PIC16C72AT-04/SS - 8-Bit 4MHz OTP MCU 3.5KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C72AT-04/SS β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5.95 | $5.95 |
| 10 | $5.36 | $53.60 |
| 100 | $4.78 | $478.00 |
| 500 | $4.2 | $2,100.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.71 | $3,710.00 |
PIC16C72AT-04/SS Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, memory (program + data), and programmable I/O peripherals. The PIC16C7x family belongs to Microchip's mid-range architecture, sitting between baseline (PIC10/12/16C5x) and enhanced mid-range (PIC16F1xxx) tiers. The mid-range RISC core executes 35 single-word instructions, with all instructions completing in one instruction cycle except program branches (two cycles). The 8-bit data path and 14-bit instruction word are characteristic of this generation, providing efficient code density for embedded control applications.
Key features include a built-in 8-channel 8-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC), two 8-bit timers (Timer0 and Timer2) plus one 16-bit timer (Timer1), a Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (USART/SCI) for serial communication, an I2C/SPI-compatible Synchronous Serial Port (SSP), and a watchdog timer with its own on-chip RC oscillator for reliable operation. The supply voltage range is 4.0V to 5.5V (commercial/industrial grade), and the device operates across 0C to +70C. Power consumption is minimized through the SLEEP mode and the wide operating voltage range, making this MCU suitable for both line-powered and battery-assisted applications.
The PIC16C72A uses Harvard architecture with separate program and data buses, allowing instruction fetch to occur in parallel with data access. This yields nearly 4 MIPS sustained throughput at 4 MHz oscillator input. The OTP program memory is programmed once via the In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) interface and cannot be erased, making this part ideal for mature production designs where firmware is finalized. Designers requiring reprogrammability during development should select the PIC16F72 Flash-based equivalent.
Typical applications include industrial process control, sensor signal conditioning, automotive body electronics (non-safety-critical subsystems), HVAC control systems, and consumer appliance control. The integrated ADC simplifies analog sensor interfacing for temperature, pressure, and flow measurement.
When designing with this part, plan for OTP-only programming in production and stock sufficient inventory. For prototype or low-volume runs where field updates may be required, evaluate the PIC16F72 or PIC16C72 JW (windowed EPROM) variant. Ensure decoupling capacitors (100 nF + 10 uF bulk) are placed within 5 mm of VDD, and that MCLR is pulled high through a 10 kohm resistor for normal operation.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives drawn from the same PIC16C7x family, and practical design notes not found on individual distributor listings.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C72AT-04/SS 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 PIC16C72AT-04/SS (same form factor and footprint) β differing in ADC, Core Architecture, Data EEPROM, Lead-Free, Maximum Clock Frequency.
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Request AlternativesPIC16C72AT-04/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Family | PIC16C Mid-Range 8-bit |
| Core Architecture | RISC, Harvard, 8-bit data path, 14-bit instruction word |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time-Programmable) EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) |
| Data RAM | 128 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | Not present (use PIC16F72 for Flash/EEPROM) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz (oscillator input) |
| Instruction Throughput | ~1 MIPS at 4 MHz |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 4.0 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 22 |
| ADC | 8-channel, 8-bit |
| Timers | Timer0 (8-bit), Timer1 (16-bit), Timer2 (8-bit) |
| Serial Interfaces | USART/SCI + SSP (I2C/SPI) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes, with dedicated on-chip RC oscillator |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (commercial grade) |
| Package | 28-pin SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package), 0.209 inch (5.30 mm) body width |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| MSL Level | 1 (unlimited floor life at <30C / 85% RH) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free | Yes (matte tin finish) |
| Programming Method | ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) - 2-wire |
| Number of Instructions | 35 single-word |
PIC16C72AT-04/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2/AN2 β Port A bit 2 / Analog input channel 2 |
