PIC16C64A-04I/L - 4MHz 8-Bit OTP MCU 3.5KB | Microchip PLCC-44
MPN: PIC16C64A-04I/L ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $8.5 | $8.50 |
| 10 | $7.65 | $76.50 |
| 100 | $6.4 | $640.00 |
| 500 | $5.3 | $2,650.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.5 | $4,500.00 |
PIC16C64A-04I/L Overview
What is an 8-bit microcontroller? An 8-bit microcontroller is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, program memory (ROM/EPROM/Flash/OTP), data RAM, and peripheral interfaces on one die. The PIC16C family from Microchip uses a RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) architecture with 35 single-word instructions, where all instructions execute in one instruction cycle except program branches (two cycles). The PIC16C64A sits in the hierarchy: 8-bit MCU -> PIC16C family -> PIC16C6X sub-family -> peripheral-rich members with parallel ports and capture/compare/PWM.
Key features of the PIC16C64A-04I/L include 33 I/O pins, a 4 MHz maximum clock, three timer/counter modules, a synchronous serial port (SSP) supporting SPI and I2C, a USART for asynchronous serial communication, a capture/compare/PWM (CCP) module, and an 8-bit ADC with up to 8 channels. The wide operating voltage range and low power consumption (typically 15 uA at 5V/4 MHz and 1 uA at 3V/32 kHz) make it suitable for battery-powered and industrial applications.
The PIC16C64A uses CMOS EPROM/ROM technology with a fully static design, allowing the clock to be stopped without losing register state. The Harvard architecture separates program and data buses, enabling instruction fetch and operand access in a single cycle. The 8-level hardware stack and interrupt controller handle nested subroutine calls and real-time events.
Typical applications include industrial control systems, automotive body electronics, sensor signal conditioning, simple motor control via PWM, smart sensor nodes, and embedded data acquisition. The PIC16C64A is well suited to applications needing moderate I/O count, integrated analog, and reliable serial communication in a through-hole-friendly PLCC package.
When designing with this part, note that OTP memory can be programmed only once; for engineering development, use the windowed CERDIP variant. The PLCC-44 package supports both socketed and surface-mount assembly, useful for legacy systems that require field-replaceable MCUs.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives within the PIC16C6X family, and practical design notes drawn from the manufacturer datasheet and Octopart cross-references.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C64A-04I/L — 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 PIC16C64A-04I/L (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Timers, Mounting Type, RoHS Status, Program Memory Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C65B-04I/L
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C64A-04I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C64A-04I/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C64A-04I/L Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC16C 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | None |
| Maximum CPU Clock | 4 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 33 |
| Package | 44-pin PLCC (16.59 x 16.59 mm) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Timers | Timer0, Timer1, Timer2 |
| Communication | USART, SSP (SPI / I2C) |
| A/D Converter | 8-bit, up to 8 channels |
| PWM Channels | 1 (CCP module) |
| Instruction Set | 35 single-word instructions |
| Stack Depth | 8 levels (hardware) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount (PLCC socket compatible) |
| RoHS Status | Non-compliant (industrial ceramic windowed legacy) |
PIC16C64A-04I/L Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input or external clock |
| Pin 2 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output |
| Pin 3 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / Analog input 0 |
| Pin 4 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / Analog input 1 |
| Pin 5 | RA2/AN2 — PORTA bit 2 / Analog input 2 |
| Pin 6 | RA3/AN3/VREF — PORTA bit 3 / Analog input 3 / Voltage reference |
| Pin 7 | RA4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 8 | MCLR/VPP — Master clear reset / Programming voltage |
| Pin 9 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / clock input |
