PIC16C56T-LPE/SS - 8-Bit 40MHz OTP MCU 1.5KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C56T-LPE/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.45 | $2.45 |
| 10 | $2.18 | $21.80 |
| 100 | $1.85 | $185.00 |
| 500 | $1.62 | $810.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.38 | $1,380.00 |
PIC16C56T-LPE/SS Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, memory, and peripherals. The PIC16C5X family belongs to the broader category of microcontrollers -> embedded controllers -> semiconductor ICs. It uses a RISC architecture with only 33 single-word/single-cycle instructions, delivering 2:1 code compression versus competitors in its class and dramatically reducing development time. The PIC core's deterministic instruction pipeline makes it ideal for real-time control loops where predictable timing is critical.
Key features of this part include 1024 words of OTP program memory organized as 1K x 12, hardware Power-On Reset that holds the device in reset until VDD reaches a valid threshold, a Watchdog Timer for unattended recovery from code faults, an external oscillator interface, and an automotive-grade temperature rating that supports under-hood and industrial cabinet deployments. The fully static CMOS design enables operation down to DC clock speeds for ultra-low-power sleep modes.
Typical applications for the PIC16C56T-LPE/SS include industrial automation controllers, consumer-electronics user-interface boards, automotive body and accessory ECUs, low-cost sensor interface modules, and legacy equipment retrofits where PIC16C5X compatibility is mandatory. The 1.5 KB program space is sufficient for tightly written state machines and timing-critical control loops. The combination of OTP memory (cost-optimized for medium volumes) and extended-temperature grade also makes the part attractive for sealed outdoor enclosures.
When designing with the PIC16C56T-LPE/SS, note that OTP memory cannot be electrically erased, so code must be fully validated in EPROM or flash prototyping variants before committing to the OTP build. Program the device using the MPLAB PM3 Universal Device Programmer or an equivalent production programmer, and reserve the Watchdog Timer as a fail-safe against firmware lock-ups in field-deployed units.
This page synthesizes distributor stock and pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives from the PIC16C5X family, and practical design notes not found in the standalone Microchip datasheet, giving component engineers a one-stop selection guide for legacy 8-bit control designs.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C56T-LPE/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 PIC16C56T-LPE/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, I/O Pins, Core Architecture, Maximum Clock Frequency, Operating Temperature Range.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C56T-LP/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.29 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56AT-20E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.21 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56T-HSI/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.41 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56AT-04E/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C56T-10E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.42 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56-LPE/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56T-LPE/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 8-bit Microcontroller (MCU) |
| Core Architecture | PIC 16C (RISC, 12-bit instruction word) |
| Instruction Set | 33 single-word/single-cycle instructions |
| Program Memory | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) OTP EPROM |
| Data Memory (RAM) | 25 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 40 MHz |
| Operating Voltage (VDD) | 2.5 V to 6 V (3.3 V/5 V typical) |
| I/O Pins | 12 general-purpose |
| Package | 20-pin SSOP (5.30 mm body) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C (Extended, 'E') |
| Peripherals | Power-On Reset (POR), Watchdog Timer (WDT) |
| Oscillator | External oscillator support |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel ('T' suffix) |
PIC16C56T-LPE/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — General-purpose I/O port A bit 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — General-purpose I/O port A bit 3 |
| Pin 3 | T0CKI — Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master Clear (active-low reset input) |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0/INT — General-purpose I/O / external interrupt |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — General-purpose I/O port B bit 1 |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — General-purpose I/O port B bit 2 |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — General-purpose I/O port B bit 3 |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — General-purpose I/O port B bit 4 |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — General-purpose I/O port B bit 5 |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — General-purpose I/O port B bit 6 |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — General-purpose I/O port B bit 7 |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 15 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 16 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 17 | RC0 — General-purpose I/O port C bit 0 |
| Pin 18 | RC1 — General-purpose I/O port C bit 1 |
| Pin 19 | RC2 — General-purpose I/O port C bit 2 |
| Pin 20 | RC3 — General-purpose I/O port C bit 3 |
Typical Applications
PIC16C56T-LPE/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Automation Controllers, Automotive Body and Accessory ECUs, Consumer Electronics User Interface Boards, Low-Cost Sensor Interface Modules, Legacy Equipment Retrofit Boards, Hobbyist and Educational Development Platforms.
