PIC16F57T-E/SS - 8-bit 20MHz 3KB Flash MCU 28-SSOP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16F57T-E/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $0.514 | $0.51 |
| 10 | $0.46 | $4.60 |
| 100 | $0.41 | $41.00 |
| 500 | $0.36 | $180.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.31 | $310.00 |
| 3,000 | $0.27 | $810.00 |
PIC16F57T-E/SS Overview
What is an 8-bit Flash microcontroller? An 8-bit Flash microcontroller is a small, self-contained computer-on-a-chip that integrates a CPU, non-volatile Flash program memory, RAM, and peripherals on a single die. It belongs to the broader class of microcontrollers (MCU) under the larger semiconductor hierarchy: microcontroller -> embedded processor -> integrated circuit. The PIC16F57 sits within Microchip's baseline PIC16F family and is one of the original mid-range 14-bit instruction PIC16F5x devices, optimized for cost-sensitive applications requiring deterministic, low-pin-count control.
Key features include 33 single-word instructions, a 12-bit wide instruction set that yields 2:1 code compression versus typical 8-bit CISC competitors, two 8-bit timer/counters, a watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator, and in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) via dedicated RB6/RB7 pins. The 20 MHz oscillator delivers 5 MIPS throughput.
Architecturally, the PIC16F57T-E/SS uses a Harvard RISC core with separate program and data buses, allowing instruction fetch and operand access in a single cycle. The wide 12-bit opcode and 8-bit data path are tuned for compact assembly code on small ROM footprints, making it well suited to standalone control loops where a smaller, cheaper MCU replaces a discrete logic implementation.
Typical applications include automotive body and chassis modules, industrial control logic, appliance controls, security and alarm panels, and general-purpose low-pin-count glue logic. The wide 4.5V to 5.5V supply tolerance and automotive AEC-Q100-style extended temperature range make it adaptable to harsh environments.
When designing with this device, note that the PIC16F57 family is programmed via ICSP and does not expose all RAM and ROM addresses externally; code developed for the PIC16F57 cannot always be ported to enhanced mid-range PIC16F1xxx parts without recompilation. Provide adequate decoupling on VDD and a stable oscillator for reliable operation.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16F57T-E/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 PIC16F57T-E/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Timers, Operating Temperature, I/O Pins, Mounting Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F57T-I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F57-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F57T-E/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.78 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F57-E/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.42 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F54T-E/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F57-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.21 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F57-I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F57T-E/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC (Harvard) |
| Program Memory | 3 KB (2K x 12) Flash |
| RAM | 72 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Execution Time | 200 ns (5 MIPS) |
| Instruction Set Size | 33 single-word instructions |
| Operating Supply Voltage (VDD) | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 20 |
| Timers | 2 x 8-bit Timer/Counters (TMR0, TMR2-style) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes, with on-chip RC oscillator |
| Programming Interface | ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) on RB6/RB7 |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (Extended, "E") |
| Package | 28-SSOP (5.30 mm body width, 0.65 mm pitch) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| MSL Level | 1 (unlimited) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16F57T-E/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O port A, bit 0 |
| Pin 2 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O port A, bit 1 |
| Pin 3 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O port A, bit 2 |
| Pin 4 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O port A, bit 3 |
| Pin 5 | RA4/T0CKI — Bidirectional I/O / Timer 0 clock input |
| Pin 6 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 7 | RA5/OSC1 — Bidirectional I/O / crystal oscillator input |
| Pin 8 | RA6/OSC2 — Bidirectional I/O / crystal oscillator output |
| Pin 9 | RB0 — Bidirectional I/O port B, bit 0 |
| Pin 10 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O port B, bit 1 |
| Pin 11 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O port B, bit 2 |
| Pin 12 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O port B, bit 3 |
| Pin 13 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O port B, bit 4 |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (+5V) |
| Pin 15 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O port B, bit 5 |
| Pin 16 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O port B, bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 17 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O port B, bit 7 / ICSP data |
| Pin 18 | RC0 — Bidirectional I/O port C, bit 0 |
| Pin 19 | RC1 — Bidirectional I/O port C, bit 1 |
| Pin 20 | RC2 — Bidirectional I/O port C, bit 2 |
| Pin 21 | RC3 — Bidirectional I/O port C, bit 3 |
| Pin 22 | RC4 — Bidirectional I/O port C, bit 4 |
| Pin 23 | RC5 — Bidirectional I/O port C, bit 5 |
| Pin 24 | RC6 — Bidirectional I/O port C, bit 6 |
| Pin 25 | RC7 — Bidirectional I/O port C, bit 7 |
| Pin 26 | MCLR/VPP — Master Clear reset input / programming voltage |
| Pin 27 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 28 | OSC1 — Secondary crystal oscillator input |
Typical Applications
PIC16F57T-E/SS is suitable for 7 applications: Automotive Body Control Modules, Industrial Control Logic and Sensor Interface, Appliance Control Boards, Security and Alarm Panels, Battery-Powered Remote and IoT Edge Nodes, Smart Meter and Utility Endpoint, Toys, Hobby Electronics, and Educational Kits.
Automotive Body Control Modules
The PIC16F57T-E/SS fits automotive body controllers and chassis modules thanks to its extended -40C to +125C temperature grade and 5V supply tolerance from 4.5V to 5.5V. With 20 digital I/O pins, the MCU can drive multiple lamp outputs, read digital switches, and communicate via LIN-bus using a UART emulation in firmware. Its 3 KB Flash accommodates state-machine body logic, while the 200 ns instruction time keeps response latencies under 1 ms. The Tape & Reel SSOP packaging supports high-volume automotive SMT lines.
