PIC16C65A-20E/PT - 8-Bit 20MHz 7KB OTP MCU | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C65A-20E/PT ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18.5 | $18.50 |
| 10 | $16.75 | $167.50 |
| 100 | $14.95 | $1,495.00 |
| 500 | $13.2 | $6,600.00 |
| 1,000 | $11.85 | $11,850.00 |
PIC16C65A-20E/PT Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, memory, and programmable I/O peripherals on a single die. The PIC16CXX family sits within Microchip's mid-range 8-bit MCU portfolio, which belongs to the broader category of embedded microcontrollers and semiconductors. Within the system hierarchy, this part functions as the central processing unit in embedded designs, executing firmware that controls sensors, actuators, communication interfaces, and user interfaces in real-time applications.
Key features of the PIC16C65A-20E/PT include three timer/counters (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2), two capture/compare/PWM modules, a synchronous serial port (SSP) supporting SPI and I2C, a universal synchronous/asynchronous receiver transmitter (USART), and an 8-bit parallel slave port for external bus expansion. The EPROM-based program memory allows UV-erasable prototyping, which is valuable for early-stage development and firmware iteration before transitioning to OTP-only or masked-ROM variants for production. The extended (E) temperature grade supports -40C to +125C operation.
The architecture uses a Harvard-style design with separate program and data buses, enabling simultaneous instruction fetch and operand access. This separation, combined with a two-stage pipeline, allows most instructions to execute in a single 200ns instruction cycle at 20 MHz. The 14-bit instruction word provides ample immediate data and operand addressing for C-compiled and hand-optimized assembly code.
Typical applications include industrial control systems, sensor interface modules, motor control peripherals, communication front-ends, and embedded instrumentation. The 33 I/O pins support direct connection to keypads, LCDs, LEDs, and external peripherals without external glue logic, reducing BOM cost and PCB complexity.
When designing with this part, ensure the MCLR reset circuit includes the recommended pull-up and decoupling, and verify the oscillator configuration matches the chosen crystal or resonator. This page combines distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes that extend beyond the manufacturer datasheet to support rapid component selection and lifecycle planning.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C65A-20E/PT — 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 PIC16C65A-20E/PT (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core Architecture, Package, Timers, Program Memory Type, Mounting Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C64A-20E/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$12.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C64AT-20E/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F877-20E/PT
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C65A-20E/PT Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB (4K x 14) |
| RAM Size | 192 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns at 20 MHz |
| Operating Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 6.0 V |
| I/O Pins | 33 |
| Timers | 3 (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2) |
| Capture/Compare/PWM Modules | 2 (CCP) |
| Communication Interfaces | USART, SSP (SPI/I2C), Parallel Slave Port |
| Package Type | 44-pin TQFP (PT) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (Extended) |
| Number of Instructions | 35 single-word |
| Instruction Word Width | 14-bit |
| RoHS Status | non_compliant (contains lead in EPROM window package family) |
PIC16C65A-20E/PT Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator crystal input or external clock input |
| Pin 2 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator crystal output; in RC mode, clock output |
| Pin 3 | MCLR/VPP — Master Clear reset input or programming voltage input |
| Pin 4 | RA0/AN0 — Port A bit 0 / analog input 0 |
| Pin 5 | RA1/AN1 — Port A bit 1 / analog input 1 |
| Pin 6 | RA2/AN2/VREF- — Port A bit 2 / analog input 2 / negative reference |