| Pin 2 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ β Port A bit 3 / Analog input channel 3 / ADC positive reference |
| Pin 3 | RA4/T0CKI β Port A bit 4 / Timer0 clock input (open-drain) |
| Pin 4 | RA5/AN4/SS β Port A bit 5 / Analog input channel 4 / SSP slave select |
| Pin 5 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | OSC1/CLKIN β Oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 7 | OSC2/CLKOUT β Oscillator output / clock out (Fosc/4) |
| Pin 8 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI β Port C bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 9 | RC1/T1OSI β Port C bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input |
| Pin 10 | RC2/CCP1 β Port C bit 2 / Capture/Compare/PWM 1 output |
| Pin 11 | RC3/SCK/SCL β Port C bit 3 / SSP clock (SPI SCK / I2C SCL) |
| Pin 12 | RC4/SDI/SDA β Port C bit 4 / SSP data in (SPI SDI / I2C SDA) |
| Pin 13 | RC5/SDO β Port C bit 5 / SSP data out (SPI SDO) |
| Pin 14 | RC6/TX/CK β Port C bit 6 / USART transmit / clock |
| Pin 15 | RC7/RX/DT β Port C bit 7 / USART receive / data |
| Pin 16 | VSS β Ground reference (second) |
| Pin 17 | VDD β Positive supply voltage (4.0V-5.5V) |
| Pin 18 | RB0/INT β Port B bit 0 / External interrupt input |
| Pin 19 | RB1 β Port B bit 1 |
| Pin 20 | RB2 β Port B bit 2 |
| Pin 21 | RB3/PGM β Port B bit 3 / Low-voltage programming input |
| Pin 22 | RB4 β Port B bit 4 |
| Pin 23 | RB5 β Port B bit 5 |
| Pin 24 | RB6/PGC β Port B bit 6 / ICSP clock (serial programming) |
| Pin 25 | RB7/PGD β Port B bit 7 / ICSP data (serial programming) |
| Pin 26 | RA0/AN0 β Port A bit 0 / Analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 27 | RA1/AN1 β Port A bit 1 / Analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 28 | MCLR/VPP β Master clear reset input (active low) / programming voltage |
Typical Applications
PIC16C72AT-04/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Sensor Monitoring, HVAC Control Systems, Consumer Appliance Control, Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety), Battery Charging Controllers, Security and Access Control Panels.
Industrial Sensor Monitoring
The PIC16C72AT-04/SS fits industrial sensor monitoring systems because its integrated 8-channel 8-bit ADC simplifies direct connection to analog transducers (temperature, pressure, flow) without external signal conditioning. With 22 I/O pins available, the MCU can drive relay outputs, indicator LEDs, and a character LCD while communicating sensor data via the on-chip USART to a PLC or supervisory host. The 4 MHz clock and 1 MIPS throughput handle multi-channel scan loops at 100 Hz per channel with margin for filtering and alarm logic. OTP memory suits mature production firmware that does not require field update, and the SSOP package fits compact DIN-rail mounted PCB assemblies.
Recommended
HVAC Control Systems
HVAC controllers use the PIC16C72AT-04/SS for damper actuator drive, thermostat input, and fan-speed PWM control. The 8-bit ADC digitizes thermistor or RTD inputs across the 0-5V input range, while the three timers (Timer0/1/2) generate PWM outputs for variable-speed blower motors and triac-fired compressor control. The USART enables connection to a building automation network (BACnet or Modbus gateway). Operating from 4.0-5.5V with linear regulator input, the SSOP package allows space-constrained wall-thermostat PCB layouts. OTP memory secures production firmware against unauthorized modification in commercial installations.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Control
The PIC16C72AT-04/SS is well suited for consumer appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and microwave ovens where cost-optimized 8-bit control is required. The 22 I/O pins drive LED indicators, pushbutton input scanning via matrix keypad, and relay outputs for motor and heater switching. The integrated ADC reads water-level sensors and temperature probes, while the SSP peripheral interfaces to a character LCD module for user feedback. OTP memory locks the firmware at production, reducing per-unit cost vs Flash alternatives and protecting IP. The 28-pin SSOP occupies minimal PCB area, enabling compact control boards inside appliance enclosures.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety)
Body electronics modules such as seat controllers, mirror adjusters, and interior lighting drivers can use the PIC16C72AT-04/SS for non-safety-critical subsystems. The USART interfaces to the vehicle's LIN or CAN network via an external transceiver, and the ADC monitors switch positions and ambient light sensors. Note that for full AEC-Q100 automotive qualification, designers should select the PIC16C72A-I/SS automotive-grade equivalent. The 4 MHz clock and 1 MIPS throughput easily handle body-control message latency requirements under 100 ms. OTP memory ensures tamper-resistant firmware in production vehicles.
