PIC16C72-20/SS - 8-Bit 20MHz OTP MCU, 3.5KB EPROM, 28-SSOP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C72-20/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5.3 | $5.30 |
| 10 | $4.85 | $48.50 |
| 100 | $4.2 | $420.00 |
| 500 | $3.65 | $1,825.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.1 | $3,100.00 |
PIC16C72-20/SS Overview
A PIC microcontroller is a compact microcontroller unit (MCU) built on a Harvard-architecture RISC core, integrating CPU, non-volatile program memory, RAM, and peripherals on a single die. PIC16C-series parts occupy the mid-range position of Microchip's 8-bit line - below PIC18 in performance and above PIC10/PIC12 in capability - targeting cost-sensitive embedded control. The PIC16C72 family specifically combines 8-channel 8-bit ADC, capture/compare/PWM, and USART peripherals, making it a typical PIC16C mid-tier general-purpose MCU.
Key features of the PIC16C72-20/SS include 20MHz maximum clock speed, 3.5KB (2K x 14) of OTP program memory, 128 bytes of data RAM, 13 digital I/O pins, an 8-channel 8-bit A/D converter, a Timer0 8-bit timer/counter with 8-bit prescaler, and a capture/compare/PWM module. Brown-out Reset (BOR) circuitry protects against low-voltage lockups, while an operating voltage range of 4.0V to 5.5V (per one source's 4 to 5.5V listing) supports the legacy 5V embedded ecosystem. The part is sourced as commercial grade with SSOP-28 surface-mount packaging.
Architecturally, the PIC16C72-20/SS uses a 14-bit instruction word with a Harvard-separated program/data bus, eight-level stack, and 35 single-cycle instructions (excluding branches). The 8-bit ADC uses successive approximation with analog input multiplexing across 5 channels (per the PIC16C72 datasheet's standard pinout) or 8 channels (per varying distributor descriptions - consult datasheet for authoritative count). The PWM module supports capture, compare, and PWM functions via a 16-bit timer base.
Typical applications include industrial control loops (using ADC + PWM), sensor signal conditioning, low-speed serial communication via USART, white-goods motor control, and legacy 5V embedded designs. It also fits automotive body electronics, HVAC control boards, and consumer appliance controllers where cost-sensitive 8-bit MCU performance is sufficient.
When designing with this device, consider that the OTP memory cannot be reprogrammed - field updates require a Flash-based variant such as the PIC16F72. Ensure 5V supply regulation and decoupling per datasheet recommendations, and verify ADC reference voltage stability for measurement accuracy.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in PIC16C72-family alternatives, and practical design notes that go beyond what appears on a single DigiKey or Mouser listing.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C72-20/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 PIC16C72-20/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Timers, ADC, Core Architecture, RoHS Status.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C72-10/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$5.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C72-20I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C72-04/SO
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$3.45 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C72-10I/SO
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$4.25 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C72-20/SP
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$2.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F72-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C72-20/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC16C RISC 8-bit |
| Instruction Set Architecture | Harvard, 14-bit instruction word |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP |
| Data RAM | 128 x 8 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 13 |
| ADC | 8-bit, multi-channel |
| Timers | Timer0: 8-bit timer/counter with 8-bit prescaler |
| Peripherals | Capture/Compare/PWM, USART |
| Brown-out Reset (BOR) | Yes |
| Supply Voltage | 4.0 V to 5.5 V |
| ROM Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Package | 28-SSOP (5.30 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
PIC16C72-20/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/Vpp — Master Clear (Reset) input / Programming voltage |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / Analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / Analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2 — PORTA bit 2 / Analog input channel 2 |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/Vref — PORTA bit 3 / Analog input channel 3 / ADC voltage reference |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4/SS — PORTA bit 5 / Analog input channel 4 / Slave Select |
| Pin 8 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input / External clock input |
| Pin 9 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output / Clock output |
| Pin 10 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 11 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 output |
| Pin 12 | RC2/CCP1 — PORTC bit 2 / Capture/Compare/PWM1 output |
| Pin 13 | RC3/SCK/SCL — PORTC bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 14 | RC4/SDI/SDA — PORTC bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 15 | RC5/SDO — PORTC bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 16 | RC6/TX/CK — PORTC bit 6 / USART TX / USART clock |
| Pin 17 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / USART RX / USART data |
| Pin 18 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 / External interrupt |
| Pin 19 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 |
| Pin 20 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 |
| Pin 21 | RB3/PGM — PORTB bit 3 / Low-voltage programming |
| Pin 22 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 23 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 |
| Pin 24 | RB6/PGC — PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 25 | RB7/PGD — PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data |
| Pin 26 | Vss — Ground reference |
| Pin 27 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (5V) |
| Pin 28 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C72-20/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Control Loop with ADC + PWM, White Goods Appliance Control Board, Low-Speed Serial Communication Node, HVAC Climate Control Module, Consumer Appliance User Interface Controller, Legacy 5V Embedded Control Module.
Industrial Control Loop with ADC + PWM
The PIC16C72-20/SS fits industrial control loops that require sensor measurement and actuator drive. Its 8-bit multi-channel ADC samples analog sensor signals (temperature, pressure, flow) while the Capture/Compare/PWM module generates variable-duty drive signals for motors, heaters, or solenoid valves. At 20MHz the part delivers 5 MIPS, sufficient for PID-loop computation cycles under 200us. The 4.0V-5.5V supply range integrates cleanly with industrial 5V rails, while the 28-SSOP package supports compact DIN-rail mounted controller boards. Brown-out Reset protects against brown-out events common in industrial supplies.
