PIC16C57T-RCI/SS - 8-Bit 4MHz OTP MCU 28-SSOP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C57T-RCI/SS ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.85 | $2.85 |
| 10 | $2.55 | $25.50 |
| 100 | $2.2 | $220.00 |
| 500 | $1.95 | $975.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.7 | $1,700.00 |
PIC16C57T-RCI/SS Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer containing a CPU, program memory, working RAM, I/O peripherals, and a clock generator on one die. It belongs to the broader hierarchy of embedded processors -> microcontrollers -> 8-bit MCU category -> CMOS RISC MCU -> PIC microcontrollers. The 8-bit segment targets cost-sensitive, deterministic, low-power embedded control and remains dominant in legacy industrial, appliance, and white-goods designs where simplicity, predictable interrupt latency, and ease of in-system programming outweigh the raw performance of 32-bit Cortex-M cores.
Key features of the PIC16C57T-RCI/SS include 20 general-purpose digital I/O pins, an integrated Power-On Reset (POR), a Watchdog Timer (WDT) for code-flow safety, an industry-standard 4 MHz oscillator range (RC and crystal options), and a wide operating voltage range suitable for 5V systems. The RISC engine executes one instruction per oscillator cycle, and the small instruction set reduces development time while supporting tight C and assembly code density in 12-bit-wide OTP. The device targets fully static operation, allowing the clock to be stopped to save power without losing register state.
Technically, the PIC16C5X architecture uses a Harvard memory layout separating program and data paths, a 2-level hardware stack for subroutines, and an 8-bit ALU with 8-bit-wide working registers. The 12-bit instruction word carries both opcode and immediate data, and 33 fixed-format instructions cover arithmetic, logical, bit-oriented, branch, and I/O operations. The OTP windowed package enables prototype and small-volume programming with an EPROM eraser.
Typical applications include legacy appliance controls, small-form-factor consumer electronics, simple sensor interfaces, low-cost motor drivers, hobby/educational microcontroller boards, and pin-compatible upgrades for installed PIC16C5X sockets. Engineers often use this part as a cost-down replacement in designs originally qualified on the PIC16C5X family.
When designing, note that OTP parts are one-time programmable only - code changes require a new device. Stocking strategy should account for the EOL/NRND status verified at the time of purchase. The 28-SSOP footprint is shared across the PIC16C5X family, easing cross-references.
This page consolidates distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the PIC16C5X family and cross-brand options, pinout data, and design notes - information not collected in any single manufacturer document.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C57T-RCI/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 PIC16C57T-RCI/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Size, Package, Timers, RAM Size, Operating Temperature Range.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F57T-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C57T-RCE/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.15 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57-RCI/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57T-10I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C56T-RCE/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C55T-RCI/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C57T-RCI/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Series | PIC 16C |
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-bit |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Program Memory Size | 3 KB (2K x 12) OTP |
| RAM Size | 72 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 20 |
| Package | 28-SSOP (0.209 inch, 5.30 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V nominal |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (industrial grade per RCI suffix) |
| Peripherals | POR (Power-On Reset), WDT (Watchdog Timer) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Oscillator Type | RC / External (R suffix) |
| Architecture | RISC, Harvard |
| Instruction Set | 33 single-word/single-cycle instructions |
| Instruction Width | 12-bit |
| Lead Free / RoHS | Compliant |
PIC16C57T-RCI/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 2 / ICSP data |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 3 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 3 | RA4 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 4 / Timer0 clock |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master clear reset input (active low) |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 0 / interrupt |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 1 |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 2 |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 3 |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 4 |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 5 |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 6 |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O port B bit 7 |
| Pin 14 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 15 | VDD — Positive supply (5 V nominal) |
| Pin 16 | RC0 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 0 |
| Pin 17 | RC1 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 1 |
| Pin 18 | RC2 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 2 |
| Pin 19 | RC3 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 3 |
| Pin 20 | RC4 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 4 |
| Pin 21 | RC5 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 5 |
| Pin 22 | RC6 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 6 |
| Pin 23 | RC7 — Bidirectional I/O port C bit 7 |
| Pin 24 | OSC2 — Oscillator output / RC clock pin |
| Pin 25 | OSC1 — Oscillator input / RC clock pin |
| Pin 26 | VSS — Ground reference (digital) |
| Pin 27 | VDD — Positive supply (5 V nominal) |
| Pin 28 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O port A bit 0 |
Typical Applications
PIC16C57T-RCI/SS is suitable for 6 applications: White Goods and Appliance Control, Low-Cost Sensor Interface Board, Hobby and Educational Microcontroller Board, Simple Stepper and DC Motor Driver Controller, Legacy Industrial Control Replacement Board, Consumer Remote Control and IR Emitter Board.
White Goods and Appliance Control
The PIC16C57T-RCI/SS fits legacy white-goods control boards (washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens) where deterministic 8-bit control, low cost, and a small 28-SSOP footprint matter more than raw processing power. Its 4 MHz core executes the 12-bit instruction set in single cycles, giving enough bandwidth for relay sequencing, timer interrupts, and basic sensor reads while keeping the BOM under USD 3. The integrated Watchdog Timer protects against firmware lock-ups common in motor-driven appliances, and the 20 digital I/O pins cover switches, LEDs, triac triggers, and valve drivers without external expanders.
