PIC16C712T-04I/SO - 8-Bit 4MHz 1.75KB OTP MCU 18-SOIC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C712T-04I/SO β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.4 | $3.40 |
| 10 | $3.06 | $30.60 |
| 100 | $2.72 | $272.00 |
| 500 | $2.44 | $1,220.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.18 | $2,180.00 |
PIC16C712T-04I/SO Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, program memory, working RAM, and peripheral interfaces onto one silicon die. In the broader semiconductor hierarchy, the PIC16C712 sits within microcontrollers -> embedded processors -> digital ICs -> semiconductors. The "16C" prefix denotes CMOS OTP technology, where the program memory is written once at production time and is non-erasable, making the device well suited to mature, cost-sensitive, high-volume consumer and industrial products where firmware is stable.
Key features include 35 single-word RISC instructions, all single-cycle except two-cycle branches, a 200 ns instruction cycle at 20 MHz maximum clock, an 8-level deep hardware stack, and 13 bidirectional I/O pins with individual direction control. The 4-channel 8-bit A/D converter simplifies sensor-interface designs, while the CCP module enables simple PWM motor and lighting control without external timing circuitry. The industrial (-40C to +85C) temperature range is encoded in the "I" suffix, and the "04" speed grade marks the 4 MHz operating point.
Typical applications include appliance control modules, simple sensor interfaces with on-chip ADC, low-cost PWM fan or LED drivers, and replacement of legacy PIC16C5X designs requiring A/D capability. The 18-SOIC package is the most common PCB-friendly footprint in the family and matches the PIC16C711 / PIC16C710 pinout, simplifying layout migration.
When designing with this device, note that OTP memory cannot be re-programmed in the field, so firmware must be fully validated before production programming. Consider the flash-based PIC16F716 or PIC16F707 as in-system reprogrammable alternatives for new designs. Always de-couple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the pin.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C712T-04I/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 PIC16C712T-04I/SO (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Core Architecture, Package, Program Memory Size, Program Memory Type, RoHS Status.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C712-04I/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C712T-04/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F716-I/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C712-20I/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C711-04I/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C710-04I/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C712T-04I/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC16 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 1.75 KB (1K x 14 words) |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Speed Grade | 04 (4 MHz operating point, 200 ns instruction cycle) |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 2.5 V to 5.5 V (typical 5 V operation) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial, "I" suffix) |
| I/O Pins | 13 bidirectional |
| A/D Converter | 4 channels, 8-bit resolution |
| Timers | Timer0 (8-bit) + Timer1 (16-bit) + Timer2 (8-bit) |
| Capture/Compare/PWM | 1 CCP module |
| Instruction Set | 35 single-word instructions |
| Package | 18-pin SOIC (SO), 7.50 mm body width, tape and reel |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (per Microchip product page) |
PIC16C712T-04I/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP β Master Clear (reset) input / programming voltage input |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 β PORTA bit 0 / A/D channel 0 input |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 β PORTA bit 1 / A/D channel 1 input |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2/CVREF β PORTA bit 2 / A/D channel 2 / comparator voltage reference output |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ β PORTA bit 3 / A/D channel 3 / A/D positive voltage reference |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI β PORTA bit 4 (open-drain) / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4/SS β PORTA bit 5 / A/D channel 4 / SPI slave select |
| Pin 8 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKIN β Oscillator crystal input / external clock input |
| Pin 10 | OSC2/CLKOUT β Oscillator crystal output / clock output (Fosc/4) |
| Pin 11 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI β PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 12 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 β PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / Capture-Compare-PWM 2 |
| Pin 13 | RC2/CCP1 β PORTC bit 2 / Capture-Compare-PWM 1 (primary PWM) |
| Pin 14 | RC3 β PORTC bit 3 (digital I/O only) |
| Pin 15 | RC4 β PORTC bit 4 (digital I/O only) |
| Pin 16 | RC5 β PORTC bit 5 (digital I/O only) |
| Pin 17 | RC6 β PORTC bit 6 (digital I/O only) |
| Pin 18 | VDD β Positive supply voltage (2.5 V to 5.5 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C712T-04I/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Control Module, PWM Fan Speed Controller, Battery Charger State-of-Charge Monitor, Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioner, HVAC Damper Actuator Controller, Automotive Interior LED Dimmer (NRND - legacy only).