| Pin 10 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 |
| Pin 11 | RC2/CCP1 — PORTC bit 2 / Capture Compare PWM 1 |
| Pin 12 | RC3/SCK/SCL — PORTC bit 3 / SSP clock (SPI/I2C) |
| Pin 13 | RC4/SDI/SDA — PORTC bit 4 / SSP data in / I2C data |
| Pin 14 | RC5/SDO — PORTC bit 5 / SSP data out |
| Pin 15 | RC6/TX/CK — PORTC bit 6 / USART TX / clock |
| Pin 16 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / USART RX / data |
| Pin 17 | RD0/PSP0 — PORTD bit 0 / Parallel Slave Port bit 0 |
| Pin 18 | RD1/PSP1 — PORTD bit 1 / PSP bit 1 |
| Pin 19 | RD2/PSP2 — PORTD bit 2 / PSP bit 2 |
| Pin 20 | RD3/PSP3 — PORTD bit 3 / PSP bit 3 |
| Pin 21 | RD4/PSP4 — PORTD bit 4 / PSP bit 4 |
| Pin 22 | RD5/PSP5 — PORTD bit 5 / PSP bit 5 |
| Pin 23 | RD6/PSP6 — PORTD bit 6 / PSP bit 6 |
| Pin 24 | RD7/PSP7 — PORTD bit 7 / PSP bit 7 |
| Pin 25 | VSS — Ground |
| Pin 26 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 27 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 / External interrupt |
| Pin 28 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 |
| Pin 29 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 |
| Pin 30 | RB3 — PORTB bit 3 |
| Pin 31 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 32 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 |
| Pin 33 | RB6/PGC — PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 34 | RB7/PGD — PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data |
| Pin 35 | RE0/RD/AN5 — PORTE bit 0 / Read control / Analog input 5 |
| Pin 36 | RE1/WR/AN6 — PORTE bit 1 / Write control / Analog input 6 |
| Pin 37 | RE2/CS/AN7 — PORTE bit 2 / Chip select / Analog input 7 |
| Pin 38 | RA5/AN4/SS — PORTA bit 5 / Analog input 4 / SSP slave select |
| Pin 39 | RA6 — PORTA bit 6 |
| Pin 40 | RA7 — PORTA bit 7 |
| Pin 41 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (second pin) |
| Pin 42 | VSS — Ground (second pin) |
| Pin 43 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 44 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C64A-04I/L is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Process Control, Automotive Body Electronics, Smart Sensor Signal Conditioning, Simple Motor Control with PWM, Embedded Data Acquisition Front-End, Legacy Embedded Control Replacement.
Industrial Process Control
The PIC16C64A-04I/L fits industrial process controllers because its 33 I/O pins handle multiple sensor inputs and actuator outputs simultaneously, and the integrated 8-bit ADC reads up to 8 analog channels at 5V supply. Its 4 MHz clock and 35-instruction RISC core deliver deterministic loop times suitable for PID control loops in PLCs and machine tool controllers. The wide 4V to 5.5V supply range tolerates industrial 24V rails stepped down via linear regulators, while the USART enables Modbus RTU communication with a host PLC. Compared with newer PIC16F parts, the OTP memory is acceptable for fixed-function industrial controllers shipped in long production runs.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
The PIC16C64A-04I/L is used in automotive body modules such as window lift controllers, mirror position memory, and lighting controllers where its 33 I/O directly drive relays and switches. The 4 MHz PIC16C core handles debounced switch inputs and PWM outputs for soft-start lighting, while the CCP module produces accurate timing for motor positioning. The -40C to +85C industrial temperature range covers most under-dash environments, though under-hood applications need the automotive-grade PIC16C65B-Q1. The OTP memory prevents field firmware tampering and locks the configuration, which is desirable for OEM body controllers.
Recommended
Smart Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16C64A-04I/L conditions signals from analog sensors such as thermistors, strain gauges, and pressure transducers using its 8-bit ADC and USART for digital output. The 128 bytes of RAM hold calibration coefficients and moving-average filter state, while the 33 I/O connect to multiple sensor channels and isolated digital outputs. At 4 MHz, each ADC conversion completes in roughly 20 microseconds, supporting sample rates above 10 kHz for vibration monitoring. The low 1 uA sleep current at 3V/32 kHz supports battery-powered wireless sensor nodes that wake periodically to take readings and transmit via a connected radio module.