Recommended
Low-Cost Sensor Interface Board
For simple sensor-interface front ends (temperature, humidity, level switches), the PIC16C57T-RCI/SS provides an 8-bit ADC-free architecture that pairs well with external sigma-delta converters or digital sensors over GPIO bit-banging. Its 72 bytes of RAM and 3 KB OTP are sufficient for calibration tables and short communication stacks, while the 4 MHz clock and fully static core let the firmware bit-bang UART, I2C master, or SPI without dedicated peripherals. The 28-SSOP package drops onto small sensor PCBs and the industrial temperature grade handles HVAC and outdoor enclosures.
Recommended
Hobby and Educational Microcontroller Board
The PIC16C57T-RCI/SS is frequently used in low-cost educational microcontroller trainers, breadboard kits, and introductory embedded programming courses because its 33-instruction RISC set is approachable for students and the PIC16C5X family is well documented. At 4 MHz it teaches timing fundamentals without overwhelming learners, and the 20 I/O pins drive LEDs, buttons, and 7-segment displays through standard demo boards. The 28-SSOP package also exposes enough pins for parallel LCD experiments on classroom trainer boards.
Recommended
Simple Stepper and DC Motor Driver Controller
For cost-driven brushed DC or unipolar stepper motor control in small fans, pumps, valves, and toys, the PIC16C57T-RCI/SS delivers sufficient timing precision at 4 MHz to generate step pulses, PWM commutation, and current-limit feedback loops. The 20 I/O pins drive H-bridge logic directly, while the integrated Watchdog Timer recovers from electrical-noise-induced firmware stalls common in inductive-load environments. The 28-SSOP package handles moderate dissipation in motor-control PCBs without a heatsink.
Recommended
Legacy Industrial Control Replacement Board
The PIC16C57T-RCI/SS is widely deployed as a pin-compatible replacement on legacy industrial control boards originally designed around the PIC16C5X family, supporting field-service repairs of installed equipment without PCB rework. Its 28-SSOP footprint matches production PCBs still in service, and its 5 V supply rail is compatible with TTL logic gates, opto-isolated inputs, and 5 V relay drivers common in factory automation. The industrial -40C to +85C temperature grade supports cabinet and shop-floor operating environments.
Recommended
Consumer Remote Control and IR Emitter Board
For IR remote controls, RF transmitters, and consumer handheld devices, the PIC16C57T-RCI/SS provides the low-power, deterministic 8-bit core needed to generate precise carrier-frequency PWM (typically 36-40 kHz for IR protocols). The 3 KB OTP stores RC5, NEC, or SIRC encoding tables, and the 20 I/O pins handle key matrix scanning, LED indicators, and IR emitter drivers. The small 28-SSOP package fits inside compact remote housings and operates reliably on coin-cell or AAA battery stacks through the standard 5 V supply.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C57T-RCI/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F57T-I/SS | PIC16C57T-RCE/SS | PIC16C57-RCI/SS | PIC16C57T-10I/SO | PIC16C56T-RCE/SS | PIC16C55T-RCI/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SOIC - same pinout, wider body | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same |
| Core | 8-bit PIC RISC | 8-bit PIC RISC | 8-bit PIC RISC | 8-bit PIC RISC | 8-bit PIC RISC | 8-bit PIC RISC | 8-bit PIC RISC |
| Program Memory | 3 KB (2K x 12) OTP | 3 KB Flash | 3 KB OTP | 3 KB OTP | 3 KB OTP | 1.5 KB (1K x 12) OTP | 0.75 KB (512 x 12) OTP |
| Memory Type | OTP | Flash (re-programmable) | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP |
| Max Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 20 MHz (5x faster) | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| RAM | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 72 bytes | 24 bytes |
| Number of I/O | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | Active (recommended for new designs) | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND |
Key Differentiators
- Pin-compatible flash replacement for production modernization (vs PIC16F57T-I/SS)
- Largest program memory in the PIC16C5X family (vs PIC16C56T-RCE/SS / PIC16C55T-RCI/SS)
- Industrial temperature grade with 28-SSOP packaging (vs PIC16C57T-RCE/SS)
Design Notes
Estimated: At 5 V VDD, 4 MHz clock, and typical CMOS switching activity, the PIC16C57T-RCI/SS draws roughly 2-5 mA active and under 1 uA in sleep mode. Decouple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of pin 15 (and pin 27 on 28-SSOP) plus a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum cap on the supply rail. The two VSS pins must both be connected to ground for thermal and electrical return paths. Power-On Reset is integrated but adding an external RC on MCLR (pin 4) slows reset rise time for noisy supplies.
OTP microcontrollers cannot be erased, so every PIC16C57T-RCI/SS programmed with bad firmware is scrapped. Always validate the hex file in an engineering windowed (JW) part or flash equivalent (PIC16F57T-I/SS) before committing to OTP. MCLR (pin 4) must never be left floating - it is the master clear input and a floating MCLR can cause spurious resets. Programming the device requires a high-voltage (typically 13 V) VPP pulse on MCLR, so the in-circuit serial programming pin shares with MCLR.
The 28-SSOP footprint is shared with the PIC16F57T-I/SS flash variant, allowing PCB layout reuse between legacy OTP production and new flash-based designs. Route the oscillator pins (OSC1 pin 25, OSC2 pin 24) as short traces and guard them with ground to minimize EMI pickup. Place decoupling capacitors on the same side as the IC, as close to VDD/VSS pins as physically possible. Avoid routing digital I/O traces under the SSOP body to prevent coupling into sensitive analog or oscillator nodes.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance per Microchip product declaration; not AEC-Q100 qualified - not intended for automotive safety-critical applications.
