PIC16C72AT-04E/SO - 8-Bit 4MHz OTP MCU 3.5KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C72AT-04E/SO β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $9.5 | $9.50 |
| 10 | $8.55 | $85.50 |
| 100 | $7.6 | $760.00 |
| 500 | $6.84 | $3,420.00 |
| 1,000 | $6.08 | $6,080.00 |
PIC16C72AT-04E/SO Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, program memory (ROM/EPROM/Flash/OTP), data memory (RAM), and peripherals onto one silicon die. PIC microcontrollers use a RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) architecture with only 35 single-word instructions, making them easy to learn and program. The PIC16C72A belongs to Microchip's mid-range PIC16 family, positioned between the baseline PIC10/12/16 series and the enhanced PIC18 family. MCUs sit at the bottom of the embedded computing hierarchy: microcontroller -> embedded processor -> integrated circuit -> semiconductor, and serve as the brain of countless industrial, automotive, and consumer products.
Key features of this variant include a 4 MHz maximum operating clock frequency (200 ns instruction cycle), an integrated 5-channel 8-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC), two additional 8-bit timers plus one 16-bit timer/counter, a USART/SCI serial port, and a capture/compare/PWM (CCP) module. The 4 MHz speed grade uses the "-04" suffix per Microchip's nomenclature, distinguishing it from 10 MHz (-10) and 20 MHz (-20) siblings in the same family.
The architecture employs a Harvard-style separate program/data bus design with a 14-bit instruction word, enabling single-cycle instruction execution except for program branches (two cycles). The OTP EPROM program memory at 3.5KB (2K x 14) is one-time programmable - once programmed, it cannot be erased, making the PIC16C72A suitable for production volumes where the cost of flash is unnecessary and the device will not require firmware updates.
Typical applications include industrial control systems, automotive subsystems, consumer electronics, sensor interface modules, and low-to-medium complexity embedded control tasks that benefit from the ADC for analog signal acquisition. The 28-SOIC footprint also supports hand-soldering and standard SMT assembly lines.
When designing with this device, ensure the supply voltage stays within the 4.0V to 5.5V operating range; operation below 4.0V may cause EPROM read errors. Decouple VDD/VSS with a 0.1 uF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the pins, and reserve the MCLR pin for a proper reset circuit with the appropriate pull-up.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative cross-references, and practical design considerations not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C72AT-04E/SO 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-04E/SO (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Package, ADC, Timers, Core Architecture, Operating Temperature Range.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C72A-04E/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C72-04/SO
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$3.45 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C72-04I/SO
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$4.71 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16F72-I/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C72-10/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C72-10I/SO
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$4.25 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C72AT-04E/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | None |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.0 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 22 |
| ADC | 5 channels x 8-bit |
| Timers | 2 x 8-bit + 1 x 16-bit |
| Serial Interface | USART/SCI |
| CCP Modules | 1 |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (extended) |
| Package | 28-pin SOIC (300 mil) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Pitch | 1.27 mm |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16C72AT-04E/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP β Master clear reset input / programming voltage input |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 β Digital I/O / analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 β Digital I/O / analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2 β Digital I/O / analog input channel 2 |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF β Digital I/O / analog input channel 3 / ADC voltage reference |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI β Digital I/O / Timer 0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4/SS β Digital I/O / analog input channel 4 / SPI slave select |
| Pin 8 | RE0/RD/AN5 β Digital I/O / parallel slave port read / analog input channel 5 |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKIN β Crystal oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 10 | OSC2/CLKOUT β Crystal oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 11 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI β Digital I/O / Timer 1 oscillator output / Timer 1 clock input |
| Pin 12 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 β Digital I/O / Timer 1 oscillator input / Capture-Compare-PWM 2 |
| Pin 13 | RC2/CCP1 β Digital I/O / Capture-Compare-PWM 1 output |
| Pin 14 | RC3/SCK/SCL β Digital I/O / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 15 | RC4/SDI/SDA β Digital I/O / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 16 | RC5/SDO β Digital I/O / SPI data out |
| Pin 17 | RC6/TX/CK β Digital I/O / USART asynchronous transmit / synchronous clock |
| Pin 18 | RC7/RX/DT β Digital I/O / USART asynchronous receive / synchronous data |
| Pin 19 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | VDD β Positive supply voltage (4.0V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 21 | RB0/INT β Digital I/O / external interrupt input |
| Pin 22 | RB1 β Digital I/O |
| Pin 23 | RB2 β Digital I/O |
| Pin 24 | RB3 β Digital I/O |
| Pin 25 | RB4 β Digital I/O |
| Pin 26 | RB5 β Digital I/O |
| Pin 27 | RB6 β Digital I/O |
| Pin 28 | RB7 β Digital I/O |
Typical Applications
PIC16C72AT-04E/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Control Systems, Automotive Subsystems, Consumer Electronics, Sensor Interface Modules, Low-Volume Motor Control, HVAC and Building Automation.
Industrial Control Systems
The PIC16C72AT-04E/SO suits industrial control boards requiring a compact 8-bit MCU with integrated ADC for sensor signal acquisition. The 5-channel 8-bit ADC handles analog inputs from temperature, pressure, and flow sensors, while the 22 I/O pins drive relays, solenoids, and indicator LEDs. Its extended -40C to +125C operating temperature range matches harsh factory floor environments, and the 4 MHz clock provides ample compute for PLC-like sequencing logic. The OTP memory locks firmware to prevent unauthorized field modification of safety-critical control code.
