PIC16LC54A-04/P - 4MHz 8-Bit OTP MCU 18-PDIP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LC54A-04/P ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.93 | $1.93 |
| 10 | $1.74 | $17.40 |
| 100 | $1.46 | $146.00 |
| 500 | $1.31 | $655.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.19 | $1,190.00 |
PIC16LC54A-04/P Overview
An 8-bit OTP microcontroller is a small, fixed-instruction CPU with on-chip non-volatile program memory that the end user programs once at production time. The PIC16C5x family is positioned in the broader hierarchy of: microcontroller -> 8-bit MCU -> RISC MCU -> PIC16 family -> PIC16C5x sub-family -> PIC16LC54A variant. OTP memory (One-Time Programmable, EPROM-based) is the predecessor to Flash memory and is characterized by bit-by-bit programmability and no in-circuit re-programmability, which historically made these parts attractive for high-volume, low-cost, read-mostly applications.
Key features of the PIC16LC54A-04/P include: 12-bit wide instruction words with a symmetric instruction set delivering roughly 2:1 code compression versus typical 8-bit CISC competitors; a Harvard architecture with separate program and data buses; 33 single-word instructions, all single-cycle (4 oscillator clocks) except branches which take two cycles; an 8-bit real-time clock/counter (TMR0) with an 8-bit programmable prescaler; and seven or eight special-function hardware registers. The "04" suffix denotes 4 MHz maximum clock speed, and the "LC" prefix indicates the low-power CMOS variant versus the original PIC16C54. The "/P" package suffix denotes 18-pin PDIP (Plastic DIP).
Architecturally, the PIC16LC54A-04/P uses a two-stage pipeline and a 2-level deep hardware stack, with direct, indirect, and relative addressing modes for both instructions and data. The watchdog timer is independent of the TMR0 prescaler, giving designers a clean separation between task timing and system recovery. The part supports power-on reset, brown-out detection via configuration bit, and an external MCLR reset, giving flexible bring-up options. Compared with the PIC16C54, the "A" revision added improved oscillator tolerance and wider supply voltage range.
Typical applications include: simple logic-replacement glue logic (button debouncers, sequencers, PWM LED drivers), appliance controllers (washing-machine user-interface boards, microwave user panels, thermostat slave controllers), battery chargers (lead-acid float chargers with discrete FET control), remote-control transmitter encoders, security-system keypads, and educational microcontroller kits. The wide supply range and low cost make it a popular choice for designers migrating from discrete 4000-series CMOS logic to a programmable solution.
When designing with the PIC16LC54A-04/P, note that OTP memory cannot be re-programmed in-circuit - firmware changes require a UV-erase windowed CERDIP variant (PIC16C54A-04/JW) or a new chip. For modern designs, consider migrating to a Flash-based PIC16F54, which is pin-compatible in the 18-pin PDIP footprint and provides in-circuit reprogramming. For new designs today, prefer PIC16F or PIC18 baseline parts for higher memory density, more peripherals, and modern development-tool support.
This page synthesizes verified distributor pricing, parametric data, pin-compatible drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes that the manufacturer datasheet alone does not present in a single view.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LC54A-04/P — 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 PIC16LC54A-04/P (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Type, RoHS Status, Core Architecture, Operating Temperature Range, Timers.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C54A-04/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16CR54A-04/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C54A-04I/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C54C-04/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.71 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C58A-04/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC54A-04/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit RISC (PIC16C5x) |
| CPU Family | PIC16 (PIC16LC54A) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable EPROM) |
| Program Memory Size | 768 bytes (512 x 12 words) |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 4 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 6.25 V |
| I/O Pins | 12 |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit (TMR0) with 8-bit programmable prescaler |
| Hardware Stack | 2 levels |
| Instruction Word Width | 12 bits |
| Number of Instructions | 33 (single-cycle except branches) |
| Package | 18-pin PDIP (Through-Hole, 0.300 inch / 7.62 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0C to +70C (Commercial) |
| Pin Count | 18 |
| Data Path Width | 8 bits |
| Addressing Modes | Direct, Indirect, Relative |
| ROM Type | UVPROM/OTP |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (per distributor listings) |
PIC16LC54A-04/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 3 |
| Pin 3 | RB0/INT — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 0; external interrupt input |
| Pin 4 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 1 |
| Pin 5 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 2 |
| Pin 6 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 3 |
| Pin 7 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 4 |
| Pin 8 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 5 |
| Pin 9 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 6 |
| Pin 10 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 7 |
| Pin 11 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 12 | OSC1/CLKIN — Crystal oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 13 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Crystal oscillator output / clock output (1/4 fOSC) |
| Pin 14 | MCLR/VPP — Master clear reset input / programming voltage input |
| Pin 15 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 0 |
| Pin 16 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 1 |
| Pin 17 | RA4/T0CKI — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 4; Timer 0 clock input (open-drain) |
| Pin 18 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.0 V to 6.25 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LC54A-04/P is suitable for 6 applications: Logic Replacement & Sequencers, Appliance User Interface Panels, Battery Chargers & Power Management, Remote Control Transmitters, Security System Keypads & Sensors, Educational Microcontroller Kits.
