PIC16C56A-40/P - 8-bit OTP MCU, 1.5KB, 40MHz, PDIP-18 | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C56A-40/P β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.1 | $2.10 |
| 10 | $1.95 | $19.50 |
| 100 | $1.72 | $172.00 |
| 500 | $1.55 | $775.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.4 | $1,400.00 |
PIC16C56A-40/P Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is an integrated circuit that combines a CPU, memory (program and data), and peripherals on a single die, designed to execute embedded control tasks. The PIC16C5X family specifically uses a Harvard RISC architecture with separate program and data buses, a 12-bit instruction word, and a 2:1 code compression advantage over competing 8-bit CISC microcontrollers, making it well-suited for cost-sensitive, high-volume applications. The 'OTP' (One-Time-Programmable) designation means each device can be programmed once with user firmware using an MPLAB PM3 or compatible device programmer, and the bit pattern is then permanent.
Key features of the PIC16C56A-40/P include its 8-bit timer/counter (TMR0) with an 8-bit prescaler, a watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator for reliable operation, Power-on Reset (POR), and a fully static design that allows the clock to be stopped without losing register contents. The device supports in-circuit serial programming via Microchip's ICSP protocol and provides 12 bidirectional I/O pins capable of sinking up to 25 mA per pin for direct LED drive.
Typical applications include consumer appliance control, low-end remote controls, automotive body electronics (non-safety), simple sensor interfaces, battery chargers, and white goods timers. Its commercial temperature range (0C to +70C) and 40 MHz performance make it well-suited for cost-driven consumer products where reprogramming is not required in production and BOM cost dominates the design priority. Engineers should note that the OTP memory prevents field firmware updates, so this part is generally used in closed, single-configuration products.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, parametric comparisons, and design notes for the PIC16C56A-40/P, complementing the Microchip datasheet with drop-in alternatives and AEO-optimized answers for sourcing decisions.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C56A-40/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 PIC16C56A-40/P (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Data RAM, I/O Pins, Mounting Type, Package, Program Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C55A-40/P
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.45 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C56A-04/P
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.85 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C56A-20/P
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C56A-40/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C56A-20I/P
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.22 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C56A-40/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) |
| Data RAM | 25 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 40 MHz |
| Instruction Throughput | 5 MIPS (at 40 MHz) |
| Supply Voltage (Vdd) | 4.0 V to 6.0 V |
| I/O Pins | 12 |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit (TMR0 with 8-bit prescaler) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (on-chip RC oscillator) |
| Instruction Set Size | 33 instructions (single-word, single-cycle) |
| Architecture | Harvard RISC, 12-bit instruction word |
| Package | PDIP-18 (300 mil, 7.62 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole (DIP) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 C to +70 C (Commercial) |
| I/O Sink Current per Pin | 25 mA maximum |
| Power-on Reset | Yes |
PIC16C56A-40/P 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 | RA4/T0CKI β Bidirectional I/O / Timer0 clock input (Schmitt trigger) |
| Pin 4 | MCLR β Master Clear reset input, active low |
| 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 (also ICSPCLK for ICSP) |
| Pin 12 | RB6 β Bidirectional I/O port B bit 6 (also ICSPDAT for ICSP) |
| Pin 13 | RB7 β Bidirectional I/O port B bit 7 |
| Pin 14 | VDD β Positive supply voltage, 4.0 V to 6.0 V |
| Pin 15 | OSC2 β Oscillator output (crystal / resonator mode) |
| Pin 16 | OSC1 β Oscillator input (crystal / resonator / external clock mode) |
| Pin 17 | CLKIN β Alternate external clock input |
| Pin 18 | RA0 β Bidirectional I/O port A bit 0 |
Typical Applications
PIC16C56A-40/P is suitable for 7 applications: Consumer Appliance Control, Remote Control Transmitter, Battery Charger Controller, Industrial Sensor Interface Module, Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety), Toy and Hobby Electronics, White Goods Timer Module.
Consumer Appliance Control
The PIC16C56A-40/P fits low-to-mid complexity appliance controls such as microwave oven keypads, washing-machine timer boards, and rice-cooker controllers. Its 25 mA per-pin I/O sink directly drives LED indicators and relay coils without external driver transistors, while the 1.5 KB OTP holds a typical appliance state machine and timing routine. The 40 MHz / 5 MIPS throughput is sufficient for keypad scanning, PWM buzzer control, and triac zero-cross timing. At under $1.50 per unit in 1000-piece volumes the BOM fits tightly cost-engineered white-goods designs.
Recommended
Remote Control Transmitter
The PIC16C56A-40/P suits infrared remote control transmitters for TVs, set-top boxes, and air-conditioner wall units. Its 12 I/O pins connect to a matrix keypad plus a 38 kHz carrier output for the IR LED. The TMR0 timer generates the carrier frequency and bit-cell widths entirely in firmware, removing the need for external oscillator counters. Low-cost OTP memory is appropriate since production firmware is fixed at programming time, and the 4.0 V to 6.0 V supply tolerates 2-AA or 3-AAA battery packs directly.