Industrial Automation Controllers
The PIC16C56T-LPE/SS is well-suited for industrial automation controllers because its extended -40 °C to +125 °C operating range handles the thermal stress of factory-floor cabinets, motor control enclosures, and process-line installations. With 12 general-purpose I/O pins, the MCU can directly drive relays, optocouplers, and discrete sensors while handling timing-critical state machines in firmware. The integrated Watchdog Timer provides unattended recovery from EMI-induced lockups in electrically noisy industrial environments, and the hardware Power-On Reset ensures deterministic startup after power-cycle events common in 24 V industrial bus systems. The 1.5 KB OTP program memory is sufficient for tightly written ladder-logic replacements and PID control loops. Designers should reserve at least one I/O pin for an external WDT disable strap during firmware development.
Recommended
Automotive Body and Accessory ECUs
The PIC16C56T-LPE/SS finds wide deployment in automotive body controllers, lighting modules, and accessory ECUs such as seat controllers, mirror adjusters, and HVAC blend-door actuators. Its extended temperature grade qualifies it for under-hood and cabin environments, while the deterministic PIC RISC instruction timing guarantees precise PWM generation for motor control. The 12 I/O pins handle switch inputs, sensor feedback, and H-bridge drive signals without external logic. OTP memory protects against unauthorized firmware readout, an advantage for production ECUs where intellectual property protection matters. The 40 MHz CPU clock supports up to 10 MHz PWM frequencies with 8-bit resolution, sufficient for most motor-speed control loops. Pair the MCU with a TVS-protected supply rail for automotive load-dump resilience.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics User Interface Boards
Cost-sensitive consumer products such as remote controls, appliance keypads, and small appliance timers frequently use the PIC16C56T-LPE/SS to handle button scanning, LED driving, and simple state-machine logic. The 1.5 KB OTP memory accommodates menu navigation and timing sequences without external storage, while 25 bytes of RAM is sufficient for storing user preferences and timing variables. The wide 2.5 V to 6 V supply range allows direct connection to 3.3 V or 5 V rails, simplifying battery-powered designs. The fully static CMOS core enables sub-microamp sleep currents for battery-powered remote controls that must last years on a single coin cell. Designers should leverage the Watchdog Timer to recover from low-voltage brownout conditions during battery end-of-life.
Recommended
Low-Cost Sensor Interface Modules
The PIC16C56T-LPE/SS serves as an effective front-end controller in sensor interface modules that aggregate analog or digital sensor data and present it via serial protocol to a host system. Its small 20-SSOP footprint minimizes PCB area, while the 12 I/O pins handle multiple sensor inputs and a UART or SPI master interface. The extended-temperature grade allows outdoor or industrial sensor deployment without additional thermal management. The integrated Power-On Reset ensures the MCU starts in a defined state even after prolonged power-off periods in battery-backed sensor nodes. OTP memory locks the calibration coefficients and protocol firmware at production, preventing field tampering. For multi-sensor modules, consider the PIC16C56AT-20E/SS as a 20 MHz variant.
Recommended
Legacy Equipment Retrofit Boards
Many long-lifecycle industrial and medical devices still in service today rely on PIC16C5X microcontrollers that have been in production since the 1990s. The PIC16C56T-LPE/SS allows service engineers to design replacement boards for legacy equipment without rewriting firmware, since the instruction set and peripheral register map remain compatible with older PIC16C5X designs. The 20-SSOP package and standard pinout simplify drop-in board retrofits. Extended-temperature qualification supports industrial cabinets and medical device enclosures. The OTP memory model protects against accidental reprogramming during field service, an important consideration in regulated medical and process-control equipment. Use the PIC16C56T-LPE/SS to extend the service life of installed equipment without costly redesign.