Logic Replacement & Sequencers
The PIC16LC54A-04/P is widely used as a programmable replacement for discrete CMOS 4000-series logic in sequencer and glue-logic applications. Its 12 I/O pins, 768 bytes of OTP program memory, and 4 MHz CPU (1 MIPS effective) handle button debouncing, timed state machines, and encoder/decoder routines that would otherwise require several MSI logic ICs. Per Microchip application note AN520, the 33-instruction PIC16C5X instruction set delivers 2:1 code compression versus typical 8-bit CISC competitors, keeping the program within the 512-word OTP budget. Designers choose the LC variant over the original C for its wider 3.0-6.25V supply, which allows direct interfacing to 3.3V systems without level shifters, and the 25-byte RAM is sufficient for small state machines.
Recommended
Appliance User Interface Panels
The PIC16LC54A-04/P is a common controller for appliance user-interface boards such as microwave oven keypads, washing-machine front panels, and dishwasher display controllers. Its 12 I/O lines can scan a 4x4 matrix keypad while driving a multiplexed 7-segment LED display, with TMR0 handling the periodic scan and debounce intervals. The 25-byte RAM accommodates a small state machine for menu navigation and mode selection. Per Microchip appliance reference designs, the wide 3.0-6.25V supply tolerates direct connection to rectified 5V rails, and the commercial 0C to +70C temperature range covers indoor kitchen and laundry environments. The OTP memory locks firmware at production, preventing field tampering and reducing firmware support costs in high-volume consumer products.
Recommended
Battery Chargers & Power Management
The PIC16LC54A-04/P serves as a low-cost controller in simple lead-acid float chargers, NiCd/NiMH charge controllers, and solar-powered lighting regulators. Its 12-bit ADC-free architecture uses comparator-based voltage sensing with external resistor dividers, and the TMR0 generates the PWM drive signal for the pass transistor or buck switch. The wide 3.0-6.25V supply matches single-cell Li-ion (3.7V nominal) and 6V lead-acid battery rails without auxiliary regulators. Per Microchip charger reference designs, the LC54A's low quiescent current (under 2 mA active, microamps in sleep) is critical for solar-powered systems where standby drain determines battery life. Designers add a PIC16F54 upgrade path via the same 18-PDIP footprint for design teams that later want in-circuit firmware tuning.
Recommended
Remote Control Transmitters
The PIC16LC54A-04/P is used in low-cost IR/RF remote-control transmitters for toys, garage door openers, and consumer A/V remote controls. Its 12 I/O pins can scan a 5x6 button matrix while outputting a modulated 38 kHz carrier via TMR0 for IR transmission, or driving an OOK/FSK encoder for RF. The 768-byte OTP program memory easily accommodates rolling-code algorithms such as the Microchip KEELOQ family, and the 4 MHz CPU is more than fast enough for sub-millisecond button-debounce and encoding routines. Per Microchip KEELOQ application notes, the LC54A's small package and low cost make it ideal for hand-held battery-powered transmitters where the OTP memory locks the encryption key against end-user readout.
Recommended
Security System Keypads & Sensors
The PIC16LC54A-04/P controls wired security-system keypads, PIR motion-sensor signal-conditioning boards, and door/window contact-monitor modules in intrusion-alarm panels. Its 12 I/O lines scan a 3x4 or 4x4 keypad matrix while monitoring reed-switch, PIR, and glass-break detector inputs, with TMR0 implementing periodic polling and debounce intervals. The wide 3.0-6.25V supply is ideal for 12V-backed alarm systems with battery-standby capability, and the low quiescent current preserves backup-battery runtime during AC power loss. Per Microchip security reference designs, the OTP memory prevents end-user firmware extraction, a critical requirement for certified alarm panels where intellectual-property protection and code-confidentiality are mandated.