Recommended
Battery Charger Controller
Lead-acid and NiMH trickle-charger designs use the PIC16C56A-40/P for sequencing the charge cycle, monitoring temperature thermistor input via an ADC-free comparator on RA4, and terminating on -dV detection. The 12 I/O pins drive status LEDs, the relay or MOSFET gate, and a serial EEPROM for charge-log storage. OTP memory locks the charge algorithm against firmware corruption from voltage transients. The commercial 0 C to +70 C range covers indoor garage and workshop charger applications without derating.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interface Module
Simple industrial sensor modules with on-board calibration and digital output use the PIC16C56A-40/P to linearize thermocouple or RTD inputs and present a Modbus-RTU or 4-20 mA interface. The 5 MIPS throughput is sufficient for polynomial correction tables and digital filtering. The commercial temperature range suits factory-floor enclosures; designers needing wider temperature should step up to the PIC16C56A-20I/P industrial variant. PIC16C5X RISC code density keeps the 1.5 KB OTP budget sufficient for typical sensor signal chains.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety)
For non-safety automotive body modules such as interior lighting controllers, seat-position memory switches, and accessory timers, the PIC16C56A-40/P provides reliable 8-bit control in a through-hole PDIP-18 package suited to early-stage prototyping. Its 25 mA I/O sink drives automotive relays and small solenoids directly. Although the commercial 0 C to +70 C range is below automotive spec, this part is widely used in development and aftermarket modules where -40 C operation is not required. For production safety-critical designs select the automotive-qualified PIC16F or PIC18 equivalent.
Recommended
Toy and Hobby Electronics
The PIC16C56A-40/P is a workhorse in cost-driven hobby electronics: RC servomotor drivers, model-train throttles, LED chaser displays, and educational robotics kits. The 12 I/O pins directly drive hobby servos (PWM via TMR0) and addressable LED chains. OTP memory keeps unit cost low and prevents code theft in high-volume consumer toys. The 40 MHz speed supports up to 12 simultaneous servo channels without jitter, and the PDIP-18 package is breadboard-friendly for maker and educational use.
Recommended
White Goods Timer Module
Dedicated timer modules for dishwashers, washing machines, and defrost controllers use the PIC16C56A-40/P as a 24-hour or 7-day event scheduler. The 33-instruction RISC core executes a long-form timing state machine within 1.5 KB OTP, and the watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator guarantees recovery from brown-out events. MCLR pin allows an external power-supervisor IC to force a deterministic reset. Its low cost and Microchip's 30+ year production continuity make it a safe choice for long-life appliance platforms.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C56A-40/P β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C55A-40/P | PIC16C56A-04/P | PIC16C56A-20/P | PIC16C56A-20I/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | PDIP-18 | PDIP-18 | PDIP-18 | PDIP-18 | PDIP-18 |
| Program Memory | 1.5 KB OTP | 768 B OTP | 1.5 KB OTP | 1.5 KB OTP | 1.5 KB OTP |
| Max Clock Frequency | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Data RAM | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Supply Voltage | 4.0 V to 6.0 V | 4.0 V to 6.0 V | 4.0 V to 6.0 V | 4.0 V to 6.0 V | 4.0 V to 6.0 V |
| Operating Temperature | 0 C to +70 C | 0 C to +70 C | 0 C to +70 C | 0 C to +70 C | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) |
Key Differentiators
- Highest program memory in PIC16C5X 18-pin family at 40 MHz (vs PIC16C55A-40/P)
- Maximum 5 MIPS throughput in this package (vs PIC16C56A-04/P)
- Through-hole package suited to prototyping (vs PIC16C56A-40/SO)
Design Notes
Do not connect the MCLR pin directly to VDD. The PIC16C5X family requires an external RC or pull-up arrangement to allow a clean power-on reset. A typical value is 10 kohm pull-up to VDD with a 0.1 uF cap to ground for noise immunity. Without this network the device can intermittently fail to start or enter a stuck state on brown-out recovery.
Decouple VDD (pin 14) with a 0.1 uF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the pin and a 10 uF bulk tantalum or aluminum on the supply rail. The PIC16C56A-40/P draws brief high-current pulses when internal logic switches; insufficient decoupling causes code-fetch errors in OTP-programmed parts which are non-recoverable in the field.
For crystal or resonator mode, place the resonator (and its load capacitors if used) within 5 mm of pins 15 (OSC2) and 16 (OSC1). Keep these traces short and shield them with a ground pour to avoid injecting 40 MHz harmonics into nearby analog sections. For RC oscillator mode on cost-sensitive designs, a single resistor between OSC1 and OSC2 with a series cap to GND is acceptable but degrades frequency accuracy to Β±5% over temperature.
When using the ICSP interface (RB5 = ICSPCLK, RB6 = ICSPDAT) on the production board, place 4.7 kohm series resistors on each line close to the MCU pins to prevent programming-tool-induced damage during in-circuit programming. This also isolates the MCU from external pull-ups that could fight with the programmer's drive signals.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, lead-free, halogen-free, and conflict-minerals status were not present in the verified distributor data and are marked 'unknown'. For an EU-bound design request the latest material declaration from Microchip. AEC-Q100 not applicable since this is a commercial-temperature-grade part, not an automotive-qualified variant.
