PIC16LC57C-04/SS - 8-Bit MCU 3KB OTP 4MHz 28-SSOP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LC57C-04/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.56 | $2.56 |
| 10 | $2.4 | $24.00 |
| 100 | $2.15 | $215.00 |
| 500 | $1.95 | $975.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.78 | $1,780.00 |
| 3,000 | $1.55 | $4,650.00 |
PIC16LC57C-04/SS Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller is a single-chip computer that combines a CPU, memory, and peripherals on a single die. The PIC architecture uses a 12-bit wide instruction word and a Harvard memory layout, which provides 2:1 code compression relative to other 8-bit MCUs in its class. The PIC16LC57C sits within the broader taxonomy of microcontrollers -> 8-bit microcontrollers -> CMOS RISC microcontrollers -> embedded controllers -> semiconductors, and represents one of the lowest-cost entry points in Microchip's mid-range PIC portfolio.
Key features include 33 instructions, a 12-bit instruction word, 8-bit data path, 8-level hardware stack, 2 K x 12 OTP program memory, 72 x 8 RAM, four I/O ports (RA, RB, RC, RD), and 8-bit timer with watchdog. The 'C' suffix indicates the CMOS process technology with low power consumption, and the '04' speed designation specifies the 4 MHz oscillator/clock rate. The 'LC' prefix identifies the low-voltage core (2.5V-5.5V) for battery-friendly operation.
Typical applications include low-cost consumer electronics, remote controls, small appliances, LED controllers, simple sensor interfaces, and battery-powered devices. The wide 2.5V-5.5V operating range supports both 3.3V and 5V system rails, while the OTP memory is well-suited for production volumes where firmware is finalized and field reprogramming is not required.
When designing with this MCU, consider that OTP memory cannot be reprogrammed in-circuit - prototypes should use the windowed JW or UV-erasable variant for development. Power-on reset and watchdog timer improve field reliability, but external decoupling (0.1 uF ceramic near VDD) is mandatory for stable oscillator operation.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives within the same 28-SSOP footprint, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, helping engineers evaluate sourcing options and pin-compatible replacements.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LC57C-04/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 PIC16LC57C-04/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory Type, Core, Supply Voltage Range, Program Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LC57C-04I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC57CT-04/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.9 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC57CT-04I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.235 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F57-I/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C57C-04/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$4.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC57C-04/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit RISC |
| Instruction Set | 33 instructions, 12-bit wide |
| 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 |
| Number of I/O Pins | 20 |
| Number of Timers | 1 x 8-bit (with WDT) |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V (LC low-voltage core) |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0C to +70C (commercial) |
| Package | 28-SSOP (0.209" / 5.30 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Data EEPROM | Not present |
| Hardware Stack | 8 levels |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free Finish | Yes |
PIC16LC57C-04/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Port A bit 2 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Port A bit 3 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 3 | RTCC — Real-time clock/counter pin |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master clear reset (active low) |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0 — Port B bit 0 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — Port B bit 1 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — Port B bit 2 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — Port B bit 3 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — Port B bit 4 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Port B bit 5 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Port B bit 6 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Port B bit 7 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 14 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 15 | OSC1 — Oscillator input |
| Pin 16 | OSC2 — Oscillator output |
| Pin 17 | RC0 — Port C bit 0 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 18 | RC1 — Port C bit 1 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 19 | RC2 — Port C bit 2 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 20 | RC3 — Port C bit 3 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 21 | RC4 — Port C bit 4 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 22 | RC5 — Port C bit 5 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 23 | RC6 — Port C bit 6 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 24 | RC7 — Port C bit 7 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 25 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 26 | RD0 — Port D bit 0 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 27 | RD1 — Port D bit 1 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 28 | RA0 — Port A bit 0 (bidirectional I/O) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LC57C-04/SS is suitable for 7 applications: Remote Controls and Consumer IR Devices, Small Appliance Control Boards, LED Lighting and Decorative Controllers, Simple Sensor Interfaces and Data Acquisition, Battery-Powered Wireless Remote Nodes, Industrial Timer and Sequencer Modules, Toys and Educational Electronics.
