PIC16C620A-04E/SO - 8-bit OTP MCU 896B EPROM 4MHz SOIC-18 | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C620A-04E/SO β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.95 | $2.95 |
| 10 | $2.66 | $26.60 |
| 100 | $2.37 | $237.00 |
| 500 | $2.05 | $1,025.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.78 | $1,780.00 |
PIC16C620A-04E/SO Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, program memory, data RAM, and peripheral interfaces. The PIC16C620A uses Microchip's PIC RISC architecture and is fabricated on an OTP CMOS process, meaning its EPROM cell can be programmed once by the user and then behaves like mask ROM. Within the broader taxonomy, the PIC16C620A is an 8-bit microcontroller -> microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC. It is the lowest-cost member of the PIC16C62x series, sharing the same core as the PIC16C621A (1K program memory) and PIC16C622A (2K program memory), all of which are pin-to-pin compatible.
Key features include 13 programmable digital I/O pins (with individual direction control), 8-bit timer/counter with 8-bit prescaler, watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator, power-on reset, power-saving sleep mode, and an internal pull-up on the MCLR reset line. The EPROM-based cell enables rapid prototyping with windowed packages before final mask-ROM conversion to the PIC16CR620A for volume production.
Typical applications include consumer appliance control, automotive body electronics (non-safety), low-end security keypads, simple sensor signal conditioning, and pre-production engineering samples of products that will transition to the flash-based PIC16F62x series in higher volumes. Designers often use it to validate firmware before committing to the flash equivalent.
When designing with the PIC16C620A-04E/SO, observe the maximum clock rate of 4 MHz (the -04 speed grade) and derate power dissipation for the extended -40C to +125C industrial temperature range denoted by the -E suffix. In-system programming is not supported on this OTP variant - firmware must be programmed with a device programmer such as the MPLAB PM3 before PCB assembly.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing as of 2026-09-17, same-family pin-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the standalone datasheet, providing information gain beyond what DigiKey, Mouser, or Octopart product pages offer.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C620A-04E/SO β 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 PIC16C620A-04E/SO (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Program Memory Size, RAM Size, Watchdog Timer, EEPROM Size, Instruction Cycle Time.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C620A-04I/SO
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$2.55 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C621A-04E/SO
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.75 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C622A-04E/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C620A-04E/P
β Drop-In β οΈ εζ°εΎ ιͺθ―π Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F627A-04E/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F628A-04E/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C620A-04E/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 8-bit OTP Microcontroller |
| Architecture | PIC16C RISC |
| Program Memory Size | 896 B (512 x 14) OTP EPROM |
| RAM Size | 96 B (96 x 8) |
| Number of I/O Pins | 13 |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (Extended, -E suffix) |
| Oscillator Type | External |
| Package / Case | 18-SOIC (0.295 inch, 7.50 mm Width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Number of Instructions | 35 |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit Timer/Counter with 8-bit Prescaler |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (on-chip RC oscillator) |
| Power-on Reset | Yes |
| Power-Saving Mode | Sleep |
| In-System Programming | No (requires device programmer) |
| Packaging | Tube |
PIC16C620A-04E/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 β Digital I/O, Port A bit 2 / analog comparator input |
| Pin 2 | RA3 β Digital I/O, Port A bit 3 / analog comparator input |
| Pin 3 | RA4 β Digital I/O, Port A bit 4 (open-drain) / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 4 | MCLR β Master Clear reset input, active low |
| Pin 5 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0 β Digital I/O, Port B bit 0 / external interrupt |
| Pin 7 | RB1 β Digital I/O, Port B bit 1 |
| Pin 8 | RB2 β Digital I/O, Port B bit 2 |
| Pin 9 | RB3 β Digital I/O, Port B bit 3 |
| Pin 10 | RB4 β Digital I/O, Port B bit 4 / interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 11 | RB5 β Digital I/O, Port B bit 5 / interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 12 | RB6 β Digital I/O, Port B bit 6 / interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 13 | RB7 β Digital I/O, Port B bit 7 / interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 14 | VDD β Positive supply voltage (3.0V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 15 | OSC2 β Oscillator crystal output / CLKOUT |
| Pin 16 | OSC1 β Oscillator crystal input / external clock |
| Pin 17 | RA0 β Digital I/O, Port A bit 0 / analog comparator input |
| Pin 18 | RA1 β Digital I/O, Port A bit 1 / analog comparator input |
Typical Applications
PIC16C620A-04E/SO is suitable for 7 applications: Consumer Appliance Control, Automotive Body Electronics, Security Keypad and Access Control, Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning, Pre-Production Engineering Prototypes, Low-End Timer and PWM Control, Hobby and Educational Projects.
