PIC16C717/SS - 8-Bit 20MHz OTP MCU 20-SSOP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C717/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.31 | $1.31 |
| 10 | $1.18 | $11.80 |
| 100 | $1.05 | $105.00 |
| 500 | $0.92 | $460.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.84 | $840.00 |
PIC16C717/SS Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, non-volatile program memory, working RAM, and configurable peripheral blocks. PIC microcontrollers from Microchip use a Harvard architecture with separate program and data buses and a RISC-style instruction set, which enables deterministic instruction timing (one instruction per instruction cycle, four clock cycles per cycle on standard PIC16 parts). Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, the PIC16C717 belongs to the 8-bit MCU family, which sits below 16-bit and 32-bit MCU families in complexity but dominates cost-sensitive and low-power embedded applications.
The PIC16C717 features 200 ns instruction execution, only 35 single-word instructions, an operating voltage range of 2.5 V to 5.5 V (industrial -I variant), and brown-out reset (BOR) circuitry for reliable system startup. Its six 10-bit ADC channels make it well suited to sensor-rich designs, while the CCP module delivers PWM generation for motor, lighting, or power control. The /SS suffix denotes the 20-pin SSOP package, which trades the pin count of the 28-pin variants for a smaller PCB footprint.
Typical applications include automotive sensor signal conditioning, industrial process control, appliance control boards, and consumer products requiring on-board analog measurement. The 6-channel ADC is especially useful in designs that monitor multiple analog signals (temperature, pressure, current, voltage) without needing an external ADC. Because the part uses One-Time-Programmable (OTP) memory, it is well matched to high-volume production where firmware is finalized before the device is shipped to the line.
When designing with this device, ensure that your firmware is fully validated before programming, since OTP memory cannot be re-written. For prototype and low-volume runs, consider migrating to the flash-based PIC16F717 (pin-compatible) which supports in-circuit reprogramming. The PIC16C717/SS is also a useful target when long-term retention and code security outweigh the convenience of flash memory in flash-based projects.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C717/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 PIC16C717/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in ADC, I/O Pins, Package, Timers, Mounting Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F717-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C717T/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C717-I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.82 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C716-20/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C715-20/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C717/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit (Harvard, RISC) |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP |
| RAM | 256 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | Not present (OTP part) |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Execution Time | 200 ns (5 MIPS) |
| Instruction Set Size | 35 single-word instructions |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.0 V to 5.5 V (per /SS datasheet) |
| I/O Pins | 13 |
| ADC | 6 channels, 10-bit resolution |
| Timers | 2 (Timer0, Timer1) |
| CCP Module | 1 (Capture/Compare/PWM) |
| Brown-out Reset (BOR) | Yes |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes |
| Package | 20-SSOP (5.30 mm body width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
PIC16C717/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2/AN2 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input channel 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — Bidirectional I/O / analog input channel 3 / ADC positive reference |
| Pin 3 | RA4/AN4 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input channel 4 |
| Pin 4 | RA5/AN5 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input channel 5 |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0/INT — Bidirectional I/O / external interrupt input |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 9 | RB3/CCP1 — Bidirectional I/O / CCP1 module pin |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 15 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 16 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 17 | RA0/AN0 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 18 | RA1/AN1 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 19 | MCLR/VPP — Master clear (reset) / programming voltage |
| Pin 20 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C717/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Sensor Signal Conditioning, Industrial Process Control Boards, White Goods and Appliance Control, Battery-Powered Consumer Devices, HVAC and Building Automation Sensors, Educational and Hobbyist Embedded Projects.
Automotive Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16C717/SS is well matched to automotive sensor modules where 4-6 analog inputs must be digitized alongside digital control logic. With its 6-channel 10-bit ADC, 20 MHz core, and industrial temperature grade (-I variant), the part can read multiple analog sensors (temperature, pressure, position, current) and drive actuators via the CCP PWM output. The 3.5 KB OTP memory holds calibration tables and control firmware, while the 13 I/O pins connect to sensors, H-bridges, and LIN/CAN transceivers. Per the Microchip product page, automotive is one of the primary target segments. The 20-SSOP package fits into compact under-dash modules where the smaller footprint saves PCB area versus 28-pin variants.
Recommended
Industrial Process Control Boards
For industrial process control and monitoring equipment, the PIC16C717/SS combines a 20 MHz deterministic core with 6 ADC channels, brown-out reset, and a watchdog timer for reliable unattended operation. The CCP module generates PWM to drive proportional valves, heater elements, or motor speed controllers, while the 13 I/O pins interface to keypads, displays, and digital sensors. The brown-out reset ensures the MCU restarts cleanly after brown-out events on 24V-to-5V industrial rails. Per Microchip, this part is designed for industrial control segments. The 20-SSOP footprint supports compact panel-mount designs where PCB real estate is constrained.