Recommended
White Goods Appliance Control Board
The PIC16C72-20/SS is well-suited for white-goods appliance control - washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens - where its 8-bit MCU performance and 5V supply tolerance match legacy cost-down designs. The 3.5KB OTP memory holds finalized appliance firmware (cycle state machines, user interface handling), while the PWM module drives motor control signals for pumps and valves. Its commercial temperature grade fits indoor appliance environments. The 13 I/O pins multiplex with the user-interface keypad, status indicators, and sensor inputs.
Recommended
Low-Speed Serial Communication Node
The PIC16C72-20/SS serves as a low-cost serial communication node using its integrated USART peripheral. Operating at 20MHz, it can sustain standard baud rates up to 115200 with low interrupt overhead, suitable for RS-232/RS-485 sensor hubs, point-of-sale terminals, and serial-controlled instrumentation. The 128-byte RAM accommodates modest receive buffers, and the 3.5KB OTP holds protocol stack plus application logic. The 28-SSOP package's compact footprint benefits space-constrained serial modules.
Recommended
HVAC Climate Control Module
The PIC16C72-20/SS suits HVAC climate control modules where it reads multiple thermistor inputs via its 8-bit ADC, drives fan/valve PWM outputs, and communicates with a master controller via USART. Its 4.0V-5.5V supply range aligns with HVAC 24VAC-derived 5V rails. The Brown-out Reset protects against compressor inrush dips. The 128-byte RAM supports modest scheduling buffers, and 3.5KB OTP holds HVAC state-machine code. The 28-SSOP package fits compact thermostat and air-handler PCBs.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance User Interface Controller
The PIC16C72-20/SS functions as a user-interface controller in consumer appliances - coffee makers, blenders, slow cookers - where it scans keypads, drives LED/LCD displays, and signals a main controller. The 13 I/O pins handle keypad matrix scanning (up to 12 keys), indicator LEDs, and beeper drive. The PWM module generates variable-frequency tones for audible feedback. OTP memory secures finalized UI firmware at minimum cost. The 28-SSOP package fits behind display panels in space-constrained enclosures.
Recommended
Legacy 5V Embedded Control Module
The PIC16C72-20/SS targets legacy 5V embedded systems where modern 3.3V MCUs cannot be retrofitted without reworking the analog front-end. It interfaces directly with 5V sensors, 5V op-amps, and 5V actuators without level shifters. The PIC16C72 family remains widely used in industrial controllers, automotive body electronics, and test equipment manufactured in the late 1990s-2000s. For service replacements and obsolescence management, the active lifecycle status and broad distributor stock make it a sustainable choice.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C72-20/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C72-10/SS | PIC16C72-20I/SS | PIC16F72-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SSOP (5.30mm) | 28-SSOP (5.30mm) - same | 28-SSOP (5.30mm) - same | 28-SSOP (5.30mm) - same |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz | 10 MHz (-50%) | 20 MHz (same) | 20 MHz (same) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (3.5 KB) | OTP (3.5 KB) - same | OTP (3.5 KB) - same | Flash (3.5 KB) - reprogrammable |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) - same | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) - same | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) - same |
| Data RAM | 128 bytes | 128 bytes - same | 128 bytes - same | 128 bytes - same |
| I/O Pins | 13 | 13 - same | 13 - same | 13 - same |
| Supply Voltage | 4.0 V to 5.5 V | 4.0 V to 5.5 V - same | 4.0 V to 5.5 V - same | 2.0 V to 5.5 V (wider) |
| Temperature Grade | Commercial (0C to +70C) | Commercial (0C to +70C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) |
Key Differentiators
- Lowest-cost 5V OTP MCU in PIC16C mid-range family (vs PIC16F72-I/SS)
- Industrial temperature grade available in same footprint (vs PIC16C72-10/SS)
- 20MHz clock vs slower 10MHz speed grade (vs PIC16C72-10/SS)
Design Notes
The PIC16C72-20/SS operates from a single 5V supply (4.0V to 5.5V) with typical active current around 5-13 mA at 20MHz and sleep current below 1uA with WDT disabled. Use a bulk 10uF electrolytic plus 0.1uF ceramic decoupling capacitor placed within 10mm of the Vdd pin (pin 27). For battery-backed or sleep-heavy designs, ensure the Brown-out Reset (BOR) is configured to match the supply droop profile - the default BOR threshold is appropriate for most 5V rails. The MCLR pin (pin 1) requires a 10kohm pull-up to Vdd and a 100nF cap to ground for proper reset; do not leave MCLR floating.
OTP memory is one-time programmable - any code bug discovered after programming requires a new chip. Develop and debug on a Flash-based equivalent (PIC16F72-I/SS in the same SSOP-28 footprint) and only flash-freeze to PIC16C72-20 for production. Verify MPLAB X IDE supports your target part before committing; PIC16C72 needs a compatible compiler configuration. Ensure the ADC's Vref source (pin 5 RA3/AN3/Vref or Vdd) is stable - any noise on the reference corrupts all ADC readings; add a 10nF ceramic on the Vref pin if used.
At 20MHz with all peripherals active, the PIC16C72-20/SS dissipates approximately 65-100mW internally. The 28-SSOP package's theta_JA of approximately 80-100 C/W gives a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 4-8 C/W. Estimated: at 25C ambient with no airflow, junction temperature rises 4-8 C, well within the commercial 70C limit. For industrial temperature grade designs, choose PIC16C72-20I/SS (-40C to +85C) or PIC16F72-I/SS instead. The 28-SSOP package handles modest dissipation; no heatsink is required.
Compliance Information
PIC16C72-20/SS is a legacy OTP MCU predating RoHS requirements; PIC16C-series parts typically use SnPb or non-RoHS finishes per Microchip legacy product status. For RoHS-compliant designs, choose PIC16F72-I/SS (Flash, RoHS). Automotive designs should use AEC-Q100-qualified variants or PIC16F-series equivalents.
