PIC16LC558-04I/SS - 8-bit MCU, 4MHz, 3.5KB OTP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LC558-04I/SS ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.45 | $2.45 |
| 10 | $2.18 | $21.80 |
| 100 | $1.85 | $185.00 |
| 500 | $1.62 | $810.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.38 | $1,380.00 |
PIC16LC558-04I/SS Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, non-volatile program memory, working RAM, and configurable peripheral I/O onto one die. The PIC16C/L family (to which the PIC16LC558 belongs) sits inside the broader taxonomy: microcontroller -> embedded controller -> integrated circuit -> semiconductor. The "LC" prefix in the part number denotes a low-voltage CMOS variant, optimized for battery-powered and 3.3V systems where the standard PIC16C558 (2.5V-6.0V operation) is unsuitable.
Key features of this device include 13 bidirectional I/O pins with individual direction control, a 14-bit instruction set for compact code density, an 8-bit timer/counter with a programmable prescaler, a watchdog timer with its own on-chip RC oscillator for reliable operation, an analog comparator module, and an internal power-on reset (POR) circuit. The OTP program memory allows one-time field programming, making this part economical for low-to-medium volume production runs where mask-ROM programming is not economical.
Architecturally, the PIC16LC558-04 uses a Harvard-class core with separate program and data buses, providing deterministic instruction timing. The "-04" speed suffix specifies the 4 MHz maximum oscillator, which corresponds to a 1 microsecond instruction cycle. Internal RC oscillator options (with calibration) reduce external component count for cost-sensitive designs.
Typical applications include appliance control, sensor signal conditioning, low-end motor control (small DC fans and solenoids), battery-powered instrumentation, smart-card readers, and simple human-machine interface (HMI) boards where the 13 I/O pins are sufficient. The wide 3.0V-5.5V operating range suits both 3.3V digital logic rails and legacy 5V systems.
When designing with this part, note that the OTP memory requires a dedicated programmer (such as MPLAB PM3 or PICkit 3) and the device cannot be re-flashed in-circuit. For new designs where in-circuit reprogrammability is desirable, consider the flash-based PIC16F88 or PIC16F716, which share a compatible peripheral set.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LC558-04I/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 PIC16LC558-04I/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Type, Operating Temperature, Timers, Package, RAM Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LC558T-04I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC558-04/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC558T-04/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.3 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC558-04I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F716-I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.58 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC558-04I/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | None |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle | 1 us at 4 MHz |
| Operating Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 13 |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit with prescaler |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (with dedicated RC oscillator) |
| Analog Comparator | Yes (1 module) |
| Internal Oscillator | Yes (RC, calibrated) |
| Package | 20-pin SSOP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Temperature Grade | Industrial (I suffix) |
PIC16LC558-04I/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP — Master clear (reset) input / programming voltage input |
| Pin 2 | RA0 — Digital I/O, PORTA bit 0 / analog comparator input |
| Pin 3 | RA1 — Digital I/O, PORTA bit 1 / analog comparator input |
| Pin 4 | RA2 — Digital I/O, PORTA bit 2 / analog comparator output |
| Pin 5 | RA3 — Digital I/O, PORTA bit 3 / analog comparator input (also VREF reference) |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI — Digital I/O, PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 external clock input |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | OSC1 — Oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 9 | OSC2 — Oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 10 | RC0 — Digital I/O, PORTC bit 0 |
| Pin 11 | RC1 — Digital I/O, PORTC bit 1 |
| Pin 12 | RC2 — Digital I/O, PORTC bit 2 |
| Pin 13 | RC3 — Digital I/O, PORTC bit 3 |
| Pin 14 | RC4 — Digital I/O, PORTC bit 4 |
| Pin 15 | RC5 — Digital I/O, PORTC bit 5 |
| Pin 16 | RC6 — Digital I/O, PORTC bit 6 |
| Pin 17 | RC7 — Digital I/O, PORTC bit 7 |
| Pin 18 | VSS — Ground reference (second VSS pin) |
| Pin 19 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.0 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 20 | RB7 — Digital I/O, PORTB bit 7 |
Typical Applications
PIC16LC558-04I/SS is suitable for 8 applications: Appliance Control Boards, Battery-Powered Sensor Nodes, Small DC Motor and Solenoid Control, Simple HMI Keypad and LED Boards, Smart Card Reader Controllers, Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning, Toy and Hobby Electronics, LED Lighting Controllers.
Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16LC558-04I/SS is well-suited for appliance control (washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens) where code is finalized and 3.5 KB OTP memory is sufficient. Its 13 I/O pins handle keypads, LED indicators, relays, and triac drivers for heating elements, while the integrated analog comparator simplifies zero-cross detection for AC line synchronization. The industrial -40C to +85C temperature grade ensures reliable operation in thermally challenging kitchen and laundry environments where ambient temperatures routinely exceed 60C.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Sensor Nodes
With its 3.0V-5.5V operating range and CMOS design, the PIC16LC558-04I/SS supports 2x AA alkaline or single-cell Li-ion battery-powered wireless sensor endpoints. The 13 I/O pins accept multiple analog signals through the integrated analog comparator and digital inputs from PIR, magnetic, or reed switches. A 1 us instruction cycle is adequate for periodic sensor polling and basic RF transmission control; the internal RC oscillator eliminates external crystals to minimize BOM cost and standby current drain.
Recommended
Small DC Motor and Solenoid Control
The PIC16LC558-04I/SS handles small brushed DC motor, solenoid, and valve actuation in industrial automation subsystems. Its 8-bit timer with programmable prescaler generates PWM at 4 MHz / 256 = 15.6 kHz, well above the audible range, for smooth motor speed control. The 13 I/O pins drive H-bridge gate drivers, sense end-of-travel limit switches, and monitor motor current via shunt resistors. The 4 MHz instruction cycle handles PID control loops at kHz refresh rates for steady-state speed regulation in pump and fan applications.
Recommended
Simple HMI Keypad and LED Boards
The PIC16LC558-04I/SS provides a cost-effective controller for low-cost human-machine interface boards with matrix keypads, 7-segment LED displays, and status LEDs. Its 13 I/O pins scan a 4x4 keypad (8 pins) while driving 4 common-anode 7-segment digits via BCD decoder latches (4 pins), with one pin reserved for a buzzer. The 3.5 KB OTP holds full keypad debouncing, mode logic, and indicator state machines. OTP pricing is favorable for high-volume consumer products like microwave ovens and remote controls.
Recommended
Smart Card Reader Controllers
The PIC16LC558-04I/SS is used as the slave controller in smart-card and RFID reader modules, where its 3.0V-5.5V operation directly interfaces with 5V ISO 7816 smart cards. The 4 MHz clock is well within the smart-card ATR (Answer-to-Reset) baud-rate tolerance window, and the analog comparator detects card-insertion mechanical switches. The 13 I/O pins drive the card socket's presence-detect switch, handle the card reset line, and pass the UART traffic to a host processor through a few GPIO pins.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16LC558-04I/SS conditions analog signals from thermocouples, RTDs, and pressure transducers in industrial 4-20 mA loop-powered transmitters. The internal analog comparator thresholds the sensor signal, and the 13 I/O pins drive 7-segment or LCD display readouts and loop-current-setting DACs. The industrial -40C to +85C temperature grade and 3.0V-5.5V operation tolerate process-plant environments and 24V loop supplies stepped down with simple linear regulators. The PIC instruction cycle is sufficient for linearization lookup tables and basic PID loops.