Appliance Control Module
The PIC16C712T-04I/SO is well matched to appliance control modules such as washing-machine user-interface boards, microwave oven keypads, and dishwasher timers. The 4-channel 8-bit A/D converter reads temperature sensors (NTC), water-level sensors, and door-switch states directly, eliminating an external ADC IC. The 4 MHz operating speed supports keypad scanning at 10 ms intervals while leaving CPU bandwidth for relay and buzzer sequencing. Industrial -40C to +85C operation covers laundry-room and kitchen ambient conditions. OTP memory secures firmware against field tampering, an important safety consideration in consumer appliances. Companion parts: PIC16F716-I/SO (modern flash replacement), ULN2003A (relay driver), and 24LC256 (external EEPROM for cycle counters).
Recommended
PWM Fan Speed Controller
The PIC16C712T-04I/SO's on-chip Capture/Compare/PWM module drives a 25 kHz PWM signal into a MOSFET gate to regulate brushless-DC fan speed, replacing costly analog tachometer loops. The 4-channel ADC samples tachometer feedback and NTC temperature sensor inputs simultaneously, while the 16-bit Timer1 sets the PWM period with sub-microsecond resolution. The 4 MHz speed grade is sufficient for closed-loop fan control with 10 ms update intervals. The wide 2.5 V to 5.5 V supply range supports both 3.3 V and 5 V fan designs. Companion parts: PIC16F716-I/SO (for firmware-revision flexibility), IRLZ44N (logic-level N-MOSFET), and MCP9700 (temperature sensor).
Recommended
Battery Charger State-of-Charge Monitor
The PIC16C712T-04I/SO monitors individual cell voltages in 4-cell NiMH or Li-ion battery packs through its 4-channel 8-bit ADC, displaying state-of-charge on an LED bargraph driven by PORTC. The 13 I/O pins directly drive 13 status LEDs without external logic, reducing BOM cost. The 4 MHz clock provides 1 ms ADC scan periods, sufficient for real-time voltage tracking during charge/discharge cycles. The industrial temperature range supports outdoor solar-charging applications. OTP memory prevents accidental firmware corruption in field-deployed battery packs. Companion parts: PIC16F716-I/SO (reprogrammable alternative), MCP73831 (Li-ion charge controller), and TL431 (precision voltage reference).
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioner
The PIC16C712T-04I/SO conditions 4-20 mA loop-powered sensor signals by reading the loop current via the on-chip 8-bit ADC and outputting a normalized PWM signal on the CCP pin. The 4-channel ADC supports simultaneous monitoring of pressure, temperature, and flow sensors, while the 4 MHz CPU handles linearization and scaling algorithms. The 2.5 V minimum supply is compatible with 3.3 V industrial sensor boards. The wide industrial temperature range (-40C to +85C) covers factory-floor environments. OTP memory locks calibration coefficients, preventing unauthorized modification. Companion parts: PIC16F716-I/SO (modern equivalent), XTR105 (4-20 mA current-loop transmitter), and AD620 (low-cost instrumentation amplifier).
Recommended
HVAC Damper Actuator Controller
The PIC16C712T-04I/SO controls HVAC zone damper actuators by reading zone thermostat temperature via the 4-channel ADC and driving a brushed DC motor through the CCP PWM output. The 16-bit Timer1 measures motor rotation pulses from an optical encoder, providing closed-loop position feedback. The 4 MHz speed grade runs PID control loops at 100 Hz update rate. The 13 I/O pins handle end-switch interrupts, manual override inputs, and LED status indication without external logic. Industrial temperature grade supports unconditioned plant-room installation. Companion parts: PIC16F716-I/SO (reprogrammable for firmware iterations), DRV8871 (DC motor driver), and DS18B20 (1-Wire temperature sensor).
