PIC16C57T-XTE/SO - 8-Bit 4MHz OTP MCU 3KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C57T-XTE/SO ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.15 | $2.15 |
| 10 | $1.93 | $19.30 |
| 100 | $1.72 | $172.00 |
| 500 | $1.55 | $775.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.38 | $1,380.00 |
PIC16C57T-XTE/SO Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that contains a CPU, memory, and programmable I/O peripherals on one integrated circuit. The PIC16C5X family is a classic CMOS EPROM/ROM-based 8-bit architecture that delivers RISC performance in an order of magnitude higher than its competitors in the same price category. Its 12-bit-wide instructions are highly symmetrical, resulting in 2:1 code compression over other 8-bit microcontrollers in its class - meaning each instruction performs more useful work per byte of program memory.
Key features include a 33-instruction set with 12-bit opcode width, two 8-bit timer/counters, a watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator for reliable recovery, and a power-on reset circuit. The device supports 20 bidirectional digital I/O pins with high-current sink/source capability for direct LED drive, plus a 4 MHz maximum clock input with a four-phase internal clock generator. Power consumption is minimized through CMOS technology and a SLEEP mode that draws microamp-level standby current.
The PIC16C57T architecture uses a Harvard design with separate program and data buses, allowing instruction fetch and operand read to occur in a single cycle. This RISC pipeline is the source of the family's hallmark 1 MIPS/MHz throughput, enabling deterministic interrupt response and predictable execution timing for real-time control loops. The OTP memory is programmed once via standard Microchip development tools and cannot be erased, making the part ideal for fixed-function, cost-sensitive production designs.
Typical applications include appliance control, HVAC fan and valve drivers, simple sensor interfaces, automotive sub-system controllers (non-safety), consumer electronics keypads, and industrial timer/sequencer logic. The combination of low cost, small footprint, and legacy code compatibility keeps the PIC16C5X in active production for migration of mature designs.
When designing with this MCU, ensure the oscillator configuration matches the application: RC mode for cost-sensitive designs, crystal/ceramic resonator for clock accuracy, and external clock for multi-chip synchronization. The MCLR reset pin must be pulled high through a resistor for normal operation, and unused I/O pins should be configured as outputs to minimize quiescent current draw.
This page synthesizes current distributor pricing, drop-in alternative identification, and practical design notes not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet - data refreshed as of 2026-09-17 from DigiKey, Mouser, Octopart, and the official Microchip product listing.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C57T-XTE/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 PIC16C57T-XTE/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Type, Package, Timers, Mounting Type, Program Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F57-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C57T-10I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57T-10/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.45 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56T-XTE/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C57CT-20I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57T-XTE/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC |
| Family | PIC® 16C |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 3 KB (2K x 12) |
| RAM Size | 72 x 8 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 1 MHz nominal (4 MHz oscillator / 4) |
| Data Bus Width | 8-bit |
| Instruction Word Width | 12-bit |
| Number of I/O Pins | 20 |
| Timers | 2 x 8-bit (TMR0, TMR1) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (with on-chip RC oscillator) |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 6.25 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (extended, per "E" code) |
| Package | 28-pin SOIC (7.50 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
PIC16C57T-XTE/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP — Master Clear (reset) input / programming voltage |
| Pin 2 | RA0 — PORTA bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 3 | RA1 — PORTA bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 4 | RA2 — PORTA bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 5 | RA3 — PORTA bit 3 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 6 | RB0 — PORTB bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 9 | OSC1 — Oscillator input (crystal/RC/external clock) |
| Pin 10 | OSC2 — Oscillator output |
| Pin 11 | RB3 — PORTB bit 3 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 12 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 13 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 14 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 15 | RB6 — PORTB bit 6 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 16 | RB7 — PORTB bit 7 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 17 | RC0 — PORTC bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 18 | RC1 — PORTC bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 19 | RC2 — PORTC bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 20 | RC3 — PORTC bit 3 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 21 | RC4 — PORTC bit 4 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 22 | RC5 — PORTC bit 5 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 23 | RC6 — PORTC bit 6 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 24 | RC7 — PORTC bit 7 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 25 | RD0 — PORTD bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 26 | RD1 — PORTD bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 27 | RD2 — PORTD bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 28 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5V to 6.25V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C57T-XTE/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Control Boards, HVAC Fan and Valve Sequencers, Simple Sensor Interface Modules, Automotive Non-Safety Sub-System Controllers, Consumer Electronics Keypads and Remotes, Industrial Timer and Sequencer Logic.
Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16C57T-XTE/SO fits appliance control boards (washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens) where cost dominates over reprogrammability. Its 3 KB OTP is sufficient for fixed sequence logic and sensor polling, while 20 I/O pins drive relays, triacs, seven-segment displays and keypads directly. The 4 MHz clock and 1 MIPS throughput provide deterministic loop timing for motor phase control. The extended -40C to +125C temperature range handles the high-ambient environment inside an appliance cabinet near a motor or heating element.