Recommended
Industrial Control Logic and Sensor Interface
The PIC16F57T-E/SS is ideal for industrial control logic boards that read digital sensors and actuate relays or solenoids. Its 20 MHz clock executes 33 single-word instructions in 200 ns, providing deterministic real-time control suitable for programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensor hubs, and motor interlocks. The 5V supply rails align with industrial 24V buck-derived logic rails, and the SSOP package handles reflow on conformal-coated boards. Two on-chip 8-bit timers simplify PWM actuator control.
Recommended
Appliance Control Boards
White goods and consumer appliances use the PIC16F57T-E/SS for washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens, and HVAC damper controls. Its 3 KB Flash easily fits state-machine appliance logic, while 20 I/O pins interface with keypads, LED indicators, and triac-driven motor loads. The extended temperature range ensures reliable operation near heating elements, and ICSP programming on RB6/RB7 allows factory firmware updates without removing the chip. The 5V operation matches legacy appliance power architectures.
Recommended
Security and Alarm Panels
Intrusion alarm panels and access-control keypads use the PIC16F57T-E/SS to scan keypad matrices, drive piezo buzzers, and communicate with central stations. With 20 I/O pins, the MCU can scan a 4x4 keypad plus drive status LEDs and relay outputs without external glue logic. The 200 ns instruction time enables debouncing and event timestamping in firmware. The SSOP-28 footprint fits compact panel enclosures, and ICSP supports in-the-field firmware upgrades.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Remote and IoT Edge Nodes
Although optimized for 5V, the PIC16F57T-E/SS with its two timer/counters and sleep mode fits battery-powered wireless remote controls and simple edge sensors. The 5 MIPS throughput handles cryptographic token exchanges, while the SSOP package supports miniaturized PCB layouts. For long battery life, the PIC16F54 variant with lower VDD minimum (2.0V) may be preferred, but the PIC16F57T-E/SS remains a robust baseline for non-critical edge nodes with 5V supply rails.
Recommended
Smart Meter and Utility Endpoint
The PIC16F57T-E/SS fits water, gas, and electricity meter endpoints where deterministic pulse counting and tamper detection are required. Its 8-bit counters capture metrology pulses, and 20 I/O pins drive LCD or LED displays and communicate with concentrators. The extended temperature range suits outdoor meter enclosures, and the 5V operation matches utility power architectures. The 33-instruction baseline is sufficient for tamper detection, billing state machines, and display refresh tasks.
Recommended
Toys, Hobby Electronics, and Educational Kits
Consumer toys, hobby robotics, and microcontroller teaching kits commonly use the PIC16F57T-E/SS as a low-cost, easy-to-learn 8-bit MCU. Its 33-instruction baseline is small enough to teach assembly in a single semester, and ICSP allows students to program and debug without removing the chip. The 20 MHz speed is more than adequate for hobby servo control and LED animations, and the 28-SSOP package is friendly to hand-soldering for small kit runs.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16F57T-E/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F57T-I/SS | PIC16F57-I/SS | PIC16F57T-E/SO | PIC16F54T-E/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SOIC - different | 28-SSOP - same |
| Program Memory | 3 KB Flash | 3 KB Flash | 3 KB Flash | 3 KB Flash | 768 B Flash |
| RAM | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 25 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| I/O Pins | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 12 |
| Operating Voltage | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Temperature Grade | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +125C (E) |
| Shipping Media | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel | Tube | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel |
Key Differentiators
- Extended -40C to +125C temperature grade as standard (vs PIC16F57T-I/SS)
- Tape & Reel packaging for high-volume SMT assembly (vs PIC16F57-I/SS)
- 28-SSOP package for compact surface-mount designs (vs PIC16F57-E/SP)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as physically possible to the VDD pin (pin 14) and a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum capacitor on the supply rail. The PIC16F57T-E/SS draws up to approximately 25 mA when active at 20 MHz with all I/O toggling, plus I/O source/sink current per pin. For battery or low-noise analog applications, add a ferrite bead and 10 uF reservoir to isolate the MCU supply from analog rails.
The 28-SSOP package has a 0.65 mm pin pitch, which is at the practical limit for hand-soldering. For production boards, use a solder-paste stencil of 0.15 mm thickness and ensure the SSOP footprint has a 1:1.5 land aspect ratio for reliable reflow. The exposed pad (if any) must be soldered to a copper pour for thermal performance; without it the SSOP-28 package is rated for ~800 mW at 25C.
Do not assume the PIC16F57T-E/SS code can be ported byte-for-byte to PIC16F1xxx enhanced mid-range devices. The PIC16F5x family uses 12-bit wide instructions and a different SFR layout compared to the 14-bit PIC16F1xxx family; assembly source must be rewritten and C code recompiled. Also, the MCLR pin (pin 26) is shared with VPP programming voltage; if left floating, noise can trigger spurious resets - always tie MCLR to VDD through a 10 kohm resistor per the datasheet.
Route the crystal traces (RA5/OSC1 and RA6/OSC2) as short as possible and symmetrically, with grounded guard traces to minimize coupling from switching I/O. Place the crystal within 5 mm of the MCU and avoid routing any high-frequency digital signals parallel to the oscillator traces. For high-EMI environments, add a 4.7k pull-up on MCLR and a 1 nF capacitor on each oscillator pin to ground per Microchip oscillator design guidelines.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Not formally AEC-Q100 qualified - use PIC16F57T-E/SS for non-safety automotive body/chassis applications; for AEC-Q100 grades, select the PIC16F1xxx Q1 (automotive) variants.