PIC16C63AT-04/SO - 8-bit PIC MCU 7KB EPROM 22 I/O 4MHz SOIC-28 | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C63AT-04/SO ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $9.2 | $9.20 |
| 10 | $8.45 | $84.50 |
| 100 | $7.55 | $755.00 |
| 500 | $6.8 | $3,400.00 |
| 1,000 | $6.2 | $6,200.00 |
PIC16C63AT-04/SO Overview
An 8-bit PIC microcontroller is a Harvard-architecture, RISC-based single-chip computer built around a small instruction set (typically 35 instructions) executed in single clock cycles (with branches taking two). PIC MCUs sit at the foundation of the embedded systems hierarchy, bridging discrete logic and 32-bit processors: they belong to the microcontroller class, fall under microcontrollers -> microcomputers -> embedded processors, and are widely deployed where deterministic real-time control, low cost, and easy development outweigh the need for large memory or high clock rates. The 'C' suffix denotes OTP EPROM program memory (vs. Flash 'F' or ROM mask 'CR'), and the 'A' denotes the silicon revision (improved errata sheet versus original PIC16C63).
Key specifications include 7KB (4K x 14) program memory, 192 bytes of RAM, 22 I/O pins, three timers (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2), a 10-bit multi-channel A/D converter, a USART, and an MSSP peripheral. The OTP EPROM memory requires a windowless or UV-erasable package for code updates, which restricts this part to high-volume production where code is finalized. The -04 speed suffix indicates a 4 MHz maximum oscillator frequency, while the -20 variants run up to 20 MHz; the 'T' suffix indicates tape-and-reel packaging and 'SO' indicates the SOIC-28 wide-body package. Operating voltage is specified at 4.0V to 6.0V for the standard PIC16C6x OTP family.
Typical applications include industrial control, instrumentation, motor control front-ends, automotive body electronics (in non-safety-critical subsystems), and white goods. Its mid-range peripheral set (ADC + USART + MSSP) makes it a strong fit for sensor interface nodes and serial-communication bridges where deterministic response time is more important than raw throughput.
When designing with the PIC16C63AT-04/SO, ensure the device is supplied from a regulated 5V rail within the 4.0V-6.0V window, place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of VDD, and configure MCLR with the standard 10 kohm pull-up to VDD. Because OTP EPROM cannot be re-programmed in-circuit, use a development-friendly equivalent such as the PIC16F873 or PIC16C63A-04/SO emulator for code bring-up before committing to OTP for production.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing and stock status from DigiKey and Mouser, pin-compatible drop-in alternatives from the PIC16C6x family, and practical design notes not found in the bare datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C63AT-04/SO — 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 PIC16C63AT-04/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, ADC, Maximum Clock Frequency, Program Memory Size, Program Memory Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C63A-04/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C63-04/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.57 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C63A-04I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C63-10/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$7.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C63A-20E/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.08 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C63AT-04/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | PIC16CXX mid-range |
| Core | 8-bit RISC PIC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB (4K x 14) |
| Data RAM | 192 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 22 |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Operating Supply Voltage | 4.0 V to 6.0 V |
| ADC | 8 channels x 8-bit (per family datasheet) |
| Timers | 3 (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2) |
| Serial Interfaces | USART, MSSP (SPI/I2C) |
| Package | SOIC-28 wide-body (SO), tape-and-reel |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature Grade | Commercial |
| Instruction Set | 35 instructions, 14-bit word |
| Speed Suffix | -04 (4 MHz max) |
| Silicon Revision | A |
PIC16C63AT-04/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP — Master Clear (reset, active low) / programming voltage input |
| Pin 2 | RA0 — PORTA bit 0 (digital I/O or AN0 analog input) |
| Pin 3 | RA1 — PORTA bit 1 (digital I/O or AN1 analog input) |
| Pin 4 | RA2 — PORTA bit 2 (digital I/O or AN2 analog input) |