Consumer Appliance Control
The PIC16C620A-04E/SO fits consumer appliance control boards (coffee makers, microwave ovens, washing machine user interfaces) where its 896B OTP memory holds fixed user-interface firmware and its 13 I/O pins drive LED indicators, read keypad matrices, and control relay drivers. Its 4 MHz execution speed (200 ns instruction cycle) handles debounce, timing, and display multiplexing without an external crystal in many designs when paired with the internal RC option. The 3.0-5.5V supply range matches both 3.3V and 5V appliance rails, and the extended -40C to +125C temperature range survives under-hood and kitchen thermal stress. Pin-compatible migration to PIC16F628A enables firmware updates without PCB rework during product refresh.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
The PIC16C620A-04E/SO serves non-safety automotive body modules such as interior lighting controllers, power mirror position memory, and seat adjustment switches where its 13 I/O pins handle multiple switch inputs and H-bridge direction controls. The extended -40C to +125C temperature rating covers the AEC-Q100 Grade 1 ambient range for cabin-mounted modules. Note that AEC-Q100 qualification is not formally held by this part; safety-critical automotive designs should use AEC-Q100-qualified PIC16F equivalents. The 4 MHz clock and 200 ns instruction cycle respond to switch events within milliseconds, fast enough for driver-perceived instant response.
Recommended
Security Keypad and Access Control
The PIC16C620A-04E/SO is well-suited to fixed-code security keypads, garage door entry pads, and alarm panel auxiliary zones where its 13 I/O pins scan 4x4 matrix keypads with room for LED feedback and a buzzer driver. The 896B OTP memory stores encrypted PIN validation logic and one-time-programmed factory codes that resist firmware extraction - a security advantage over flash MCUs. The hardware watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator resets the MCU on firmware hang, preventing keypad lockup. Sleep mode drops supply current to microampere levels for battery-backed alarm panels, extending battery life to multi-year spans.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16C620A-04E/SO conditions low-bandwidth industrial sensor signals such as thermistor bridges, pressure transducer amplifiers, and 4-20 mA loop monitors in distributed I/O modules. Its 4 MHz execution rate is sufficient for 10 Hz update loops with averaging, and the on-chip 8-bit timer generates accurate sample intervals without external components. The extended temperature range supports factory floor installations, and the OTP memory holds calibrated lookup tables that factory programming writes once per part. Pin-compatible PIC16C621A/622A upgrades add memory headroom for PID controllers.
Recommended
Pre-Production Engineering Prototypes
The PIC16C620A-04E/SO serves as a low-cost prototype MCU for validating firmware concepts that will eventually transition to the mask-ROM PIC16CR620A in volume production or the flash PIC16F628A for low-to-medium volume. Engineers can program the OTP EPROM with MPLAB PM3 and verify timing-critical code in-circuit, then swap to the F628A for firmware iteration without PCB change. The shared 18-SOIC footprint between OTP and flash variants keeps the prototype-to-production transition mechanical. This OTP-then-flash migration pattern is a long-standing Microchip design workflow for cost-optimized consumer products.
Recommended
Low-End Timer and PWM Control
The PIC16C620A-04E/SO drives simple PWM-controlled loads such as small DC fan speed controllers, LED dimmers, and pump duty-cycle regulators where its 8-bit timer with prescaler generates PWM frequencies up to ~20 kHz at 4 MHz clock. The 13 I/O pins include enough PWM-capable outputs for two-axis control plus tachometer feedback. The 200 ns instruction cycle provides the resolution needed for smooth 8-bit PWM dimming across 256 duty steps. Migration to PIC16F628A adds a CCP module for hardware PWM offload, freeing CPU cycles for communications stacks.
