Microchip PIC16C56A-04/P 8-Bit OTP Microcontroller Data Sheet

The Microchip PIC16C56A-04/P is a high-performance, 8-bit microcontroller from Microchip's extensive PIC® (Programmable Intelligent Computer) family. Fabricated with Microchip's proven OTP (One-Time Programmable) CMOS technology, this device combines a powerful RISC architecture with a rich set of features, making it a cost-effective solution for a wide array of embedded control applications.

At its core, the PIC16C56A-04/P features a fully static RISC CPU with a 12-bit wide instruction set, enabling single-cycle execution for most instructions. With an operating frequency of up to 4 MHz (indicated by the -04 speed grade), it delivers a 1 μs instruction cycle time, ensuring responsive performance for time-critical tasks. The microcontroller is equipped with 1K x 12 bits of OTP program memory, providing reliable and secure code storage for finalized designs. Additionally, it includes 25 bytes of RAM for data handling and a 32-byte register file for efficient operation.

A key feature of this device is its versatile I/O port structure. It offers 12 I/O pins, all of which are individually programmable and feature high sink/source capabilities, allowing them to interface directly with LEDs, switches, and other peripherals. The inclusion of a real-time clock/counter (TMR0) with an 8-bit prescaler further enhances its timing and event-counting functionality.

The PIC16C56A-04/P is designed for robust operation across an industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) and a wide voltage range (2.5V to 6.0V). Its power-saving SLEEP mode drastically reduces power consumption, making it ideal for battery-powered portable applications. The device also incorporates reliable watchdog timer (WDT) circuitry with its own on-chip RC oscillator for fail-safe operation, ensuring the system can recover from software malfunctions.

Housed in an 18-pin PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package), this microcontroller is well-suited for prototyping and production. Its OTP nature makes it perfect for medium-to-high-volume production runs where firmware stability is assured, eliminating the cost of a windowed CERQUAD package.

ICGOODFIND: The PIC16C56A-04/P stands as a classic, reliable workhorse in the embedded world. Its simple architecture, robust OTP memory, and low power consumption make it an enduring choice for designers of appliance control, automotive systems, security accessories, and other consumer and industrial products requiring a dependable, cost-optimized microcontroller.

Keywords:

1. OTP Memory

2. RISC Architecture

3. Low Power Consumption

4. 8-Bit Microcontroller

5. Embedded Control