PIC16C74A-10/PT - 8-bit MCU, 7KB OTP, 33 I/O, 44-TQFP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C74A-10/PT ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $8.5 | $8.50 |
| 10 | $7.65 | $76.50 |
| 100 | $6.8 | $680.00 |
| 500 | $6.1 | $3,050.00 |
| 1,000 | $5.45 | $5,450.00 |
PIC16C74A-10/PT Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, program memory (ROM/Flash/OTP), data memory (RAM), and peripheral set on one die; the PIC mid-range family adds Harvard architecture with separate program and data buses, enabling single-cycle instruction fetch and deterministic timing ideal for embedded control loops. The PIC16C74A sits in the PIC16C7X sub-family, distinguished by an integrated 8-channel 8-bit Analog-to-Digital converter, two capture/compare/PWM modules, a synchronous serial port (SSP) for SPI/I2C, and a USART, all on a 44-pin footprint.
Key features include 7KB OTP program memory, 192 bytes RAM, 33 I/O, an integrated 8-channel 8-bit ADC, two CCP modules for PWM or capture/compare, and a USART for asynchronous or synchronous serial communication. The OTP memory allows one-time field programming, useful for cost-sensitive production runs where flash reprogramming is not required.
Architecturally, the PIC16C74A uses a 14-bit instruction word and a RISC core with 35 single-word instructions, allowing most instructions to execute in one instruction cycle (200 ns at 20 MHz / 400 ns at 10 MHz). The integrated ADC simplifies sensor-interface designs and eliminates external converter cost, while the CCP modules support motor-control and PWM-driven lighting applications.
Typical applications include industrial control, motor control, sensor interfacing, embedded instrumentation, and consumer devices where an 8-bit MCU with integrated ADC suffices. Designers migrating to flash-based parts can consider the recommended PIC16F74 (mentioned on the Microchip product page as a newer version).
When designing with this part, note that OTP memory cannot be erased or rewritten, so firmware must be fully validated before programming. The 44-TQFP package is recommended for applications with limited board area, and designers should follow Microchip application notes for in-circuit programming and oscillator selection.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in compatible alternatives, and practical design considerations not found in the bare manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C74A-10/PT — 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 PIC16C74A-10/PT (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Size, ADC, Operating Temperature, Package, Timers.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C74A-10/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C74A-20/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F74-I/PT
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C74A-04/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C74A-10I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C74A-10/PT Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 8-bit Microcontroller (MCU) |
| Series | PIC16C7X (mid-range) |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB (4K x 14) OTP |
| RAM Size | 192 x 8 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 33 |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 10 MHz |
| Operating Voltage Range | 5 V |
| Package / Case | 44-TQFP (PT) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| ADC | 8-channel, 8-bit (integrated) |
| CCP Modules | 2 (Capture/Compare/PWM) |
| Serial Interface | USART + SSP (SPI/I2C) |
| Instruction Set | 14-bit, 35 instructions, RISC |
| Speed Grade | -10 (10 MHz) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Lead Count | 44 |
PIC16C74A-10/PT Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / analog input 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / analog input 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2 — PORTA bit 2 / analog input 2 |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF — PORTA bit 3 / analog input 3 / ADC reference |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4/SS — PORTA bit 5 / analog input 4 / SPI slave select |
| Pin 8 | RE0/RD/AN5 — PORTE bit 0 / read control / analog input 5 |
| Pin 9 | RE1/WR/AN6 — PORTE bit 1 / write control / analog input 6 |
| Pin 10 | RE2/CS/AN7 — PORTE bit 2 / chip select / analog input 7 |
| Pin 11 | VDD — Positive power supply (+5V) |
| Pin 12 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 13 | OSC1/CLKIN — Crystal oscillator input / external clock |
