PIC16C57T-RCE/SS - 8-bit OTP MCU 3KB 28-SSOP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C57T-RCE/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6.92 | $6.92 |
| 10 | $6.18 | $61.80 |
| 100 | $5.44 | $544.00 |
| 500 | $4.7 | $2,350.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.15 | $4,150.00 |
PIC16C57T-RCE/SS Overview
What is an 8-bit OTP microcontroller? It is a low-cost, Harvard-architecture processor with separate program and data buses, where program memory is one-time programmable (writeable once, not erasable). OTP MCUs sit within the broader category hierarchy of microcontroller -> embedded MCU -> semiconductor. They offer lower unit cost than flash-based counterparts while retaining firmware security (no in-circuit read-back) and high reliability, making them ideal for high-volume, fixed-function appliances and industrial controllers where firmware rarely changes.
Key features include 20 I/O pins multiplexed across two ports, a programmable Timer0 8-bit counter with prescaler, watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator, power-on reset, power-saving SLEEP mode, and in-circuit serial programming compatibility. The 4MHz maximum clock frequency is derived from an external crystal, RC oscillator, or resonator; the static CMOS design allows clock speeds to be reduced to DC for ultra-low-power standby operation. Code protection bits prevent unauthorized firmware readback after OTP closure.
The PIC16C5X core uses a 12-bit instruction word and a two-stage pipeline, executing one instruction per clock cycle (except branches which take two). This provides deterministic interrupt-free throughput well-suited to control loops, bit-banging protocols, and simple state machines. The 9-bit program counter can address up to 2K words (2K x 12 = 3KB) directly, with the OTP array programmed via Microchip's standard ICSP protocol.
Typical applications include automotive body controllers, HVAC damper actuators, appliance timer boards, security PIR sensors, low-end remote controls, and industrial sensor interface modules. The extended automotive temperature grade (-40C to +125C) plus SSOP footprint makes it a strong fit for high-vibration, space-constrained modules where surface-mount reliability matters.
When designing with this device, ensure your oscillator selection (crystal versus RC versus resonator) matches the chosen CLKOUT division mode, and allocate the MCLR pin properly for in-system reset. Note that OTP parts are programmed once at production; prototype builds typically use the windowed CERDIP -JW variant for repeated UV erasure cycles. Pricing reflects the tape-and-reel automotive qualification: expect 1k-unit pricing in the USD 4-6 range from franchised distributors.
This page synthesizes datasheet specifications, current distributor pricing, and pin-compatible alternatives to give engineers an information-gain view beyond the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C57T-RCE/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 PIC16C57T-RCE/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Size, Program Memory Type, Operating Temperature Range, Package, Timers.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C57T-RC/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F57-I/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C57C-04/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$4.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57C-04I/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C56T-RCE/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57T-RCE/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Manufacturer | Microchip Technology |
| Series | PIC 16C |
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-bit |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 3 KB (2K x 12) |
| RAM Size | 72 x 8 bytes |
| Number of I/O | 20 |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V (typical 5 V) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (extended automotive) |
| Package / Case | 28-SSOP (5.30 mm width, 0.65 mm pitch) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel (TR) |
| Instruction Set | 33 single-word/single-cycle instructions (RISC) |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit Timer0 with prescaler |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (on-chip RC oscillator) |
| Oscillator Type | External Crystal/Resonator/RC |
| Connectivity | ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant per Microchip product page |
PIC16C57T-RCE/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP — Master Clear (reset) input / programming voltage input |
| Pin 2 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 2 |
| Pin 5 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 3 |
| Pin 6 | RA4/RTCC — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 4 / Timer0 clock input (open-drain) |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator crystal input / external clock input |
| Pin 10 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator crystal output / clock output (Fosc/4) |
| Pin 11 | RC0 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 0 |
| Pin 12 | RC1 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 1 |
| Pin 13 | RC2 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 2 |
| Pin 14 | RC3 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 3 |
| Pin 15 | RC4 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 4 |
| Pin 16 | RC5 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 5 |
| Pin 17 | RC6 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 6 |
| Pin 18 | RC7 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 7 |
| Pin 19 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 21 | RB0/INT — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 0 / external interrupt |
| Pin 22 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 1 |
| Pin 23 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 2 |
| Pin 24 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 3 |
| Pin 25 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 4 |
| Pin 26 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 5 |
| Pin 27 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 6 |
| Pin 28 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 7 |
Typical Applications
PIC16C57T-RCE/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Body Controllers, Appliance Timer Boards, HVAC Damper Actuators, Security PIR Sensor Modules, Industrial Sensor Interface Modules, Remote Control Handheld Transmitters.
Automotive Body Controllers
The PIC16C57T-RCE/SS fits automotive body controller applications because of its -40C to +125C extended automotive temperature grade, 4 MHz deterministic RISC core, and 20 I/O pins sufficient to drive RKE receivers, mirror switches, and interior lighting MOSFETs. The 3 KB OTP program memory holds fixed-function firmware for tasks such as lock/unlock sequencing, alarm debounce, and turn-signal flashing without field-upgrade risk. The SSOP-28 footprint survives under-hood vibration when paired with conformal coating and via-in-pad PCB practices.
