PIC16C54T-XT/SS - 8-bit OTP MCU, 4MHz, 768B, SSOP-20 | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C54T-XT/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.32 | $3.32 |
| 10 | $3.18 | $31.80 |
| 100 | $2.96 | $296.00 |
| 500 | $2.74 | $1,370.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.55 | $2,550.00 |
PIC16C54T-XT/SS Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, RAM, program memory, and I/O peripherals in one package, designed for embedded control tasks. Within the semiconductor taxonomy, the PIC16C54T-XT/SS belongs to the hierarchy: microcontroller -> embedded processor -> digital IC -> semiconductor. The PIC16C5X family uses a 12-bit-wide instruction set with RISC architecture, achieving roughly 2:1 code compression over comparable 8-bit CISC MCUs, and it executes single-cycle instructions (200 ns at 20 MHz) with only two-cycle branches.
Key differentiating specifications include the 33 single-word instruction set, 12 bidirectional I/O pins, an operating voltage range of 4.5 V to 5.5 V (some sources cite 3.3 V/5 V dual supply tolerance), and tape-and-reel packaging with 1,600-piece standard quantity. The device integrates power-on reset, watchdog timer, and a programmable code-protect bit, eliminating many external components.
Typical applications include low-cost consumer appliance controllers, simple sensor interfaces, LED display drivers, hobby and education platforms, and legacy industrial control retrofits. The compact SSOP-20 footprint suits space-constrained PCB designs where the OTP memory model supports volume production without mask-ROM tooling costs.
When designing with this part, note that the PIC16C5X core lacks interrupts, so polling is required. Engineers should validate the OTP programming procedure (high-voltage VPP) and use the Microchip MPLAB IDE for code development.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C54T-XT/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 PIC16C54T-XT/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core Architecture, Package, Program Memory Size, Instruction Cycle Time, Program Memory Type.
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View Datasheet →PIC16C54T-XT/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC16C5X, 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Size | 768 bytes (512 x 12) OTP/EPROM |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns (single cycle, except branches 400 ns) |
| Number of I/O Pins | 12 |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Package Type | 20-pin SSOP (5.30 mm body width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| ROM/Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM (one-time programmable) |
| Number of Instructions | 33 single-word |
| Peripherals | Watchdog Timer, Power-on Reset, Code Protection |
| Standard Pack Quantity | 1,600 (Tape & Reel) |
PIC16C54T-XT/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 | RB0 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 0 |
| Pin 6 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 1 |
| Pin 7 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 2 |
| Pin 8 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 3 |
| Pin 9 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 4 |
| Pin 10 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 5 |
| Pin 11 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 6 |
| Pin 12 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 7 |
| Pin 13 | T0CKI — Timer0 clock input / RB7 secondary function |
| Pin 14 | VPP — Programming voltage input (high-voltage programming mode) |
| Pin 15 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (4.5V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 16 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 17 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator crystal output / clock output |
| Pin 18 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator crystal input / external clock input |
| Pin 19 | MCLR/VPP — Master clear reset (active low) / programming voltage |
| Pin 20 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C54T-XT/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Consumer Appliance Controllers, LED Display Drivers, Hobby and Education Platforms, Simple Sensor Interfaces, Industrial Control Retrofits, Remote Control Transmitters.
Consumer Appliance Controllers
The PIC16C54T-XT/SS fits consumer appliance controllers thanks to its compact SSOP-20 footprint, low-cost OTP program memory, and integrated watchdog timer. Its 4 MHz CPU and 768B OTP memory handle simple state-machine control loops for microwave ovens, washing machines, and toasters. The 12 I/O pins directly drive relays, LEDs, and keypads without external logic. Compared to a discrete 555-timer + logic-gate implementation, this MCU consolidates timing, sequencing, and fault detection into one IC, reducing BOM cost by 30-50% while improving reliability.
Recommended
LED Display Drivers
The PIC16C54T-XT/SS is ideal for LED display drivers in signage and indicator panels because its 12 I/O pins can directly multiplex up to 64 LEDs using a 4x4 matrix with no external drivers required. At 4 MHz, the 200 ns instruction cycle supports refresh rates above 100 Hz, eliminating visible flicker. The 25-byte RAM handles display buffer state, and the OTP memory stores pattern sequences. This MCU replaces discrete CMOS logic ICs typically used for scrolling message signs, reducing PCB area by approximately 60%.
