PIC16C56-LPE/SO - 8-Bit 40MHz OTP MCU 1.5KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C56-LPE/SO ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.92 | $3.92 |
| 10 | $3.58 | $35.80 |
| 100 | $2.99 | $299.00 |
| 500 | $2.52 | $1,260.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.18 | $2,180.00 |
PIC16C56-LPE/SO Overview
An OTP microcontroller is a single-chip processor whose program memory is implemented as one-time-programmable EPROM. Engineers program the device once with a device programmer (such as the MPLAB PM3) and the bit pattern becomes permanent - there is no in-circuit re-programmability. Compared with flash-based MCUs, OTP parts offer a smaller silicon die, lower unit cost at moderate volumes, and superior long-term data retention, making them a strong fit for cost-sensitive, high-volume, fixed-code applications.
Key features include a 12-bit wide instruction set providing roughly 2:1 code compression over typical 8-bit CISC architectures, a Harvard bus with separate program and data paths, a watchdog timer, a 5-channel 8-bit ADC on related family members, and dual hardware comparators that double as simple analog front ends. Power-saving SLEEP mode, on-chip power-on reset, and brown-out protection simplify external circuitry. The extended-temperature grade allows deployment in industrial, automotive-cabin, and outdoor environments that exceed the 0-70C commercial range.
The PIC16C5X architecture delivers a 200 ns instruction cycle at the maximum 40 MHz oscillator (10 MHz instruction rate equivalent), enabling real-time control loops and modest protocol handling. Its 18-pin SOIC footprint is the industry-standard small-outline 300-mil package, compatible with hand-soldering, reflow, and automated pick-and-place lines.
Typical applications include appliance controllers, low-power remote sensor nodes, automotive cabin accessories, security keypads, HVAC damper actuators, white-goods user interfaces, and low-bandwidth industrial sensor signal conditioning where the program logic is fixed at production and unit cost dominates.
When designing with the PIC16C56-LPE/SO, plan your code size carefully - the 1K x 12 OTP provides 1024 instructions. Use a low-power 32.768 kHz crystal for battery-operated designs and configure the watchdog timer to recover from firmware lockups. Confirm OTP programming margins across operating temperature before committing to volume production.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-package drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C56-LPE/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 PIC16C56-LPE/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core Architecture, Package, RoHS Status, Program Memory Size, Program Memory Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C56-LP/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.82 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56-LPI/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.31 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56T-LPE/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C56A-04E/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C56-HSI/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C55-LPE/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56-LPE/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC RISC (PIC16C5X baseline) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) |
| RAM | 25 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | None |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 40 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle | 200 ns (at 40 MHz) |
| I/O Pins | 12 |
| Package | 18-pin SOIC (300 mil) |
| Oscillator Type | LP (low-power, 32.768 kHz-200 kHz crystal/resonator) |
| Operating Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 6.0 V (typical 3.3 V / 5 V) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (extended, 'E' suffix) |
| ADC | None on PIC16C56 (family options only) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes |
| Power-on Reset / Brown-out | Yes |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| MSL Level | 1 |
| RoHS Status | Non-Compliant (OTP EPROM windowed part historically Pb-bearing; check lot markings) |
PIC16C56-LPE/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Port A bit 2 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Port A bit 3 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 3 | RTCC — Real-Time Clock/Counter input (also RA4 on some family variants) |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master Clear reset input (active low) |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0 — Port B bit 0 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — Port B bit 1 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — Port B bit 2 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — Port B bit 3 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — Port B bit 4 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Port B bit 5 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Port B bit 6 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Port B bit 7 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.0 V to 6.0 V) |
| Pin 15 | OSC2 — Oscillator output (crystal/resonator connection) |
| Pin 16 | OSC1 — Oscillator input (crystal/resonator connection) |
| Pin 17 | RA0 — Port A bit 0 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 18 | RA1 — Port A bit 1 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C56-LPE/SO is suitable for 7 applications: Appliance Control Boards, Automotive Cabin Accessories, Low-Power Sensor Signal Conditioning, Security Keypads and Access Control, HVAC Damper and Valve Actuators, Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning Modules, White-Goods User Interface Boards.
Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16C56-LPE/SO suits fixed-function appliance controllers (rice cookers, washing-machine sub-boards, microwave keypads) where the program is finalized at production and unit cost dominates. Its 1.5 KB OTP easily fits typical appliance state-machine logic, 12 I/O pins drive relays/LEDs/switches directly, and the LP oscillator plus SLEEP mode keep standby current low for energy-star designs. The -40C to +125C extended-temperature grade handles oven-cabinet and motor-compartment heat. Compared with a flash MCU, the OTP die is smaller, lowering per-unit BOM cost at high volume.
Recommended
Automotive Cabin Accessories
The PIC16C56-LPE/SO operates across -40C to +125C, fitting non-powertrain cabin modules such as seat-heater switches, mirror controllers, sunroof logic, and ambient lighting drivers. Its 5V tolerance, hardware watchdog timer, and brown-out reset meet the electrical-noise demands of an automotive environment without external supervision ICs. The OTP memory is vibration-resistant (no in-circuit reprogramming surface) and the 12 I/O pins drive FET gates, PWM LEDs, and H-bridge enable lines directly. Designs targeting AEC-Q100 should evaluate the PIC16C56-LPE/SO qualification status with Microchip before PPAP submission.
Recommended
Low-Power Sensor Signal Conditioning
Battery-powered remote sensor nodes benefit from the PIC16C56-LPE/SO's LP low-power oscillator (32.768 kHz-200 kHz crystal), SLEEP current in the microamp range, and polled execution model. Typical signal-conditioning flows (thermistor bridge readout, 4-20 mA loop sensing, pulse counting) fit easily within 1.5 KB OTP and 25 bytes RAM. The watchdog timer recovers from firmware lockups during extended battery operation. Pair with an external low-power op-amp for analog front-end scaling; the MCU itself has no integrated ADC on the PIC16C56 variant.
Recommended
Security Keypads and Access Control
Fixed-code security keypads, alarm panels, and electronic lock controllers use the PIC16C56-LPE/SO's 1.5 KB OTP to store proprietary authentication logic that cannot be read back after programming - a deterrent against firmware cloning. The 12 I/O pins scan a 4x4 matrix keypad directly, drive buzzer and LED indicators, and interface to a magnetic-stripe or Wiegand reader. The extended temperature range supports outdoor access-control housings. The lack of in-circuit reprogramming prevents field tampering and unauthorized code updates.
Recommended
HVAC Damper and Valve Actuators
Building-automation damper actuators and zone-valve controllers use the PIC16C56-LPE/SO's polled execution to drive TRIAC/optocoupler stages and read thermistor/position feedback. The LP oscillator keeps idle current minimal in always-on damper actuators mounted in ceilings, and the 5V rail is compatible with standard HVAC control boards. The extended -40C to +125C grade survives attic and rooftop temperature extremes. Real-time proportional control loops fit within the 1.5 KB instruction budget for typical 3-wire zone-valve or motorized-damper algorithms.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning Modules
DIN-rail-mounted industrial sensor signal conditioners (RTD, thermocouple, load-cell amplifiers) deploy the PIC16C56-LPE/SO for cold-junction compensation, linearization, and 4-20 mA loop drive. Its 12 I/O pins interface to 24-bit sigma-delta ADCs over SPI bit-banging, drive HART modulator outputs, and read calibration EEPROM. The extended temperature and wide supply range (3.0-6.0 V) handle 24V-loop-powered designs with linear regulation. OTP storage locks the calibration coefficients, preventing field re-calibration that could compromise measurement integrity.
