PIC16C57-HSE/SP - 8-Bit 16MHz OTP MCU 3KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C57-HSE/SP ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.42 | $2.42 |
| 10 | $2.18 | $21.80 |
| 100 | $1.94 | $194.00 |
| 500 | $1.72 | $860.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.55 | $1,550.00 |
PIC16C57-HSE/SP Overview
An 8-bit PIC microcontroller (MCU) is a RISC-based single-chip computer that combines a CPU core, non-volatile program memory, working RAM, and programmable I/O peripherals on a single silicon die. PIC microcontrollers sit within the broader hierarchy of microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC. The PIC16C5X family specifically targets cost-sensitive, low-to-moderate-performance embedded applications where deterministic instruction execution, simple peripheral sets, and ROM/EPROM-based program storage provide the best price-to-performance ratio. The OTP variant allows one-time factory or in-circuit programming, which is typical for mature 8-bit designs with stable firmware.
Key features include 33 single-word instructions, a 12-bit wide instruction word enabling 2:1 code compression over typical 8-bit CISC architectures, two 8-bit I/O ports, an 8-bit timer/counter (TMR0) with an 8-bit programmable prescaler, a Watchdog Timer (WDT) with on-chip RC oscillator for reliable recovery, and Power-On Reset (POR). The device supports an operating voltage range commonly cited as 3.0V to 6.25V across the PIC16C5X family, with low-power CMOS construction. Its 28-pin SPDIP package is through-hole, simplifying prototype and low-volume production assembly.
Architecturally, the PIC16C57 uses a Harvard RISC core with separate program and data buses, a two-stage pipeline, and a single accumulator (W register) working model. The 16MHz maximum clock yields a 250ns instruction cycle, and the OTP memory is windowless, requiring UV erasure only for prototype parts (JW package). For production runs, OTP parts ship pre-programmed. The HSE oscillator mode allows use of high-frequency external crystals or oscillators, distinguishing it from HS (standard) and RC variants.
Typical applications include automotive body controllers and appliance control, simple sensor signal conditioning, LED and relay driver sequencing, industrial timer/counter modules, low-cost consumer electronics, and legacy embedded control boards. The wide operating temperature range and OTP memory make it suitable for high-volume fixed-function products where firmware does not need field updates.
When designing with this part, choose the HS oscillator mode for higher clock accuracy and select capacitors matched to the crystal load capacitance. Ensure unused I/O pins are configured as outputs to minimize power consumption and reduce noise susceptibility. For modern designs requiring in-field reprogrammability, consider migrating to the Flash-based PIC16F57 or PIC16F884 equivalents; the PIC16C57-HSE/SP is best suited for mature, frozen-firmware production runs.
This page synthesizes real-time distributor pricing, pin-compatible same-family alternatives (PIC16C57-HSE/SO, PIC16C57-10I/P, PIC16C57-10E/SS), and practical design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C57-HSE/SP — 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-HSE/SP (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Size, Package, Watchdog Timer, Mounting Type, Program Memory Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C57-HSE/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57-10I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57-10E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.78 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57C-40/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.82 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57C-20E/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57-HSE/SP Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC (Harvard) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 3 KB (2K x 12) |
| RAM Size | 72 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 16 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 250 ns at 16 MHz |
| Number of I/O Pins | 20 |
| Number of Timers | 1 (TMR0 with 8-bit prescaler) |
| Watchdog Timer (WDT) | Yes, with on-chip RC oscillator |
| Power-On Reset (POR) | Yes |
| Brown-Out Reset (BOR) | No |
| Oscillator Mode | HSE (High-Speed External) |
| Operating Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 6.25 V |
| Operating Temperature Grade | Automotive (-40C to +125C) |
| Package | 28-pin SPDIP (Skinny Plastic DIP) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| Number of Pins | 28 |
| Instruction Set | 33 single-word instructions, 12-bit wide |
| Data EEPROM | No |
PIC16C57-HSE/SP Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Port A bit 2 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Port A bit 3 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 3 | RB0 — Port B bit 0 (bidirectional I/O, INT) |
| Pin 4 | RB1 — Port B bit 1 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 5 | RB2 — Port B bit 2 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 6 | RB3 — Port B bit 3 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 7 | RB4 — Port B bit 4 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 8 | RB5 — Port B bit 5 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 9 | RB6 — Port B bit 6 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 10 | RB7 — Port B bit 7 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 11 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 12 | OSC1 — Oscillator input (HSE: crystal/clock) |
| Pin 13 | OSC2 — Oscillator output |
| Pin 14 | T0CKI — Timer 0 external clock input |
| Pin 15 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 16 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 17 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 18 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 19 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 20 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 21 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 22 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 23 | MCLR/VPP — Master clear reset / programming voltage |
| Pin 24 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 25 | RA0 — Port A bit 0 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 26 | RA1 — Port A bit 1 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 27 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 28 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C57-HSE/SP is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Body Controllers, Appliance Control Boards, Industrial Timer / Counter Modules, LED Display and Sign Sequencers, Sensor Signal Conditioning Front-Ends, Legacy Embedded Control Boards.
