PIC16C73BT-20E/SO - 8-Bit OTP MCU, 20MHz, 28-SOIC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C73BT-20E/SO ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6.55 | $6.55 |
| 10 | $5.9 | $59.00 |
| 100 | $5.2 | $520.00 |
| 500 | $4.6 | $2,300.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.05 | $4,050.00 |
PIC16C73BT-20E/SO Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, program memory (ROM/EPROM/OTP/Flash), data RAM, and programmable I/O peripherals. The PIC16CXX mid-range family targets low-cost, high-performance embedded applications where deterministic instruction timing and ease of development matter more than raw compute. Within the broader taxonomy, this device is part of the 8-bit MCU -> microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor category. OTP memory allows one-time programming via an external programmer, which is common in cost-sensitive volume production where firmware is final and code updates are not expected in the field.
Key features include three timer modules (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2), a 5-channel 8-bit ADC, a USART for serial communication, and an SSP module supporting SPI and I2C. The architecture also includes a power-on reset, brown-out detection, watchdog timer with its own on-chip RC oscillator, and code protection bits. These integrated peripherals reduce external component count and BOM cost.
The PIC16C73B uses a Harvard RISC architecture with separate program and data buses, enabling simultaneous instruction fetch and operand access. The 14-bit instruction word yields compact code density. Power-saving SLEEP mode, programmable oscillator options (RC, XT, LP, HS), and dual clock sources make it flexible for both line-powered and battery-aware designs. The wide operating temperature range of -40C to +125C supports industrial environments.
Typical applications include appliance control, HVAC fan/valve drivers, industrial sensor interfaces, low-end motor control, and consumer electronics human-machine interfaces. Designers also choose the PIC16C73BT-20E/SO for educational and legacy embedded systems, where the mature toolchain (MPLAB, ICD programmers) and abundant code examples remain valuable.
When designing with this device, ensure the MCLR reset circuit uses the recommended 10 kohm pull-up to VDD, and place a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor within 1 cm of the VDD pin. For ADC accuracy, dedicate separate analog and digital ground traces joined at a single point to minimize digital switching noise coupling into analog channels.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-brand drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C73BT-20E/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 PIC16C73BT-20E/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core Architecture, Instruction Cycle Time, Maximum Clock Frequency, Operating Temperature, Package.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C73B-20E/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C73BT-20/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.6 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C73B-04I/SO
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$7.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F73T-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C73BT-20E/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC16CXX mid-range RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable EPROM) |
| Program Memory Size | 7KB (4K x 14 words) |
| RAM Size | 192 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns at 20 MHz (single cycle, except branches 400 ns) |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 4.0 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 22 |
| ADC | 5 channels, 8-bit resolution |
| Timers | 3 (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2) |
| Communication Peripherals | USART, SSP (SPI / I2C) |
| Package | 28-pin SOIC (SO, 0.300 inch / 7.50 mm body width) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (Extended, "E" grade) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| MSL Level | 1 |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (lead-free SOIC version) |
PIC16C73BT-20E/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP — Master Clear (Reset) input / Programming voltage |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 — Port A bit 0 / Analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 — Port A bit 1 / Analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2 — Port A bit 2 / Analog input channel 2 |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF — Port A bit 3 / Analog input channel 3 / ADC reference |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI — Port A bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4/SS — Port A bit 5 / Analog input channel 4 / SPI Slave Select |
| Pin 8 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input / External clock input |
| Pin 9 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output / Clock output (Fosc/4) |
| Pin 10 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — Port C bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 11 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — Port C bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 output |
| Pin 12 | RC2/CCP1 — Port C bit 2 / Capture/Compare/PWM 1 output |
| Pin 13 | RC3/SCK/SCL — Port C bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 14 | RC4/SDI/SDA — Port C bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 15 | RC5/SDO — Port C bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 16 | RC6/TX/CK — Port C bit 6 / USART transmit / USART clock |
| Pin 17 | RC7/RX/DT — Port C bit 7 / USART receive / USART data |
| Pin 18 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 19 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (4.0V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 20 | RB0/INT — Port B bit 0 / External interrupt input |
| Pin 21 | RB1 — Port B bit 1 |
| Pin 22 | RB2 — Port B bit 2 |
| Pin 23 | RB3 — Port B bit 3 |
| Pin 24 | RB4 — Port B bit 4 |
| Pin 25 | RB5 — Port B bit 5 |
| Pin 26 | RB6/PGC — Port B bit 6 / In-circuit debugger clock |
| Pin 27 | RB7/PGD — Port B bit 7 / In-circuit debugger data |
| Pin 28 | VSS — Ground reference (secondary) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C73BT-20E/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Control Boards, HVAC Fan and Valve Drivers, Industrial Sensor Interfaces, Low-End Motor Control, Consumer Electronics HMI, Educational and Legacy Embedded Systems.
Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16C73BT-20E/SO fits appliance control boards (washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens) because its 7KB OTP memory accommodates fixed-function firmware for motor sequencing, sensor sampling, and user-interface handling. The 5-channel 8-bit ADC reads temperature, water level, and door-switch sensors with adequate resolution, while the USART links to display or wireless modules. The 20 MHz core handles up to 5 MIPS of control-loop throughput, sufficient for PI/PID loops on BLDC or universal motors.