Recommended
Battery Charging Controllers
Smart battery chargers for cordless tools, e-bikes, and UPS systems employ the PIC16C72AT-04/SS to monitor pack voltage, cell temperature, and charge current via the integrated 8-bit ADC. The timers generate PWM for buck-converter duty cycle control, while the SSP provides SMBus or I2C communication with battery gas-gauge ICs. The 4.0-5.5V supply operates from a 5V regulated rail downstream of the battery. OTP memory secures the charge profile against tampering, which is valuable in safety-critical charging applications. The 28-pin SSOP package fits into handheld charger enclosures.
Recommended
Security and Access Control Panels
The PIC16C72AT-04/SS powers security keypad panels and access controllers that read PIN codes from matrix keypads and drive relay outputs for door strikes. The 22 I/O pins handle a 4x4 keypad matrix, three relay drivers, status LEDs, and a piezo buzzer output via Timer0 PWM. The integrated ADC supports analog sensor input (glass-break detectors or photobeams) for enhanced security. The USART interfaces to a central alarm panel for event reporting. OTP memory locks the encryption and authentication firmware, preventing firmware extraction attacks. The SSOP package allows compact panel-mount PCB designs.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C72AT-04/SS β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C72A-04I/SS | PIC16C72-04/SS | PIC16C72-04/SO | PIC16F72-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SSOP (5.30mm) | 28-SSOP (5.30mm) - same | 28-SSOP (5.30mm) - same | 28-SOIC (7.50mm) - different footprint | 28-SSOP (5.30mm) - same |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM (3.5 KB) | OTP EPROM (3.5 KB) | OTP EPROM (3.5 KB) | OTP EPROM (3.5 KB) | Flash (3.5 KB) - reprogrammable |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Supply Voltage | 4.0V - 5.5V | 4.0V - 5.5V | 4.0V - 5.5V | 4.0V - 5.5V | 2.0V - 5.5V (wider) |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (commercial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | 0C to +70C (commercial) | 0C to +70C (commercial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) |
| ADC Channels / Resolution | 8 channels / 8-bit | 8 / 8-bit | 8 / 8-bit | 8 / 8-bit | 8 / 8-bit |
| I/O Pins | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 |
Key Differentiators
- OTP EPROM memory for tamper-resistant firmware (vs PIC16F72-I/SS)
- Same-package industrial temperature drop-in variant (vs PIC16C72A-04I/SS)
- Integrated 8-channel ADC reduces BOM cost (vs PIC16C72-04/SS (original))
- Narrow-body SSOP package for space-constrained designs (vs PIC16C72-04/SO)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 17) and a 10 uF bulk capacitor at the board power entry point. The PIC16C72AT-04/SS draws up to 25 mA active at 4 MHz / 5V, plus I/O sink/source current. For battery-powered applications, use SLEEP mode aggressively and wake via Watchdog Timer (typical WDT current 6 uA). The wide 4.0-5.5V supply tolerance accommodates USB or 5V regulated rails without additional regulation.
The 28-pin SSOP has a 0.65 mm pitch and 5.30 mm body width, requiring fine-pitch PCB layout. Use NSMD (non-solder-mask defined) pads with a 1:1 pad-to-pad ratio for reliable reflow soldering. Route MCLR (pin 28) with a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD and a 100 nF cap to ground if MCLR is used as a reset input. Keep oscillator traces short and surrounded by ground pour for noise immunity.
OTP memory can be programmed only ONCE - test firmware thoroughly in PIC16F72 or PIC16C72 JW (windowed) emulator parts before committing to PIC16C72AT-04/SS production orders. The ICSP interface uses RB6 (PGC) and RB7 (PGD) - leave these accessible in your PCB layout for programming. Do not exceed VDD of 5.5V; operation at 5.0V +/-5% is recommended for ADC accuracy and noise margin. The ADC reference voltage determines full-scale; using VDD as reference couples supply noise into measurements.
Configure unused I/O pins as outputs (drive low) to minimize current consumption and switching noise. PORTB has internal weak pull-ups that can be individually enabled via the RBPU bit - useful for switch inputs but disabled to save power for output-only pins. The ADC acquisition time must be observed; allow at least 20 us for sample-and-hold settling before initiating conversion, particularly with high-impedance source impedances (>10 kohm).
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant and lead-free per Microchip product page. Commercial temperature grade (0C to +70C); for AEC-Q100 automotive applications, select PIC16C72A-I/SS automotive-grade variants. Halogen-free matte tin finish.