Recommended
White Goods and Appliance Control
Appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, and microwave ovens require cost-effective MCUs with multiple ADC inputs for temperature, level, and motor current sensing. The PIC16C717/SS fits this role with its 6 ADC channels, CCP PWM for motor/valve control, and OTP memory that locks firmware at production. The 35-instruction RISC set simplifies code review and certification for safety-critical appliance designs. Per Microchip's product page, consumer appliances are a target application. The 20-SSOP package enables single-sided PCB assembly common in white-goods manufacturing.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Consumer Devices
Low-power consumer products like remote controls, wireless sensors, and battery-powered toys benefit from the PIC16C717/SS's low quiescent current and 2.5 V-5.5 V operating range. The brown-out reset prevents undefined behavior on weak batteries, while the watchdog timer recovers the MCU from software lockups. Although OTP memory limits firmware updates, it also eliminates bootloader code, reducing flash usage and improving security. The 20 MHz performance is ample for keypad scanning, IR transmission, and simple sensor readout. The 20-SSOP surface-mount package supports automated high-volume assembly typical of consumer products.
Recommended
HVAC and Building Automation Sensors
HVAC controllers and building automation sensor nodes require MCUs with multi-channel ADC, PWM outputs, and reliable brown-out behavior on noisy 24V rails. The PIC16C717/SS integrates all of this in a 20-SSOP package that fits inside standard thermostat enclosures. The 6 ADC channels digitize temperature, humidity (via analog sensor), and airflow signals, while the CCP module drives PWM-controlled dampers and fan speeds. Per Microchip, the part supports industrial and consumer building-control applications. The industrial temperature grade (-I suffix) covers outdoor and unconditioned-space installations.
Recommended
Educational and Hobbyist Embedded Projects
The PIC16C717/SS is also a strong fit for university embedded courses and hobbyist projects where students learn 8-bit MCU programming. The 35-instruction RISC set is simple enough to teach fundamentals, yet the 6-channel ADC, CCP module, and timers expose students to real peripherals used in industry. Because the part uses OTP memory, instructors can mount the device on a development board with a windowed (JW) variant for prototype iteration, then deploy the OTP version in student projects. Per Microchip's documentation, the PIC16C family is widely adopted in educational curricula. The 20-SSOP package is also breadboard-friendly with adapter boards.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C717/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F717-I/SS | PIC16C717T/SS | PIC16C717-I/SS | PIC16C716-20/SS | PIC16C715-20/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB OTP | 14 KB Flash (reprogrammable) | 3.5 KB OTP (same die) | 3.5 KB OTP (same die) | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| ADC Channels / Resolution | 6 channels / 10-bit | 6 channels / 10-bit | 6 channels / 10-bit | 6 channels / 10-bit | 5 channels / 10-bit | 0 channels (no ADC) |
| RAM | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes |
| Operating Temperature | 0 °C to +70 °C | -40 °C to +85 °C (industrial) | 0 °C to +70 °C (same as this part) | -40 °C to +85 °C (industrial) | 0 °C to +70 °C | 0 °C to +70 °C |
| Memory Type | OTP (one-time programmable) | Flash (reprogrammable) | OTP (same) | OTP (same) | OTP (same) | OTP (same) |
Key Differentiators
- 6-channel 10-bit ADC integrated on-chip (vs PIC16C715-20/SS)
- Pin-compatible with flash-based PIC16F717 for migration (vs PIC16F717-I/SS)
- Extended temperature grade available with /I suffix (vs PIC16C717/SS (commercial))
- CCP module for PWM, capture, and compare (vs PIC16C715-20/SS)
Design Notes
The PIC16C717/SS operates from 4.0 V to 5.5 V (per the datasheet supply-voltage spec). Use a low-dropout linear regulator such as MCP1700-3302E to derive a clean 5 V or 3.3 V rail from a higher-voltage source. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin and a 10 µF bulk capacitor at the regulator output. The brown-out reset (BOR) module should be enabled in the configuration bits to ensure clean MCU restart on brown-out events, which is critical for automotive and industrial designs on noisy rails.
Route the oscillator traces (OSC1/OSC2) short and symmetric, with a ground guard on both sides if using a crystal. Keep ADC traces away from switching signals (PWM outputs, relay drivers) to minimize coupled noise. Per Microchip's PCB layout guidelines, place a ground pour under analog sections and a separate analog ground (AGND) tied to VSS at a single point. For the 20-SSOP package, ensure land pattern matches the JEDEC SSOP-20 standard (0.65 mm pitch, 5.30 mm body) for solder joint reliability.
Do not attempt to re-program the OTP memory on the PIC16C717/SS - once a bit is programmed from 1 to 0 it cannot be restored. Validate firmware on the windowed PIC16C717/JW (UV-erase) prototype before committing to OTP production. Always pull MCLR high through a 10 kΩ resistor and add a 100 nF cap to ground for noise immunity; leaving MCLR floating can cause spurious resets. Verify the configuration bits match your oscillator, watchdog, and BOR settings before programming, since configuration-word errors are a common source of 'dead' PICs in production.
The PIC16C717/SS in 20-SSOP has a typical thermal resistance of approximately 100 °C/W (junction to ambient) per Microchip's package thermal data. At 20 MHz with all peripherals active, the device typically draws 10-15 mA from VDD, dissipating 50-75 mW at 5 V - well below thermal limits. No heatsink is required for the SSOP package in normal conditions, but ambient temperature must remain within the operating range (0 °C to +70 °C for /SS, -40 °C to +85 °C for /I/SS).
Compliance Information
RoHS-compliant SSOP package per Microchip product page. AEC-Q100 grade not officially listed for PIC16C717; automotive designs typically use PIC16F717-E/SS or PIC16C717-I/SS for extended temperature. For absolute verification, request the latest RoHS/REACH/CMT declaration from Microchip.