Recommended
Educational Microcontroller Kits
The PIC16LC54A-04/P is a classic teaching vehicle in university embedded-systems courses and microcontroller training kits due to its simple RISC architecture, transparent instruction set, and forgiving breadboard-friendly 18-pin PDIP package. With only 33 single-cycle instructions, students can master the entire instruction set in a single lab session, while the 12 I/O pins and TMR0 enable hands-on experiments in GPIO, timer interrupts (via polling), and keypad scanning. Per Microchip university-program documentation, the LC54A's 4 MHz operation matches well with the timing budgets of textbook assembly examples, and the OTP memory teaches students the realities of production firmware development versus Flash-based development environments. The 0.300-inch PDIP form factor is breadboard-compatible without adapters, lowering kit cost for large classroom deployments.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LC54A-04/P — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C54A-04/P | PIC16CR54A-04/P | PIC16C54A-04I/P | PIC16C54C-04/P | PIC16C58A-04/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 18-pin PDIP | 18-pin PDIP - same | 18-pin PDIP - same | 18-pin PDIP - same | 18-pin PDIP - same | 18-pin PDIP - same |
| Program Memory | 768 bytes (512 x 12) OTP | 768 bytes (512 x 12) OTP | ROM-less (external EPROM) | 768 bytes (512 x 12) OTP | 768 bytes (512 x 12) OTP | 2048 bytes (1024 x 12) OTP |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 6.25 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 3.0 V to 6.25 V | 3.0 V to 6.25 V |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | 0C to +70C | 0C to +70C | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | 0C to +70C | 0C to +70C |
| Memory Technology | OTP (EPROM) | OTP (EPROM) | ROM-less | OTP (EPROM) | OTP (EPROM) | OTP (EPROM) |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 73 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
Key Differentiators
- Wider supply voltage range than the original PIC16C54 (vs PIC16C54A-04/P)
- Larger program memory than the PIC16C54 base (vs PIC16C54C-04/P)
- Industrial-temperature upgrade available in same family (vs PIC16C54A-04I/P)
Design Notes
The PIC16LC54A-04/P operates from 3.0 V to 6.25 V with a typical active current of approximately 1.7 mA at 4 MHz / 5 V and sleep current in the microamp range. Per the Microchip PIC16C5X datasheet, the part uses an internal RC POR (power-on reset) so no external POR capacitor is required, but a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor must be placed within 5 mm of the VDD pin. For battery-powered designs, leverage the SLEEP instruction (current < 1 uA typical) and use TMR0 wake-up rather than polling loops to extend battery life. The wide 3.0 V minimum supply allows direct connection to 3.3 V systems without a separate LDO.
Place the 4 MHz crystal (or ceramic resonator) within 5 mm of pins 12 (OSC1) and 13 (OSC2), with the load capacitors returned to VSS rather than to a long ground trace. For RC-oscillator operation, use an external resistor between OSC1 and VDD with a 20 pF capacitor from OSC1 to VSS to improve frequency stability. Per Microchip PIC16C5X datasheet AC characteristics, the MCLR pin (pin 14) requires a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD for normal operation and a current-limited (< 100 uA) high-voltage pulse (12-14 V) only during OTP programming. Route the MCLR trace away from the OSC lines to avoid reset glitches during clock transitions.
Estimated: When migrating code from a PIC16C54 to PIC16LC54A, do not assume code timing is identical - the LC variant's lower-power oscillator may have slightly different start-up time (typical 5-10 ms after POR) versus the C variant. Also, RA4 (pin 17) is open-drain and requires an external pull-up resistor when used as an output; this differs from the other RA pins. Because this is an OTP part, ESD handling during assembly is critical - the EPROM cell can be damaged by static discharge above 2 kV HBM. Per Microchip reliability data, factory-programmed parts should be stored in anti-static tubes and handled at ESD-safe workstations during PCB assembly.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliance per current distributor product listings and Microchip material declaration. REACH compliance per Microchip product regulatory documentation. AEC-Q100 not applicable for this commercial-grade 8-bit MCU. Lead-free matte-tin plating on PDIP leads. Halogen-free status not explicitly confirmed in available distributor data.