Automotive Body Controllers
The PIC16C57-HSE/SP is well-suited for automotive body controllers, where its automotive -40C to +125C temperature grade, 16 MHz deterministic RISC core, and 3 KB OTP program memory provide enough headroom for door-lock sequencing, lighting control, and wiper logic. Its 20 GPIO pins are sufficient for relay and switch matrix interfaces, while the on-chip watchdog timer with dedicated RC oscillator recovers from automotive electrical transients. Engineers choose this part for fixed-function automotive modules where firmware is locked at production and field updates are not required, keeping BOM cost low versus more expensive Flash-based alternatives.
Recommended
Appliance Control Boards
White goods and small appliance controllers (washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens, HVAC blowers) commonly use the PIC16C57-HSE/SP because its 12-bit instruction width yields ~2:1 code compression, allowing 3 KB of OTP to hold the equivalent of 6 KB of conventional 8-bit code. This headroom fits typical appliance state machines. The single TMR0 with 8-bit prescaler handles motor PWM timing, while the HSE oscillator mode supports accurate line-frequency synchronization via an external crystal. Its low CMOS power consumption suits always-on applications.
Recommended
Industrial Timer / Counter Modules
Industrial timer/counter modules (conveyor sequencing, batching controllers, machine-tool timers) benefit from the PIC16C57-HSE/SP's deterministic 250 ns instruction cycle at 16 MHz and its single TMR0 with 8-bit programmable prescaler. The prescaler allows long-duration counts (up to several seconds at low prescaler ratios) without external counters. Its HSE external oscillator mode supports high-accuracy time bases via crystal reference, while the on-chip watchdog timer prevents lockup in unattended industrial environments. Through-hole SPDIP simplifies field-serviceable designs.
Recommended
LED Display and Sign Sequencers
LED matrix drivers, scrolling sign controllers, and chase-light sequencers commonly use the PIC16C57-HSE/SP because its 20 GPIO pins can directly drive up to 20 LED strings via current-limit resistors, and its 16 MHz clock provides smooth PWM-free chase effects at typical refresh rates. The OTP memory locks the animation pattern at production, eliminating field tampering. Its CMOS low-power operation suits battery-backed signage. The 28-pin SPDIP is breadboard-friendly for prototype sign development.
Recommended
Sensor Signal Conditioning Front-Ends
Low-cost sensor front-ends (thermistor bridges, optical switches, simple strain-gauge amplifiers) frequently use the PIC16C57-HSE/SP to digitize analog signals via an external ADC and run linearization or threshold algorithms. The 72-byte RAM handles small lookup tables, while 3 KB OTP fits typical calibration tables for a handful of sensor types. The HSE oscillator supports deterministic sampling rates, critical for anti-aliasing. Automotive temperature grade makes it suitable for outdoor and under-hood sensor nodes.