Recommended
Simple Motor Control with PWM
The PIC16C64A-04I/L drives small DC motors and brushless fans using its Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) module to generate variable duty-cycle outputs at frequencies up to the 4 MHz system clock divided by 256. The 33 I/O connect to Hall-effect sensors, tachometer feedback, and direction-control relays, while the 8-bit ADC monitors motor current via a shunt resistor. The 35-instruction RISC core executes PID loops in well under 100 microseconds, sufficient for fans, pumps, and small positioning actuators. The wide 4V to 5.5V supply range accepts both 5V logic rails and battery stacks up to four NiMH cells.
Recommended
Embedded Data Acquisition Front-End
The PIC16C64A-04I/L serves as a front-end digitizer in distributed data acquisition systems where it multiplexes 8 analog channels through its internal 8-bit ADC and forwards results over USART or SSP to a host processor. The 4 MHz clock provides ADC throughput adequate for slow industrial telemetry such as temperature, humidity, and pressure. The 128-byte RAM buffers sample bursts before transmitting, and the 3.5KB OTP program memory holds the Modbus or custom protocol stack. Industrial temperature range and low quiescent current suit remote solar-powered telemetry cabinets.
Recommended
Legacy Embedded Control Replacement
The PIC16C64A-04I/L is widely used to repair and sustain industrial equipment originally designed in the 1990s, including CNC controllers, laboratory instruments, and printing machinery. Its PLCC-44 socketed package allows field replacement without desoldering, and the OTP memory prevents accidental reprogramming that could change calibrated behavior. Distributors maintain inventory for sustainment programs, and Microchip has not issued a PCN/EOL for the part. Engineers should validate that the drop-in replacement PIC16C65B-04I/L operates correctly with the existing firmware, as the additional memory map changes interrupt vector locations.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C64A-04I/L — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C65B-04I/L | PIC16C64A-04I/P | PIC16C64A-04I/PQ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 44-pin PLCC | 44-pin PLCC (same footprint) | 40-pin PDIP (different package) | 44-pin PQFP (different package) |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB OTP | 4 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP |
| Maximum Clock | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes | 192 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 |
| ADC Resolution | 8-bit | 8-bit (improved accuracy) | 8-bit | 8-bit |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | Active | NRND | NRND |
Key Differentiators
- Socketed PLCC-44 enables field replacement without desoldering (vs PIC16C64A-04I/P (PDIP-40))
- Original Microchip silicon, NRND but still produced (vs PIC16C65B-04I/L)
- Industrial temperature range -40C to +85C (vs PIC16C64A-04/L (commercial grade))
Design Notes
The PIC16C64A-04I/L operates from 4V to 5.5V with typical quiescent current of 15 uA at 5V/4 MHz and 1 uA in sleep at 3V/32 kHz. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of each VDD/VSS pin pair (the part has two VDD and two VSS pins on PLCC-44). For battery-powered designs, use the sleep mode aggressively and wake via the Watchdog Timer or external interrupt on RB0/INT to achieve average current below 100 uA.
The PLCC-44 package supports both through-hole socket mounting and direct surface-mount soldering. For industrial field-replaceable designs, use a PLCC-44 socket (e.g., Wells-CTI 644 series) to enable MCU swap without rework. If soldering directly, ensure the land pattern follows JEDEC MS-018 with 1.27 mm pitch and thermal relief spokes. Keep the MCLR/VPP trace short and decouple it with a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD.
Do not confuse the PIC16C64A (OTP) with the PIC16C64 (ROM factory-programmed) - they have identical pinout but the OTP version must be programmed by the user. The /I suffix in PIC16C64A-04I/L indicates industrial temperature (-40C to +85C); the non-/I variant PIC16C64A-04/L is commercial (0C to +70C). When migrating to PIC16C65B, note that the interrupt vector table and configuration bits differ - recompile firmware and verify peripheral init routines.
Compliance Information
PIC16C64A-04I/L is NRND; not RoHS compliant per Microchip legacy product policy (industrial CERDIP/PLCC OTP line). Not AEC-Q100 qualified; for automotive, use PIC16C65B-Q1. REACH compliance per Microchip product declarations.
