PIC16C620-20E/SS - 8-bit OTP MCU, 20MHz, 896B | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C620-20E/SS ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.95 | $3.95 |
| 10 | $3.55 | $35.50 |
| 100 | $2.97 | $297.00 |
| 500 | $2.45 | $1,225.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.1 | $2,100.00 |
PIC16C620-20E/SS Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program and data memory, and peripheral interfaces on one die. The PIC16C family implements Microchip's original PIC RISC core with a RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) architecture that uses only 35 single-word instructions, allowing most operations to execute in one instruction cycle. Within the broader taxonomy, the PIC16C620 belongs to Microcontrollers -> 8-bit Microcontrollers -> PIC Microcontrollers -> Embedded Microcontrollers -> Semiconductor ICs.
Key features include an external oscillator interface, an integrated watchdog timer, power-on reset, brown-out reset, and a programmable code-protection mechanism. The EPROM-based program memory allows windowed reprogramming during development and supports OTP production programming. Peripherals include one 8-bit timer (TMR0), one 16-bit timer (TMR1), a capture/compare/PWM module (CCP), and an analog comparator.
The PIC16C620 architecture combines the classic PIC instruction set with an internal RC oscillator option, low-power SLEEP mode, and a 5-channel 8-bit ADC on the PIC16C620A variant. Pin-compatible migration paths exist between PIC16C620, PIC16C620A and PIC16C621/C622 families, allowing designers to scale memory from 512 words (PIC16C620) up to 2K words (PIC16C622) without PCB changes.
Typical applications include appliance controls, sensor signal conditioning, automotive body electronics, industrial automation, and small home appliances where deterministic interrupt response and minimal external component count are valued. The 20-pin SSOP footprint also makes it suitable for space-limited designs.
Designers should note that OTP parts ship blank and require programming via Microchip's MPLAB PM3 or compatible device programmer; the -20E suffix indicates the 20 MHz speed grade and the Extended (E) industrial temperature range of -40C to +125C. The SSOP package has a smaller thermal mass than PDIP, so power dissipation must be verified under worst-case load.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing from DigiKey, Mouser, and Octopart, drop-in pin-compatible alternatives from Microchip's cross-reference tool, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a single decision-ready view.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C620-20E/SS — 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 PIC16C620-20E/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Type, Program Memory Size, Instruction Set, Operating Temperature, Analog Comparators.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C620A-20E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C620-20/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.41 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C620-20I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C620T-20E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.89 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F628-20/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C620-20E/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-bit |
| Program Memory Size | 896 B (512 x 14) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) / EPROM windowed |
| RAM Size | 80 x 8 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 13 |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle | 200 ns (single-cycle, except branches) |
| Number of Instructions | 35 |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (E = Extended) |
| Package / Case | 20-SSOP (0.209 inch / 5.30 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Oscillator Type | External (with internal RC option) |
| Packaging | Tube |
PIC16C620-20E/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2/AN2 — Port A bit 2 / Analog input 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3/AN3 — Port A bit 3 / Analog input 3 |
| Pin 3 | RA4/T0CKI — Port A bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 4 | RA5/MCLR/Vpp — Port A bit 5 / Master Clear reset / Programming voltage |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0/INT — Port B bit 0 / External interrupt |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — Port B bit 1 |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — Port B bit 2 |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — Port B bit 3 |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — Port B bit 4 |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Port B bit 5 |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Port B bit 6 |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Port B bit 7 |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.0 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 15 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output / Clock output |
| Pin 16 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input / Clock input |
| Pin 17 | RA0/AN0 — Port A bit 0 / Analog input 0 |
| Pin 18 | RA1/AN1 — Port A bit 1 / Analog input 1 |
| Pin 19 | RA6/OSC2 — Port A bit 6 / Oscillator output (alternate) |
| Pin 20 | RA7/OSC1 — Port A bit 7 / Oscillator input (alternate) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C620-20E/SS is suitable for 7 applications: Appliance Control Panels, Automotive Body Electronics, Sensor Signal Conditioning, Industrial Automation I/O Modules, Small Home Appliance Controls, Security and Access Control Panels, Power Supply Monitoring and Sequencing.
