PIC16C57-XTE/SP - 8-Bit OTP MCU, 4MHz, 2KB EPROM | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C57-XTE/SP ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6.5 | $6.50 |
| 10 | $5.95 | $59.50 |
| 100 | $5.4 | $540.00 |
| 500 | $4.85 | $2,425.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.3 | $4,300.00 |
PIC16C57-XTE/SP Overview
What is an 8-bit OTP microcontroller? An 8-bit OTP microcontroller is a small single-chip computer built around an 8-bit data path that executes instructions stored in one-time-programmable non-volatile memory. Within the broader taxonomy of semiconductors, the PIC16C57 belongs to the microcontroller (MCU) family, then to the 8-bit MCU sub-class, then to the OTP EPROM-based MCU series, and ultimately to the Microchip PIC16C5X entry-level family. This hierarchy makes it well suited for cost-sensitive embedded control where Flash reprogrammability is not required.
Key features include a RISC instruction set with 33 single-word, single-cycle instructions, 12-bit wide opcodes yielding 2:1 code compression over typical 8-bit competitors, and 20 general-purpose digital I/O lines arranged across ports RA, RB, RC, and RD. The device includes an 8-bit timer/counter (TMR0) with an 8-bit programmable prescaler, a watchdog timer with its own on-chip RC oscillator for reliable reset, and a power-on reset circuit. The two-stage instruction pipeline enables most instructions to execute in a single 250ns instruction cycle at 16MHz.
Typical applications include consumer appliance control, automotive body electronics (non-safety), HVAC damper and fan control, simple sensor interfaces, remote-control transmitters, battery chargers, and low-cost industrial timer/sequencer designs. Because the program memory is windowed EPROM (erasable only by UV exposure in the ceramic JW package, or one-time programmable in the plastic SPDIP variant), the XTE/SP version is intended primarily for production volumes where firmware is fixed and validated.
When designing with this device, note that the PIC16C57 uses a 12-bit program counter and cannot directly access large linear memory spaces, so complex C code is uncommon; assembly language or the free MPASM toolchain is the typical development path. Programming is performed via Microchip's MPLAB PM3 universal device programmer. The 'XTE' suffix denotes the extended-temperature grade (-40C to +85C) with the standard PIC16C5X speed grade (DC to 4MHz oscillator).
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, parametric cross-references to compatible PIC16C5X family members, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C57-XTE/SP — 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 PIC16C57-XTE/SP (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Mounting Type, Timers, Maximum Clock Frequency, Operating Temperature, Package.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F57-E/SP
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C57-XT/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57-XTE/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57-XT/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.28 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56-XTE/SP
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C57-XTE/SP Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | PIC16C5X |
| Core Architecture | 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 2 KB (2K x 12 words) |
| Data RAM | 72 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 40 MHz (XTE grade: 4 MHz) |
| Instruction Set | 33 single-word instructions |
| Instruction Word Width | 12 bits |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 250 ns at 16 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +85 C (extended grade) |
| General-Purpose I/O Pins | 20 |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit (TMR0 with 8-bit prescaler) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes, with dedicated on-chip RC oscillator |
| Power-On Reset | Yes |
| I/O Ports | PORTA (4), PORTB (8), PORTC (8), PORTD (8, multiplexed as I/O) |
| Package Type | SPDIP-28 (Skinny Plastic DIP, 28-pin) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| RoHS Status | Non-Compliant (contains lead, OTP EPROM plastic package) |
| Programming Method | MPLAB PM3 or compatible EPROM programmer |
PIC16C57-XTE/SP Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Port A bit 2 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Port A bit 3 (bidirectional I/O) |
| Pin 3 | T0CKI — Timer0 external clock input |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master Clear (reset) input, 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 | OSC2 — Oscillator output (crystal/ceramic/resistor connection) |
| Pin 16 | OSC1 — Oscillator input (crystal/ceramic/resistor/external clock) |
| 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 | RD0 — Port D bit 0 (bidirectional I/O, shared as I/O only on PIC16C57) |
| Pin 26 | RD1 — Port D bit 1 (bidirectional I/O, shared as I/O only on PIC16C57) |
| Pin 27 | RD2 — Port D bit 2 (bidirectional I/O, shared as I/O only on PIC16C57) |
| Pin 28 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.0V to 5.5V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C57-XTE/SP is suitable for 6 applications: Consumer Appliance Control, Remote Control Transmitters, Battery Chargers (NiCd/NiMH), HVAC Damper and Fan Controllers, Industrial Timers and Sequencers, Automotive Aftermarket Accessories.
Consumer Appliance Control
The PIC16C57-XTE/SP fits consumer appliance control because its 2KB OTP EPROM holds compact state-machine firmware for washer/dryer timers, microwave user interfaces, and dishwasher cycle controllers, while 20 GPIO pins directly drive 7-segment displays, LED indicators, and tactile keypads without external logic. The 4MHz XT oscillator and extended -40C to +85C rating handle the thermal swings of under-cabinet installations. Power dissipation stays under 10mA active, which keeps the linear supply simple. The RISC architecture executes most instructions in a single 1us cycle, ensuring responsive key debouncing and PWM motor control without jitter.
Recommended
Remote Control Transmitters
The PIC16C57-XTE/SP suits IR/RF remote-control transmitter designs because its 33-instruction RISC core and 1us instruction cycle at 4MHz easily generate precise 38kHz carrier frequencies for NEC or RC-5 IR protocols without external timers. The 20 GPIO pins interface with keypads of up to 5x4 matrices, while the low-power LP oscillator mode lets the device sleep under 1uA between button presses to extend battery life. OTP EPROM is ideal because remote-control firmware rarely changes once a product ships, and the 2KB capacity accommodates multiple protocol stacks plus learned-key tables. The SPDIP-28 package is well suited to handheld plastic enclosures with through-hole keypads.
