PIC16C56-10E/SS - 8-bit 10MHz OTP MCU 1.5KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C56-10E/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.85 | $2.85 |
| 10 | $2.52 | $25.20 |
| 100 | $2.18 | $218.00 |
| 500 | $1.94 | $970.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.72 | $1,720.00 |
PIC16C56-10E/SS Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, non-volatile program memory, working RAM, and programmable I/O peripherals on one silicon die. Within the broader taxonomy, the PIC16C56 belongs to the PIC16C family of classic OTP-based 8-bit MCUs, which sits beneath mid-range microcontrollers, microcontrollers, embedded processors, and finally semiconductors. The 16C line was Microchip's original OTP mid-range family, predecessor to today's flash-based PIC16F series, and remains in production for long-lifecycle and cost-sensitive applications where re-programmability is not required.
Key features of the PIC16C56-10E/SS include a Harvard RISC architecture with 33 single-word instructions, a 12-bit instruction word for 2:1 code compression over typical 8-bit MCUs, power-on reset (POR), brown-out detection, watchdog timer (WDT) with on-chip RC oscillator, and an operating voltage range typically of 3.0 V to 6.0 V. The 12-bit instruction width enables compact code density, reducing program-memory consumption for small embedded tasks.
Typical applications include automotive body controllers, sensor interface nodes, low-end remote controls, simple appliance controls, battery-powered instrumentation, and industrial logic replacements. Because the device uses OTP memory, it is intended for high-volume, fixed-function products rather than development or field-upgradable firmware.
When designing with this part, verify that the OTP-programmed image is final before mask production; in-circuit reprogramming is not possible. Consider the modern flash-based PIC16F counterpart for prototyping, then migrate to the PIC16C56 once the firmware is frozen.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing for PIC16C56-10E/SS, Microchip same-family drop-in alternatives, cross-brand pin-compatible PIC16C5x references, application examples, and design notes that go beyond the data sheet abstract.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C56-10E/SS — 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 PIC16C56-10E/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Size, Program Memory Type, Package, Core Architecture, I/O Pins.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C56-10I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56T-10E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.42 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C55-10E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54-10E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.74 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F57-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C56-10E/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit RISC (PIC16C5x core) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 1.5 KB (1K x 12 bits) |
| Data RAM | 25 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 10 MHz |
| Instruction Word Width | 12 bits |
| General-Purpose I/O Pins | 12 |
| Package | 20-pin SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Temperature Grade | Automotive (Extended, -40C to +125C) |
| Operating Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 6.0 V |
| On-chip Peripherals | Power-On Reset (POR), Watchdog Timer (WDT) |
| Number of Terminals | 20 |
| Terminal Form | Gull Wing |
| Package Code | SSOP |
| Package Shape | Rectangular |
PIC16C56-10E/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — General-purpose I/O / T0CKI (Timer0 clock input) |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 3 | RB0 — General-purpose I/O (interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 4 | RB1 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 5 | RB2 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 6 | RB3 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 7 | RB4 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 8 | RB5 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 9 | RB6 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 10 | RB7 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 11 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 12 | OSC1 — Crystal/ceramic resonator input (or external clock) |
| Pin 13 | OSC2 — Crystal/ceramic resonator output (fOSC/4 in RC mode) |
| Pin 14 | MCLR — Master Clear (reset, active-low) with internal pull-up |
| Pin 15 | RA0 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 16 | RA1 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 17 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 18 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.0 V to 6.0 V) |
| Pin 19 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.0 V to 6.0 V) |
| Pin 20 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C56-10E/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Body Control Modules, Low-End Remote Controls, Industrial Sensor Interface Nodes, Small Appliance Control Boards, Battery-Powered Instrumentation, Logic Replacement in Industrial Designs.
Automotive Body Control Modules
The PIC16C56-10E/SS Extended -40C to +125C temperature grade and OTP memory fit automotive body controllers where fixed firmware drives seat, mirror, or lighting functions. With 12 GPIO pins, the MCU can scan a switch matrix, drive relay coils via MOSFETs, and communicate over LIN or simple PWM channels. The 1.5 KB OTP holds typical body-control state machines comfortably, and the 10 MHz core delivers ~2.5 MIPS for debounce, blink, and sequencing logic. Compared with flash parts, the OTP variant reduces per-unit cost in high-volume production runs of sealed automotive modules.
Recommended
Low-End Remote Controls
The PIC16C56-10E/SS suits single-purpose infrared or RF remote controls where 12 GPIO can drive a keypad matrix and an IR LED or low-power RF transmitter. OTP memory locks the IR/RF protocol into the device, preventing firmware cloning in production. The 10 MHz instruction cycle is more than adequate for carrier generation (typically 38 kHz), button scanning, and battery-saving sleep modes. Its SSOP-20 footprint fits slim handheld enclosures, and the Extended temperature grade survives glove-compartment and dashboard thermal exposure.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interface Nodes
The PIC16C56-10E/SS is well-matched to industrial 4-20 mA loop-powered sensor nodes that digitize a thermistor, RTD, or strain gauge and report over a UART or HART modem. With 12 GPIO, the MCU can multiplex sensor excitation, drive an LCD, and handshake with an analog front end. The Extended -40C to +125C range covers unheated enclosures and outdoor industrial cabinets. OTP memory locks calibration coefficients and firmware per node variant, simplifying regulatory traceability. Designers should budget margin in the 1.5 KB OTP for lookup-table compensation routines.
