PIC16C72A-04E/SO - 8-bit MCU, 4MHz, 3.5KB OTP, SOIC-28 | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C72A-04E/SO ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $7.2 | $7.20 |
| 10 | $6.48 | $64.80 |
| 100 | $5.76 | $576.00 |
| 500 | $5.18 | $2,590.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.61 | $4,610.00 |
PIC16C72A-04E/SO Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory, data memory, and peripheral interfaces on one die. The PIC16C family uses a Harvard RISC architecture, so instruction fetch and data access occur on separate buses; this lets most instructions execute in a single instruction cycle, which is the source of the PIC family's well-known 1:1 MIPS-to-MHz efficiency. The PIC16C72A specifically occupies the "peripheral-rich" tier of the mid-range family, distinguished from smaller cousins like PIC16C61/62 by an on-chip 8-bit ADC, a synchronous serial port (SSP) configurable for SPI or I2C, and a capture/compare/PWM (CCP) module.
Differentiating features include a programmable 8-bit Timer0 with an 8-bit prescaler, an additional 16-bit Timer1, a watchdog timer with its own on-chip RC oscillator, and power-saving SLEEP mode with wake-up on pin change. The 8-bit successive-approximation ADC has 5 input channels multiplexed to a single sample-and-hold, giving designers analog sensing without an external converter IC. Brown-out-reset holds the MCU in reset when VDD drops below a programmable threshold, preventing code-execution errors at low supply voltage.
Architecturally, the PIC16C72A uses a 14-bit instruction word and 8-bit data path, with a 35-instruction opcode set that is a superset of the PIC16C6X/7X base, providing easy migration within the mid-range family. The OTP EPROM cell allows one-time field programming with a standard EPROM programmer socket, making the part cost-optimized for mature, high-volume production where code revision is finalized.
Typical applications include industrial control front-ends, sensor signal-conditioning nodes, automotive body-electronics nodes (with the appropriate temperature grade), appliance user-interface controllers, and battery chargers requiring closed-loop analog monitoring. The 4 MHz maximum clock at the "04" speed grade suits designs that do not need high-speed serial or pulse-width-modulation switching.
When designing with this part, evaluate whether OTP memory fits the production volume and code-stability profile: for prototypes or frequent firmware updates, choose the Flash-based PIC16F72 in the same 28-pin SOIC footprint. A 1 µF tantalum decoupling capacitor placed within 5 mm of VDD/SS pin pair is mandatory due to the EPROM-programming charge-pump transient load.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C72A-04E/SO — 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 PIC16C72A-04E/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Timers, Package, Program Memory Type, Mounting Type, Program Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C72A-04/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.22 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C72A-04I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C72A-20/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F72-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C72A-04E/SP
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C72A-04E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C72A-04E/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC16C Mid-Range RISC, 14-bit instruction word |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP EPROM |
| Data Memory (RAM) | 128 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | Not present |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| CPU Speed | 4 MIPS (1 MIPS per MHz) |
| Instruction Set Size | 35 single-word instructions |
| I/O Pins | 22 digital I/O |
| ADC | 5 channels, 8-bit resolution |
| Timers | Timer0 (8-bit w/ 8-bit prescaler), Timer1 (16-bit) |
| Capture/Compare/PWM | 1 CCP module, 10-bit PWM |
| Serial Interface | Synchronous Serial Port (SPI / I2C configurable) |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 4.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Brown-Out Reset | Yes, programmable threshold |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes, with dedicated on-chip RC oscillator |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 °C to +125 °C (Extended, "E" suffix) |
| Package | 28-pin SOIC wide-body (SO), 7.50 mm body width |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (lead-free SO package) |
PIC16C72A-04E/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2/AN2 — Port A bit 2 / Analog input channel 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3/AN3 — Port A bit 3 / Analog input channel 3 / VREF+ |
| Pin 3 | RA4/T0CKI — Port A bit 4 / Timer0 clock input (open-drain) |
| Pin 4 | RA5/AN4/SS — Port A bit 5 / Analog input channel 4 / SPI Slave Select |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator crystal input / external clock input |
| Pin 7 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator crystal output / clock out (Fosc/4) |
| Pin 8 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — Port C bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 9 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — Port C bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 output |
| Pin 10 | RC2/CCP1 — Port C bit 2 / Capture/Compare/PWM 1 output |
| Pin 11 | RC3/SCK/SCL — Port C bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 12 | RC4/SDI/SDA — Port C bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 13 | RC5/SDO — Port C bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 14 | RC6 — Port C bit 6 |
| Pin 15 | RC7 — Port C bit 7 |
| Pin 16 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 17 | VDD — Positive supply (4.0 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 18 | RB0/INT — Port B bit 0 / External interrupt input |
| Pin 19 | RB1 — Port B bit 1 |
| Pin 20 | RB2 — Port B bit 2 |
| Pin 21 | RB3/PGM — Port B bit 3 / Low-voltage programming input |
| Pin 22 | RB4 — Port B bit 4 |
| Pin 23 | RB5 — Port B bit 5 |
| Pin 24 | RB6/PGC — Port B bit 6 / In-circuit debugger clock |
| Pin 25 | RB7/PGD — Port B bit 7 / In-circuit debugger data |
| Pin 26 | RA0/AN0 — Port A bit 0 / Analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 27 | RA1/AN1 — Port A bit 1 / Analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 28 | VDD — Positive supply (4.0 V to 5.5 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C72A-04E/SO is suitable for 7 applications: Industrial Sensor Front-End, Appliance User Interface Controller, Battery Charger Control Loop, Automotive Body Electronics Node, HVAC Thermostat Controller, Smart Sensor Hub with SPI/I2C Expansion, LED Lighting Pattern Controller.
