PIC16C620-20/P - 8-Bit 20MHz OTP MCU, 896B, 18-PDIP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C620-20/P ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4.88 | $4.88 |
| 10 | $4.4 | $44.00 |
| 100 | $3.95 | $395.00 |
| 500 | $3.55 | $1,775.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.2 | $3,200.00 |
PIC16C620-20/P Overview
A PIC microcontroller is an 8-bit Harvard-architecture MCU built around a small RISC instruction set with separate program and data buses. The PIC16C family occupies the mid-range tier of Microchip's PIC portfolio and integrates peripherals such as timers, comparators, and capture/compare/PWM modules onto a single CMOS die. PIC microcontrollers sit within the broader category of microcontrollers, which themselves are a sub-category of microprocessors and embedded controllers. PIC devices are widely adopted in industrial control, automotive subsystems, consumer appliances, and educational/hobbyist designs.
Key features of the PIC16C620-20/P include a wide operating voltage range up to 6.0 V (commercial/industrial/extended temperature grades supported), low power consumption of 15 µA typical at 5 V/4 MHz and 1 µA typical at 3 V/32 kHz, and a fully static design that allows clock stopping for sleep-mode operation. The PIC16C620 also integrates an internal voltage reference and two analog comparators, providing design-in value for signal threshold detection and power-supply monitoring circuits.
The PIC16C620-20/P's RISC core executes most instructions in a single instruction cycle (200 ns at 20 MHz), and the 14-bit wide instruction word allows a denser instruction set than the baseline PIC16 family. The EPROM/ROM-based memory technology is mature, and Microchip offers the PIC16F630 family of Flash-based equivalents for new designs that require reprogrammability.
Typical applications include low-volume industrial control modules, appliance control boards, sensor signal conditioning with on-chip comparators, automotive body electronics subsystems, security keypads, and educational MCU training kits. The through-hole 18-PDIP package is particularly suited to breadboard prototyping and hand-soldered production where SMD reflow is not desirable.
When designing with this device, note that OTP memory cannot be electrically erased, so firmware must be fully verified before programming. Designers moving from this OTP part to a reprogrammable Flash equivalent should evaluate the PIC16F630-I/P, which shares the same 18-pin PDIP pinout and a similar peripheral set but adds ICSP programming and Flash memory.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, providing engineers with a single reference for sourcing and replacement decisions.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C620-20/P — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with PIC16C620-20/P (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Mounting Type, Program Memory Size, Program Memory Type, Operating Voltage Range, Core Architecture.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C620-04/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C620-04I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C620-20I/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F630-I/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C711-04/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C620-20/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Manufacturer | Microchip Technology |
| Series | PIC® 16C |
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-Bit |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz |
| Program Memory Size | 896 B (512 x 14) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) EPROM |
| RAM Size | 80 x 8 (80 bytes) |
| EEPROM Size | None |
| Number of I/O Pins | 13 |
| Oscillator Type | External |
| Package / Case | 18-DIP (0.300", 7.62 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Through Hole |
| Operating Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 6.0 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial grade per /P suffix convention) |
| Supply Current (5 V, 4 MHz) | 15 µA typical |
| Supply Current (3 V, 32 kHz) | 1 µA typical |
| Architecture | RISC, Harvard, fully static |
| Instruction Set | 35 single-word instructions (PIC16C mid-range) |
| Instruction Word Width | 14-bit |
| On-chip Peripherals | 2 analog comparators, voltage reference, timers |
| RoHS Status | Non-compliant (OTP/EPROM legacy product family) |
PIC16C620-20/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O pin / analog input |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O pin / analog input / MCLR alternate |
| Pin 3 | RA4 — Bidirectional I/O pin / comparator output |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master Clear reset input (active low) |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0 — Bidirectional I/O pin / external interrupt |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O pin |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O pin |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O pin |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O pin |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O pin |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O pin |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O pin |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 15 | OSC2 — Oscillator output / CLKOUT |
| Pin 16 | OSC1 — Oscillator input / CLKIN |
| Pin 17 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O pin / analog comparator input |
| Pin 18 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O pin / analog comparator input |
Typical Applications
PIC16C620-20/P is suitable for 7 applications: Low-Volume Industrial Control Modules, Appliance Control Boards, Sensor Threshold Detection with On-Chip Comparators, Automotive Body Electronics Subsystems, Security Keypads and Access Panels, Educational MCU Training Kits, Hobbyist and Maker Prototypes.
