PIC16C55T-HSE/SS Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PIC16C55T-HSE/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 substitute parts necessary for new designs or production continuity. The part operates at 16MHz with a supply voltage range of 4.5V to 5.5V and includes integrated Power-On Reset (POR) and Watchdog Timer (WDT) peripherals.

Substiute Parts

PIC16C55T-HSE/SS

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 1133PIC16C55T-HSE/SS Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PIC16C55-HSI/SS

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 866PIC16C55-HSI/SS Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the PIC16C55T-HSE/SS is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

• Core Processor Architecture: Must be PIC to ensure instruction set compatibility
• Core Size: Must remain 8-Bit
• Program Memory Configuration: Must be 768B (512 x 12) OTP
• RAM Size: Must be 24 x 8
• Number of I/O Pins: Must be 20
• Voltage Supply Range: Must support 4.5V ~ 5.5V
• Package Type: Must be 28-SSOP with identical physical dimensions (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
• Mounting Type: Must be Surface Mount

The PIC16C55-HSI/SS qualifies as a direct substitute based on these parameters. While it operates at a higher speed (20MHz versus 16MHz) and has a narrower operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C versus -40°C ~ 125°C), these represent performance enhancements rather than limitations. The substitute maintains identical memory architecture, I/O configuration, package footprint, and voltage specifications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PIC16C55-HSI/SS is a valid substitute for the PIC16C55T-HSE/SS based on the following factors:

Product Status: The main part is classified as obsolete, while the substitute is active. This ensures long-term availability and supply chain continuity for new production runs or design revisions.

Compliance & Certifications: Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and identical MSL ratings (1 - Unlimited), ensuring equivalent environmental and handling requirements. Both carry the same ECCN and HTSUS classifications, maintaining regulatory consistency.

Performance Enhancement: The substitute operates at 20MHz compared to the main part's 16MHz, providing a performance margin without introducing compatibility issues. The narrower operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C) is acceptable for most industrial and commercial applications where the extended upper temperature specification of the main part is not required.

Physical & Electrical Compatibility: Identical package footprint, pin count, I/O configuration, memory architecture, and voltage specifications ensure direct PCB compatibility and firmware portability without modification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PIC16C55-HSI/SS be used as a direct replacement on existing PCBs designed for the PIC16C55T-HSE/SS?

A: Yes. Both parts use the 28-SSOP package with identical physical dimensions and pin assignments. No PCB layout changes are required.

Q: Are there firmware compatibility concerns when switching from PIC16C55T-HSE/SS to PIC16C55-HSI/SS?

A: No. Both devices use the same PIC core architecture and instruction set. Firmware compiled for the main part executes identically on the substitute without modification.

Q: What is the significance of the speed difference (16MHz vs. 20MHz)?

A: The substitute operates at a higher clock frequency, which represents a performance enhancement. Applications designed for 16MHz operation will function correctly at 20MHz. No timing adjustments are necessary.

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

A: The substitute's range (-40°C ~ 85°C) covers standard industrial and commercial temperature specifications. If your application requires operation above 85°C, the main part's extended range (-40°C ~ 125°C) is necessary. Verify your specific thermal requirements.

Q: Are there any supply chain advantages to using the substitute?

A: Yes. The PIC16C55-HSI/SS is classified as active, ensuring ongoing availability from Microchip Technology and authorized distributors. The main part's obsolete status may result in limited stock and higher costs.

Q: Do both parts have identical memory specifications?

A: Yes. Both contain 768B of OTP program memory (512 x 12 organization) and 24 x 8 RAM. Memory addressing and access methods are identical.

Q: Are there any differences in peripheral functionality?

A: No. Both parts include identical peripherals: Power-On Reset (POR) and Watchdog Timer (WDT). Peripheral operation and configuration are equivalent.