Industrial Sensor Front-End
The PIC16C72A-04E/SO is well-suited for industrial sensor-conditioning nodes that combine analog and digital I/O. Its 5-channel 8-bit ADC samples thermocouple or 4-20 mA-loop-derived voltages, while the 22 digital I/O pins drive indicator LEDs, scan keypads, and handshake with external UART peripherals. The extended -40 to +125 °C temperature range allows mounting inside sealed factory enclosures without derating. Synchronous serial port configured as SPI reads an external EEPROM for calibration constants; CCP module generates PWM to control a proportional valve. The 4 MHz clock is sufficient for sensor sampling at 100 Hz with margin for display multiplexing.
Recommended
Appliance User Interface Controller
In washing machines, dishwashers, and microwave ovens the PIC16C72A-04E/SO drives a 7-segment or character-LCD display, scans a 4x4 key matrix, and pulses a buzzer or beeper. Its 22 I/O lines are well-matched to 4-digit 7-segment plus 16-key scanning without an external I/O expander. The capture/compare/PWM module generates a variable-frequency tone for the beeper and dimming control for backlight LEDs. Brown-out-reset prevents the controller from entering undefined states during line-voltage brown-outs. The OTP memory locks the firmware at production, removing any chance of firmware-tampering issues in consumer settings.
Recommended
Battery Charger Control Loop
The PIC16C72A-04E/SO implements closed-loop charge control for sealed lead-acid or NiMH battery packs by measuring pack voltage through the 8-bit ADC and switching a power-MOSFET driver through the CCP PWM output. Five ADC channels monitor individual cell voltages, pack temperature, and charge current via a shunt amplifier. The synchronous serial port logs charge-cycle data to an external SPI EEPROM for warranty tracking. Brown-out-reset ensures the controller restarts cleanly if the battery is deeply discharged at power-on. The 4 MHz clock performs up to 4 million instruction cycles per second, more than enough for a 1 kHz PID control loop.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics Node
Within a body-control module (BCM) or seat-controller, the PIC16C72A-04E/SO drives LEDs, reads switch inputs, and LIN-bus-communicates via the SSP block paired with an external LIN transceiver. The extended -40 to +125 °C temperature grade supports under-dash mounting where cabin temperatures can exceed 85 °C in summer. The brown-out-reset and watchdog timer together satisfy automotive robustness requirements for limp-home mode. The 22 digital I/O ports interface directly to 12 V automotive signals via external resistor dividers and clamping diodes. OTP memory prevents accidental firmware modifications in the field, which matters for safety-related modules.
Recommended
HVAC Thermostat Controller
The PIC16C72A-04E/SO runs a residential or light-commercial thermostat, reading temperature from an NTC thermistor bridge on one of the 5 ADC channels and switching a 24 VAC furnace or compressor contactor through the CCP PWM output. Synchronous serial port expands to a COG or character-LCD module via SPI. Sleep mode with wake-up on pin change reduces average quiescent current below 10 µA on battery backup, extending life of the backup cells during power outages. The 3.5 KB OTP EPROM holds a full week-day program with four setpoints per day, holiday override, and adaptive recovery algorithms.
Recommended
Smart Sensor Hub with SPI/I2C Expansion
The PIC16C72A-04E/SO acts as a low-cost I2C/SPI master hub, polling external sensor ICs such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, or environmental sensors, and repackaging their data into a single UART or SPI output stream. The 5 ADC channels also accept legacy analog sensors, letting designers combine new digital sensors with existing analog ones on the same PCB. Brown-out-reset and watchdog timer together provide fault recovery if the upstream sensor or bus hangs. The 22 I/O pins accommodate up to 3 independent SPI slaves via chip-select lines. The 4 MHz clock comfortably drives 400 kHz I2C and 1 MHz SPI without bus-arbiter overhead.