Recommended
Automotive Subsystems
The PIC16C72AT-04E/SO is well-suited for non-safety automotive subsystems such as HVAC flap control, interior lighting drivers, seat-position memory, and accessory modules. The 5-channel ADC reads potentiometers and analog sensors, while the CCP module generates PWM signals for motor speed control. The extended temperature range handles under-dash thermal stress, and the wide 4.0-5.5V supply tolerance survives automotive battery transients. OTP memory eliminates the need for in-field firmware updates, reducing warranty exposure. For safety-critical applications, choose the AEC-Q100 qualified equivalent.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics
The PIC16C72AT-04E/SO powers cost-sensitive consumer appliances such as coffee makers, washing machine control boards, microwave oven interfaces, and small kitchen appliances. The 3.5KB OTP holds application firmware with simple state machines, while the 22 I/O lines interface with keypads, seven-segment displays, and triac-driven loads. The CCP module produces PWM for variable-speed motor control in fans and mixers. Microchip's PIC architecture offers proven reliability and an extensive library of free application notes for consumer designs. Tape-and-reel packaging supports high-volume SMT assembly.
Recommended
Sensor Interface Modules
The PIC16C72AT-04E/SO acts as a dedicated sensor hub in distributed measurement systems. The 5-channel 8-bit ADC digitizes signals from thermistors, photocells, and strain gauges, while the USART streams processed data to a host controller via RS-232 or RS-485. The 4 MHz instruction cycle supports 200 ns sampling rates - sufficient for slow-changing environmental variables. With 128 bytes of RAM, the device buffers multiple readings before transmitting. The compact 28-SOIC footprint fits inside small sensor enclosures, and the wide supply tolerance handles long sensor cable runs with voltage drop.
Recommended
Low-Volume Motor Control
The PIC16C72AT-04E/SO drives small DC motors and stepper motors in printers, scanners, and small-format point-of-sale equipment. The CCP module generates PWM up to 10-bit resolution at the 4 MHz clock, providing smooth speed control. The 16-bit timer/counter captures feedback from quadrature encoders for closed-loop position control, while the USART communicates with a higher-level controller. The integrated ADC reads motor current via shunt resistors for basic stall detection. OTP memory locks the motor control algorithm to protect proprietary tuning parameters.
Recommended
HVAC and Building Automation
The PIC16C72AT-04E/SO fits HVAC zone controllers, thermostats, and building automation nodes that require analog I/O, digital I/O, and serial communication in a single 28-pin SOIC. The 5-channel ADC reads temperature, humidity, and CO2 sensors, while 22 digital I/O drive damper motors, relay outputs, and keypad inputs. The USART supports BACnet MS/TP or Modbus RTU on RS-485 networks. With OTP memory, firmware is locked at production to prevent unauthorized HVAC calibration tampering. The extended temperature rating handles plenum-mount installations up to +125C ambient.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C72AT-04E/SO β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C72A-04E/SO | PIC16C72-04/SO | PIC16C72-04I/SO | PIC16F72-I/SO | PIC16C72-10/SO | PIC16C72-10I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-SOIC | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | Flash | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) | 3.5 KB Flash | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 10 MHz | 10 MHz |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes |
| ADC | 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 |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (extended) | -40 C to +125 C (extended) | 0 C to +70 C (commercial) | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | 0 C to +70 C (commercial) | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) |
| Supply Voltage Range | 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 |
Key Differentiators
- Extended temperature range for harsh environments (vs PIC16C72-04/SO)
- Higher clock speed option available in same package (vs PIC16C72-04/SO)
- OTP locks firmware for production stability (vs PIC16F72-I/SO)
- Tape-and-reel packaging for SMT assembly (vs PIC16C72A-04E/SO)
Design Notes
Place a 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 20) and connect the ground side directly to the VSS plane (pin 19). For applications with high-current switching loads driven by the I/O pins, add a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitor near the MCU to handle transient current demand. The PIC16C72AT-04E/SO requires VDD to remain within 4.0V to 5.5V; operation below 4.0V may cause EPROM read errors during instruction fetch.
Always connect the MCLR pin (pin 1) to VDD through a 10 kohm pull-up resistor to ensure proper device reset at power-up. A direct connection to VDD is acceptable only if no external reset is required. The MCLR pin also serves as VPP during OTP programming - do not place capacitors on MCLR that would slow the VPP rise time. Floating MCLR causes unpredictable operation, latch-up, or EPROM programming failure.
For the 28-SOIC package, use a land pattern with 1.27 mm pitch pads and ensure the SOIC thermal pad (if present on the bottom of the package) is soldered to a small copper pour for mechanical stability. Keep clock traces (OSC1/OSC2, pins 9 and 10) short and away from high-current switching traces to minimize radiated EMI. Place the crystal or resonator as close to the OSC pins as possible, with ground guard traces around the oscillator network to reduce noise coupling.
Configure the analog inputs (RA0-RA5, AN0-AN5) as analog only when needed, and route them away from digital switching signals. The ADC reference voltage (RA3/VREF, pin 5) must be stable - add a 0.1 uF bypass capacitor directly at the VREF pin if used as an external reference. If using the internal 5V reference, ensure the VDD supply is well-regulated because the ADC accuracy directly depends on VDD stability. Use separate analog and digital ground planes joined at a single point near the MCU.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Standard grade - not AEC-Q100 qualified; for automotive safety-critical applications use PIC16C72A-E/SO automotive variants or PIC16F72 with AEC-Q100 qualification. Lead-free and halogen-free per Microchip environmental compliance data.
