PIC16C54A-04E/P - 8-bit OTP MCU, 4MHz, 12 I/O, PDIP-18 | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C54A-04E/P ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.95 | $2.95 |
| 10 | $2.65 | $26.50 |
| 100 | $2.35 | $235.00 |
| 500 | $2.1 | $1,050.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.9 | $1,900.00 |
PIC16C54A-04E/P Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, RAM, program memory, and peripherals around an 8-bit data bus. The PIC16C5X family sits at the low end of the microcontroller hierarchy: 8-bit MCU -> RISC microcontroller -> embedded controller -> semiconductor. It targets cost-sensitive, deterministic control tasks where instruction simplicity and predictable timing outweigh raw throughput. The RISC architecture's 33-instruction set reduces development time and code size versus CISC alternatives.
Key features of the PIC16C54A-04E/P include OTP (One-Time Programmable) EPROM program memory, a 4 MHz external clock input, 25 bytes of general-purpose RAM, 12 bidirectional I/O pins with individual direction control, a power-on reset circuit, a watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator, and a sleep (low-power) mode. The 12-bit-wide instructions deliver 2:1 code compression over typical 8-bit CISC competitors, and the Harvard architecture separates program and data buses for deterministic instruction fetch.
Typical applications include appliance controls, simple sensor interfaces, LED driving circuits, hobbyist projects, and industrial logic replacement. Designers favor the PIC16C54A-04E/P for low-cost, low-volume production where the OTP memory suffices and the extended temperature range supports commercial and light-industrial environments. Note that the underlying PIC16C54A die has been superseded by the PIC16F54; new designs are not recommended per the Microchip product page.
When designing with this part, consider migrating to the flash-based PIC16F54 for new designs to gain in-system reprogrammability, or to the PIC16C54C revision for minor errata fixes. Programming requires a UV-erasable window for the JW package or a one-time-programmable programmer for the PDIP form.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, verified specifications from the Microchip datasheet family, and practical drop-in alternatives not consolidated on any single distributor page.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C54A-04E/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 PIC16C54A-04E/P (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Size, Operating Temperature, Package, Watchdog Timer, Mounting Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C54A-04/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54A-04E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.32 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54C-04E/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F54-I/P
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C54-10I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C54A-04E/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | PIC16C5X |
| Core | 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 768 bytes (12-bit word) |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 12 |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle | 200 ns (single cycle) |
| Instruction Set Size | 33 instructions |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (Extended) |
| Package | PDIP-18 (300 mil) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| Pin Count | 18 |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (with on-chip RC oscillator) |
| Power-On Reset | Yes |
| Sleep Mode | Yes |
PIC16C54A-04E/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port A bit 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port A bit 3 |
| Pin 3 | RTCC — RTCC timer I/O pin / Counter input |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master Clear (Reset) input, active low |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port B bit 0 |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port B bit 1 |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port B bit 2 |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port B bit 3 |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port B bit 4 |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port B bit 5 |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port B bit 6 |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port B bit 7 |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (4.5V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 15 | OSC2 — Oscillator output / Clock out |
| Pin 16 | OSC1 — Oscillator input / Clock in (4 MHz max) |
| Pin 17 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port A bit 0 |
| Pin 18 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O pin, Port A bit 1 |
Typical Applications
PIC16C54A-04E/P is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Control, Simple Sensor Interface, LED Display Driving, Hobbyist and Educational Projects, Industrial Logic Replacement, Low-Volume Production Controllers.
Appliance Control
The PIC16C54A-04E/P fits appliance controls because its 12 I/O pins can directly drive relays, triacs, LEDs, and keypad matrices in a single chip. With 4 MHz clock and 200 ns instruction cycle, the MCU executes deterministic control loops fast enough for HVAC fan sequencing, washing-machine timer logic, and microwave oven user interfaces. The 25 bytes RAM is sufficient for state variables, while 768 bytes OTP accommodates fixed control firmware. The extended -40C to +125C operating temperature handles kitchen and garage environments where consumer-grade parts would fail.
Recommended
Simple Sensor Interface
The PIC16C54A-04E/P suits simple sensor interfaces where a small MCU must read analog or digital sensors and drive indicator LEDs or displays. Its 12 bidirectional I/O lines handle multiple switch inputs, thermistor dividers, and LED outputs without external logic. The 4 MHz clock and 200 ns cycle support sampling rates suitable for thermistor-based temperature monitoring, optical interrupter counting, and basic capacitive touch sensing. The RISC architecture delivers predictable response times critical for sensor debouncing and threshold detection algorithms.
