PIC16C56-HSI/P Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PIC16C56-HSI/P is an 8-bit microcontroller from Microchip Technology's PIC® 16C series, featuring 1.5KB of OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory and 12 I/O pins in an 18-DIP package. This device is classified as Active product status and is widely used in embedded applications requiring basic microcontroller functionality with external oscillator support.

Finding equivalent and substitute parts becomes necessary when the original PIC16C56-HSI/P reaches end-of-life status, inventory constraints occur, or design requirements shift toward reprogrammable memory solutions. The PIC16F54-I/P serves as the primary substitute, offering enhanced memory technology while maintaining core electrical and mechanical compatibility.

Substiute Parts

PIC16C56-HSI/P

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 953PIC16C56-HSI/P Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PIC16F54-I/P

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 8691PIC16F54-I/P Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution between the PIC16C56-HSI/P and PIC16F54-I/P is valid based on the following alignment of critical parameters:

• Core Architecture: Both devices use the PIC core processor with 8-bit architecture
• Operating Speed: Both support 20MHz maximum clock frequency
• I/O Configuration: Both provide 12 I/O pins
• Package Compatibility: Both use 18-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm) through-hole packaging
• Peripheral Set: Both include POR (Power-On Reset) and WDT (Watchdog Timer)
• Operating Temperature Range: Both operate across -40°C to 85°C
• RAM Size: Both feature 25 x 8 RAM configuration

The primary difference lies in program memory technology: the PIC16C56-HSI/P uses OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory, while the PIC16F54-I/P uses FLASH memory, enabling multiple reprogramming cycles. The PIC16F54-I/P also supports a wider supply voltage range (2V ~ 5.5V) compared to the PIC16C56-HSI/P (4.5V ~ 5.5V).

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the PIC16C56-HSI/P and PIC16F54-I/P maintain Active product status from Microchip Technology, ensuring continued availability and support. Both devices are ROHS3 Compliant and REACH Unaffected, meeting current environmental and regulatory standards.

The PIC16F54-I/P is the manufacturer-recommended substitute. Selection between these devices depends on application-specific requirements:

• PIC16C56-HSI/P: Select when OTP memory is acceptable and supply voltage is constrained to 4.5V ~ 5.5V range
• PIC16F54-I/P: Select when FLASH reprogrammability is required, or when lower supply voltage operation (down to 2V) is needed

Both devices are suitable for direct pin-compatible replacement in 18-DIP through-hole applications. Firmware compatibility requires verification due to differences in program memory size (1.5KB vs. 768B) and memory technology.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the PIC16C56-HSI/P and PIC16F54-I/P pin-compatible?

A: Yes. Both devices use the 18-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm) package with identical pin assignments for the 12 I/O pins, power, and ground connections.

Q: What is the primary difference between these devices?

A: The PIC16C56-HSI/P uses OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory, while the PIC16F54-I/P uses FLASH memory. FLASH memory allows multiple reprogramming cycles, whereas OTP memory can only be programmed once.

Q: Can firmware written for the PIC16C56-HSI/P run on the PIC16F54-I/P?

A: Firmware compatibility depends on program memory size requirements. The PIC16C56-HSI/P provides 1.5KB of program memory, while the PIC16F54-I/P provides 768B. Applications exceeding 768B cannot be directly ported to the PIC16F54-I/P.

Q: What is the supply voltage difference between these parts?

A: The PIC16C56-HSI/P operates at 4.5V ~ 5.5V, while the PIC16F54-I/P operates at 2V ~ 5.5V. The PIC16F54-I/P supports lower voltage operation, providing greater flexibility in power supply design.

Q: Are both devices suitable for new designs?

A: Both devices maintain Active product status. The PIC16F54-I/P is the manufacturer-recommended choice for new designs due to FLASH memory reprogrammability and wider supply voltage range.

Q: Do these devices require external oscillators?

A: Yes. Both the PIC16C56-HSI/P and PIC16F54-I/P require external oscillators for clock generation. Internal oscillator options are not available on these devices.