PIC16C56-10I/SS - 8-bit CMOS MCU, 1.5KB, 12 I/O, SSOP-20 | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C56-10I/SS β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.47 | $3.47 |
| 10 | $3.1 | $31.00 |
| 100 | $2.78 | $278.00 |
| 500 | $2.45 | $1,225.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.1 | $2,100.00 |
PIC16C56-10I/SS Overview
A baseline PIC microcontroller is an 8-bit RISC MCU built around a small, fixed instruction set (typically 33 single-word instructions) and a two-stage pipeline. Within the broader taxonomy, a PIC16C5X sits between simpler PIC10/PIC12 devices and the mid-range PIC16F1 family, sharing the foundational Harvard architecture (separate program and data buses) but predating the flash-based mid-range parts. Engineers choose this class for cost-sensitive, deterministic control loops where the OTP memory and limited peripherals are acceptable trade-offs.
Key features include an 8-bit timer/counter (TMR0) with an 8-bit prescaler, a two-level deep hardware stack for subroutines, direct/indirect/relative addressing modes, and a high-performance RISC CPU supporting all single-cycle instructions except program branches, which require two cycles. Power consumption is reduced through CMOS fabrication, and the device supports a wide 2.5V to 6.0V VDD range for flexible system integration.
The PIC16C56-10I/SS uses a Harvard architecture with a 12-bit program memory bus and an 8-bit data path, giving roughly 2:1 code compression versus competitive 8-bit MCUs in its price class. The OTP EPROM program memory requires a one-time programming step with an MPLAB-compatible device programmer such as the MPLAB PM3, and the part is suited to mature, stable code that does not need in-field firmware updates.
Typical applications include simple consumer appliances, sensor interface controllers, LED driving boards, replacement of discrete logic, low-end remote controls, and industrial timing modules. The SSOP-20 footprint is also friendly to space-constrained PCB designs.
When designing with the PIC16C56-10I/SS, verify that the MCLR, OSC1/OSC2, and VDD/VSS pin assignments match the chosen clock topology (RC, XT, LP, or HS oscillator). For automotive or extended-temperature requirements, source a part with an "E" temperature grade and confirm the latest Microchip product change notifications, since PIC16C OTP parts have undergone lifecycle transitions as flash-based baselines replaced them.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, helping sourcing engineers and PCB designers make a faster, more confident decision.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C56-10I/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 PIC16C56-10I/SS (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Program Memory Size, Program Memory Type, Core Architecture, Operating Temperature, Package.
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Request AlternativesPIC16C56-10I/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| CPU Core | 8-bit PIC RISC (PIC16C5X baseline family) |
| Program Memory Type | One-Time Programmable (OTP) EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 1.5 KB (12-bit wide instructions) |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | Not present |
| Number of I/O Pins | 12 |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 10 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns (single-cycle for non-branch) |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit timer/counter (TMR0) with 8-bit prescaler |
| Hardware Stack Depth | 2 levels |
| Addressing Modes | Direct, Indirect, Relative |
| Instruction Set Size | 33 single-word instructions |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 2.5 V to 6.0 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial, "I" grade) |
| Package Type | SSOP-20 (209 mil, 0.65 mm pitch) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Oscillator Modes | RC, XT, LP, HS |
| RoHS Status | Compliant per Microchip product page |
PIC16C56-10I/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 β Bidirectional I/O port A bit 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3 β Bidirectional I/O port A bit 3 |
| Pin 3 | RTCC β Timer/counter TMR0 input pin |
| Pin 4 | MCLR/VPP β Master clear reset / programming voltage input |
| Pin 5 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0 β Bidirectional I/O port B bit 0 |
| Pin 7 | RB1 β Bidirectional I/O port B bit 1 |
| Pin 8 | RB2 β Bidirectional I/O port B bit 2 |
| Pin 9 | RB3 β Bidirectional I/O port B bit 3 |
| Pin 10 | RB4 β Bidirectional I/O port B bit 4 |
| Pin 11 | RB5 β Bidirectional I/O port B bit 5 |
| Pin 12 | RB6 β Bidirectional I/O port B bit 6 |
| Pin 13 | RB7 β Bidirectional I/O port B bit 7 |
| Pin 14 | VSS β Ground reference (secondary) |
| Pin 15 | OSC1/CLKIN β Oscillator input or external clock in |
| Pin 16 | OSC2/CLKOUT β Oscillator output or clock out |
| Pin 17 | RA0 β Bidirectional I/O port A bit 0 |
| Pin 18 | RA1 β Bidirectional I/O port A bit 1 |
| Pin 19 | NC β Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 20 | VDD β Positive supply voltage |
Typical Applications
PIC16C56-10I/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Consumer Appliance Control, LED Driver and Lighting Controller, Sensor Interface and Data Acquisition, Remote Control and IR Transmitter, Replacement of Discrete Logic, Industrial Timing and Sequencer Modules.