Recommended
Hobby and Education Platforms
The PIC16C54T-XT/SS serves as a foundational learning platform for embedded systems education due to its 33-instruction RISC architecture, which students can master in a single semester. The OTP memory enforces disciplined firmware development practices, and the SSOP-20 package works with standard breakout boards for breadboard prototyping. At $3.32 per unit, it is cost-effective for classroom kits. The PIC16C5X architecture remains a teaching standard referenced in Microchip's academic program materials.
Recommended
Simple Sensor Interfaces
The PIC16C54T-XT/SS integrates simple sensor interface functions for temperature, humidity, and contact-switch sensing applications. Its 12 I/O pins accommodate multiple analog channels via external ADC or direct digital sensor inputs such as the DS18B20 one-wire protocol. The integrated watchdog timer ensures reliable recovery from sensor communication faults. The 4 MHz CPU handles protocol bit-banging within tight timing margins, making it suitable for thermostat controllers and weather station peripherals.
Recommended
Industrial Control Retrofits
The PIC16C54T-XT/SS is widely used in industrial control retrofits where legacy equipment requires modern digital control without redesign. The SSOP-20 footprint allows direct replacement of older through-hole 18-pin PIC16C5X designs after a PCB adapter. Its 4.5V-5.5V supply tolerance matches 5V industrial backplanes, and the OTP memory prevents unauthorized firmware modification, meeting industrial IP-protection requirements. The extended Microchip product lifecycle ensures 10+ year availability for long-lifecycle industrial equipment.
Recommended
Remote Control Transmitters
The PIC16C54T-XT/SS fits remote control transmitter designs where its low power consumption, small SSOP-20 footprint, and OTP memory provide a cost-optimized solution for IR/RF remote controls. Its 12 I/O pins scan a 4x4 keypad matrix, and the 4 MHz CPU generates precise 38 kHz IR carrier frequencies with minimal software overhead. The 25-byte RAM stores transmission protocols and pairing data, and the integrated watchdog prevents lockup in battery-powered operation.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C54T-XT/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C54-XT/SS | PIC16C54AT-10/SS | PIC16C54C-04/SS | PIC16C54CT-20E/SS | PIC16C54A-20E/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 20-SSOP (0.209", 5.30 mm) | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| CPU Clock Speed | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 10 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Program Memory | 768 bytes OTP | 768 bytes OTP | 768 bytes OTP | 768 bytes OTP | 768 bytes OTP | 768 bytes OTP |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V (wider) | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Silicon Revision | Base ('C54') | Base ('C54') | A revision | C revision | C revision | A revision |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
Key Differentiators
- Standard 4 MHz CPU clock with 200 ns instruction cycle (vs PIC16C54AT-10/SS)
- Base silicon revision with widest third-party tool support (vs PIC16C54C-04/SS)
- XT oscillator mode for external crystal/ceramic resonator (vs PIC16C54T-RCI/SS)
Design Notes
The PIC16C5X core has NO hardware interrupts - all event handling requires polling loops. Designers migrating from PIC16F84 or PIC16F88 must restructure their firmware to use timer overflow polling rather than ISR-based code. Also, OTP memory can be programmed only ONCE; there is no in-system reprogrammability, so code must be fully verified before programming.
For SSOP-20 layout, use a land pattern with 0.0256" (0.65 mm) lead pitch and 0.010" (0.25 mm) trace-to-pad clearance. Place a 0.1 µF decoupling capacitor within 3 mm of the VDD pin (pin 20) and a bulk 10 µF tantalum on the supply rail. The XT oscillator requires a 4 MHz crystal with 20-33 pF load capacitors on OSC1/OSC2; do not route oscillator traces near I/O switching lines to avoid noise injection.
At 4 MHz and 5V supply, the PIC16C54T-XT/SS typically draws approximately 2-5 mA active current. For battery-powered designs, use the SLEEP instruction to reduce quiescent current to under 1 µA, waking via watchdog timer overflow (typical WDT period 18 ms). The MCLR reset pin (pin 19) requires a 10 kΩ pull-up to VDD for proper operation; do not leave it floating.
Compliance Information
Compliance data not explicitly listed in verified distributor listings. Microchip parts are generally RoHS-compliant, but exact status should be confirmed via manufacturer declaration.