Recommended
LED Lighting Pattern Controller
Architectural and decorative LED controllers use the PIC16C72A-04E/SO to drive RGB LED strips or matrices via PWM. The 10-bit CCP PWM, combined with software-PWM on other I/O pins, can dim up to 22 channels independently for color-mixing fixtures. The ADC channels accept potentiometer inputs for manual color/brightness control. Synchronous serial port accepts DMX-512 frames from an external MAX485 transceiver, allowing daisy-chained fixtures. The extended -40 to +125 °C operating range handles outdoor fixture temperatures under direct sunlight. The OTP EPROM locks the programmed pattern sequences, preventing end-user firmware tampering.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C72A-04E/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C72A-04/SO | PIC16C72A-04I/SO | PIC16C72A-20/SO | PIC16F72-I/SO | PIC16C72A-04E/SP | PIC16C72A-04E/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-pin SOIC wide-body (SO) | 28-pin SOIC wide-body (SO) | 28-pin SOIC wide-body (SO) | 28-pin SOIC wide-body (SO) | 28-pin SOIC wide-body (SO) | 28-pin PDIP (SP) | 28-pin SSOP (SS) |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory Type | 3.5 KB OTP EPROM | 3.5 KB OTP EPROM | 3.5 KB OTP EPROM | 3.5 KB OTP EPROM | 1.75 KB Flash | 3.5 KB OTP EPROM | 3.5 KB OTP EPROM |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 °C to +125 °C | 0 °C to +70 °C | -40 °C to +85 °C | 0 °C to +70 °C | -40 °C to +85 °C | -40 °C to +125 °C | -40 °C to +125 °C |
| ADC Channels | 5 x 8-bit | 5 x 8-bit | 5 x 8-bit | 5 x 8-bit | 5 x 8-bit | 5 x 8-bit | 5 x 8-bit |
| RAM | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes |
| Supply Voltage | 4.0 V to 5.5 V | 4.0 V to 5.5 V | 4.0 V to 5.5 V | 4.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 4.0 V to 5.5 V | 4.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Brown-Out Reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Key Differentiators
- Extended -40 to +125 °C operating temperature range (vs PIC16C72A-04/SO)
- Flash reprogrammability for field updates and prototype iteration (vs PIC16F72-I/SO)
- Same SOIC-28 footprint across temperature and speed grades (vs PIC16C72A-20/SO)
Design Notes
PIC16C72A-04E/SO requires a single VDD supply of 4.0 V to 5.5 V and draws a typical operating current of less than 2 mA at 4 MHz with all peripherals active, dropping to under 10 µA in SLEEP mode with watchdog disabled. Place a 0.1 µF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pins (pin 17 and pin 28 are both VDD on this package) and a bulk 10 µF tantalum at the regulator output. The internal EPROM-programming charge-pump creates brief VDD transient loads during programming, so the bulk capacitor must be close to the MCU. Both VSS pins (pin 5 and pin 16) must be connected to a low-impedance ground plane.
The 28-pin SOIC wide-body package has a 1.27 mm (0.050 inch) lead pitch. Recommended PCB footprint per IPC-7351 includes 0.6 mm-wide pads with 2.0 mm pad length to ensure reliable solder fillet formation. Keep traces to OSC1 and OSC2 short (under 10 mm) and surrounded by a ground guard ring to reduce oscillator jitter from switching noise. Analog inputs (RA0-RA5) should be routed away from digital switching signals (RC lines driving LEDs or relays) to minimize ADC crosstalk. The MCLR pin is not present in this package variant - reset is generated internally only.
Configuration word bits must be set correctly before code execution begins; in particular, the watchdog timer enable bit (WDTEN) defaults to ON on the PIC16C72A, which can cause unintended resets in long loops. The oscillator configuration bits must match the actual crystal or resonator frequency - a 4 MHz part programmed for 20 MHz oscillator mode will fail to start. For low-voltage programming, RB3 must be tied to ground through a pull-down during programming entry, and the PGC/PGD pins (RB6/RB7) must not have series resistors greater than 1 kΩ during in-circuit programming. Brown-out-reset voltage level must be configured lower than the minimum expected VDD, or the part will stay in reset.
Compliance Information
Lead-free SO package is RoHS compliant. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - for AEC-Q100 applications choose the automotive-graded PIC16C72A-04E/SO family variants per Microchip product number scheme. Extended temperature grade does not imply automotive qualification.