Appliance Control Panels
The PIC16C620-20E/SS fits appliance control panels because its 8-bit PIC core, 35-instruction RISC architecture, and 13 GPIO pins are sufficient for keypad scanning, LED multiplexing, and relay driving in microwaves, dishwashers, and washing machines. The 200 ns instruction cycle (5 MIPS at 20 MHz) provides deterministic response to door-switch interrupts and over-temperature faults. The -40C to +125C extended temperature range handles the thermal environment inside a sealed appliance, while the SSOP-20 footprint reduces PCB area compared to PDIP-18. Brown-out reset and watchdog timer protect against brown-outs caused by motor inrush. Designers should program the OTP memory with the final firmware via MPLAB PM3 before PCB conformal coating.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
The PIC16C620-20E/ES is suitable for automotive body modules such as mirror controllers, seat-position memory, and lighting timers where 13 GPIO, 20 MHz core speed, and -40C to +125C extended temperature are needed. The PIC16C620 family has been widely used in production automotive designs since the 1990s. The 80-byte RAM supports small state machines, while the 896-byte EPROM accommodates sensor calibration tables. Brown-out reset is critical during cranking when battery voltage can drop below 6 V. Note that this part is obsolete and not AEC-Q100 qualified; for new automotive designs, use PIC16F1827 or PIC16F628 automotive-qualified parts instead.
Recommended
Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16C620-20E/SS handles sensor signal conditioning for thermocouples, RTDs, and thermistors in industrial sensors where on-chip ADC and 8-bit resolution suffice. The 20 MHz core enables oversampling averaging to extract a 10-12 bit effective reading from the comparator inputs. The PIC16C620A variant adds a 5-channel 8-bit ADC which simplifies direct sensor interfacing without an external ADC chip. The 13 GPIO drive 4x4 keypads, character LCDs, and SPI/I2C peripherals for digital sensor expansion. The SSOP-20 footprint suits compact PCBAs inside sealed sensor housings operating from -40C to +125C.
Recommended
Industrial Automation I/O Modules
The PIC16C620-20E/SS is used in discrete I/O modules that read 24 V industrial sensors and drive 24 V outputs to solenoids, contactors, and indicator lamps. The 13 GPIO directly drive optocouplers for galvanic isolation; the 35-instruction RISC core executes ladder-logic-style bit manipulation in under 200 ns. The extended -40C to +125C temperature range supports unheated control cabinets and outdoor enclosures. The watchdog timer and brown-out reset satisfy IEC 61131-2 industrial reliability expectations. Because the PIC16C620 is obsolete, new industrial designs typically migrate to PIC16F628 or PIC16F1827 with equivalent I/O count.
Recommended
Small Home Appliance Controls
The PIC16C620-20E/SS is well suited to small home appliances such as coffee makers, rice cookers, blenders, and fans where a low BOM count, single-chip solution, and simple firmware are decisive. The PIC core's deterministic timing drives PWM for motor speed control, while the 13 GPIO scan keypads and 7-segment LED displays. The internal 4 MHz RC oscillator removes the need for an external resonator, reducing BOM cost by approximately $0.20. The extended -40C to +125C temperature range tolerates proximity to heating elements and motor windings.
Recommended
Security and Access Control Panels
The PIC16C620-20E/SS handles entry-level security panels where 13 GPIO read keypad or PIR sensors, drive a piezo buzzer, and switch an alarm relay. The 80-byte RAM buffers event logs in RAM-resident circular buffers, while the 896-byte EPROM stores the keypad-decode state machine and PIN verification routine. The brown-out reset ensures clean startup after power events, and the watchdog timer guards against firmware lock-up. The 20 MHz core executes keypad debounce and PIN comparison in well under 1 ms. For new designs, PIC16F628 or PIC16F1827 provides flash reprogrammability for field firmware updates.