Recommended
LED Display Driving
The PIC16C54A-04E/P drives multiplexed LED displays using its 12 I/O pins to scan 7-segment digits, dot-matrix panels, or discrete LED arrays. The 200 ns instruction cycle enables refresh rates above 100 Hz to eliminate flicker in 4-digit multiplexed displays while leaving CPU bandwidth for button scanning or serial communication. The OTP memory stores fixed lookup tables for character decoding and brightness patterns. The wide 4.5V-5.5V supply matches typical LED driver rails directly, simplifying power architecture in cost-sensitive designs.
Recommended
Hobbyist and Educational Projects
The PIC16C54A-04E/P remains popular in hobbyist and educational contexts because of its simple 33-instruction RISC architecture that beginners can learn in a weekend. The PDIP-18 through-hole package is breadboard-friendly and easy to socket, allowing repeated programming experiments. The 4 MHz clock and 200 ns cycle teach fundamental embedded timing concepts without overwhelming complexity. The OTP memory forces disciplined firmware development, an educational advantage when teaching one-shot production programming workflows.
Recommended
Industrial Logic Replacement
The PIC16C54A-04E/P replaces discrete logic gates and relay-based control in industrial applications where programmability simplifies design changes. With 12 I/O, the MCU can replace dozens of 74-series logic ICs implementing sequence controllers, counter chains, and timing circuits. The extended -40C to +125C temperature rating suits factory floor environments, and the 4 MHz throughput handles encoder decoding, conveyor sequencing, and simple machine safety interlocks. The deterministic RISC timing guarantees instruction-level repeatability critical for safety logic.
Recommended
Low-Volume Production Controllers
The PIC16C54A-04E/P serves low-volume production controllers where OTP cost advantages outweigh flash flexibility. With 768 bytes OTP priced lower per unit than equivalent flash parts in PDIP-18, the device suits high-volume, low-cost products like toys, novelties, single-use timers, and disposable electronic modules. The 33-instruction RISC core produces tight code that fits within the small program space, while the 12 I/O accommodate typical switch-input/LED-output product interfaces without external glue logic.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C54A-04E/P — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C54A-04/P | PIC16C54A-04E/SS | PIC16C54C-04E/P | PIC16F54-I/P | PIC16C54-10I/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | PDIP-18 | PDIP-18 - same | PDIP-18 - same | PDIP-18 - same | PDIP-18 - same | PDIP-18 - same |
| Program Memory | 768 bytes OTP | 768 bytes OTP | 768 bytes OTP | 768 bytes OTP | 768 bytes Flash | 768 bytes OTP |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 10 MHz |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (Extended) | 0C to +70C (Industrial) | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5V to 5.5V | 4.5V to 5.5V | 4.5V to 5.5V | 4.5V to 5.5V | 2.0V to 5.5V | 4.5V to 5.5V |
Key Differentiators
- Extended -40C to +125C operating temperature range (vs PIC16C54A-04/P)
- Flash reprogrammability for modern designs (vs PIC16C54A-04E/P)
- Higher 10 MHz clock speed for time-critical tasks (vs PIC16C54-10I/P)
Design Notes
The PIC16C54A-04E/P operates from a single 4.5V to 5.5V supply and includes internal power-on reset (POR). Decouple VDD (pin 14) with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the package, plus a bulk 10 uF tantalum or electrolytic capacitor at the board power entry. The MCLR pin (pin 4) should be tied to VDD through a 10 kohm pull-up resistor per the Microchip PIC16C5X datasheet family, with optional 100 nF decoupling if the reset line is exposed to noise.
Do not exceed the 4 MHz maximum clock input on the PIC16C54A-04E/P; the 04 speed grade is specified for 4 MHz operation. For 10 MHz operation, choose the PIC16C54-10 variant. Also note that OTP memory cannot be electrically erased - verify firmware with a JW windowed part or PIC16F54 (flash) during development before committing to OTP production. The watchdog timer must be explicitly disabled in software if not used, or it will reset the device.
Place the PIC16C54A-04E/P oscillator components (crystal or resonator and load capacitors) within 5 mm of pins 15 (OSC2) and 16 (OSC1) to minimize parasitic capacitance. For through-hole PDIP-18 designs, route I/O traces away from the oscillator area to reduce coupling. Keep digital switching traces (relay drives, triac triggers) short and consider RC snubbers on inductive loads to prevent MCU noise injection that could disrupt the internal watchdog RC oscillator.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free status not specified in verified data; the extended temp grade E suffix suggests legacy product. PIC16C5X family predates widespread RoHS adoption, so non-RoHS variants may exist. Marked [DATA_NEEDED] for compliance fields not in provided data.
