PIC16C712T-20E/SS - 8-Bit 20MHz OTP MCU, 1.75KB, 20-SSOP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C712T-20E/SS ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4.5 | $4.50 |
| 10 | $3.95 | $39.50 |
| 100 | $3.4 | $340.00 |
| 500 | $2.95 | $1,475.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.5 | $2,500.00 |
PIC16C712T-20E/SS Overview
Background: An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer containing a CPU, non-volatile program memory (ROM/Flash/OTP), volatile data memory (RAM), and peripheral interfaces. The PIC16C family uses a Harvard RISC architecture that separates program and data buses, enabling single-cycle instruction execution for most opcodes except program branches. OTP memory is programmed once and cannot be erased, making OTP MCUs economical for low-to-medium volume applications where firmware is stable.
Key features of the PIC16C712T-20E/SS include 35 single-word instructions, Brown-out Detect/Reset (BOR), Power-on Reset (POR), a Watchdog Timer (WDT), a Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) module, and an extended -40C to +125C industrial operating temperature range denoted by the "E" suffix. The "T" in the part number indicates tape-and-reel packaging, and "20" specifies the 20 MHz maximum clock speed. The "SS" suffix designates the 20-pin SSOP package.
Architecturally, the PIC16C712T uses an enhanced PIC16C5X core with 14-bit instruction words, dual 8-bit timer/counters (Timer0 with 8-bit prescaler, Timer1 with 16-bit operation), and a 4-channel 8-bit ADC with selectable reference voltages. The CCP module supports 10-bit PWM resolution, enabling motor control, LED dimming, and signal generation applications.
Typical applications include appliance control, automotive subsystems (non-safety-critical), industrial sensor interfaces, low-end motor control, and white goods. The wide operating temperature range also makes it suitable for outdoor and harsh-environment embedded designs.
When designing with this MCU, ensure oscillator selection matches the application's clock-accuracy requirements: external clock mode supports crystal or resonator operation up to 20 MHz, and unused I/O pins should be configured as outputs to minimize power consumption.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, providing cross-package context and selection guidance for engineers evaluating this part.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C712T-20E/SS — 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-20E/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Timers, Watchdog Timer, Program Memory Size, ADC.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F716-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F716-E/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C712T-20I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.91 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C712-20E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C711T-20I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C710T-20E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C712T-20E/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-Bit |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 1.75 KB (1K x 14) |
| RAM Size | 128 x 8 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 13 |
| ADC Resolution | 8-bit, 4 channels |
| Peripherals | Brown-out Detect/Reset, POR, PWM, WDT |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (industrial, E suffix) |
| Package | 20-SSOP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel (T suffix) |
| Series | PIC 16C |
| Instruction Set | 35 single-word instructions |
| Timers | 2 (Timer0 8-bit, Timer1 16-bit) |
| CCP Module | 1 (Capture/Compare/PWM) |
PIC16C712T-20E/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2/AN2 — Digital I/O / Analog input channel 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3/AN3/VREF — Digital I/O / Analog input channel 3 / ADC voltage reference |
| Pin 3 | RA4/T0CKI — Digital I/O / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 4 | RA5/AN4/SS — Digital I/O / Analog input channel 4 / SPI slave select |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | OSC1/CLKIN — External oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 7 | OSC2/CLKOUT — External oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 8 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 9 | RB0/INT — Digital I/O / External interrupt |
| Pin 10 | RB1 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 11 | RB2 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 12 | RB3/PGM — Digital I/O / Low-voltage programming input |
| Pin 13 | RB4 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 14 | RB5 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 15 | RB6/PGC — Digital I/O / In-circuit debugger clock |
| Pin 16 | RB7/PGD — Digital I/O / In-circuit debugger data |
| Pin 17 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — Digital I/O / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 18 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — Digital I/O / Timer1 oscillator input / Capture/Compare/PWM2 |
| Pin 19 | RC2/CCP1 — Digital I/O / Capture/Compare/PWM1 output |
| Pin 20 | RC3 — Digital I/O |
Typical Applications
PIC16C712T-20E/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Control, Industrial Sensor Interface, Low-End Motor Control (PWM), Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety), Battery-Powered Embedded Systems, White Goods and HVAC Control.
Appliance Control
The PIC16C712T-20E/SS fits appliance control applications because its 13 digital I/O pins can directly drive relays, triacs, and LED indicators for washing machines, dishwashers, and microwave oven control boards. The 4-channel 8-bit ADC monitors temperature sensors, water level probes, and door-switch feedback without external ADC hardware, reducing BOM cost by approximately USD 0.50 versus an external ADC approach. The CCP module generates PWM for variable-speed motor drives in fans and pumps. With 1.75KB OTP program memory, the firmware can implement full state-machine control, timing sequences, and safety interlocks typical of consumer appliances.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interface
For industrial sensor interface designs the PIC16C712T-20E/SS provides 4 analog inputs at 8-bit resolution suitable for thermocouple amplification boards, pressure transducers, and 4-20 mA loop signal conditioning front-ends. The 20 MHz clock enables 200 ns instruction execution for tight sampling loops at 1 kHz update rates. The Brown-out Detect/Reset and Power-on Reset modules provide reliable startup in noisy industrial 24V bus environments where supply transients are common. With -40C to +125C extended temperature grade, the part operates in outdoor enclosures and factory-floor installations without thermal derating.
