PIC16C72AT-04E/SS - 8-bit 4MHz OTP MCU 3.5KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C72AT-04E/SS β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5.1 | $5.10 |
| 10 | $4.59 | $45.90 |
| 100 | $4.07 | $407.00 |
| 500 | $3.66 | $1,830.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.3 | $3,300.00 |
PIC16C72AT-04E/SS Overview
An 8-bit PIC microcontroller is a Harvard-architecture RISC device optimized for embedded control. In the broader hierarchy, PIC16C sits within the PICmicro mid-range family, which itself belongs to the 8-bit microcontroller category, itself a sub-class of microcontrollers, embedded processors, and ultimately semiconductors. The OTP program memory means each device can be programmed once, suiting low-to-medium volume production where firmware is finalized and field updates are not anticipated.
Key features of the PIC16C72AT-04E/SS include the high-performance RISC CPU with only 35 single-word instructions to learn, all single-cycle except program branches (which take two cycles), 22 general-purpose digital I/O pins, and the integrated A/D converter that eliminates the need for an external ADC chip in sensor-interface designs. The 4MHz maximum clock input provides a 1 microsecond instruction cycle time, balancing throughput against power consumption in cost-sensitive applications.
The device uses a 14-bit instruction word and 8-bit data path, with a 200 ns minimum instruction cycle at 20 MHz. The PIC16C72A family supports both internal and external oscillator modes and offers in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) via two dedicated pins, simplifying manufacturing test and reducing programming socket cost.
Typical applications include appliance control, sensor signal conditioning with on-chip A/D conversion, automotive body electronics (sub-systems), HVAC thermostat control, and low-cost industrial monitoring. The combination of integrated A/D, PWM, and 22 I/O pins allows a single PIC16C72AT-04E/SS to replace multiple discrete components.
When designing with this device, allocate adequate decoupling (typically 0.1 uF ceramic per VDD pin) and ensure MCLR pin handling follows Microchip application notes for in-circuit serial programming compatibility. Brown-out reset configuration must be matched to the application's minimum operating voltage to avoid unintended resets during supply droop.
This page synthesizes the Microchip datasheet, current distributor pricing across DigiKey and Octopart, and drop-in same-package alternatives from the PIC16C72 family tree, providing context not found in the datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C72AT-04E/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-04E/SS (same form factor and footprint) β differing in ADC, Core Architecture, Instruction Cycle Time, Operating Temperature Range, Package.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C72A-04E/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C72AT-20E/SS
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$3.18 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C72AT-04I/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C72AT-04E/SO
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$6.08 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C72-04E/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C72AT-04/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C72AT-04E/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC16C RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) |
| RAM | 128 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 1 us @ 4 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 22 |
| ADC | 5-channel, 8-bit |
| PWM Modules | 1 (Capture/Compare/PWM) |
| Timers | 2 x 8-bit, 1 x 16-bit |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes |
| Brown-out Reset | Yes |
| Power-On Reset | Yes |
| Package | 28-SSOP (5.30 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (Extended, E suffix) |
| Instruction Set | 35 single-word instructions |
| In-Circuit Serial Programming | Yes (ICSP) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16C72AT-04E/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP β Master Clear (reset) input / programming voltage |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 β PORTA bit 0 / analog input 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 β PORTA bit 1 / analog input 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2 β PORTA bit 2 / analog input 2 |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF β PORTA bit 3 / analog input 3 / ADC reference |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI β PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4/SS β PORTA bit 5 / analog input 4 / SPI slave select |
| Pin 8 | VSS β Ground |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKIN β Oscillator crystal input / external clock in |
| Pin 10 | OSC2/CLKOUT β Oscillator crystal output / clock out |
| Pin 11 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI β PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock |
| Pin 12 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 β PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 |
| Pin 13 | RC2/CCP1 β PORTC bit 2 / CCP1 (PWM) |
| Pin 14 | RC3 β PORTC bit 3 |
| Pin 15 | RC4 β PORTC bit 4 |
| Pin 16 | RC5 β PORTC bit 5 |
| Pin 17 | RC6 β PORTC bit 6 |
| Pin 18 | RC7 β PORTC bit 7 |
| Pin 19 | VSS β Ground |
| Pin 20 | VDD β Positive supply (4.0-5.5 V) |
| Pin 21 | RB0/INT β PORTB bit 0 / external interrupt |
| Pin 22 | RB1 β PORTB bit 1 |
| Pin 23 | RB2 β PORTB bit 2 |
| Pin 24 | RB3/PGM β PORTB bit 3 / LVP programming |
| Pin 25 | RB4 β PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 26 | RB5 β PORTB bit 5 |
| Pin 27 | RB6/PGC β PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 28 | RB7/PGD β PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data |
Typical Applications
PIC16C72AT-04E/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Control Boards, HVAC Thermostat Controllers, Automotive Body Electronics, Sensor Signal Conditioning, Industrial Monitoring Panels, Battery-Operated Remote Controls.
Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16C72AT-04E/SS fits appliance control boards where 22 I/O pins, integrated 5-channel 8-bit ADC, and PWM outputs enable direct drive of relays, triacs, and indicator LEDs. Its 3.5 KB OTP program memory suits locked-down firmware for washers, dishwashers, and microwave ovens, where one-time programming lowers unit cost. The 4 MHz operation is sufficient for keypad scanning, sensor polling, and timer sequencing at update rates under 1 kHz, while the Brown-out Reset prevents erratic behavior during mains dips. With the Extended -40C to +125C range, the MCU handles under-cabinet heat in kitchen environments without additional thermal management.