| Pin 7 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — Port A bit 3 / analog input 3 / positive reference |
| Pin 8 | RA4/T0CKI — Port A bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 9 | RA5/SS/AN4 — Port A bit 5 / SPI slave select / analog input 4 |
| Pin 10 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 11 | RB0/INT — Port B bit 0 / external interrupt input |
| Pin 12 | RB1 — Port B bit 1 |
| Pin 13 | RB2 — Port B bit 2 |
| Pin 14 | RB3/PGM — Port B bit 3 / low-voltage programming input |
| Pin 15 | RB4 — Port B bit 4 |
| Pin 16 | RB5 — Port B bit 5 |
| Pin 17 | RB6/PGC — Port B bit 6 / ICSP clock input |
| Pin 18 | RB7/PGD — Port B bit 7 / ICSP data input/output |
| Pin 19 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 21 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — Port C bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 22 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — Port C bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 input/output |
| Pin 23 | RC2/CCP1 — Port C bit 2 / CCP1 input/output |
| Pin 24 | RC3/SCK/SCL — Port C bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 25 | RC4/SDI/SDA — Port C bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 26 | RC5/SDO — Port C bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 27 | RC6/TX/CK — Port C bit 6 / USART transmit / clock |
| Pin 28 | RC7/RX/DT — Port C bit 7 / USART receive / data |
| Pin 29 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 30 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 31 | RD0/PSP0 — Port D bit 0 / Parallel Slave Port bit 0 |
| Pin 32 | RD1/PSP1 — Port D bit 1 / Parallel Slave Port bit 1 |
| Pin 33 | RD2/PSP2 — Port D bit 2 / Parallel Slave Port bit 2 |
| Pin 34 | RD3/PSP3 — Port D bit 3 / Parallel Slave Port bit 3 |
| Pin 35 | RD4/PSP4 — Port D bit 4 / Parallel Slave Port bit 4 |
| Pin 36 | RD5/PSP5 — Port D bit 5 / Parallel Slave Port bit 5 |
| Pin 37 | RD6/PSP6 — Port D bit 6 / Parallel Slave Port bit 6 |
| Pin 38 | RD7/PSP7 — Port D bit 7 / Parallel Slave Port bit 7 |
| Pin 39 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 40 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 41 | RE0/RD/AN5 — Port E bit 0 / read control / analog input 5 |
| Pin 42 | RE1/WR/AN6 — Port E bit 1 / write control / analog input 6 |
| Pin 43 | RE2/CS/AN7 — Port E bit 2 / chip select / analog input 7 |
| Pin 44 | VSS — Ground reference |
Typical Applications
PIC16C65A-20E/PT is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Process Control Modules, Motor Control and PWM Drive, Embedded Instrumentation and Data Logging, Automotive Body and Convenience Electronics, Consumer Appliance Control Boards, Communication Front-End and Protocol Converters.
Industrial Process Control Modules
The PIC16C65A-20E/PT is well-suited for industrial process control PLCs and remote sensor interface modules that require deterministic 8-bit processing at 5 MIPS. Its 33 I/O pins connect directly to digital sensors, relay drivers, and 4-20 mA loop interfaces, while the integrated USART and SSP support RS-485 and I2C fieldbus communication. The 7KB OTP memory holds fixed-function control firmware, and the extended -40C to +125C temperature grade tolerates factory floor conditions.
Recommended
Motor Control and PWM Drive
The PIC16C65A-20E/PT drives DC motors, stepper motors, and small BLDC fans using its two Capture/Compare/PWM modules that generate precise 10-bit PWM outputs at up to 20 MHz instruction rate. The three timer/counters handle quadrature encoder feedback and commutation timing. With 7KB OTP firmware space, designers implement PI velocity loops, soft-start ramps, and fault handling directly on-chip, eliminating the need for an external motion controller in low-to-mid power systems.
Recommended
Embedded Instrumentation and Data Logging
The PIC16C65A-20E/PT serves as the controller in portable instrumentation such as digital multimeters, environmental monitors, and laboratory data loggers. Its 192-byte RAM and 7KB OTP memory store calibration constants and measurement routines, while the SSP peripheral reads external I2C sensors (temperature, humidity, pressure) and writes to serial EEPROM for non-volatile data storage. The 20 MHz instruction rate supports real-time signal processing and ASCII LCD output via port I/O.
