grade) |
| Package / Case | 28-SSOP (5.30 mm body width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel (T suffix) |
| Instruction Set | 33 instructions (12-bit wide), 2:1 code compression |
PIC16C55T-10E/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 β I/O port A bit 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3 β I/O port A bit 3 |
| Pin 3 | RTCC β Real-Time Clock/Counter input |
| Pin 4 | MCLR/VPP β Master Clear (reset) / Programming voltage |
| Pin 5 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0 β I/O port B bit 0 |
| Pin 7 | RB1 β I/O port B bit 1 |
| Pin 8 | RB2 β I/O port B bit 2 |
| Pin 9 | RB3 β I/O port B bit 3 |
| Pin 10 | RB4 β I/O port B bit 4 |
| Pin 11 | RB5 β I/O port B bit 5 |
| Pin 12 | RB6 β I/O port B bit 6 |
| Pin 13 | RB7 β I/O port B bit 7 |
| Pin 14 | VDD β Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 15 | OSC2 β Oscillator output / Fosc/4 clock output |
| Pin 16 | OSC1 β Oscillator input |
| Pin 17 | RC0 β I/O port C bit 0 |
| Pin 18 | RC1 β I/O port C bit 1 |
| Pin 19 | RC2 β I/O port C bit 2 |
| Pin 20 | RC3 β I/O port C bit 3 |
| Pin 21 | RC4 β I/O port C bit 4 |
| Pin 22 | RC5 β I/O port C bit 5 |
| Pin 23 | RC6 β I/O port C bit 6 |
| Pin 24 | RC7 β I/O port C bit 7 |
| Pin 25 | RD0 β I/O port D bit 0 |
| Pin 26 | RD1 β I/O port D bit 1 |
| Pin 27 | RD2 β I/O port D bit 2 |
| Pin 28 | RD3 β I/O port D bit 3 |
Typical Applications
PIC16C55T-10E/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Home Appliance Control, LED Display Drivers, Sensor Interface Modules, Security and Alarm Peripherals, Low-End Motor Control, Consumer Electronics Remote Controls.
Home Appliance Control
The PIC16C55T-10E/SS fits home appliance control boards where its 8-bit PIC core and 20 I/O pins can drive relays, triacs, and indicator LEDs for washing machines, microwave ovens, and dishwashers. The 10 MHz clock provides sufficient throughput for sensor sampling and PID-style control loops. Its 768 bytes of OTP program memory accommodates typical appliance firmware (control sequences, timer logic, and user interface handling). The 28-SSOP package suits compact appliance PCBs where vertical height is constrained. Use this MCU in appliance designs where firmware is finalized at production and field updates are not anticipated, since OTP memory cannot be rewritten.
Recommended
LED Display Drivers
The PIC16C55T-10E/SS serves as an LED display driver controller in scoreboards, signage, and indicator panels. Its 20 I/O pins can directly drive multiplexed 7-segment displays or charlieplexed LED matrices, while the 10 MHz instruction rate enables refresh rates above 100 Hz to avoid visible flicker. The 12-bit wide instructions with 2:1 code compression allow compact bit-banging routines for LED timing and brightness control. Combined with the Extended -40C to +125C temperature range, the part operates reliably in outdoor signage applications. Choose the tape-and-reel 'T' packaging format for SMT assembly lines.
Recommended
Sensor Interface Modules
The PIC16C55T-10E/SS handles sensor signal conditioning and protocol conversion in industrial sensor interface modules. Its 8-bit ADC-compatible I/O pins connect to temperature, pressure, and humidity sensors, while 10 MIPS throughput handles averaging, linearization, and digital filtering algorithms. The CMOS low-power design suits battery-powered wireless sensor nodes that transmit via external RF modules. The 28-SSOP package profile enables slim sensor housing designs. Industrial-grade PIC16C5X variants with Extended temperature support harsh factory environments from -40C to +125C.
Recommended
Security and Alarm Peripherals
The PIC16C55T-10E/SS fits PIR motion detector controllers, door/window sensor transmitters, and basic alarm keypads. The 20 I/O pins interface with reed switches, piezo buzzers, and LED indicators, while the 10 MHz clock supports debounce routines and timing-critical security protocols. The OTP memory prevents code extraction attacks since the program cannot be read back after locking, providing IP protection for security OEMs. The Extended temperature grade ensures operation in unheated garages and outdoor enclosures. Choose this MCU over flash variants when the firmware is locked at production and no field updates are planned.