| Pin 5 | RA3 — PORTA bit 3 (digital I/O or AN3 analog input / VREF+) |
| Pin 6 | RA4 — PORTA bit 4 (digital I/O with Schmitt trigger, open-drain option) |
| Pin 7 | RA5 — PORTA bit 5 (digital I/O or AN4 / HS oscillator input) |
| Pin 8 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 9 | OSC1 — Crystal oscillator / external clock input |
| Pin 10 | OSC2 — Crystal oscillator output |
| Pin 11 | RC0 — PORTC bit 0 (digital I/O or T1OSO timer1 oscillator) |
| Pin 12 | RC1 — PORTC bit 1 (digital I/O or T1OSI timer1 oscillator) |
| Pin 13 | RC2 — PORTC bit 2 (digital I/O or CCP1 capture/compare/PWM) |
| Pin 14 | RC3 — PORTC bit 3 (digital I/O or SCL I2C clock) |
| Pin 15 | RC4 — PORTC bit 4 (digital I/O or SDA I2C data) |
| Pin 16 | RC5 — PORTC bit 5 (digital I/O or SDO SPI data out) |
| Pin 17 | RC6 — PORTC bit 6 (digital I/O or TX/CK USART transmit/clock) |
| Pin 18 | RC7 — PORTC bit 7 (digital I/O or RX/DT USART receive/data) |
| Pin 19 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (5V typical) |
| Pin 21 | RB0 — PORTB bit 0 (digital I/O with interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 22 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 (digital I/O with interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 23 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 (digital I/O with interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 24 | RB3 — PORTB bit 3 (digital I/O with interrupt-on-change / PGM) |
| Pin 25 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 (digital I/O with interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 26 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 (digital I/O with interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 27 | RB6 — PORTB bit 6 (digital I/O with interrupt-on-change / PGC) |
| Pin 28 | RB7 — PORTB bit 7 (digital I/O with interrupt-on-change / PGD) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C63AT-04/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Control and Instrumentation, Consumer Appliance Control (White Goods), Automotive Body Electronics Subsystems, Sensor Interface and Data Acquisition Nodes, Serial Communication Bridge and Protocol Converter, Low-Speed Motor Control and Stepper Sequencing.
Industrial Control and Instrumentation
The PIC16C63AT-04/SO fits industrial control and instrumentation nodes because its 8-channel 8-bit ADC reads back sensor signals, three hardware timers drive PWM actuators, and the 22 I/O pins connect to relays, opto-isolated inputs, and 4-20 mA loops. At 5V operation the OTP EPROM memory stores fixed control firmware with deterministic cycle time, while the USART links the node to a supervisory PLC. Trade-off: 4 MHz clock limits complex math, so this part suits simple closed-loop loops rather than model-predictive control.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Control (White Goods)
The PIC16C63AT-04/SO is well-suited to white-goods control boards in washing machines, dishwashers, and microwave ovens where its 22 I/O pins drive 7-segment displays, triac-fired heater relays, and keypad matrices. OTP EPROM is appropriate because the appliance firmware is finalized at production. The integrated MSSP peripheral handles I2C EEPROM for user settings, and the USART communicates with inverter boards. The SOIC-28 wide-body package tolerates wave-solder and select-and-place lines commonly used in appliance manufacturing.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics Subsystems
The PIC16C63AT-04/SO is appropriate for non-safety automotive body modules such as seat controllers, mirror-position memory, and interior lighting dimmers. Its 8-bit ADC reads potentiometer wiper voltages for mirror/headlamp position feedback, and PWM timers smoothly drive LED strings or DC motors. While the commercial temperature grade (0C to +70C) limits under-hood deployment, in-cabin body modules stay within this range. For under-hood or AEC-Q100 requirements, the PIC16F873A-I/SO automotive grade or a dedicated PIC16F1xxx AEC-Q100 part is recommended.
Recommended
Sensor Interface and Data Acquisition Nodes
The PIC16C63AT-04/SO serves as a low-cost sensor-interface node in distributed data-acquisition systems. Its 8-channel 8-bit ADC multiplexes thermocouples, thermistors, or strain gauges at moderate sample rates, and the MSSP peripheral outputs data over SPI or I2C to a host controller. The 192-byte RAM and 7KB program memory handle local linearization tables and digital filtering for clean sensor readings. Compared with a 32-bit MCU, this PIC16C6x part cuts BOM cost by 60-80% in high-volume sensor arrays where raw throughput is not critical.
