PIC16C57-10/SS - 10MHz 8-bit OTP MCU, 3KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C57-10/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5.36 | $5.36 |
| 10 | $4.82 | $48.20 |
| 100 | $4.28 | $428.00 |
| 500 | $3.85 | $1,925.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.42 | $3,420.00 |
PIC16C57-10/SS Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer containing a CPU core, program memory, data RAM, and peripherals such as timers, I/O ports, and interrupt logic. Within the broader hierarchy, the PIC16C57 belongs to the 8-bit MCU category -> microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC. The "PIC16C" prefix identifies Microchip's mid-range, OTP/EPROM-programmable family using a RISC Harvard architecture that executes one instruction per internal clock cycle (except branches), giving deterministic timing suitable for cost-sensitive real-time control.
Key features of the PIC16C57-10/SS include a 10 MHz maximum oscillator frequency, an 8-bit real-time counter/timer (TMR0) with programmable prescaler, direct/indirect/relative addressing modes, seven or eight special function hardware registers, a watchdog timer, power-on reset, and a wide 2.5 V to 6.25 V (typical 5 V) operating voltage range. The CMOS process yields very low power consumption, enabling battery-backed designs. Commercial temperature grade (0 °C to +70 °C) is standard for the /SS SSOP variant.
Architecturally, the PIC16C57 uses a 12-bit instruction word fetched from program memory while the 8-bit data path reads/writes the file register map. The 2-level hardware stack supports subroutine nesting without software stack management. I/O ports are bidirectional with programmable weak pull-ups, and the device operates fully statically so the clock can be stopped without losing state - useful for low-power standby.
Typical applications include appliance controls, sensor interface boards, simple motor drivers, hobby and educational platforms, automotive body electronics (non-safety), security keypads, and remote-control transmitters. The OTP memory is well suited to fixed-code production runs of moderate volume where in-field reprogramming is not required.
A practical design note: the PIC16C57's 10 MHz oscillator limit must be respected when using HS or XT crystal modes; for lower-frequency designs (e.g., 32 kHz timing), the LP mode reduces supply current. Brown-out and watchdog behaviour should be configured in the configuration word prior to programming the OTP array, as these fuses cannot be changed after code commit.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative listings, and practical design notes that supplement the manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers quickly select and source PIC16C57-10/SS in production.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C57-10/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 PIC16C57-10/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Operating Temperature, Package, Program Memory Size, RAM Size, Mounting Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C57T-10/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57-10I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C55T-10/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F648A-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F72-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C57-10/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-bit |
| Series | PIC® 16C |
| Program Memory Size | 3 KB (2K x 12) OTP |
| RAM Size | 72 bytes |
| Number of I/O | 20 |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 10 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 6.25 V (5 V typical) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 °C to +70 °C (Commercial) |
| Package | 28-SSOP (0.209", 5.30 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) EPROM |
| Connectivity | GPIO only (no UART/SPI/I2C peripherals) |
| Peripherals | TMR0 8-bit Timer/Counter, WDT, POR |
| Data Converters | None (no ADC) |
| Oscillator Type | External (RC/HS/XT/LP modes) |
| Instruction Set Width | 12-bit |
PIC16C57-10/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — I/O port A bit 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — I/O port A bit 3 |
| Pin 3 | RTCC — TMR0 timer/counter I/O pin |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master clear reset (active low) |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0 — I/O port B bit 0 |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — I/O port B bit 1 |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — I/O port B bit 2 |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — I/O port B bit 3 |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — I/O port B bit 4 |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — I/O port B bit 5 |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — I/O port B bit 6 |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — I/O port B bit 7 |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5 V to 6.25 V) |
| Pin 15 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output / clock out |
| Pin 16 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input / clock in |
| Pin 17 | RC7 — I/O port C bit 7 |
| Pin 18 | RC6 — I/O port C bit 6 |
| Pin 19 | RC5 — I/O port C bit 5 |
| Pin 20 | RC4 — I/O port C bit 4 |
| Pin 21 | RC3 — I/O port C bit 3 |
| Pin 22 | RC2 — I/O port C bit 2 |
| Pin 23 | RC1 — I/O port C bit 1 |
| Pin 24 | RC0 — I/O port C bit 0 |
| Pin 25 | RA0 — I/O port A bit 0 |
| Pin 26 | RA1 — I/O port A bit 1 |
| Pin 27 | RA2 (dup) — I/O port A bit 2 (alternate pin) |
| Pin 28 | RA3 (dup) — I/O port A bit 3 (alternate pin) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C57-10/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Control Boards, Hobby and Educational Electronics, Remote Control Transmitters, Sensor Interface Boards, Simple Motor and Relay Drivers, Security Keypads and Access Panels.
Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16C57-10/SS suits appliance controls like washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens, and refrigerator user interfaces where cost dominates and firmware is fixed at production. Its 20 GPIO drive segment LCDs, keypads, relays, and triacs directly without external drivers; the 10 MHz core executes the state-machine logic within microsecond budgets typical of timer/counter-driven appliance cycles. The 3 KB OTP memory holds complete appliance control tables and lookup routines. Unlike Flash-based MCUs, the OTP silicon prevents field firmware tampering or accidental corruption, which is critical for safety-certified white goods where post-production code changes are forbidden. CMOS low-power design allows the device to remain idle between button presses, extending standby lifetime in Energy Star-rated products.
Recommended
Hobby and Educational Electronics
The PIC16C57-10/SS is widely adopted in entry-level microcontroller education and hobby projects because its 28-SSOP package is breadboard-friendly via SSOP-to-DIP adapters and its PIC instruction set is well documented in textbooks and Microchip application notes. With 3 KB OTP and 20 I/O, students can build complete projects including LED chasers, simple games, and sensor interfaces without external memory. The 10 MHz clock and 12-bit instructions yield a 2:1 code compression advantage over 8-bit competitors per Microchip, leaving more headroom for student code. The OTP memory teaches the realities of production microcontroller development where every byte counts and code is committed at final programming.
Recommended
Remote Control Transmitters
The PIC16C57-10/SS fits IR/RF remote control transmitters for TVs, set-top boxes, garage doors, and consumer audio where compact 28-SSOP packaging saves PCB area and 20 GPIO suffice for 4x4 keypads plus LED indicators. TMR0 generates precise carrier frequencies (36 kHz, 38 kHz, 40 kHz) for IR modulation, while the RISC core executes Manchester or pulse-position encoding protocols in real time. Low-voltage CMOS operation (2.5 V to 6.25 V) supports 2x AA or 3x coin-cell battery packs. OTP memory locks transmitter IDs against cloning, an essential security feature for garage door openers and access control remotes where firmware tampering must be prevented at the silicon level.
Recommended
Sensor Interface Boards
The PIC16C57-10/SS works as a sensor-conditioning MCU in industrial sensor interfaces, HVAC thermistor readers, and standalone monitoring nodes. TMR0 counts pulses from flow meters, optical encoders, or frequency-output sensors, while the 20 GPIO drive status LEDs, alarm relays, and 4-20 mA loop interfaces. At 10 MHz, the core polls multiple sensor inputs within millisecond budgets typical of HVAC control loops. The OTP memory prevents unauthorized sensor calibration changes in field-deployed industrial nodes where regulatory traceability is required. Commercial temperature grade (0 °C to +70 °C) covers most indoor industrial enclosures; the PIC16C57-10I/SS industrial variant extends coverage to -40 °C outdoor installations.
