PIC16C56T-RCE/SO - 8-bit 4MHz 1.5KB OTP MCU 18-SOIC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C56T-RCE/SO ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.92 | $1.92 |
| 10 | $1.73 | $17.30 |
| 100 | $1.54 | $154.00 |
| 500 | $1.35 | $675.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.16 | $1,160.00 |
PIC16C56T-RCE/SO Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, non-volatile program memory, volatile data RAM, and I/O peripherals on one die. Within that hierarchy, the PIC16C56 sits inside the EPROM/ROM-based CMOS sub-family of legacy 8-bit controllers, which Microchip positions as the lowest-cost entry into the PIC architecture. The R in the part code indicates the industrial operating-temperature range; the C denotes EPROM program memory; the T suffix indicates tape-and-reel packaging; and the SO suffix designates the 18-pin small-outline IC package.
Key features include 12 I/O pins, Power-On Reset (POR), Watchdog Timer (WDT) with its own on-chip RC oscillator, a 4 MHz internal or external clock option, and a 2-level hardware stack. The OTP EPROM supports one-time field programming via standard EPROM programmers, allowing code to be set at the factory or in production. The 8-bit accumulator-based architecture and 33 single-word instructions keep code development time short.
Typical applications include low-cost consumer appliances, remote controls, simple sensor interfaces, smart toys, automotive sub-modules, and any cost-driven embedded product that benefits from Microchip's mature PIC toolchain. The 18-SOIC footprint allows easy hand-soldering or reflow on hobby and small-volume boards.
When designing with this device, plan for OTP programming at production time (no in-system field updates), use the WDT for unattended recovery, and verify timing at the chosen Vdd, because the 4 MHz rating scales down at lower supply voltages. This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in PIC16C5X family alternatives, and practical design notes not collected in the original Microchip datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C56T-RCE/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 PIC16C56T-RCE/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Core Architecture, RoHS Status, Program Memory Size, Operating Temperature.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C56T-LPI/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.51 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56T-HSI/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.78 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56T-10E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.42 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56-RCI/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.99 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56-LPI/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.31 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56T-RCE/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC RISC |
| Family | PIC16C5X (PIC16C56) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) |
| Data RAM | 25 x 8 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Supply Voltage (Vdd) | 3.0 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 12 |
| Timers | Watchdog Timer (WDT) with dedicated RC oscillator |
| Stack Levels | 2 |
| Instruction Word Width | 12 bits |
| Instruction Set Size | 33 single-word instructions |
| Package | 18-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +85 C (industrial, R suffix) |
| Power-On Reset (POR) | Yes |
PIC16C56T-RCE/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | /MCLR — Master Clear (reset) input, active low |
| Pin 2 | RA0 — Port A bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 3 | RA1 — Port A bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 4 | RA2 — Port A bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 5 | Vss — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0 — Port B bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — Port B bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — Port B bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — Port B bit 3 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — Port B bit 4 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Port B bit 5 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Port B bit 6 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Port B bit 7 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 14 | Vdd — Positive supply voltage (3.0V-5.5V) |
| Pin 15 | OSC2 — Oscillator output / RA4 general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 16 | OSC1 — Oscillator input / RA3 general-purpose I/O |
| Pin 17 | RC0 — Port C bit 0 (digital I/O, shared with /MCLR on some packages) |
| Pin 18 | RC1 — Port C bit 1 (digital I/O) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C56T-RCE/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Remote Control Transmitters, Low-Cost Consumer Appliances, Automotive Sub-Modules, Smart Toys and Hobby Electronics, Industrial Sensor Interfaces, LED Lighting Controllers.
Remote Control Transmitters
The PIC16C56T-RCE/SO fits remote-control transmitters because its 12 I/O pins drive key-scan matrices directly while the 1.5KB OTP EPROM stores the fixed IR/RF command table for the lifetime of the product. With 25 bytes of RAM and a 4 MHz instruction cycle, it can scan 4x4 key matrices and emit pulse-width-modulated carrier bursts in real time. The 3.0V-5.5V supply range lets it run from two alkaline or a single lithium coin cell, and the integrated WDT recovers the controller if the carrier gets jammed. A typical RC5/RC6 or NEC protocol stack fits inside 1K instructions thanks to the PIC16C5X 12-bit wide code.
Recommended
Low-Cost Consumer Appliances
The PIC16C56T-RCE/SO is well suited to small consumer appliances (rice cookers, fan controllers, simple coffee machines) because its 12 I/O pins control relays, LEDs, and a 7-segment display without external logic. The 1.5KB OTP EPROM stores the appliance state machine once at production and the 25 bytes RAM hold timers and user-set variables. The Watchdog Timer with its own RC oscillator gives unattended recovery from brownouts, and the industrial temperature range (-40 C to +85 C) tolerates kitchen and laundry environments. At roughly $1.16 per unit in volume, it meets tight BOM targets for high-turnover SKUs.