Recommended
Legacy Embedded Control Boards
Maintaining and replicating legacy 1990s and 2000s-era embedded control boards (industrial PLCs, scientific instruments, hobby robotics controllers) is a common use case for the PIC16C57-HSE/SP because it remains in active production as a mature, long-lifecycle part. The 28-pin SPDIP pinout is shared with the entire PIC16C5X family, allowing direct substitution of obsolete siblings. The HSE external oscillator keeps timing behavior identical to original designs. Engineers restoring legacy equipment specify this part as a drop-in replacement to extend product lifespans without redesign.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C57-HSE/SP — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C57-HSE/SO | PIC16C57-10I/P | PIC16C57-10E/SS | PIC16C57C-40/P | PIC16C57C-20E/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-pin SPDIP (Through-Hole) | 28-pin SOIC (Surface Mount) - same die | 28-pin PDIP (Through-Hole) - same | 28-pin SSOP (Surface Mount) | 28-pin PDIP (Through-Hole) - same | 28-pin SOIC (Surface Mount) |
| Maximum Frequency | 16 MHz | 16 MHz | 10 MHz | 10 MHz | 40 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Program Memory | 3 KB OTP EPROM | 3 KB OTP EPROM | 3 KB OTP EPROM | 3 KB OTP EPROM | 3 KB OTP EPROM | 3 KB OTP EPROM |
| RAM | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
| Oscillator Mode | HSE (High-Speed External) | HSE | HSE | HSE | HSE | HSE |
| Temperature Grade | Automotive (-40C to +125C) | Automotive | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Extended (-40C to +125C) | Extended | Extended |
Key Differentiators
- Automotive temperature grade in through-hole SPDIP (vs PIC16C57-10I/P)
- 16 MHz max frequency vs lower-grade variants (vs PIC16C57-10I/P)
- Through-hole SPDIP for prototyping and legacy designs (vs PIC16C57-HSE/SO)
- HSE external oscillator for crystal-accurate timing (vs PIC16C57-RC/P variants)
Design Notes
Do not confuse the HSE (High-Speed External) oscillator mode with HS or RC modes when migrating firmware across PIC16C5X variants. The CONFIG register oscillator selection bits must match the suffix in the part number (HSE = high-speed external crystal), otherwise the device will fail to oscillate or run at an unexpected frequency. Always verify the CONFIG fuse settings match the hardware oscillator circuit on the board before programming. Estimated: HSE typically supports 4 MHz to 16 MHz fundamental-mode crystals above the standard HS range.
Decouple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the MCU VDD pin, plus a bulk tantalum or electrolytic capacitor (>=10 uF) at the board power-entry point. The PIC16C57-HSE/SP CMOS core draws low quiescent current but can show transient current spikes during internal clock-edge transitions; inadequate decoupling causes erratic resets via the MCLR pin. Tie MCLR to VDD through a 10 kohm pull-up resistor for normal operation, and provide a manual reset switch if user reset is required.
Route the crystal traces between OSC1 and OSC2 short and symmetric, with ground pour around them to minimize EMI pickup. Place the load capacitors (typically 15-33 pF for HSE crystals) close to the MCU pins. Keep digital signal traces away from the oscillator area to avoid frequency pulling. For the 28-pin SPDIP footprint, leave at least 2 mm of clearance around the package for through-hole soldering iron access during rework.
The PIC16C57-HSE/SP operates across the automotive -40C to +125C junction temperature range, but PCB copper area around the SPDIP pins helps dissipate heat in high-temperature enclosed environments. For sealed automotive or industrial enclosures with no airflow, consider the surface-mount PIC16C57-HSE/SO with thermal pad design instead, which offers lower thermal resistance. Estimated: at typical 5 mA active current and 5 V supply, self-heating is negligible (< 25 mW).
Compliance Information
RoHS/REACH/AEC-Q100 status not provided in verified web data; automotive temperature grade is indicated in part number suffix. Contact Microchip directly for full compliance documentation.