Recommended
Automotive Body and Convenience Electronics
The PIC16C65A-20E/PT (extended -40C to +125C grade) is used in automotive body control modules for seat adjustment, mirror positioning, interior lighting, and climate control panels. Its 33 I/O pins handle keypad scanning, LED driver control, and LIN/CAN-compatible communication via the USART and SSP. Note that AEC-Q100 qualification is not formally documented for this part; safety-critical automotive designs should use AEC-Q100-qualified PIC16F variants.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16C65A-20E/PT powers washing machine controllers, microwave oven user interfaces, dishwasher cycle timers, and refrigerator display modules where fixed-function OTP firmware locks in the appliance behavior at production. The USART drives the front-panel LCD/LED display, the SSP reads push-button matrix inputs and rotary encoders, and the PWM modules control motor speeds and buzzer tones. Its 5 MIPS performance is sufficient for HMI state machines and basic safety interlocks.
Recommended
Communication Front-End and Protocol Converters
The PIC16C65A-20E/PT acts as a protocol bridge between RS-232, RS-485, SPI, and I2C networks in industrial gateways and serial device servers. The USART handles asynchronous serial up to 115.2 kbps, while the SSP runs SPI or I2C master/slave transactions simultaneously. The 8-bit Parallel Slave Port interfaces to host processors or FPGAs for high-throughput data exchange, making the device a flexible glue logic replacement in legacy serial networks.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C65A-20E/PT — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C65A-20E/PQ | PIC16C65A-20/P | PIC16C65A-04I/P | PIC16C64A-20E/PT | PIC16F877-20E/PT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 44-pin TQFP (PT) | 44-pin MQFP (PQ) | 40-pin PDIP (P) | 40-pin PDIP (P) | 44-pin TQFP (PT) - same | 44-pin TQFP (PT) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 7 KB OTP EPROM | 7 KB OTP EPROM | 7 KB OTP EPROM | 7 KB OTP EPROM | 7 KB OTP EPROM | 8 KB Flash |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| RAM Size | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 368 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 |
| Memory Type | OTP (one-time programmable) | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | Flash (10K cycles) |
| Operating 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 +125 C (Extended) |
Key Differentiators
- Higher RAM (192 vs 368 bytes) trade-off against flash memory (vs PIC16F877-20E/PT)
- Surface-mount TQFP package with extended temperature grade (vs PIC16C65A-20/P)
- Maximum 20 MHz clock rate (vs PIC16C65A-04I/P)
Design Notes
The PIC16C65A-20E/PT must be powered from a clean, regulated 2.5 V to 6.0 V supply. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of each VDD pin (pins 20, 30, 40) and a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum polymer capacitor near the device. The MCLR pin (pin 3) requires an external RC reset circuit (typically 10 kOhm pull-up to VDD and 100 nF to ground) unless the internal reset is enabled via configuration fuses. Avoid switching noise on the supply by separating analog and digital ground planes and connecting them at a single point near the VSS pin.
When migrating from PIC16C65A to PIC16F877, remember that flash memory requires an erase cycle before reprogramming, while the OTP PIC16C65A can only be programmed once per memory location. Code that writes to program memory in-circuit must be reworked for the flash erase-then-write sequence. Additionally, the PIC16F877 adds an ADC peripheral not present on the PIC16C65A; firmware that relied on the absence of ADC registers may need adjustment if the configuration bits are not properly set. Always verify the configuration word (oscillator selection, watchdog timer, code protection) before programming the chip.
The 44-pin TQFP package requires a 10 mm x 10 mm PCB land pattern with 0.8 mm pitch pads. Place at least one via-in-pad under the exposed thermal pad (if present on the variant) to improve thermal dissipation; the PIC16C65A-20E/PT in TQFP does not have an exposed pad, but for higher reliability, fan out the 33 I/O pins to allow direct routing without vias under the package body. Keep high-speed signals (USART, SPI clock) short and surround them with a ground guard trace to reduce EMI. The parallel slave port (port D) traces should be matched in length if used with external bus masters running above 10 MHz.
Compliance Information
PIC16C65A-20E/PT is generally non-RoHS compliant due to legacy OTP process and cerquad package options in the family; the PT (TQFP) surface-mount variant may have date-code-dependent RoHS status per Microchip environmental data. AEC-Q100 not formally documented; use PIC16F877A-Q1 for automotive applications.