Recommended
Hobbyist and Educational Development Platforms
The PIC16C56T-LPE/SS is frequently used in university embedded-systems courses and DIY electronics projects because of its simple RISC architecture with only 33 single-word instructions, making assembly language accessible to beginners. The 1.5 KB OTP memory is large enough to host meaningful firmware exercises (timers, PWM, UART) while keeping programming time short. Breadboard-friendly 20-SSOP breakout boards allow students to prototype without fine-pitch soldering. The deterministic instruction timing is ideal for teaching real-time scheduling concepts, and the integrated Watchdog Timer introduces students to fail-safe design principles. Pair the MCU with an MPLAB PM3 programmer or compatible development tool for the complete learning experience.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C56T-LPE/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C56T-LP/SS | PIC16C56AT-20E/SS | PIC16C56T-HSI/SS | PIC16C56AT-04E/SS | PIC16C56T-10E/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) OTP | 1.5 KB OTP | 1.5 KB OTP | 1.5 KB OTP | 1.5 KB OTP | 1.5 KB OTP |
| Max CPU Frequency | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 20 MHz | 40 MHz (HS osc) | 4 MHz | 10 MHz |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C (Extended) | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) | -40 °C to +125 °C (Extended) | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) | -40 °C to +125 °C (Extended) | -40 °C to +125 °C (Extended) |
| RAM | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Operating Voltage | 2.5 V to 6 V | 2.5 V to 6 V | 2.5 V to 6 V | 2.5 V to 6 V | 2.5 V to 6 V | 2.5 V to 6 V |
| Peripherals | POR, WDT | POR, WDT | POR, WDT | POR, WDT | POR, WDT | POR, WDT |
Key Differentiators
- Extended-temperature grade qualification (vs PIC16C56T-LP/SS)
- Maximum 40 MHz CPU frequency at 5 V (vs PIC16C56AT-04E/SS)
- Same-package drop-in compatibility across the family (vs PIC16C55-LPE/SS)
Design Notes
The PIC16C56T-LPE/SS operates from 2.5 V to 6 V and integrates a hardware Power-On Reset that holds the device in reset until VDD reaches a valid threshold. Decouple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the supply pin, and add a 10 µF bulk capacitor if the supply is shared with inductive loads. The MCLR pin must be pulled high through a 10 kΩ resistor and decoupled with a 100 nF capacitor to prevent reset glitches from fast VDD transients. Brownout behavior below 2.5 V is not guaranteed; use an external supervisor for systems that must survive undervoltage events gracefully.
Lay out the 20-SSOP package with a 0.65 mm pitch and provide a copper pour under the chip tied to VSS for thermal dissipation and ground-plane integrity. Keep the OSC1 and OSC2 traces short and symmetric, surrounded by a ground guard ring to minimize radiated EMI from the crystal oscillator. Place the MCLR pull-up resistor and decoupling capacitor close to the IC, and route the RA and RC port traces away from high-current switching signals to reduce crosstalk into the analog sections. If the application uses the T0CKI input, keep that trace short to avoid picking up high-frequency noise.
Estimated: OTP EPROM memory on the PIC16C56T-LPE/SS cannot be electrically erased, so every production unit must be programmed with fully validated firmware. Programming with the MPLAB PM3 or compatible programmer requires the device to be in a special programming mode entered via specific voltage levels on MCLR and RB6/RB7; failing to meet timing specifications will result in programming failures. The Watchdog Timer is enabled by configuration fuse, and once enabled it cannot be disabled by software - failure to clear the WDT in firmware will reset the device in normal operation. Always verify configuration fuse settings in the source code match the intended hardware behavior before committing to OTP programming.
For automotive and industrial designs, place the PIC16C56T-LPE/SS away from PCB edges and high-current switching traces to minimize radiated emissions and susceptibility. Use a four-layer PCB with a dedicated ground plane and a power plane routed around the MCU periphery; if a two-layer PCB is required, flood the opposite side of the board with ground copper stitched with vias at 5 mm intervals. The Watchdog Timer should remain enabled in production firmware as a fail-safe against firmware lockups, especially in unattended sensor modules. Estimated: design margin of 20% on timing budgets ensures reliable operation across the full -40 °C to +125 °C temperature range.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, and AEC-Q100 compliance not explicitly stated in the verified web data; contact Microchip for documentation. Conflict-minerals statement available on Microchip corporate responsibility page.