Recommended
Low-End Motor Control
The PIC16C55T-10E/SS drives small DC motors, stepper motors, and solenoid valves in low-cost automation products. Its 20 I/O pins generate PWM signals for motor speed control, while the 10 MHz instruction cycle provides 100 microsecond resolution for typical 10 kHz PWM frequencies. The CMOS output structure directly drives small MOSFET gates or bipolar Darlingtons. OTP memory locks the motor-control algorithm at production, preventing unauthorized tuning. Use this MCU in toy robotics, vending machines, and small-appliance motor control where cost dominates design decisions.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics Remote Controls
The PIC16C55T-10E/SS powers IR/RF remote controls, wireless key fobs, and simple consumer input devices. Its low-power CMOS core minimizes quiescent draw from coin-cell batteries, while 768 bytes of OTP memory stores button matrix scanning routines and transmission protocols. The 10 MHz clock generates accurate RC-5, NEC, or proprietary IR carrier frequencies via timer interrupts. The compact 28-SSOP package suits slim remote-control housings. OTP memory prevents firmware cloning, providing brand protection against counterfeit remote manufacturers.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C55T-10E/SS β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C55-10I/SS | PIC16C55AT-20E/SS | PIC16C55A-20I/SS | PIC16C558-20E/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same |
| Core | PIC 8-bit base-line | PIC 8-bit base-line (same) | PIC16C55A enhanced core | PIC16C55A enhanced core | PIC16C558 enhanced base-line |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 10 MHz | 10 MHz (same) | 20 MHz (+100%) | 20 MHz (+100%) | 20 MHz (+100%) |
| Program Memory | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP (same) | 768 B OTP (same) | 768 B OTP (same) | 768 B OTP (same) |
| I/O Pins | 20 | 20 (same) | 20 (same) | 20 (same) | 20 (same) |
| Temperature Grade | Extended -40C to +125C | Industrial -40C to +85C | Extended -40C to +125C | Industrial -40C to +85C | Extended -40C to +125C |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel | Tube / Tray | Tape & Reel | Tube / Tray | Tube / Tray |
Key Differentiators
- Tape-and-reel packaging format (vs PIC16C55-10I/SS)
- Extended temperature grade (vs PIC16C55A-20I/SS)
- Lower cost at slow clock rates (vs PIC16C55AT-20E/SS)
Design Notes
OTP memory cannot be rewritten. Once the PIC16C55T-10E/SS is programmed, no firmware updates are possible. Plan firmware revision control rigorously and use a windowed CERDIP package (e.g., PIC16C55/JW) during development for multiple erase/program cycles, then move to OTP SSOP for production. Always verify code on a programmer that emulates the OTP timing before committing to masked production runs.
The PIC16C55T-10E/SS requires a stable VDD supply with proper decoupling. Place a 100 nF ceramic capacitor directly across VDD (pin 14) and VSS (pin 5) with traces no longer than 5 mm to the IC pins. For battery-powered designs, add a 10 uF bulk capacitor near the supply input to handle voltage dips during transmit bursts in wireless applications.
Place the oscillator crystal or ceramic resonator within 5 mm of pins OSC1 (pin 16) and OSC2 (pin 15). Keep clock traces short and surround them with a ground guard ring to minimize EMI pickup. For HS-mode oscillators above 4 MHz, add a series resistor to attenuate harmonic content. Route MCLR/VPP (pin 4) separately from digital switching signals to prevent spurious resets.
Estimated: At 10 MHz clock, VDD = 5 V, and all I/O pins sourcing 20 mA, the PIC16C55T-10E/SS dissipates approximately 250 mW. The 28-SSOP package has theta_JA around 95 C/W, yielding a junction temperature rise of 24 C above ambient - well within the 150 C maximum. No heatsinking is required under typical operating conditions.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, lead-free, and halogen-free status are not confirmed in the provided web data - mark as unknown. AEC-Q100 not applicable for general-purpose 8-bit MCU.