Recommended
Low-End Motor Control (PWM)
The PIC16C712T-20E/SS serves small brushed DC motor and stepper motor applications through its Capture/Compare/PWM module, which provides 10-bit PWM resolution at frequencies up to 20 kHz, well above the audible range to avoid motor whine. The 13 I/O pins drive H-bridge MOSFET gates directly through 10 kohm gate resistors. The 4-channel ADC samples motor current via a shunt resistor for closed-loop torque control. With 1.75KB OTP firmware, engineers can implement PID control loops, soft-start ramps, and stall-detection algorithms in a single chip for cost-sensitive applications.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety)
The PIC16C712T-20E/SS with extended -40C to +125C temperature grade suits non-safety automotive body electronics such as interior lighting controllers, seat-position memory modules, and mirror-adjustment systems. The 8-bit ADC reads potentiometer positions for seat and mirror memory storage. The Watchdog Timer ensures firmware recovery from automotive battery transients and load-dump events. Note: this part is NOT AEC-Q100 qualified and should NOT be used in safety-critical systems such as airbag controllers, ABS modules, or electronic stability control - choose AEC-Q100 qualified PIC16F series for those applications.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Embedded Systems
For battery-powered embedded designs the PIC16C712T-20E/SS operates from a wide voltage range suitable for 4xAA battery stacks or 9V supplies. The PIC16C family's CMOS implementation provides low-power operation, and the Watchdog Timer can wake the MCU from sleep mode on overflow. The 200 ns instruction cycle at 20 MHz allows rapid computation followed by long sleep periods, maximizing battery life. The 8-bit ADC monitors battery voltage via a voltage divider for low-battery warning indicators in portable medical devices, wireless sensor nodes, and handheld instruments.
Recommended
White Goods and HVAC Control
The PIC16C712T-20E/SS fits white goods and HVAC control applications including refrigerator defrost timers, washing machine cycle controllers, and thermostat front-ends. The 13 I/O pins drive 7-segment displays, keypad inputs, and compressor relays via optocouplers for line-voltage isolation. The CCP module generates time-proportional control signals for triac-fired heating elements, providing smooth temperature regulation. With 1.75KB OTP program memory, the firmware can implement complex multi-stage defrost cycles, adaptive defrost algorithms, and energy-efficiency optimization routines that distinguish premium appliance brands.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C712T-20E/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F716-I/SS | PIC16F716-E/SS | PIC16C712T-20I/SS | PIC16C712-20E/SS | PIC16C711T-20I/SS | PIC16C710T-20E/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (1.75 KB) | Flash (3.5 KB) | Flash (3.5 KB) | OTP (1.75 KB) | OTP (1.75 KB) | OTP (0.875 KB) | OTP (0.875 KB) |
| Max Clock Speed | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Number of I/O | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
| ADC Channels x Resolution | 4 x 8-bit | 4 x 8-bit | 4 x 8-bit | 4 x 8-bit | 4 x 8-bit | 4 x 8-bit | None |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +125C |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Active | Active | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 68 bytes | 36 bytes |
Key Differentiators
- Extended -40C to +125C industrial operating temperature range (vs PIC16C712T-20I/SS)
- Integrated 4-channel 8-bit ADC eliminates external ADC cost (vs PIC16C710T-20E/SS)
- Tape-and-reel packaging for high-volume automated assembly (vs PIC16C712-20E/SS)
Design Notes
The PIC16C712T-20E/SS requires a stable VDD supply for ADC accuracy; a 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor placed within 5 mm of the VDD pin and a 10 uF bulk capacitor at the board power entry are essential. Brown-out Detect/Reset (BOR) must be enabled in the configuration word for industrial applications to prevent code execution from corrupted memory during supply brownouts. For battery-powered designs, leverage the PIC16C family's low-power sleep modes (down to microamp currents) combined with Watchdog Timer wake-ups to achieve multi-year battery life.
OTP memory is one-time-programmable - any firmware bug after programming requires physical part replacement. Maintain a small prototype inventory of pre-programmed PIC16C712T-20E/SS parts for engineering samples and field returns. Configure all unused I/O pins as outputs (not inputs) to minimize power consumption and prevent floating-pin oscillations. The configuration word must be set correctly before programming; mis-configured oscillator modes can lock the part into an inoperative state requiring UV erasure (not supported on OTP variants).
The 20-SSOP package has 0.65 mm lead pitch, requiring fine-pitch PCB assembly capability with solder paste stencil apertures of 0.4 mm width. Place the oscillator crystal within 5 mm of OSC1/OSC2 pins to minimize parasitic capacitance that can detune the oscillator; add a guard ground ring around the crystal to reduce noise injection. Route analog ADC inputs away from digital switching traces, and where crossovers are unavoidable use a ground plane separation to reduce coupling. The Watchdog Timer should be enabled for any unattended industrial deployment to recover from EMI-induced firmware lockups.
At the -40C to +125C extended temperature range, validate the design across the full thermal window, not just at room temperature. ADC accuracy degrades at temperature extremes due to reference voltage drift; calibrate at three points (cold, room, hot) for high-precision sensor applications. Capacitor ESR rises at -40C and falls at +125C - ensure decoupling remains effective across the temperature range. Use industrial-grade (not commercial) bypass capacitors rated to +125C or higher to match the MCU's operating range.
Compliance Information
PIC16C712T-20E/SS is not AEC-Q100 qualified - the part is specified for industrial (-40C to +125C) but lacks automotive certification. RoHS/REACH/lead-free status not verified in the provided datasheet snippets; consult Microchip product compliance documentation before PCB assembly in regulated markets.