Recommended
Appliance Timer Boards
For washing-machine, dishwasher, and microwave control boards, the PIC16C57T-RCE/SS provides the 8-bit deterministic timing precision needed for wash-cycle sequencing, motor PWM, and sensor multiplexing. Its 33 single-cycle RISC instructions execute in 250 ns at 4 MHz, allowing accurate sub-second timing without an RTOS. The 72-byte RAM is sufficient for state-machine variables, and the watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator protects against firmware lockup in noisy motor environments.
Recommended
HVAC Damper Actuators
The PIC16C57T-RCE/SS is well-matched to HVAC damper actuator control because its 20 I/O lines can directly drive H-bridge MOSFETs for bidirectional motor control, read position-feedback potentiometers via the 8-bit ADC-less comparator, and communicate over a simple UART bit-banging protocol to a master thermostat. The 3 KB OTP holds the proportional-integral control loop and end-stop detection routines. The automotive temperature range handles rooftop unit enclosures that can exceed +85C in direct sunlight.
Recommended
Security PIR Sensor Modules
The PIC16C57T-RCE/SS serves as the control brain in low-cost passive-infrared motion sensors, where its low power consumption (SLEEP mode drops current below 1 uA typical) extends battery life in wireless PIR transmitters. The 8-bit Timer0 generates the precise pulse-counting windows required to discriminate ambient thermal noise from human-motion signatures, while the 20 I/O lines interface to the PIR analog front-end, indicator LED, and 433 MHz/915 MHz OOK transmitter. OTP code protection prevents reverse engineering of the detection algorithm.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interface Modules
The PIC16C57T-RCE/SS works well as a Modbus RTU slave or 4-20 mA loop interface for industrial sensor conditioning modules. Its 4 MHz clock supports 9600 baud UART timing with 2% accuracy, while the 20 I/O pins read multiple sensor inputs (thermistor, RTD, strain gauge via external bridge) and drive optocoupler-isolated outputs. The automotive extended temperature range allows deployment in cabinet-mounted equipment near motors and heaters, and OTP code protection secures proprietary calibration routines.
Recommended
Remote Control Handheld Transmitters
The PIC16C57T-RCE/SS suits low-end RF remote controls where its small SSOP-28 footprint, 3 KB OTP for keypad matrix scanning and rolling-code transmission, and low SLEEP-mode current are decisive. With the oscillator gated off in SLEEP, the device draws under 1 uA typical, enabling coin-cell operation for years. The 20 I/O lines scan 4x5 keypad matrices and drive a single IR or sub-GHz transmitter LED. OTP prevents cloning of the rolling-code key generation algorithm.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C57T-RCE/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C57T-RC/SS | PIC16F57-I/SS | PIC16C57C-04/SS | PIC16C57C-04I/SS | PIC16C56T-RCE/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 3 KB OTP | 3 KB OTP | 3 KB Flash | 3 KB OTP | 3 KB OTP | 1 KB OTP |
| Max Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C | 0 C to +70 C | -40 C to +85 C | 0 C to +70 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +125 C |
| RAM Size | 72 x 8 bytes | 72 x 8 bytes | 72 x 8 bytes | 72 x 8 bytes | 72 x 8 bytes | 25 x 8 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 12 |
| Memory Type | OTP | OTP | Flash | OTP | OTP | OTP |
Key Differentiators
- Automotive-grade -40C to +125C qualification in OTP technology (vs PIC16C57C-04/SS)
- Field-reprogrammability with flash memory (vs PIC16F57-I/SS)
- Larger program memory at automotive grade (vs PIC16C56T-RCE/SS)
Design Notes
The PIC16C57T-RCE/SS operates from 2.5 V to 5.5 V; place a 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pins (pins 8 and 20) and a bulk 10 uF tantalum at the board supply entry. The dual-VDD/dual-VSS pin arrangement requires both pins to be connected for adequate current delivery; floating either pin can cause intermittent brown-out resets under heavy I/O switching loads.
Select the oscillator mode (XT, HS, LP, RC) in the configuration word before OTP programming - this is a one-time decision. For 4 MHz operation in the RCE grade, use XT mode with a 4 MHz crystal and two 22 pF load capacitors to VSS. The CLKOUT pin (OSC2/CLKOUT, pin 10) outputs Fosc/4 (1 MHz at 4 MHz operation) and can drive another MCU's clock input if needed; do not leave it floating if unused - configure it as an input or terminate it with a 10 kohm pull-down.
OTP memory can be programmed only once - there is no second chance. Always validate firmware using a windowed CERDIP -JW device or a flash-based PIC16F57 during development before committing to OTP programming. The MCLR pin (pin 1) must NOT be left floating; use a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD. The watchdog timer has its own on-chip RC oscillator independent of the system clock; enable it in the configuration word for unattended industrial deployments to recover from code lockup.
Estimated: at 4 MHz, 5.0 V, and all 20 I/O pins switching at 50% duty, the PIC16C57T-RCE/SS draws approximately 2-3 mA typical active current (per PIC16C5X family datasheet Figure 5-2). In the 28-SSOP package with theta-JA around 100 C/W on a standard JEDEC 4-layer test board, this produces a junction temperature rise under 1 C above ambient - thermal management is rarely a concern for this part. SLEEP mode drops current below 1 uA typical, ideal for battery-powered duty-cycled applications.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance per Microchip product page; the -E extended temperature grade supports automotive deployment. AEC-Q100 qualification applies at the family level for the PIC16C5X extended grade. Halogen-free status not explicitly stated in the verified web data.
