PIC16C55-HS/SS Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PIC16C55-HS/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 suitable for embedded applications requiring fixed firmware implementation. Finding equivalent or substitute parts becomes necessary when OTP memory limitations require higher capacity alternatives, when extended operating temperature ranges are needed, or when FLASH-based reprogrammable memory is preferred over OTP for development and production flexibility.

Substiute Parts

PIC16C55-HS/SS

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 771PIC16C55-HS/SS Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PIC16F57-I/SS

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 2572PIC16F57-I/SS Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PIC16C55-HS/SS is determined by the following critical parameters that must remain compatible:

• Core Processor Architecture: Must be PIC processor family to maintain instruction set compatibility
• Package Type: Must be 28-SSOP to ensure mechanical and electrical pin compatibility
• Number of I/O Pins: Must provide minimum 20 I/O pins
• Operating Speed: Must support 20MHz operation
• Supply Voltage Range: Must operate within or encompass the 4.5V ~ 5.5V range
• Mounting Type: Must be Surface Mount compatible

The PIC16F57-I/SS qualifies as a substitute because it maintains identical core architecture, package format, I/O count, and operating speed while offering enhanced capabilities in memory type and operating temperature range.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the PIC16C55-HS/SS and PIC16F57-I/SS maintain Active product status from Microchip Technology and are ROHS3 compliant, ensuring long-term availability and regulatory compliance. The PIC16F57-I/SS is suitable as a substitute when:

• Applications require reprogrammable FLASH memory instead of one-time programmable OTP memory
• Extended operating temperature range (-40°C to 85°C) is required beyond the standard 0°C to 70°C specification
• Increased program memory capacity (3KB versus 768B) is needed
• Expanded RAM allocation (72 x 8 versus 24 x 8) supports more complex firmware requirements
• Lower minimum supply voltage operation (2V minimum) is beneficial for battery-powered applications

The identical 20MHz speed, 20 I/O pins, 28-SSOP package, and PIC core architecture ensure direct functional compatibility at the hardware interface level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PIC16F57-I/SS directly replace the PIC16C55-HS/SS in existing designs?

A: Yes, at the hardware level. Both devices share identical pin configuration, package format (28-SSOP), I/O count (20 pins), and operating speed (20MHz). Firmware compatibility depends on whether the application firmware fits within the larger FLASH memory space of the PIC16F57-I/SS and whether the increased RAM is utilized or simply unused.

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

A: The main difference is memory type and capacity. The PIC16C55-HS/SS uses OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory with 768B capacity, while the PIC16F57-I/SS uses FLASH memory with 3KB capacity. FLASH memory allows multiple reprogramming cycles, whereas OTP allows only a single programming event.

Q: Are there supply voltage compatibility concerns?

A: The PIC16C55-HS/SS operates at 4.5V to 5.5V, while the PIC16F57-I/SS operates at 2V to 5.5V. The substitute part accepts the full voltage range of the original part, making it compatible with existing power supply designs. The wider voltage range of the substitute provides additional flexibility for low-power applications.

Q: Does the operating temperature range difference affect substitution?

A: The PIC16F57-I/SS supports -40°C to 85°C compared to the PIC16C55-HS/SS range of 0°C to 70°C. The substitute part covers the original temperature range and extends it further, making it suitable for applications requiring extended temperature operation without design modification.

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

A: Yes. Both devices use the 28-SSOP package with 0.209" width and 5.30mm dimensions. PCB footprints, solder reflow profiles, and mechanical assembly processes remain unchanged.

Q: What compliance certifications apply to both parts?

A: Both the PIC16C55-HS/SS and PIC16F57-I/SS are ROHS3 compliant and maintain Active product status from Microchip Technology, ensuring regulatory compliance and continued manufacturing support.