PIC16C55AT-04E/SS Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PIC16C55AT-04E/SS is an 8-bit microcontroller from Microchip Technology's PIC® 16C series, featuring 768B of OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory and 20 I/O pins in a 28-SSOP surface mount package. This device is classified as obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute parts essential for ongoing system support and component procurement. The primary reason for seeking alternatives is the discontinued status of this part number, which necessitates sourcing from active product lines that maintain electrical and mechanical compatibility.

Substiute Parts

PIC16C55AT-04E/SS

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 780PIC16C55AT-04E/SS Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PIC16C55A-04I/SS

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 5649PIC16C55A-04I/SS Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the PIC16C55AT-04E/SS is determined by strict alignment with the following critical parameters:

• Core Architecture: PIC 8-bit processor
• Memory Configuration: 768B OTP program memory (512 x 12 organization)
• RAM Capacity: 25 x 8 bytes
• I/O Count: 20 pins minimum
• Operating Frequency: 4MHz
• Supply Voltage Range: 3V ~ 5.5V
• Package Type: 28-SSOP form factor
• Peripheral Set: POR (Power-On Reset) and WDT (Watchdog Timer)

The PIC16C55A-04I/SS qualifies as a direct substitute based on identical electrical specifications, matching memory architecture, equivalent I/O configuration, and compatible package geometry. Both parts share the same base product number (PIC16C55) and maintain functional equivalence across all specified parameters.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PIC16C55A-04I/SS is the qualified substitute for the obsolete PIC16C55AT-04E/SS. Selection of this alternative is supported by:

• Product Status: The substitute maintains active product status with Microchip Technology, ensuring ongoing availability and supply chain reliability.
• Compliance Certifications: Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and identical MSL ratings, meeting environmental and handling requirements.
• Electrical Equivalence: All critical electrical parameters—core architecture, memory configuration, I/O count, supply voltage, and peripheral set—are identical between the main part and substitute.
• Package Compatibility: Both devices utilize the 28-SSOP form factor with identical dimensions, enabling direct PCB footprint compatibility.
• Temperature Consideration: The substitute operates across -40°C to 85°C, which covers standard industrial and commercial temperature ranges. Applications requiring operation above 85°C must evaluate this narrower specification against system requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PIC16C55A-04I/SS be used as a direct replacement for the PIC16C55AT-04E/SS?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical electrical specifications, memory architecture, I/O configuration, and 28-SSOP package geometry. The substitute is electrically and mechanically compatible for direct board-level replacement.

Q: What is the primary difference between these two part numbers?

A: The main difference is product status. The PIC16C55AT-04E/SS is obsolete, while the PIC16C55A-04I/SS is an active product. Additionally, the operating temperature range differs: the original supports -40°C to 125°C, while the substitute supports -40°C to 85°C.

Q: Does the narrower operating temperature range of the substitute affect compatibility?

A: The substitute's -40°C to 85°C range covers standard industrial and commercial applications. If your system requires operation above 85°C, the temperature specification must be evaluated against actual application requirements before substitution.

Q: Are both parts RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. Both the PIC16C55AT-04E/SS and PIC16C55A-04I/SS are ROHS3 compliant with identical MSL ratings of 1 (Unlimited).

Q: Will the substitute work with existing PCB designs?

A: Yes. Both parts use the 28-SSOP package with identical pin count (20 I/O) and physical dimensions (0.209", 5.30mm width), ensuring full PCB footprint compatibility without design modifications.

Q: Is the substitute available in higher quantities?

A: The PIC16C55A-04I/SS has significantly higher inventory availability (5578 pcs) compared to the obsolete original part (734 pcs), providing better supply chain security for ongoing production.