Recommended
Automotive Interior LED Dimmer (NRND - legacy only)
The PIC16C712T-04I/SO was historically used in automotive interior LED dimmer modules, reading dashboard rheostat position through the 4-channel 8-bit ADC and driving a MOSFET gate through the CCP PWM output. The 4 MHz clock supports 100 Hz PWM refresh rates, avoiding flicker in dashboard illumination. The wide supply range (2.5 V to 5.5 V) tolerates automotive load-dump transients when paired with external TVS protection. The industrial temperature grade covers cabin environment, but under-hood applications require the AEC-Q100 qualified PIC16F716T-I/SO. As of 2026-09-18 this is a legacy-only design; new automotive programs should use the PIC16F716 family or PIC16F15344. Companion parts: PIC16F716-I/SO (AEC-Q100 version), IRF7507 (dual P/N-MOSFET for PWM), and MCP1700 (3.3 V LDO).
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C712T-04I/SO β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C712-04I/SO | PIC16C712T-04/SO | PIC16F716-I/SO | PIC16C712-20I/SO | PIC16C711-04I/SO | PIC16C710-04I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 18-SOIC (SO), 7.50 mm | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 1.75 KB OTP | 1.75 KB OTP | 1.75 KB OTP | 1.75 KB Flash | 1.75 KB OTP | 1.75 KB OTP | 1.75 KB OTP |
| Max CPU Frequency | 4 MHz (04 grade) | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| A/D Converter | 4-ch, 8-bit | 4-ch, 8-bit | 4-ch, 8-bit | 4-ch, 8-bit | 4-ch, 8-bit | 4-ch, 8-bit | None |
| CCP/PWM Module | 1 CCP | 1 CCP | 1 CCP | 1 CCP | 1 CCP | None | None |
| Temp Range | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +85C (I) | 0C to +70C (commercial) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +85C (I) |
| Memory Type | OTP (one-time) | OTP | OTP | Flash (reprogrammable) | OTP | OTP | OTP |
| Lifecycle | NRND | NRND | NRND | Active | NRND | NRND | NRND |
Key Differentiators
- On-chip A/D converter with CCP/PWM eliminates external components (vs PIC16C710-04I/SO)
- Modern flash-based equivalent available for new designs (vs PIC16F716-I/SO)
- Industrial temperature grade with 4 MHz operation (vs PIC16C712T-04/SO)
Design Notes
Decouple VDD (pin 18) with a 100 nF X7R ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the MCU and a 10 uF bulk capacitor on the supply rail. The PIC16C712 has no internal voltage regulator; clean 5 V or 3.3 V must be supplied externally. For battery-powered designs, add a 100 ohm + 10 uF RC filter on VDD to suppress battery transients. A power-on reset is generated internally, but a manual reset can be implemented by pulling MCLR (pin 1) low via a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD and an external reset switch or supervisor IC.
Place the 4 MHz crystal or resonator within 5 mm of pins 9 and 10 (OSC1/OSC2), and route the oscillator traces over a continuous ground plane to minimize EMI. Keep high-speed digital signals (CCP PWM, oscillator traces) away from analog inputs AN0-AN3. The exposed copper under the 18-SOIC should not be tied to VDD - leave it floating or connect it to ground for thermal relief. Add 4.7 kohm pull-ups on SDA/SCL if using I2C peripherals, even when unused, to prevent false start conditions.
OTP program memory cannot be re-programmed - all firmware bugs must be fixed before production programming. Configuration bits (oscillator selection, watchdog timer, code protection, brown-out voltage) are also OTP and must be set correctly the first time. Brown-out reset (BOR) is enabled by default at 4.0 V; disable it only if the supply is well-regulated above 4.5 V. The CCP1 output is multiplexed on RC2 - if the application needs RC2 as digital I/O, the PWM must be disabled in the CCPCON register. A/D converter reference defaults to VDD; for accurate measurements, switch to external VREF+ on RA3.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - choose PIC16F716T-I/SO or similar for automotive. Lead-free matte-tin finish on SOIC leads.