Recommended
Toy and Hobby Electronics
The PIC16LC558-04I/SS is a staple of educational toy and hobby electronics (robot kits, programmable model trains, learning boards) where the 3.5 KB OTP holds elaborate motion sequences, sound effects trigger logic, and servo control patterns. Its 13 I/O pins drive 4-8 RC servos via hardware PWM or software pulse-train, plus indicator LEDs and IR receiver inputs. The 3.0V-5.5V operation is compatible with 4x AA battery packs, and the low-cost OTP programming makes it economical for high-volume consumer toy production.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controllers
The PIC16LC558-04I/SS runs dimming controllers for LED strips and architectural lighting fixtures where 13 I/O pins drive MOSFET gate drivers for multiple LED channels and accept DMX-512 or 0-10V analog dimming inputs. The 8-bit timer generates 1 kHz PWM at 4 MHz with 256-step resolution for smooth dimming, while the analog comparator detects zero-cross for AC-phase-cut dimming topologies. OTP memory holds fixture-specific fade curves and DMX personality profiles locked at programming, ideal for production runs of 1K-10K LED controllers.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LC558-04I/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LC558T-04I/SS | PIC16LC558-04/SS | PIC16LC558T-04/SS | PIC16LC558-04I/SO | PIC16F716-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 20-pin SSOP | 20-pin SSOP - same | 20-pin SSOP - same | 20-pin SSOP - same | 20-pin SOIC - different footprint | 20-pin SSOP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (3.5 KB) | OTP (3.5 KB) - same | OTP (3.5 KB) - same | OTP (3.5 KB) - same | OTP (3.5 KB) - same | Flash (1 KB) - different (in-circuit reprogrammable) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz - same | 4 MHz - same | 4 MHz - same | 4 MHz - same | 20 MHz - higher (5x faster) |
| Operating Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 5.5 V | 3.0 V to 5.5 V - same | 3.0 V to 5.5 V - same | 3.0 V to 5.5 V - same | 3.0 V to 5.5 V - same | 2.0 V to 5.5 V - wider low end |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C - same | 0C to +70C (Commercial) - narrower | 0C to +70C (Commercial) - narrower | -40C to +85C - same | -40C to +85C - same |
| I/O Pins | 13 | 13 - same | 13 - same | 13 - same | 13 - same | 13 - same |
| Packaging Media | Tube | Tape & Reel | Tube | Tape & Reel | Tube | Tube |
| ADC | None (analog comparator only) | None - same | None - same | None - same | None - same | 8-channel 8-bit ADC - upgraded |
Key Differentiators
- Cost-optimized OTP memory for high-volume production (vs PIC16F716-I/SS)
- Wide 3.0V-5.5V operating range (vs PIC16F716-I/SS)
- Industrial temperature grade as standard (vs PIC16LC558-04/SS)
Design Notes
Estimated: at VDD=5.0V, Fosc=4 MHz, and all I/O pins toggling at 50% duty, the PIC16LC558-04I/SS draws approximately 2-3 mA active and <1 uA in SLEEP mode. Decouple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 19) and a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum capacitor at the board's power entry. For battery applications, the internal POR holds the device in RESET until VDD crosses approximately 2.0V, preventing brown-out code execution.
Two common OTP-programming pitfalls catch first-time users. First, the MCLR/VPP pin (pin 1) MUST be pulled up to VDD through a 10 kohm resistor for normal operation; leaving it floating prevents the device from running. Second, the OTP programming voltage (typically 13V on VPP) is supplied only during programming and must be removed before normal operation begins; failure to do so destroys the device. Always use a Microchip-certified programmer such as the PICkit 3, MPLAB PM3, or ICD for production programming.
The PIC16LC558-04I/SS supports four oscillator modes: LP (low-power crystal, 32 kHz), XT (standard crystal, up to 4 MHz), HS (high-speed crystal, only for -20 speed grades), and RC (resistor-capacitor, calibrated internal). For the -04 speed grade, XT mode with a 4 MHz crystal is the most common choice. When using RC mode, an external 5 kohm resistor and 20 pF capacitor yield approximately 4 MHz, but tolerance drifts to +/- 10% across temperature. For UART or timing-critical applications, use XT mode with a crystal, not RC.
For SSOP-20 layout, use 0.65 mm pitch footprints with 0.4 mm wide pads. Add a copper ground pour beneath the package connected to VSS (pins 7 and 18) to provide a low-impedance return path. Keep clock traces (OSC1, OSC2) short (under 10 mm) and route them away from I/O traces that toggle at high frequency to minimize EMI coupling. The exposed pad of the SSOP-20 (where present) must be soldered to a copper island for mechanical stability, although this part has no thermal pad.
The PIC16LC558-04I/SS is marked NRND (Not Recommended for New Designs) by Microchip. Existing designs may continue production purchases, but Microchip does not recommend it for new designs. For new designs with similar I/O and peripheral needs, the flash-based PIC16F716-I/SS is the recommended successor with the same SSOP-20 footprint. Designers should plan a firmware migration and a PCB layout review before committing to the LC558 family for new production.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, lead-free, and halogen-free statuses are not stated in the verified web data for this specific part. Microchip typically marks legacy OTP parts as RoHS-compliant with lead-free (Pb-free) finishes, but this should be confirmed against the lot-specific material declaration sheet before committing to RoHS-critical applications. AEC-Q100 not applicable - this is a general-purpose industrial MCU, not an automotive-qualified part.