Remote Controls and Consumer IR Devices
The PIC16LC57C-04/SS fits remote-control and consumer IR applications thanks to its 3 KB OTP program memory, 4 MHz instruction cycle, and 20 GPIO pins capable of directly driving IR LEDs via simple transistor buffers. The 2.5V-5.5V wide supply range supports both coin-cell and AAA-battery powered designs, and the CMOS low-voltage 'LC' core minimizes quiescent current for battery life. According to Microchip PIC16C5X datasheet typical applications, the architecture is well suited to state-machine control loops with low pin counts. Compared with newer 16F flash parts, the LC57C-04/SS is preferred when firmware is finalized and unit cost dominates. Place a 0.1uF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of VDD for stable oscillator operation under IR-LED load transients.
Recommended
Small Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16LC57C-04/SS targets small appliance control boards (coffee makers, fans, toasters) where 3 KB of OTP code space is sufficient for fixed control algorithms, 20 I/O pins cover switch inputs, LED indicators, triac drive, and relay control, and the 28-SSOP package fits compact PCB layouts. The 0C to +70C commercial temperature grade covers indoor appliance environments. According to Microchip application notes, the PIC16C5X family is widely deployed in cost-sensitive appliance controls with deterministic real-time response. The 4 MHz clock is adequate for sub-millisecond control loops; engineers targeting faster loops should evaluate PIC16F1x variants. Add a 10k pull-up on the MCLR pin and watchdog timer for field reliability per datasheet recommendations.
Recommended
LED Lighting and Decorative Controllers
LED lighting and decorative controller designs leverage the PIC16LC57C-04/SS for fixed-pattern RGB LED driving, where 3 KB OTP holds pre-programmed chase and fade sequences, 20 GPIO pins drive multiple LED channels with PWM via software, and the LC core's low quiescent current preserves efficiency. The 28-SSOP package handles SMT assembly in slim form factors. According to Microchip PIC16C5X datasheet, the architecture suits bit-banged protocols for WS2812 or standard LED drivers. The 4 MHz clock supports up to ~1 MHz software PWM, suitable for slow-fade applications. Compared with PIC16F families, this is the cost-optimized choice for high-volume production runs. Add current-limit resistors on each GPIO driving LEDs to protect the MCU under short-circuit faults.
Recommended
Simple Sensor Interfaces and Data Acquisition
Sensor interface front-ends with the PIC16LC57C-04/SS handle low-bandwidth signals such as thermistors, photodiodes, and mechanical switches, using the on-chip ADC channel (when present in family variants) or comparator-based threshold detection. The 72-byte RAM accommodates rolling averages and moving-window filters, and 20 I/O pins read multiple sensor inputs simultaneously. The 2.5V-5.5V supply range supports sensor bridges directly off batteries. According to Microchip datasheet, the PIC16C5X family is widely used in industrial sensor conditioning boards. The 4 MHz clock and 8-level stack allow straightforward C/assembly implementations of simple Kalman or median filters. Use shielded cables for analog sensor lines and add RC filters on noisy digital inputs to improve measurement integrity.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Wireless Remote Nodes
Battery-powered wireless sensor nodes benefit from the PIC16LC57C-04/SS because the CMOS 'LC' core draws microamp-level quiescent current, the wide 2.5V-5.5V range accommodates Li-ion, alkaline, and coin-cell chemistries, and the OTP memory eliminates the standby current of flash erase cycles. The MCU wakes on interrupt, samples a sensor, transmits via a sub-GHz radio like the PIC16LC57C + RFM69 pair, and returns to sleep - all within 3 KB of code. According to Microchip low-power design notes, this is a textbook pattern. The 28-SSOP keeps the node PCB small enough for wearable or embedded sensor form factors. Choose the industrial-temperature -04I/SS variant for outdoor or harsh-environment deployments to extend operating range.
Recommended
Industrial Timer and Sequencer Modules
Industrial timer and sequencer modules use the PIC16LC57C-04/SS for fixed timing applications such as conveyor control, pump cycling, and machine sequencing where deterministic timing loops are critical. The on-chip 8-bit timer with watchdog supports programmable interval triggers, while 20 GPIO pins drive multiple relay outputs and read limit switches. The 28-SSOP package is suitable for DIN-rail or panel-mount industrial enclosures. Per Microchip datasheet, the PIC16C5X architecture provides deterministic interrupt latency essential for real-time control. Compared with higher-end MCUs, the LC57C-04/SS is the lowest-cost option for fixed-function sequencers. Add TVS diodes on relay coils and optoisolation on switch inputs to meet industrial EMC requirements.