| Pin 14 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Crystal oscillator output / clock out |
| Pin 15 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator out / Timer1 clock in |
| Pin 16 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator in / CCP2 |
| Pin 17 | RC2/CCP1 — PORTC bit 2 / CCP1 (PWM/capture/compare) |
| Pin 18 | RC3/SCK/SCL — PORTC bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 19 | RC4/SDI/SDA — PORTC bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 20 | RC5/SDO — PORTC bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 21 | RC6/TX/CK — PORTC bit 6 / USART TX / USART clock |
| Pin 22 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / USART RX / USART data |
| Pin 23 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 24 | VDD — Positive power supply (+5V) |
| Pin 25 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 / external interrupt |
| Pin 26 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 |
| Pin 27 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 |
| Pin 28 | RB3 — PORTB bit 3 |
| Pin 29 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 30 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 |
| Pin 31 | RB6/PGC — PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 32 | RB7/PGD — PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data |
| Pin 33 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 34 | VDD — Positive power supply (+5V) |
| Pin 35 | RD0 — PORTD bit 0 |
| Pin 36 | RD1 — PORTD bit 1 |
| Pin 37 | RD2 — PORTD bit 2 |
| Pin 38 | RD3 — PORTD bit 3 |
| Pin 39 | RD4 — PORTD bit 4 |
| Pin 40 | RD5 — PORTD bit 5 |
| Pin 41 | RD6 — PORTD bit 6 |
| Pin 42 | RD7 — PORTD bit 7 |
| Pin 43 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 44 | VDD — Positive power supply (+5V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16C74A-10/PT is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Motor Control, Sensor Interface and Data Acquisition, Embedded Consumer Devices, Automotive Body Electronics (Legacy), Test and Measurement Instruments, Educational and Prototyping Boards.
Industrial Motor Control
The PIC16C74A-10/PT fits industrial motor control with two integrated CCP modules that generate PWM outputs for brushed DC and small stepper motor drives. At 10 MHz (10 MIPS), the instruction cycle of 400 ns gives sufficient resolution for motor commutation at typical RPMs, while the 8-channel 8-bit ADC reads back current shunt or potentiometer position feedback. The 44-TQFP package handles the thermal envelope of small enclosed motor control boards. Compared to switching to a flash MCU, the OTP memory is acceptable because motor-control firmware is typically fully validated before release and rarely requires field updates.
Recommended
Sensor Interface and Data Acquisition
The PIC16C74A-10/PT is well-matched to multi-sensor data acquisition boards that need 8 analog input channels. The integrated 8-channel 8-bit ADC with sample-and-hold eliminates external converter ICs, lowering BOM cost for thermocouple, strain gauge, or potentiometer-front-end designs. The 192 bytes of RAM supports up to 192 sample averaging before flush, and the USART streams the resulting data to a host controller. Use cases include HVAC sensor hubs, environmental monitors, and basic industrial instrumentation. The OTP memory is appropriate when firmware is finalized before board production.
Recommended
Embedded Consumer Devices
The PIC16C74A-10/PT powers cost-sensitive consumer products such as small appliances, remote controllers, and consumer audio peripherals where the 33 I/O pins drive keypads, LEDs, LCDs, and serial peripherals. Its 7 KB OTP program memory holds feature-rich control logic for appliance timers, washing-machine front-ends, or coffee machines, while the 10 MHz operation is fast enough for typical user-interface response. The 44-TQFP footprint is preferred over PDIP for slim consumer enclosures where board height is constrained.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Legacy)
In legacy automotive body electronics (interior lighting, seat controllers, accessory modules), the PIC16C74A-10I/PT industrial temperature grade (-40C to +85C) variant withstands cabin thermal stress. The CCP modules handle PWM dimming, the ADC reads switch inputs and current sensors, and the USART communicates with body-control modules. Note that Microchip does not market this part as AEC-Q100 qualified, so it is suitable only for non-safety body electronics; safety-critical functions (ABS, airbag, ECU) require a Q-graded MCU.