Recommended
HVAC Fan and Valve Sequencers
HVAC sequencers use the PIC16C57T-XTE/SO to schedule blower fans, dampers and valve actuation based on thermostat inputs. The 8-bit RISC core executes the sequence table in deterministic 1-microsecond-per-instruction steps, ensuring repeatable timing. Two 8-bit timers handle the PWM duty cycles for variable-speed fans and the watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator keeps the controller alive through brownouts on noisy HVAC lines. The 28-SOIC footprint is small enough to fit alongside relay drivers on a wall-thermostat PCB.
Recommended
Simple Sensor Interface Modules
The PIC16C57T-XTE/SO is well matched to read-only sensor interface modules that translate analog or digital sensor outputs into clean logic-level streams. Its 20 digital I/O pins accept switches, encoders and quadrature signals, while the 33-instruction set is enough to debounce inputs and format a serial protocol. The low CMOS operating current and 2.5 V to 6.25 V supply range let the part run from a single lithium cell or a 5 V regulated rail. Extended temperature tolerance supports outdoor industrial sensor pods.
Recommended
Automotive Non-Safety Sub-System Controllers
The PIC16C57T-XTE/SO is widely used in automotive interior accessory controllers such as seat-position memories, mirror adjusters and ambient lighting drivers - functions that do not require ASIL-rated safety certification. The extended -40C to +125C operating range covers under-dash and door-module environments, and the 20-mA source/sink on each I/O pin can drive small LEDs and indicator lamps directly. The OTP memory prevents unauthorized firmware modification, which is attractive to OEMs worried about aftermarket tampering.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics Keypads and Remotes
Low-cost consumer keypads, IR remote controllers and simple user-interface panels use the PIC16C57T-XTE/SO to scan a matrix of keys and emit a coded output. The 8-bit PIC core debounces keys in firmware without external capacitors, and the SLEEP mode with microamp-level standby current extends battery life in remote handsets. The 28-SOIC package drops directly onto the small PCBs found inside remote-control enclosures and toy products. Total system cost stays low because no external memory or crystal is mandatory in RC-oscillator mode.
Recommended
Industrial Timer and Sequencer Logic
Industrial control panels use the PIC16C57T-XTE/SO as a low-cost programmable logic replacement for legacy 555-timer and CMOS-logic ladder designs. Two 8-bit timers generate accurate on/off delays and pulse trains, while the watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator guarantees recovery from supply transients in factory-floor environments. The 20 I/O pins interface directly to optocouplers and 24V logic level shifters, and the extended -40C to +125C operating range survives unconditioned cabinet temperatures.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C57T-XTE/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F57-I/SO | PIC16C57T-10I/SO | PIC16C57T-10/SO | PIC16C56T-XTE/SO | PIC16C57CT-20I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-SOIC | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (3 KB / 2K x 12) | Flash (3 KB) | OTP (3 KB) | OTP (3 KB) | OTP (1 KB) | OTP (3 KB) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 10 MHz | 10 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz |
| RAM Size | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 12 | 20 |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (extended) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | 0C to +70C (commercial) | -40C to +125C (extended) | -40C to +85C (industrial) |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5V to 6.25V | 2.0V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 6.25V | 2.5V to 6.25V | 2.5V to 6.25V | 2.5V to 6.25V |
Key Differentiators
- Industry-standard PIC16C5X 8-bit RISC architecture (vs PIC16F57-I/SO)
- Extended -40C to +125C temperature range in 28-SOIC (vs PIC16C57T-10I/SO)
- 4 MHz operation at lower dynamic power consumption (vs PIC16C57CT-20I/SO)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as physically possible to the VDD pin (pin 28) with the ground return via a short trace to VSS (pin 14). For designs with brownout sensitivity, add a 10 uF bulk capacitor on the VDD rail and configure the PIC16C57T watchdog timer with the on-chip RC oscillator to recover from supply droops. The MCLR/VPP pin (pin 1) must be pulled to VDD through a 10 kohm resistor; do not leave it floating or the device may reset spuriously from noise.
Keep the trace between the OSC1/OSC2 pins (9 and 10) and the crystal or resonator as short as possible - under 10 mm - and guard with a ground ring to minimize capacitive coupling. For RC oscillator mode, place the timing resistor and capacitor adjacent to OSC1 with the other end tied to VSS. Use a star-ground topology with VSS as the central node to avoid ground loops through the I/O pin return currents, which can inject noise into the oscillator stage.
Do not assume the PIC16C57T instruction cycle equals one oscillator cycle - the PIC16C5X uses a 4:1 divider, so a 4 MHz crystal yields 1 MIPS. The hardware call stack is only 2 levels deep; deeply nested subroutines will corrupt the PC. Unused I/O pins must be configured as outputs and left open, not left as inputs, or they will float and draw supply current. OTP memory cannot be erased, so verify code with a PIC16F57 prototype before committing to OTP programming.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance status not explicitly stated in the verified web data - request the latest material declaration from Microchip before designing into RoHS-only assemblies. The PIC16C57T-XTE/SO is not AEC-Q100 qualified; for safety-critical automotive applications consult the Microchip automotive-grade PIC16F57 or PIC18 family.