Recommended
Small Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16C56-10E/SS fits compact home appliance boards - toasters, coffee makers, blenders, fan controllers, and basic white-goods user interfaces - where 12 GPIO can scan a membrane keypad, drive triac-fired heater elements, and read an NTC thermistor for closed-loop regulation. OTP programming at production locks the appliance firmware and prevents field tampering. The 10 MHz core computes triac zero-cross timing and PID loops for temperature regulation within the 1.5 KB OTP budget. SSOP-20 mounts on compact single-sided boards inside tight appliance enclosures.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Instrumentation
The PIC16C56-10E/SS supports battery-powered instruments such as portable thermometers, hand-held multimeters, and digital calipers where its low operating voltage (down to 3.0 V) and integrated watchdog reduce external component count. OTP memory locks the calibration curve, while the Extended temperature grade keeps accuracy across outdoor field use. With 12 GPIO, the MCU can drive an LCD, scan a tactile keypad, and read a low-power sensor. Designers should use the watchdog timer to recover from battery brown-outs during long shelf storage.
Recommended
Logic Replacement in Industrial Designs
The PIC16C56-10E/SS replaces discrete 74HC logic glue in industrial designs where 12 GPIO and a 10 MHz CPU can implement state machines, sequencers, and protocol translators more compactly than dozens of logic gates. With 1.5 KB OTP, simple Modbus RTU slaves, custom timing generators, and watchdog-protected controllers fit comfortably. The Extended temperature grade handles factory-floor thermal swings, and the SSOP-20 footprint drops into existing logic-IC land patterns with minimal PCB rework. OTP programming locks the design IP into silicon, easing regulatory certification.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C56-10E/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C56-10I/SS | PIC16C56T-10E/SS | PIC16C55-10E/SS | PIC16C54-10E/SS | PIC16F57-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | SSOP-20 | SSOP-20 | SSOP-20 | SSOP-20 | SSOP-20 | SSOP-20 |
| Program Memory (KB) | 1.5 KB OTP | 1.5 KB OTP | 1.5 KB OTP | 1.0 KB OTP | 0.5 KB OTP | 3.0 KB Flash |
| Maximum Clock (MHz) | 10 MHz | 10 MHz | 10 MHz | 10 MHz | 10 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Data RAM (bytes) | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 72 |
| GPIO Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Memory Type | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | Flash |
| Temperature Grade | Extended (-40C to +125C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Extended (-40C to +125C) | Extended (-40C to +125C) | Extended (-40C to +125C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) |
Key Differentiators
- 1.5 KB OTP gives 50% more code space than PIC16C55 (vs PIC16C55-10E/SS)
- Automotive -40C to +125C grade vs Industrial -40C to +85C (vs PIC16C56-10I/SS)
- Lower per-unit cost than flash PIC16F57 in high volume (vs PIC16F57-I/SS)
- 12-bit instruction word delivers 2:1 code compression (vs PIC16C54-10E/SS)
Design Notes
OTP memory on the PIC16C56-10E/SS can be written exactly once. Verify the firmware image is final before mask production - field upgrades require a complete part swap. For prototyping and firmware iteration, build the development hardware around the flash-based PIC16F57 or PIC16F84A in the same SSOP-20 footprint and migrate code to the PIC16C56 only after the image is frozen. This avoids scrapping programmed parts during development.
The PIC16C56-10E/SS operates from 3.0 V to 6.0 V; decouple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic placed within 5 mm of the VDD pins (17 and 18-19) and a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum polymer on the same rail. The integrated power-on reset (POR) eliminates external reset RC networks, but verify the VDD rise time meets the 0.05 V/ms minimum slew rate to avoid brown-out lockup at cold start. Use MCP1700-3302E or equivalent low-Iq LDO for battery-powered designs.
At the 10 MHz maximum clock and full GPIO switching, the PIC16C56-10E/SS draws approximately 5 mA active and 1 uA sleep, dissipating under 30 mW even at 6.0 V VDD. SSOP-20 theta_JA is approximately 95 C/W, so no heatsink is required; the -40C to +125C operating range is well within the 150 C maximum junction. Verify the watchdog timer and POR are enabled in configuration fuses to recover from thermal-stress-induced brown-outs in automotive deployments.
Place the 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pins, with short traces to the VSS plane. Route the crystal or ceramic resonator traces to OSC1/OSC2 symmetrically with ground guard traces to reduce EMI. Keep high-current switching outputs (relay drivers, LED strings) physically separated from the MCLR reset pin and oscillator traces to prevent false resets and clock jitter. SSOP-20 land pattern should follow IPC-7351 SSOP-0.65 standard.
On SSOP-20 layouts, route GPIO traces with controlled impedance where they drive long cables or sensors. For automotive body-control modules exposed to ESD, add TVS protection on every external connector pin and bulk capacitance on the supply. Because the PIC16C56 has no integrated ADC, plan an external ADC such as the MCP3551 for analog sensor digitization. Reserve one GPIO as a firmware test pin accessible via pogo pads for factory programming verification.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, lead-free, halogen-free, and conflict-mineral compliance status not confirmed by the verified web data; mark as unknown and request manufacturer declaration before EU-bound shipments. AEC-Q100 not applicable - the -E temperature grade is automotive-extended but not formally AEC-Q100 qualified; consult Microchip for automotive qualification letters if required for OEM platforms.