Low-Volume Industrial Control Modules
The PIC16C620-20/P fits low-volume industrial control modules that need a stable 8-bit MCU with deterministic RISC execution and minimal BOM. Its 896-byte OTP memory holds small fixed control routines (relay sequencing, simple PID loops) and the 13 GPIO pins drive indicator LEDs, optocouplers, and low-side switches directly. The 20 MHz clock and 200 ns instruction cycle support timing-sensitive scan loops, while the 15 µA typical active current at 5 V/4 MHz keeps thermal rise negligible in sealed enclosures. The 18-pin PDIP package allows hand-soldered production and field replacement without reflow equipment, a key advantage for maintenance contracts on legacy industrial equipment.
Recommended
Appliance Control Boards
Consumer appliance controllers (washing machines, dishwashers, microwave keypads, fan speed regulators) use the PIC16C620-20/P for its compact 18-pin footprint, integrated comparators for zero-crossing detection, and EPROM-based code protection that prevents firmware reverse engineering. The 80 bytes of RAM are sufficient for state-machine control of motors, valves, and indicator panels, while the OTP memory locks the firmware at production time. Low-power operation (1 µA at 3 V/32 kHz) extends standby life in battery-backed appliances such as cordless tools and remote-controlled window blinds. The wide 2.5 V to 6.0 V supply range tolerates unregulated wall-adapter rails with minimal external regulation.
Recommended
Sensor Threshold Detection with On-Chip Comparators
The PIC16C620-20/P's two integrated analog comparators allow direct threshold-detection circuits without external op-amps, making it a strong fit for sensor trip-point applications such as liquid-level switches, over-temperature cutoffs, and battery low-voltage alarms. The internal voltage reference provides a stable comparator reference independent of VDD, so the same firmware works across the full 2.5 V to 6.0 V supply range. With 13 GPIO pins, the MCU can read multiple sensor channels sequentially while driving relay outputs and alarm indicators. The 896-byte OTP memory holds concise threshold tables and hysteresis logic; OTP code protection also prevents competitors from cloning proprietary sensor-calibration algorithms.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics Subsystems
Automotive body-electronics modules (interior lighting, mirror controllers, seat-position switches) commonly adopt the PIC16C620-20/P family for its wide operating voltage (compatible with 12 V automotive rails after regulation), low standby current that preserves battery life during parked weeks, and the -I industrial temperature variant that survives under-dash thermal cycles. The 13 GPIO pins drive FET gates for window motors and dimming circuits, and the 20 MHz clock handles LIN-bus bit timing for sub-network communication. OTP code lock prevents aftermarket firmware tampering that could affect vehicle warranty or safety certifications, a regulatory consideration in OEM automotive design.
Recommended
Security Keypads and Access Panels
The PIC16C620-20/P is a strong fit for security keypads, alarm panels, and RFID access readers where code-protection is paramount. The OTP EPROM memory prevents thieves from extracting PIN-handling firmware even with physical chip decapsulation, a defense-in-depth feature beyond standard bit-fuses. The 13 GPIO pins directly scan a 4x4 matrix keypad (8 lines) plus drive a relay, buzzer, and status LED with remaining I/O. The 20 MHz clock performs debounce and PIN-validation within microseconds, and the wide 2.5 V to 6.0 V supply range accepts battery or wall-adapter power without additional regulation. Low-power modes extend battery-backed panel life during AC outages.
Recommended
Educational MCU Training Kits
The PIC16C620-20/P is widely used in university microcontroller courses and self-learning kits because the 18-pin PDIP package drops directly into a breadboard without SMD soldering, and the 14-bit PIC16C mid-range instruction set is documented in countless textbooks. Students learn assembly-language programming, interrupt handling, and timer/counter concepts on a chip that boots cleanly to a known state on every power-up. The 896-byte OTP limit forces disciplined code-size optimization, an excellent teaching constraint. The 20 MHz clock runs instruction cycles at 200 ns, fast enough for robotics lab projects that read sensors and drive motors in real time. The through-hole PDIP package also tolerates the inevitable student wiring mistakes.