Recommended
Test and Measurement Instruments
The PIC16C74A-10/PT serves as the control brain in low-cost bench instruments such as handheld multimeters, signal-source modules, and laboratory timers. The 33 I/O pins drive a 7-segment or graphic LCD, scan a keypad, and trigger measurement events; the 8-bit ADC digitizes the measurement range selector or temperature-compensation input. The USART outputs measured data to a PC for logging. Designers benefit from the deterministic interrupt latency of the PIC mid-range core, which simplifies real-time control loops.
Recommended
Educational and Prototyping Boards
The PIC16C74A-10/PT is found in university labs and developer kits teaching 8-bit embedded programming, Harvard architecture, and assembly fundamentals. The simple PIC mid-range instruction set (35 instructions) reduces learning curve compared to 32-bit ARM Cortex devices, and the 33 I/O allow students to wire multiple peripherals. However, OTP memory is inconvenient in educational settings where firmware is rewritten frequently; for teaching use the PIC16F74-I/PT or PIC16F877A is typically chosen instead.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C74A-10/PT — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C74A-10/PQ | PIC16C74A-20/PT | PIC16F74-I/PT | PIC16C74A-04/PT | PIC16C74A-10I/PT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 44-TQFP (PT) | 44-TQFP (PT) - same | 44-TQFP (PT) - same | 44-TQFP (PT) - same | 44-TQFP (PT) - same | 44-TQFP (PT) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 10 MHz | 10 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 10 MHz |
| Program Memory | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB Flash | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB OTP |
| RAM Size | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 |
| ADC | 8-ch / 8-bit | 8-ch / 8-bit | 8-ch / 8-bit | 8-ch / 8-bit | 8-ch / 8-bit | 8-ch / 8-bit |
| Temperature Grade | Commercial | Commercial | Commercial | Industrial | Commercial | Industrial (-40C to +85C) |
| Memory Type | OTP (one-time) | OTP | OTP | Flash (reprogrammable) | OTP | OTP |
Key Differentiators
- Active recommendation by Microchip as drop-in for legacy designs (vs PIC16F74-I/PT)
- Pin-compatible 20 MHz upgrade path (vs PIC16C74A-04/PT)
- Industrial temperature variant available (vs PIC16C74A-10I/PT)
Design Notes
OTP memory cannot be erased or rewritten. Unlike flash-based PIC16F74, every programming cycle is permanent - if firmware has a bug after programming, the chip is scrap. Validate firmware thoroughly on a PIC16F74-I/PT or PIC16C74A-04/PQ development platform before committing to a PIC16C74A-10/PT production run. Code-protect fuses do not prevent reading by advanced attacks, so OTP only delays, not prevents, firmware extraction.
Place a 0.1uF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to each VDD pin (pins 11, 24, 34, 44). The PIC16C74A-10/PT has multiple VSS pins (1, 12, 23, 33, 43) and VDD pins for noise immunity - tie each to a solid ground/power plane with short traces. Use a bulk 10uF tantalum or ceramic capacitor at the board power entry to suppress clock-injected transients. For TQFP-44 packages, ensure the solder paste stencil aperture is 1:1 with land pads to avoid tombstoning on small pins.
Route the crystal traces (OSC1/OSC2, pins 13/14) as short and symmetric as possible with a ground guard ring; long traces pick up EMI that corrupts the internal clock. For high-EMI environments, the 10 MHz internal oscillator mode can be used instead of an external crystal - select HS or XT mode in the configuration word according to the chosen oscillator. Keep ADC analog inputs (AN0-AN7) away from digital switching traces to minimize crosstalk into the 8-bit ADC readings.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, lead-free and halogen-free status not explicitly stated in the verified web data; consult Microchip product page or PCN documentation for confirmation. The PIC16C74A is not AEC-Q100 qualified; Microchip recommends PIC16F74 for new automotive programs but even that part requires AEC-Q100 grade selection if automotive safety qualification is needed.