Recommended
Battery Chargers (NiCd/NiMH)
The PIC16C57-XTE/SP fits NiCd and NiMH charger applications because its 8-bit TMR0 with 8-bit prescaler accurately measures charge and discharge intervals in the 10-minute to 16-hour range with sub-second resolution. The 20 GPIO pins drive LED status indicators, relay-controlled charge paths, and temperature sense inputs from a thermistor divider. The wide 3.0V to 5.5V supply range allows direct operation from rectified wall-adapter outputs without a separate regulator. With OTP EPROM, charger firmware is locked at production, preventing field firmware corruption. The XTE grade's -40C to +85C rating handles garage and outdoor charger environments.
Recommended
HVAC Damper and Fan Controllers
The PIC16C57-XTE/SP fits HVAC damper and fan controllers because its 2KB EPROM stores multi-zone scheduling tables and triac-firing lookup data, while 20 GPIO pins handle multiple zero-cross detect inputs, triac gate drives, and thermostat sensor channels. The hardware watchdog timer with its own dedicated RC oscillator resets the MCU reliably even if a brownout or software lock-up occurs, which is critical for unattended HVAC equipment. The extended -40C to +85C temperature range and 5.5V supply tolerance directly match furnace and air-handler electrical environments. The RISC core executes zero-cross interrupt handlers in a few microseconds, minimizing triac firing jitter that would otherwise cause electrical noise.
Recommended
Industrial Timers and Sequencers
The PIC16C57-XTE/SP is well suited to industrial timers and sequencers because its TMR0 with 8-bit prescaler achieves 1-second timing accuracy from a 32.768kHz watch crystal, while the watchdog timer protects against firmware stalls in unattended control panels. The 2KB EPROM stores multi-step sequencing tables, and 72 bytes of RAM hold the current step, elapsed time, and input status. The 20 GPIO pins drive relay coils, indicator LEDs, and accept push-button inputs without external decoding. The OTP EPROM and SPDIP-28 through-hole package suit long-life industrial products where field replacement is via socketed modules, and the XTE grade tolerates factory floor temperatures from -40C to +85C.
Recommended
Automotive Aftermarket Accessories
The PIC16C57-XTE/SP fits automotive aftermarket accessories such as alarm systems, lighting controllers, and gauge drivers because its 8-bit TMR0 captures engine-RPM and wheel-speed pulses with sub-microsecond accuracy, and 20 GPIO pins interface with relays, MOSFET drivers, and indicator LEDs. The extended -40C to +85C rating covers engine-bay and interior-cabin environments, although the part is not AEC-Q100 qualified and should not be used for safety-critical ECUs. The wide 3.0V to 5.5V supply tolerates load-dump transients when paired with a TVS clamp. OTP EPROM is appropriate for aftermarket products where firmware is fixed at production and the cost of field reprogramming is prohibitive.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C57-XTE/SP — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F57-E/SP | PIC16C57-XT/SP | PIC16C57-XTE/P | PIC16C57-XT/SS | PIC16C56-XTE/SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | SPDIP-28 | SPDIP-28 - same | SPDIP-28 - same | PDIP-28 - same pinout, wider body | SSOP-28 - same pinout, SMT | SPDIP-28 - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 2 KB OTP EPROM | 2 KB Flash | 2 KB OTP EPROM | 2 KB OTP EPROM | 2 KB OTP EPROM | 1 KB OTP EPROM (-50%) |
| Data RAM | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 36 bytes (-50%) |
| Max Oscillator Frequency (XTE grade) | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +125 C | 0 C to +70 C | -40 C to +85 C | 0 C to +70 C | -40 C to +85 C |
| GPIO Pins | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 12 (-40%) |
| Memory Type | OTP EPROM | Flash | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | Active | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND |
Key Differentiators
- Reprogrammable Flash with identical pinout and memory footprint (vs PIC16F57-E/SP)
- Industrial extended temperature grade (vs PIC16C57-XT/SP)
- Full 2KB program memory (vs PIC16C56-XTE/SP)
Design Notes
Because the PIC16C57 uses OTP EPROM, any firmware bug discovered after programming requires throwing away the device. Always fully validate firmware on a Flash-based PIC16F57 (drop-in compatible) before committing to PIC16C57-XTE/SP production programming. A single bit error can scrap an entire production run, so consider engineering samples of -XTE/SP only as final prototypes, never as development hardware.
Estimated: Power dissipation in active mode at 5V and 4MHz oscillator is approximately 2-5 mA, depending on I/O loading. Add a 100nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 28) and a 10uF bulk capacitor at the regulator output. For battery-powered applications, use the LP oscillator mode with a 32.768kHz crystal and enable sleep mode between interrupts to reduce quiescent current below 1uA. Note that the device has no internal oscillator, so plan for an external crystal or RC network.
Place the crystal (or ceramic resonator) within 0.5 inch of pins 15 and 16 (OSC2, OSC1) and surround it with a ground pour. For RC oscillator mode, keep the resistor and capacitor leads short to minimize stray capacitance. For HS mode at high frequencies, add a series resistor to limit crystal drive current. The MCLR pin (pin 4) requires a 10k pull-up resistor to VDD for normal operation; if unused, leave MCLR tied high through this resistor.
Compliance Information
PIC16C57-XTE/SP contains lead in the SPDIP package and is non-RoHS compliant. It is not AEC-Q100 qualified; for AEC-Q100 automotive designs choose PIC16F18446 or PIC16F15313. REACH compliance status confirmed by Microchip product declaration.