Recommended
Hobbyist and Maker Prototypes
Hobbyists building one-off home-automation, robotics, or IoT-edge projects favor the PIC16C620-20/P for its breadboard-friendly PDIP package, low-cost programmer support (Microchip PICkit 3), and abundant example code from the PIC16C mid-range community. The 13 GPIO pins drive hobby servos, addressable LEDs, and serial UART bridges without external multiplexer chips. The 20 MHz clock generates accurate bit-banged protocols for IR remote emulation and NeoPixel signaling. The wide 2.5 V to 6.0 V supply lets makers power the project from a single 18650 Li-ion cell or four AA batteries without additional regulation. Low-cost OTP programming makes it ideal for permanent installations where firmware revisions are not anticipated.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C620-20/P — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C620-04/P | PIC16C620-04I/P | PIC16C620-20I/P | PIC16F630-I/P | PIC16C711-04/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 18-PDIP (0.300") | 18-PDIP (0.300") - same | 18-PDIP (0.300") - same | 18-PDIP (0.300") - same | 18-PDIP (0.300") - same | 18-PDIP (0.300") - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Core | 8-bit PIC RISC | 8-bit PIC RISC | 8-bit PIC RISC | 8-bit PIC RISC | 8-bit PIC RISC | 8-bit PIC RISC |
| Max Clock Speed | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz |
| Program Memory | 896 B OTP EPROM (512 x 14) | 896 B OTP EPROM (512 x 14) | 896 B OTP EPROM (512 x 14) | 896 B OTP EPROM (512 x 14) | 1024 words Flash (reprogrammable) | 1024 B OTP EPROM |
| Memory Type | OTP EPROM (one-time programmable) | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | Flash (reprogrammable) | OTP EPROM |
| RAM Size | 80 bytes | 80 bytes | 80 bytes | 80 bytes | 64 bytes | 68 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 |
| ADC | None (2 analog comparators only) | None (2 analog comparators only) | None (2 analog comparators only) | None (2 analog comparators only) | None (2 comparators) | 8-bit ADC, 4 channels |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0C to +70C (commercial, /P suffix convention) | 0C to +70C | -40C to +85C (industrial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | 0C to +70C |
| RoHS Status | Non-compliant (legacy OTP) | Non-compliant | Non-compliant | Non-compliant | Compliant (Flash family) | Non-compliant |
Key Differentiators
- Higher clock speed than -04 speed grade (vs PIC16C620-04/P)
- Reprogrammable Flash memory migration path available (vs PIC16C620-04/P (and other OTP 16C620 variants))
- Lower unit cost vs POPC 16C711 with ADC (vs PIC16C711-04/P)
Design Notes
OTP EPROM memory cannot be electrically erased. Any firmware bug discovered after programming is permanently locked into the device, requiring a fresh chip for every iteration. This makes OTP parts a poor choice for active development; use the Flash-based PIC16F630-I/P during prototyping and only switch to PIC16C620-20/P for the production volume ramp once firmware is fully validated.
Estimated: power consumption at 5 V and 20 MHz active mode is approximately 5-10 mA typical per the PIC16C620 datasheet family characteristic curves, well above the 15 µA figure that applies to 4 MHz / 5 V operation. For battery-backed designs, keep the CPU in sleep mode (clock stopped) whenever possible and wake via interrupt to extend battery life. Add a 100 nF decoupling capacitor close to the VDD pin and a 10 µF bulk capacitor if the supply rail is shared with switching regulators.
The 18-pin PDIP package at 0.300 inch row pitch fits standard through-hole prototyping boards and IC sockets. Use a machined-pin IC socket (not leaf-spring) for development boards to avoid bent-lead damage when chips are swapped. Keep the MCLR pull-up resistor (4.7 kohm to 10 kohm) close to pin 4 to ensure reliable reset, especially in electrically noisy industrial environments. Route the OSC1/OSC2 traces short and guard them with a ground ring to reduce EMI susceptibility.
PIC16C620's analog comparators share pins RA0 and RA1 with digital GPIO. By default after reset, RA0/RA1 are configured as analog comparator inputs (not digital I/O), so the first firmware instruction must clear the CMCON register bits to repurpose those pins as digital I/O if comparators are not used. Forgetting this step is a common cause of 'dead' RA0/RA1 pins on first prototypes.
Compliance Information
PIC16C620 family is a legacy OTP/EPROM product family predating the RoHS lead-free transition; most variants are non-RoHS. The PIC16F630 Flash-based equivalent is RoHS compliant and should be preferred for new designs.