Recommended
White-Goods User Interface Boards
User-interface boards in dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines deploy the PIC16C56-LPE/SO to scan capacitive-touch or membrane keypads, drive 7-segment displays, and communicate with the main appliance control board via UART. The 1.5 KB OTP stores display font tables, button-debounce state machines, and diagnostic routines. Extended temperature supports the steam/humidity environments near dishwashers and washer drums. Compared to higher-end MCUs, the PIC16C56's small die and 18-pin SOIC keep UI-board BOM cost minimal at appliance scale.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C56-LPE/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C56-LP/SO | PIC16C56-LPI/SO | PIC16C56T-LPE/SO | PIC16C56A-04E/SO | PIC16C56-HSI/SS | PIC16C55-LPE/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 18-pin SOIC | 18-pin SOIC - same | 18-pin SOIC - same | 18-pin SOIC - same | 18-pin SOIC - same | 18-pin SSOP - same family, smaller body | 18-pin SOIC - same |
| Program Memory (OTP) | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) - identical | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) - identical | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) - identical | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) - identical | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) - identical | 768 B (512 x 12) - 49% smaller |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 40 MHz | 40 MHz - identical | 40 MHz - identical | 40 MHz - identical | 4 MHz (04 oscillator) | 40 MHz - identical | 40 MHz - identical |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (extended) | 0 C to +70 C (commercial) | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | -40 C to +125 C - identical | -40 C to +125 C - identical | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | -40 C to +125 C - identical |
| Oscillator Type | LP (low-power, 32.768 kHz-200 kHz) | LP - identical | LP - identical | LP - identical | XT (up to 4 MHz) - higher-power driver | HS (high-speed, 4-40 MHz) - higher-power driver | LP - identical |
| RAM | 25 bytes | 25 bytes - identical | 25 bytes - identical | 25 bytes - identical | 25 bytes - identical | 25 bytes - identical | 25 bytes - identical |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 - identical | 12 - identical | 12 - identical | 12 - identical | 12 - identical | 12 - identical |
| Packaging Form | Tube | Tube | Tube | Tape & Reel | Tube | Tube | Tube |
Key Differentiators
- Extended-temperature grade with same die as commercial variant (vs PIC16C56-LP/SO)
- Low-power oscillator variant for battery and always-on designs (vs PIC16C56A-04E/SO (XT oscillator))
- Larger program memory than the PIC16C55 baseline (vs PIC16C55-LPE/SO)
- OT-curable silicon for IP protection (vs Flash-based PIC16F84A-I/SO (not in list, illustrative))
Design Notes
Place the LP crystal (typically 32.768 kHz or 100-200 kHz ceramic resonator) within 5 mm of pins 15 (OSC2) and 16 (OSC1) to minimize parasitic capacitance. Use short, symmetrical traces and a ground guard ring around the oscillator cell. Place the 0.1 uF VDD bypass capacitor within 3 mm of pin 14, and a 10 uF bulk capacitor at the board supply entry. Add a 10 kohm pull-up on MCLR (pin 4) to VDD for proper reset behavior.
The PIC16C56-LPE/SO accepts 3.0 V to 6.0 V on VDD (pin 14). For 5V designs, an MC78L05 or equivalent LDO is typical; for 3.3V-only designs, ensure the brown-out reset voltage threshold (~2.5 V typical) accommodates the slower VDD rise time. During SLEEP, the LP oscillator continues running while the CPU halts; estimated SLEEP current at 32.768 kHz is in the single-digit microamp range per the PIC16C5X datasheet - verify on your lot.
Estimated: OTP programming voltage is 13 V on the MCLR pin during device programming - never apply 13V to MCLR in-circuit or the device will be permanently damaged. Use a Microchip MPLAB PM3 or equivalent programmer with a proper socket adapter. Also note that the PIC16C5X family lacks interrupts - all timing is polled via the RTCC rollover or external edge on RA4, which can constrain tight real-time loops.
Route RB0-RB7 (pins 6-13) as a contiguous byte port to simplify matrix-keypad scanning code. Keep high-current switching signals (relay coils, TRIAC gates) on RA0-RA3 (pins 17-18, 1-2) physically separated from the oscillator pins. Add 100 ohm series resistors on any external signal traces longer than 50 mm to limit ringing on the bidirectional I/O pins.
Estimated: at the maximum 40 MHz clock and 6.0 V supply, the PIC16C56-LPE/SO core dissipation is approximately 10-15 mW (per PIC16C5X electrical characteristics) - well within the SOIC-18 theta_JA of ~85 C/W. No external heatsinking is required even at the +125C extended-temperature upper limit, but the surrounding board copper area should still provide at least 100 mm^2 of VDD pour for thermal spreading.
Compliance Information
PIC16C5X OTP family is generally not RoHS compliant due to legacy die-attach and package lead finishes. Verify specific lot compliance via manufacturer C of C. AEC-Q100 not formally qualified - verify automotive cabin suitability with Microchip application engineering.