Recommended
Power Supply Monitoring and Sequencing
The PIC16C620-20E/SS fits power supply monitoring modules that supervise multiple rails, sequence enable signals, and assert PGOOD. The 13 GPIO monitor up to 12 rails through resistor dividers, with the brown-out comparator or ADC (on PIC16C620A) detecting undervoltage conditions. The 20 MHz core executes multi-rail sequencing state machines under 100 us, satisfying ATX-style power-rail timing requirements. The -40C to +125C extended temperature range supports server-room and industrial rack environments. Because OTP requires factory programming, design teams should plan to program firmware at PCBA stage with MPLAB PM3.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C620-20E/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C620A-20E/SS | PIC16C620-20/SS | PIC16C620-20I/SS | PIC16C620T-20E/SS | PIC16F628-20/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 20-SSOP (5.30 mm) | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 896 B (512 x 14) OTP/EPROM | 2K x 14 (2048 B) EPROM | 512 x 14 OTP | 512 x 14 OTP | 512 x 14 OTP | 2K x 14 Flash |
| Memory Type | OTP / windowed EPROM | Windowed EPROM | OTP | OTP | OTP | Flash (reprogrammable) |
| RAM | 80 bytes | 128 bytes | 80 bytes | 80 bytes | 80 bytes | 224 bytes |
| Maximum Clock | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (Extended) | -40 C to +125 C (Extended) | 0 C to +70 C (Commercial) | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) | -40 C to +125 C (Extended) | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) |
| ADC | None (analog comparator only) | 5-channel 8-bit ADC | None (analog comparator only) | None (analog comparator only) | None (analog comparator only) | None (analog comparator only) |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Active |
Key Differentiators
- Pin-compatible superset with 100% more program memory and integrated 8-bit ADC (vs PIC16C620A-20E/SS)
- Flash-based drop-in replacement with active lifecycle and 180% more RAM (vs PIC16F628-20/SS)
- Wider extended temperature range vs commercial-grade variant (vs PIC16C620-20/SS)
Design Notes
PIC16C620-20E/SS is OTP/windowed EPROM, NOT in-system programmable. Firmware must be burned before PCB conformal coating using an MPLAB PM3 or compatible device programmer. Plan production programming step into your PCBA flow, and verify the code-protection bits are set before shipping. For field-updatable firmware, switch to PIC16F628-20/SS, which is flash-based and pin-compatible in SSOP-20.
Estimated: At 20 MHz clock and full GPIO switching, the PIC16C620-20E/SS draws roughly 10 mA from VDD. At 5 V VDD, power dissipation is approximately 0.05 W. The SSOP-20 has theta_JA of approximately 100 C/W, producing a junction temperature rise of about 5 C above ambient - well within the -40C to +125C range. Verify under worst-case ambient inside sealed enclosures, where internal temperatures can reach +70 C.
Place decoupling capacitors (0.1 uF ceramic in parallel with 10 uF tantalum or ceramic) within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 14). Keep the MCLR/Vpp pin (pin 5) trace short and add a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD; if unused, leave the MCLR function enabled to prevent spurious resets from EMI. Route the OSC1/OSC2 traces short and symmetric, and ground the copper pour beneath the crystal to minimize noise injection.
Migrate from SSOP-20 to PDIP-18 (PIC16C620-20E/P) when possible for hand-prototyping and rework, because the SSOP-20 lead pitch is difficult without hot-air tools. The DIP-18 package is pin-compatible for digital I/O but pins 19-20 are absent on the smaller footprint - verify which pins are critical to your application. Both packages share the same PIC core and instruction set.
Compliance Information
Verified Web Data does not contain RoHS, REACH, or AEC-Q100 qualification status. PIC16C1626 is an OTP EPROM part shipped before lead-free mandates became common; verify with Microchip for current RoHS exemption status. AEC-Q100 not qualified - for new automotive designs choose PIC16F628 or PIC16F1827 automotive variants.