Consumer Appliance Control
The PIC16C56-10I/SS fits consumer appliance control boards where its 1.5 KB OTP program memory and 25 bytes RAM are sufficient for fixed-function firmware such as washing-machine timer logic, fan-speed control, or simple toaster-oven sequencing. Its 10 MHz clock and 200 ns single-cycle instructions deliver enough throughput to service a small finite state machine plus debounced keypad scan, while 12 I/O pins map cleanly to relays, LEDs, and a 7-segment display. The wide 2.5 V to 6.0 V supply range accepts both 3.3 V and 5 V rails found in appliances.
Recommended
LED Driver and Lighting Controller
With 12 I/O pins and one 8-bit timer with prescaler, the PIC16C56-10I/SS drives multichannel LED arrays in low-end decorative lighting, signage, or status indicators. PWM can be generated via software bit-banging at the 200 ns instruction cycle, and each I/O pin can source or sink enough current to drive a small MOSFET or ULN2003A Darlington array directly. The SSOP-20 footprint suits compact light-fixture PCBs, while OTP program memory locks the lighting pattern against accidental firmware corruption.
Recommended
Sensor Interface and Data Acquisition
The PIC16C56-10I/SS reads simple analog or digital sensors in industrial monitoring nodes where its 12 I/O pins accept multiple digital inputs and 8-bit timer TMR0 can be configured to count pulses from flow meters or proximity sensors. Combined with an external ADC such as the MCP3001 over SPI bit-banged I/O, the MCU turns into a compact 10-bit data logger. The -40 C to +85 C industrial temperature grade supports factory-floor environments, and the SSOP-20 package fits inside sensor housings.
Recommended
Remote Control and IR Transmitter
The PIC16C56-10I/SS builds compact handheld remote controls for TVs, fans, or industrial keyfobs by combining 1.5 KB OTP for protocol encoding with 12 I/O to scan keypads and drive an IR LED. Its 200 ns instruction cycle can produce 38 kHz carrier PWM by software timing, and the 2.5 V to 6.0 V supply range supports both 3 V coin-cell and 5 V mains-receiver designs. OTP prevents accidental code replication, useful for proprietary remote protocols.
Recommended
Replacement of Discrete Logic
Designers replace clusters of 74HC-series glue logic with a PIC16C56-10I/SS to consolidate timing, sequencing, and signal conditioning into a single 20-pin chip. The 12 I/O pins and TMR0 implement monostable, astable, and shift-register functions in software, often shrinking the BOM and PCB area. With OTP memory the consolidated logic is locked at production, eliminating field reprogramming risks that flash parts might introduce in safety or regulatory contexts.
Recommended
Industrial Timing and Sequencer Modules
Industrial control panels use the PIC16C56-10I/SS as a small deterministic sequencer to schedule relay activation, conveyor indexing, or pump cycling. Its 8-bit timer with 8-bit prescaler supports long countdown intervals up to several seconds per tick, and the two-level hardware stack is sufficient for one or two nested interrupt service routines. The SSOP-20 industrial-grade package stands up to factory-floor vibration when soldered to a properly clamped PCB.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C56-10I/SS β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C56-20I/SS | PIC16C56-04I/SS | PIC16C56T-10I/SS | PIC16F54-I/SS | PIC16F57-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | SSOP-20 | SSOP-20 - same | SSOP-20 - same | SSOP-20 - same | SSOP-20 - same | SSOP-20 - same |
| Max Clock Frequency | 10 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 10 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM (1.5 KB) | OTP EPROM (1.5 KB) | OTP EPROM (1.5 KB) | OTP EPROM (1.5 KB) | Flash (768 words) | Flash (3 KB) |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 72 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 20 |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | Active | Active |
Key Differentiators
- Mid-tier OTP code density in the SSOP-20 PIC16C5X family (vs PIC16C55-10I/SS)
- Flash-based drop-in path with active lifecycle (vs PIC16F54-I/SS)
- Tape-and-reel shipping carrier without die or footprint change (vs PIC16C56T-10I/SS)
Design Notes
The PIC16C56-10I/SS operates from 2.5 V to 6.0 V VDD and draws a few mA at 10 MHz with all I/O active. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin and a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum polymer cap on the supply rail to suppress switching transients. The MCLR pin must be tied to VDD through a 10 kohm pull-up and a 100 nF cap for proper power-on reset, otherwise spurious resets may occur on slow-rising supplies.
Route the oscillator traces (OSC1/OSC2) as short as possible and shield them from switching I/O lines to avoid clock jitter. Keep the crystal or resonator within 5 mm of the IC and place a ground guard ring under the oscillator network. For RC oscillator mode, place the timing resistor and capacitor adjacent to OSC1 with the ground return isolated from digital ground noise. Proper grounding is essential because the 200 ns instruction cycle leaves little margin for clock-period variability.
Do not exceed 6.0 V on VDD or apply voltage to any pin before VDD is stable, since the PIC16C5X baseline family lacks clamping diodes on most pins. Always verify oscillator configuration bits match your hardware: a part programmed for XT mode will not start with an RC network. When migrating from PIC16C56 to PIC16F54 or PIC16F57, recompile firmware because the configuration word bit positions and timer registers differ between OTP and flash baseline families.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified. Halogen-free status not explicitly stated on the verified data pages.