Recommended
Automotive Sub-Modules
The PIC16C56T-RCE/SO serves automotive sub-modules (window lift switches, mirror controllers, simple interior lighting) where its industrial temperature range and integrated WDT meet reliability requirements. Its 12 I/O pins read rocker switches and drive small MOSFET gates for motors, while the OTP EPROM locks the calibration once at production. A 3.0V-5.5V supply allows direct regulation from the vehicle's 12V rail via a small linear regulator. Engineers choose this part for sub-modules that do not need CAN/LIN but still demand robust reset behavior.
Recommended
Smart Toys and Hobby Electronics
The PIC16C56T-RCE/SO drives hobby-grade robots, talking toys, and educational kits because its 33-instruction PIC16C5X core is simple enough for beginners to learn quickly. The 1.5KB OTP EPROM stores sound-trigger tables or motion sequences; 25 bytes of RAM holds sensor variables and timers. With only 12 I/O pins it integrates cleanly with hobby servo controllers and IR receivers. The 18-SOIC footprint reflows on standard 0.1 in perfboard adapter PCBs, and the low unit cost ($1.16 in volume) supports classroom-scale deployments of dozens of units.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interfaces
The PIC16C56T-RCE/SO handles simple industrial sensor interfaces (limit switches, temperature probes, basic counters) because its 12 I/O pins read contact closures and analog signals through external comparators, while the integrated WDT recovers from EMI-induced lockups on the factory floor. The 1.5KB OTP EPROM stores scaling tables and Hysteresis logic at production time, and 25 bytes of RAM is enough for moving averages and debounced counters. The 3.0V-5.5V supply allows operation from 24V industrial rails via low-cost linear regulation.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controllers
The PIC16C56T-RCE/SO drives entry-level LED controllers (decorative strips, signage animations, simple dimmers) because its 12 I/O pins can PWM up to six high-current LED channels directly via MOSFETs while the 1.5KB OTP EPROM stores the chase-pattern lookup. With 4 MHz instruction rate, it generates eight-bit software PWM at refresh rates above 100 Hz with no flicker, and the 25 bytes RAM stores pattern phase and brightness. The wide 3.0V-5.5V supply range accepts 5V USB power or 12V LED-driver rails via a small buck.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C56T-RCE/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C56T-LPI/SO | PIC16C56T-HSI/SO | PIC16C56T-10E/SS | PIC16C56-RCI/SO | PIC16C56-LPI/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 18-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm) | 18-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm) - same | 18-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm) - same | 18-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm) - same | 18-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm) - same | 18-SOIC (0.295 in / 7.50 mm) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 1.5 KB OTP EPROM (1K x 12) | 1.5 KB OTP EPROM (1K x 12) | 1.5 KB OTP EPROM (1K x 12) | 1.5 KB OTP EPROM (1K x 12) | 1.5 KB OTP EPROM (1K x 12) | 1.5 KB OTP EPROM (1K x 12) |
| Data RAM | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes |
| Max CPU Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 10 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Memory Type | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM (ceramic windowed) | OTP EPROM |
| Unit Price (qty 1000) | $1.16 | $1.18 | $1.20 | $1.25 | $1.45 | $1.14 |
Key Differentiators
- Lowest unit cost in the PIC16C5X 18-SOIC family (vs PIC16C56T-LPI/SO)
- Extended commercial temperature range for appliances (vs PIC16C56T-HSI/SO)
- Industry-standard 18-SOIC footprint reflows on hobby PCBs (vs PIC16C56T-10E/SS)
Design Notes
The PIC16C56T-RCE/SO operates from a single 3.0V-5.5V rail; place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to Vdd (pin 14) and a 10 uF bulk capacitor near the supply entry to suppress the inrush that occurs when the WDT-driven reset restarts the part. Avoid sharing the digital Vdd with high-current inductive loads (relay coils, motors) - use a separate linear regulator and star-ground at the MCU Vss pin to keep digital noise off the oscillator.
Keep the OSC1/OSC2 traces short (under 10 mm) and surround them with a ground pour to minimise jitter on the 4 MHz instruction cycle. The /MCLR pin (pin 1) requires a 10 kohm pull-up to Vdd for normal operation and optionally a 100 nF cap to ground for delayed reset; place both components within 5 mm of pin 1. For production programming via the EPROM programmer, expose the entire 18-SOIC footprint on the PCB (no hidden traces under the package) so a test clip can reach every pin.
The OTP EPROM on the PIC16C56T-RCE/SO can be programmed exactly once - there is no in-system reprogramming path, so all firmware bugs must be caught in pre-production validation. The WDT has its own internal RC oscillator independent of the system clock; failing to clear the WDT periodically will reset the MCU even if the main loop is healthy, so always include a CLRWDT instruction in any long-blocking routine. Estimated: peak active current at 4 MHz and 5 V is roughly 2-3 mA based on typical PIC16C5X curves; for battery-powered designs add a sleep/idle analysis since the PIC16C5X core has limited low-power modes.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH status not confirmed in the verified web data; lead-free is implied by the tape-and-reel packaging description. AEC-Q100 not qualified - this part is intended for industrial and consumer use, not automotive safety-critical systems.