Recommended
Simple Motor and Relay Drivers
The PIC16C57-10/SS orchestrates low-power DC motor, stepper, and relay drive boards for small pumps, fans, valves, and solenoid controls. Its 20 GPIO directly sink relay coils through transistors or ULN2003 Darlington arrays; TMR0 generates PWM at fixed frequencies (typically 1 kHz to 5 kHz) for brushed DC motor speed control. With 3 KB OTP memory, the firmware can encode complete motion profiles including acceleration ramps, end-of-travel detection, and current limiting via GPIO polling. The wide 2.5 V to 6.25 V supply lets the MCU share a 5 V or 12 V rail with driver stages. For battery-powered pumps, the CMOS low-power design keeps quiescent current below typical sleep-mode budgets.
Recommended
Security Keypads and Access Panels
The PIC16C57-10/SS is widely deployed in standalone security keypads, alarm panels, and electronic lock controllers where OTP memory prevents code extraction attacks. 20 GPIO scan a 4x4 or 4x5 matrix keypad plus LEDs, buzzer, and magnetic lock driver; the 3 KB OTP holds PIN verification algorithms, tamper detection routines, and lockout logic. CMOS low-power operation lets the keypad run months on battery backup during AC power loss. The 10 MHz core debounces keys and verifies PINs within microseconds, well below user-perceived response times. Commercial temperature grade covers indoor residential and light-commercial installations; pair with the PIC16C57-10I/SS industrial variant for outdoor gate controllers and parking systems.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C57-10/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C57T-10/SS | PIC16C57-10I/SS | PIC16F648A-I/SS | PIC16F72-I/SO | PIC16C55T-10/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP (same) | 28-SSOP (same) | 28-SSOP (same) | 28-SOIC (different body width) | 28-SSOP (same) |
| Program Memory | 3 KB OTP | 3 KB OTP | 3 KB OTP | 7 KB Flash | 3.5 KB Flash | 512 B OTP |
| RAM Size | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 256 bytes | 128 bytes | 24 bytes |
| Max Clock Frequency | 10 MHz | 10 MHz | 10 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 10 MHz |
| Number of I/O | 20 | 20 | 20 | 16 | 22 | 12 |
| Operating Temperature | 0 °C to +70 °C | 0 °C to +70 °C | -40 °C to +85 °C | -40 °C to +85 °C | -40 °C to +85 °C | 0 °C to +70 °C |
| ADC | None | None | None | 10-bit | 8-bit x 5 | None |
Key Differentiators
- One-Time Programmable (OTP) memory prevents firmware tampering (vs PIC16F648A-I/SS)
- Commercial temperature grade at lower cost than industrial variant (vs PIC16C57-10I/SS)
- Three times more program memory than lower-tier family member (vs PIC16C55T-10/SS)
Design Notes
The PIC16C57-10/SS uses One-Time Programmable (OTP) EPROM, which means once the configuration word and program memory are committed, they cannot be erased. Always fully test firmware on a PIC16F equivalent or windowed UV-erasable PIC16C57 JW part before committing production units. Brown-out, watchdog, and oscillator configuration bits live in the configuration word and must be set BEFORE the OTP array is finalized - changing them later requires a new device.
Place the 28-SSOP decoupling capacitor (typically 100 nF ceramic) within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 14), with a low-impedance ground return to the VSS pin (pin 5). For HS or XT oscillator modes above 4 MHz, keep crystal traces short and symmetric, and route OSC1/OSC2 traces away from switching signals. The MCLR pin (pin 4) typically requires a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD; if not used as reset, it can be tied directly to VDD to free the MCLR function.
Estimated: at 10 MHz, VDD = 5 V, and all 20 I/O toggling at 50% duty, the PIC16C57-10/SS draws approximately 5-10 mA active and less than 1 uA in sleep mode per Microchip datasheet typical curves. For battery-powered applications, leverage the SLEEP instruction and TMR0 wake-up to extend battery life to months on 2x AA cells. The 2.5 V to 6.25 V supply range allows direct connection to 3.3 V or 5 V rails without level shifting.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, lead-free, and halogen-free status not confirmed in available data - contact Microchip directly for current compliance certificates. AEC-Q100 not applicable - PIC16C57 family is not automotive qualified; choose PIC16C57-10I/SS industrial grade for non-automotive extended-temperature applications.