Recommended
Hobby and Educational Projects
The PIC16C620A-04E/SO remains a teaching tool in university embedded systems courses and hobbyist projects because its 35-instruction RISC architecture is approachable for first-time programmers. With only 896B of program memory, students must write efficient code, learning core embedded concepts without flash convenience features. The 18-SOIC package fits standard breadboard adapter PCBs and DIP breakouts, while the PIC16C620A-04E/P PDIP variant is easier to hand-solder for lab work. Migration to flash PIC16F627A provides the natural next step as projects grow in complexity.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C620A-04E/SO β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C620A-04I/SO | PIC16C621A-04E/SO | PIC16C622A-04E/SO | PIC16F627A-04E/SO | PIC16F628A-04E/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 18-SOIC (7.50 mm) | 18-SOIC (7.50 mm) - same | 18-SOIC (7.50 mm) - same | 18-SOIC (7.50 mm) - same | 18-SOIC (7.50 mm) - same | 18-SOIC (7.50 mm) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 896 B OTP | 896 B OTP - same | 1K OTP (+14%) | 2K OTP (+123%) | 1K Flash (reprogrammable) | 3.5K Flash (reprogrammable) |
| RAM Size | 96 B | 96 B - same | 128 B (+33%) | 128 B (+33%) | 128 B (+33%) | 224 B (+133%) |
| Number of I/O | 13 | 13 - same | 13 - same | 16 (+23%) | 16 (+23%) | 16 (+23%) |
| Memory Type | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM - same | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | Flash (reprogrammable) | Flash (reprogrammable) |
| In-System Programming | No | No - same | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +125C (Extended) - same | -40C to +125C (Extended) - same | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +125C (Extended) |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | Active | Active |
Key Differentiators
- Smallest memory option in the PIC16C62x family (vs PIC16C621A-04E/SO)
- Extended -40C to +125C temperature range versus industrial grade (vs PIC16C620A-04I/SO)
- OTP security advantage over flash MCUs (vs PIC16F627A-04E/SO)
- Active extended-temperature parts in the same family (vs PIC16F628A-04E/SO)
Design Notes
The PIC16C620A-04E/SO operates from 3.0V to 5.5V. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (14) and a 10 uF bulk capacitor at the supply rail entry point. For sleep-mode designs targeting microampere standby currents, ensure all I/O pins are configured as outputs or inputs with internal pull-ups disabled, and the MCLR line is held high through an external resistor (typically 10 kOhm) to prevent floating-induced current. Estimated: at 5V supply and 4 MHz clock, active current is approximately 2 mA; sleep current drops below 1 uA per the PIC16C62x datasheet family specification.
For the 18-SOIC (7.50 mm) package, route the OSC1/OSC2 crystal traces as short as possible (under 10 mm) with a guard ground plane and place the load capacitors (typically 15-33 pF) within 5 mm of the OSC pins. Keep digital switching traces (relay drivers, PWM outputs) at least 3 mm away from the OSC lines to prevent injection of switching noise into the clock. Add a series resistor (100 ohm) on the MCLR line near the pin if the MCLR signal originates from a noisy connector, suppressing ESD and transient events.
Do not confuse the PIC16C620A-04E/SO (OTP EPROM, NRND) with the PIC16F627A-04E/SO (flash, active production) when ordering - both share the same 18-SOIC package but require different programming tools. The OTP variant cannot be reprogrammed, so any firmware bug requires scrapping the part. For new designs in 2026, default to the flash-based PIC16F628A or PIC16F627A. Also note that the -E extended temperature suffix (-40C to +125C) differs from the -I industrial suffix (-40C to +85C); pick the temperature grade that matches your worst-case ambient.
The 18-SOIC wide-body package has a 1.27 mm pitch. Use a land pattern that matches the IPC-7351 SOIC-18W nominal specification with pad width of 0.55 mm and pad length of 1.9 mm. Expose a continuous ground plane on the bottom layer directly under the MCU, with vias stitching the top ground pour to the bottom plane every 5 mm. Place the MCLR pull-up resistor and decoupling capacitor on the same side as the MCU to minimize via inductance, and keep the ICSP/programming header traces (for the optional windowed CERDIP programming variant) accessible from the board edge for factory programming.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance not stated in the Verified Web Data; lead-free termination confirmed per Microchip SOIC packaging standards; AEC-Q100 not formally qualified - this is a commercial-grade extended-temperature part, not an automotive-qualified MCU.