Recommended
HVAC Fan and Valve Drivers
For HVAC damper and valve controllers, the PIC16C73BT-20E/SO provides three timers for PWM generation on triac-driven fan motors and proportional valve actuators. The 22 I/O pins allow direct interface to keypad inputs, LCD backlight control, and triac optocoupler gates without external logic. Extended -40C to +125C temperature rating supports unconditioned equipment-room deployment. Brown-out reset and watchdog timer ensure safe recovery from supply transients during compressor cycling.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interfaces
The PIC16C73BT-20E/SO serves as a protocol-bridging sensor hub in industrial 4-20 mA loops, RTD conditioning boards, and Modbus RTU remote I/O modules. Its USART implements RS-485 Modbus master or slave nodes, while the SSP module handles SPI/I2C digital sensors. The 192-byte RAM buffers small telemetry packets before transmission, and code-protection bits prevent firmware reverse engineering in field deployments. Industrial -40C to +125C operation tolerates cabinet-internal temperature rise.
Recommended
Low-End Motor Control
The PIC16C73BT-20E/SO drives small brushed DC and stepper motors in printers, copiers, and small-pump applications. Timer2 with PWM mode generates variable duty-cycle drive signals, while the ADC samples back-EMF or current-sense resistor voltage for closed-loop torque control. The 20 MHz instruction cycle supports trapezoidal commutation for 3-phase brushless motors at moderate RPM. Code protection locks the optimized motor-control firmware against unauthorized duplication.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics HMI
In consumer human-machine-interface panels (microwave keypads, thermostat displays, security keypads), the PIC16C73BT-20E/SO scans 4x4 or 5x5 key matrices directly through its 22 I/O pins without external scan logic. The USART drives character-LCD or segment-LED display controllers. OTP memory locks the user-interface firmware at production, preventing field modification. The 4-5.5V supply aligns with USB-powered or wall-adapter input rails after rectification.
Recommended
Educational and Legacy Embedded Systems
The PIC16C73BT-20E/SO remains a staple in university embedded-systems curricula and in maintaining legacy products whose firmware is frozen but still ships in low volume. The mature MPLAB IDE, HI-TECH C compiler, and PICkit programmers continue to support the device, and the 14-bit instruction set is well-documented in the PICmicro Mid-Range Reference Manual. Students and sustainment engineers can breadboard the part on DIP-package PIC16C73B variants and migrate to the SOIC for production.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C73BT-20E/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C73B-20E/SO | PIC16C73BT-20/SO | PIC16F73T-I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SOIC (0.300 inch) | 28-SOIC (0.300 inch) - same | 28-SOIC (0.300 inch) - same | 28-SOIC (0.300 inch) - same |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (7KB) | OTP (7KB) | OTP (7KB) | Flash (4KB) |
| Maximum Clock | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Supply Voltage | 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 (wider range) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +125C (Extended) | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| I/O Pins | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 |
| ADC Channels / Resolution | 5 / 8-bit | 5 / 8-bit | 5 / 8-bit | 5 / 8-bit |
| Carrier Media | Tape & Reel | Tube | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel |
Key Differentiators
- Extended -40C to +125C operating temperature with OTP memory (vs PIC16C73BT-20/SO)
- Pin-compatible Flash alternative available (vs PIC16F73T-I/SO)
- Tape-and-reel factory packaging for SMT lines (vs PIC16C73B-20E/SO)
Design Notes
Place a 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 1 cm of the VDD pin (pin 19) and a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum capacitor near the supply entry point. The PIC16C73BT-20E/SO draws roughly 5-15 mA active at 20 MHz depending on I/O loading, so the regulator must supply at least 1.5x the typical draw for transient headroom. Enable the on-chip brown-out reset (BOR) in the configuration word to hold the part in reset until VDD exceeds ~4.0V, preventing code execution at low voltage where Flash/OTP reads may be unreliable.
Route the MCLR pull-up (10 kohm to VDD) directly to the pin without sharing vias with high-current switching signals. Keep the OSC1/OSC2 traces short and guarded by a ground pour to minimize EMI radiation; for HS-mode crystals above 4 MHz, place load capacitors within 3-5 mm of the oscillator pins with values per Microchip's oscillator table (typically 15-33 pF). Use separate analog (AVDD-style routed directly to VDD via ferrite bead) and digital ground traces joined at a single point near the IC to keep ADC reference noise below 1 LSB.
Do not leave the MCLR pin floating - it must have a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD or the device will intermittently reset or fail to start. Do not program the WDT (watchdog timer) on by accident in the configuration word without also implementing a CLRWDT instruction in long loops, or the device will reset unexpectedly. The PORTB internal weak pull-ups are disabled on reset; enable them via the RBPU bit (cleared) only if needed for input buttons, otherwise leave disabled to avoid shoot-through on driven inputs. Finally, note that OTP memory cannot be erased - debugged firmware should be developed on a Flash-based PIC16F73 sibling before committing to OTP.
Compliance Information
SOIC package is RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. The PIC16C73BT-20E/SO is not AEC-Q100 qualified - this OTP MCU is intended for industrial and consumer applications, not automotive. Halogen-free status not explicitly stated in the verified data; defaulting to 'unknown'.
