PIC16C55A-20E/SS Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PIC16C55A-20E/SS is an 8-bit microcontroller from Microchip Technology's PIC® 16C series, featuring 768B of OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory and operating at 20MHz. This device is classified as Active product status and is widely used in embedded applications requiring low-cost, fixed-function control solutions. The need for substitute parts arises from OTP memory limitations, production discontinuation planning, or application requirements for reprogrammable memory technology.

Substiute Parts

PIC16C55A-20E/SS

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 998PIC16C55A-20E/SS Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PIC16F57-E/SS

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 2036PIC16F57-E/SS Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PIC16C55A-20E/SS is determined by the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Compatibility Criteria:

• Core processor family: PIC
• Core size: 8-Bit
• Operating speed: 20MHz
• Package type: 28-SSOP
• Pin count: 20 I/O pins
• Voltage supply range: Must encompass or be compatible with 3V ~ 5.5V
• Operating temperature range: -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
• Peripherals: POR and WDT functionality

Memory Substitution Logic: The PIC16C55A-20E/SS uses OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory. Substitutes may employ FLASH memory technology, which provides reprogrammability while maintaining identical pinout, I/O count, and electrical characteristics. Program memory size may vary within the PIC 16-series architecture, provided the substitute meets or exceeds the original specification.

Qualified Substitute: PIC16F57-E/SS meets all mandatory compatibility criteria while upgrading from OTP to FLASH memory technology.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PIC16F57-E/SS is a direct substitute for the PIC16C55A-20E/SS based on the following engineering criteria:

Electrical Compatibility: Both devices operate at identical core voltage (3V ~ 5.5V overlap), speed (20MHz), and temperature range (-40°C ~ 125°C). The PIC16F57-E/SS extends the lower voltage limit to 2V, providing enhanced flexibility for low-power applications.

Pinout and Package Compatibility: Both devices utilize the 28-SSOP package with identical physical dimensions (0.209", 5.30mm Width) and 20 I/O pins, ensuring direct PCB compatibility without layout modifications.

Regulatory Compliance: Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH Unaffected status, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements.

Memory Technology Upgrade: The transition from OTP to FLASH memory in the PIC16F57-E/SS provides reprogrammability, increased program memory (3KB vs. 768B), and expanded RAM (72 x 8 vs. 25 x 8), enabling more complex firmware implementations and development flexibility.

Product Status: Both devices maintain Active product status, ensuring continued availability and manufacturing support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PIC16F57-E/SS be used as a direct replacement for the PIC16C55A-20E/SS?

A: Yes. Both devices share identical pinout, package type (28-SSOP), I/O count (20), operating speed (20MHz), and temperature range (-40°C ~ 125°C). No PCB modifications are required for physical substitution.

Q: What is the primary difference between these two devices?

A: The PIC16C55A-20E/SS uses OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory, while the PIC16F57-E/SS uses FLASH memory. FLASH memory is reprogrammable, allowing firmware updates without replacing the component. The PIC16F57-E/SS also provides increased program memory (3KB vs. 768B) and RAM (72 x 8 vs. 25 x 8).

Q: Are there voltage supply differences?

A: The PIC16C55A-20E/SS operates at 3V ~ 5.5V, while the PIC16F57-E/SS operates at 2V ~ 5.5V. The PIC16F57-E/SS has an extended lower voltage range, making it suitable for applications requiring operation below 3V.

Q: Do both devices support the same peripherals?

A: Yes. Both devices include Power-On Reset (POR) and Watchdog Timer (WDT) functionality.

Q: Is the 28-SSOP package identical for both parts?

A: Yes. Both devices use the 28-SSOP package with dimensions of 0.209" × 5.30mm Width, ensuring mechanical and electrical compatibility on the same PCB footprint.

Q: Are there any compliance or regulatory differences?

A: No. Both devices maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH Unaffected status, meeting current environmental regulations.

Q: What is the inventory status of these parts?

A: PIC16C55A-20E/SS has 919 pieces in stock. PIC16F57-E/SS has 1953 pieces in stock, providing greater availability for procurement.