Recommended
Serial Communication Bridge and Protocol Converter
The PIC16C63AT-04/SO is ideal as a serial bridge between UART, SPI, and I2C peripherals, using its integrated USART and MSSP block. A typical application is bridging an SPI sensor to a UART host controller, or routing I2C traffic between two buses with address translation. At 4 MHz the part can sustain 9600-115200 baud reliably with cycle-time to spare for protocol handling. The OTP EPROM locks the protocol firmware to prevent accidental re-programming in the field.
Recommended
Low-Speed Motor Control and Stepper Sequencing
The PIC16C63AT-04/SO handles small DC brushed motors and stepper sequencing with its three hardware timers driving PWM outputs at up to 10-bit resolution. The 8-bit ADC reads back current shunts for basic over-current protection, and the 22 I/O pins drive H-bridge FET gates, limit switches, and encoder inputs. Step rates up to a few kHz are achievable at 4 MHz clock, suitable for low-RPM positioning rather than high-speed field-oriented control.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C63AT-04/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C63A-04/SO | PIC16C63-04/SO | PIC16C63A-04I/SS | PIC16C63-10/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | SOIC-28 wide-body (SO) | SOIC-28 wide-body - same | SOIC-28 wide-body - same | SOIC-28 (SS) - same | SOIC-28 wide-body - same |
| Program Memory | 7 KB OTP EPROM | 7 KB OTP EPROM | 7 KB OTP EPROM | 7 KB OTP EPROM | 7 KB OTP EPROM |
| Max Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 10 MHz |
| Operating Voltage | 4.0 V to 6.0 V | 4.0 V to 6.0 V | 4.0 V to 6.0 V | 4.0 V to 6.0 V | 4.0 V to 6.0 V |
| Temperature Grade | Commercial (0C to +70C) | Commercial | Commercial | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Commercial |
| Silicon Revision | A | A (identical die) | Pre-A (older errata) | A (industrial grade) | Pre-A (older silicon, 10 MHz) |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Silicon Revision A with documented errata improvements (vs PIC16C63-04/SO)
- Tape-and-reel packaging for high-volume pick-and-place lines (vs PIC16C63A-04/SO)
- Lower-cost option than PIC16F873A-I/SO for locked-production runs (vs PIC16F873A-I/SO)
Design Notes
Power the PIC16C63AT-04/SO from a regulated 5V rail within its 4.0V-6.0V operating range; absolute maximum VDD is 7.0V and exceeding it destroys the part. Place a 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD (pin 20) and VSS (pins 8 and 19) pins. For ADC accuracy, add a 10 uF bulk capacitor near VDD and ensure the analog VREF+ (RA3) source impedance is below 10 kohm. Estimated: typical operating current is 5-15 mA at 4 MHz and 5V, well below the 200 mA absolute maximum.
Route the crystal or resonator traces between OSC1 (pin 9) and OSC2 (pin 10) as short as possible, with a ground guard ring on both sides and a ground plane beneath. Keep crystal traces away from high-speed digital lines (USART, SPI clock) to avoid injecting noise into the oscillator. Place the MCLR (pin 1) pull-up resistor (typically 10 kohm) close to the pin, and route the ICSP clock and data lines (RB6/PGC, RB7/PGD) away from analog signals to minimize coupling during in-circuit programming.
The PIC16C63AT-04/SO uses OTP EPROM (One-Time Programmable) memory - once programmed, the firmware CANNOT be erased or re-flashed. This is a critical constraint: any code change after production requires a new lot. For prototype and development work, use the Flash-based PIC16F873A-I/SO instead, which shares the same SOIC-28 footprint and is in-circuit programmable. The PIC16C63AT-04/SO is appropriate only when production firmware is finalized and cost-per-unit must be minimized.
Configure RA4 as an open-drain output (per datasheet) by clearing the appropriate register bit, since RA4 lacks a high-side driver and is often mistakenly used as a normal CMOS output. If using the analog functions of PORTA, configure unused analog pins as digital outputs to prevent floating-input current draw. The PORTB weak pull-ups (enabled by the RBPU bit) can be used for switch inputs, but verify pull-up strength against switch contact resistance.
Compliance Information
PIC16C6x OTP family predates widespread RoHS adoption; specific lot compliance must be verified against Microchip's product declaration or the Certificate of Conformance for the procured lot. Commercial temperature grade only (0C to +70C) - not AEC-Q100 qualified.