Recommended
HVAC Thermostat Controllers
For HVAC thermostat designs, the PIC16C72AT-04E/SS integrates temperature sensing via the on-chip 8-bit ADC reading thermistor dividers, plus PWM control of fan motors and TRIAC gating for compressor switching. The Watchdog Timer and Brown-out Reset together guarantee recovery from brown-outs during compressor inrush, while the 22 I/O pins drive LCD segments, keypad matrix, and relay outputs without external logic. The Extended -40C to +125C rating handles attic and equipment-room installations. OTP ROM prevents field firmware tampering, satisfying safety certification requirements for heating equipment.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
The PIC16C72AT-04E/SS supports automotive body modules such as lighting controllers, mirror adjusters, and seat controllers where Extended -40C to +125C operation and 5V tolerance handle 12V battery transients via external clamps. Its 5-channel 8-bit ADC reads wiper position, ambient light, and switch states; PWM output dims interior lamps at frequencies above audible range. While not AEC-Q100 qualified, the MCU is widely used in non-safety body applications where OEM automotive-grade certification is not mandated. The 22 I/O pins consolidate switch-matrix scanning and relay drivers into a single IC.
Recommended
Sensor Signal Conditioning
In low-cost sensor-interface designs, the PIC16C72AT-04E/SS digitizes analog signals directly via its 5-channel 8-bit ADC, eliminating an external ADC chip. The MCU can then scale, linearize, and transmit readings over UART, I2C, or SPI. The 3.5 KB OTP memory accommodates piecewise-linear thermistor tables or look-up-based pressure compensation. Operating from a single 5V rail, the device pairs with 4-20 mA loop-powered transmitters and ratiometric sensor bridges. With 22 I/O and three timers, the MCU also handles pump control loops, sample-and-hold timing, and alarm thresholds in a single chip.
Recommended
Industrial Monitoring Panels
The PIC16C72AT-04E/SS is well suited to industrial front-panel controllers and indicator boards that aggregate digital switch inputs, drive LED or LCD displays, and actuate control outputs. Its PWM module drives backlight brightness or buzzer tones, while the UART peripheral streams telemetry to a host PLC. The 128-byte RAM is adequate for command parsing and short event logs. The -40C to +125C range tolerates cabinet environments near motors or heaters. OTP ROM locks the firmware against unauthorized modification, a requirement in regulated industrial equipment.
Recommended
Battery-Operated Remote Controls
Although not a low-power part, the PIC16C72AT-04E/SS finds use in line-powered or rechargeable remote controls where its PWM channels drive IR or RF modulators, its 5-channel ADC reads battery voltage and joystick position, and its 22 I/O pins matrix-scan keypads. The Brown-out Reset prevents corruption of the OTP memory map during battery insertion transients. At 4 MHz, instruction throughput is sufficient for protocol bit-banging at 38 kHz IR carrier frequencies. Extended temperature rating supports outdoor and garage-door remote applications.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C72AT-04E/SS β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C72A-04E/SS | PIC16C72AT-20E/SS | PIC16C72AT-04I/SS | PIC16C72AT-04E/SO | PIC16C72-04E/SS | PIC16C72AT-04/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP | 28-SOIC | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Max Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C | 0C to +70C (Commercial) |
| ADC | 5-ch 8-bit | 5-ch 8-bit | 5-ch 8-bit | 5-ch 8-bit | 5-ch 8-bit | 5-ch 8-bit | 5-ch 8-bit |
| I/O Pins | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 |
| RAM | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes |
Key Differentiators
- Extended temperature range over Industrial-grade siblings (vs PIC16C72AT-04I/SS)
- True 4 MHz grade with full instruction-cycle margin (vs PIC16C72AT-20E/SS)
- Tape-and-reel packaging for SMT production lines (vs PIC16C72A-04E/SS (tube))
Design Notes
Place a 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 20) with the ground return to pin 19 (VSS) on the same side of the PCB. Add a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitor on the same 5V rail for transient suppression when the MCU drives relays or solenoids. The PIC16C72AT-04E/SS draws approximately 2-5 mA active at 4 MHz and 5V, so the supply design must handle up to 15 mA inrush during ICSP programming through MCLR/VPP.
The MCLR pin (pin 1) must be pulled high through a 10 kohm resistor for normal operation and must be brought low only for external reset or ICSP entry. Leave the MCLR pin floating or with weak pull-up will result in unreliable operation. Additionally, the in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) interface uses RB6/PGC (pin 27) and RB7/PGD (pin 28); these pins must not be heavily loaded or have series resistors above 470 ohm to avoid programming failures.
When using the on-chip 8-bit ADC, the analog reference (RA3/AN3/VREF, pin 5) should be bypassed with a 0.1 uF ceramic and 10 uF electrolytic combination. For best ADC accuracy, source impedance should be below 10 kohm to allow the internal sample-and-hold to settle within the acquisition window. Use the PORTA pins (RA0-RA5) exclusively for analog signals and PORTC pins (RC0-RC7) for digital switching waveforms to avoid crosstalk into the ADC.
Estimated: At maximum active current of approximately 15 mA (worst case I/O drive, ADC active) and 5V supply, the PIC16C72AT-04E/SS dissipates roughly 75 mW internally. The 28-SSOP package has a theta_JA around 95 C/W on a standard JEDEC 4-layer test board, yielding a self-heating junction-temperature rise of approximately 7 C at 25 C ambient - well within the 125 C upper limit. No external heatsink is required for the SSOP package.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified; for automotive safety applications choose PIC16F72 or PIC18F equivalent. Lead-free matte-tin finish per Microchip packaging specification.