Recommended
Toys and Educational Electronics
Toy and educational electronics platforms adopt the PIC16LC57C-04/SS because OTP memory is sufficient for simple game logic, motor control, sound playback, and sensor interaction, while the 28-SSOP fits inside compact toy housings. The commercial temperature grade suits indoor play environments, and the 2.5V-5.5V supply range supports AA/AAA battery packs common in toys. According to Microchip PIC16C5X family documentation, the architecture has been used in millions of low-cost toys globally. The 4 MHz clock and 20 GPIO pins handle servo, LED, and buzzer outputs simultaneously. Engineers can prototype with the JW windowed variant, then transition to OTP for production. Add ESD protection on connector pins and current-limit resistors on motor drivers.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LC57C-04/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LC57C-04I/SS | PIC16LC57CT-04/SS | PIC16LC57CT-04I/SS | PIC16F57-I/SS | PIC16C57C-04/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (3KB) | OTP (3KB) | OTP (3KB) | OTP (3KB) | Flash (2KB) | OTP (3KB) |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C | -40C to +85C | 0C to +70C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | 0C to +70C |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.0V to 5.5V | 4.0V to 6.0V |
| Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz |
| I/O Pins | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
| Price (qty 1) | $2.56 | $2.85 (approx) | $2.56 (approx) | $2.85 (approx) | $3.20 (approx, flash die) | $2.95 (approx) |
Key Differentiators
- True drop-in upgrade path with industrial temperature variant (vs PIC16LC57C-04I/SS)
- OTP cost advantage vs flash-based alternatives (vs PIC16F57-I/SS)
- Lower voltage range vs standard PIC16C57C (vs PIC16C57C-04/SS)
Design Notes
The PIC16LC57C-04/SS operates from 2.5V to 5.5V (LC core). Place a 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 25) with a wide ground trace back to VSS (pin 14). For battery-powered designs, add a 10 uF bulk capacitor near the MCU to handle load transients from radio bursts or motor starts. The CMOS LC core draws low quiescent current, but I/O pin source/sink transitions create brief supply spikes that decoupling must absorb.
OTP memory is one-time-programmable - once programmed, the firmware cannot be erased or modified in-circuit. For development, use the windowed JW or UV-erasable variant, then transition to the SSOP OTP part for production. Estimated: programming failures in production cannot be recovered, so verify firmware with a small engineering batch using the windowed variant before committing to OTP programming. Use Microchip's PICSTART or MPLAB ICD tools for code development.
The 28-SSOP package has a 0.65 mm pin pitch requiring careful PCB layout. Per IPC-7351 nominal land pattern, SSOP-28 pads should be 1.0 mm wide x 0.4 mm tall with 0.65 mm spacing. Route oscillator traces (OSC1/OSC2 pins 15-16) as short as possible and guard them with a ground pour to minimize EMI coupling. Keep high-current switching traces (relay coils, LED drivers) away from the oscillator area and from analog sensor inputs to prevent noise injection.
Estimated: at 4 MHz clock with 3.3V supply, the PIC16LC57C-04/SS typically draws ~2-5 mA active current, dissipating ~7-17 mW. The 28-SSOP package has theta_JA around 100 C/W in still air, so junction temperature rise is negligible (<2 C) under normal conditions. Even at 5.5V with all I/O pins switching at maximum slew rate, junction temperature rise stays well within the 0C to +70C commercial operating range. No external heatsinking is required.
The PIC16LC57C-04/SS MCLR pin (pin 4) requires a 10 kOhm pull-up to VDD for normal operation. If using an in-circuit debugger (ICD) header, isolate the MCLR pull-up from the ICD's reset driver using a series resistor or diode to prevent contention. RTCC pin (pin 3) can be configured as external timer clock input - add a 100 Ohm series resistor if driving RTCC from a high-frequency external source to limit ringing.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Lead-free finish confirmed. AEC-Q100 not applicable for commercial-grade MCU; for automotive designs use AEC-Q100 qualified PIC16F variants. Halogen-free status not explicitly stated in available data.
