PIC16C74A-10I/PQ - 8-bit OTP MCU 7KB 33 I/O 44-MQFP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C74A-10I/PQ ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $8.95 | $8.95 |
| 10 | $8.05 | $80.50 |
| 100 | $7.16 | $716.00 |
| 500 | $6.27 | $3,135.00 |
| 1,000 | $5.37 | $5,370.00 |
PIC16C74A-10I/PQ Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program and data memory, peripherals, and I/O on one die. Mid-range 8-bit MCUs like the PIC16C7X sit in the hierarchy: MCU -> embedded controller -> semiconductor; they balance cost, deterministic performance, and code density for tasks that do not require 32-bit throughput. The PIC16C7X family added integrated 8-bit A/D converters to the mid-range lineup, distinguishing it from earlier 16C5X/16C6X parts.
Key features include 14-bit instruction word with Harvard architecture, 8-level deep hardware stack, integrated 8-channel 8-bit A/D converter, two 8-bit and one 16-bit timers, synchronous/asynchronous serial port (USART), parallel slave port, and brown-out reset plus watchdog timer for safety-critical applications. CMOS fully-static design allows operation down to DC clock, conserving power in sleep states below 1 uA typical.
Typical applications include industrial automation (sensor conditioning, motor drive logic), automotive subsystems (climate control, instrument clusters), consumer electronics (white goods controllers, remote controls), and embedded control nodes requiring deterministic interrupt response without RTOS overhead. The 33 I/O and 8-channel ADC remove the need for external I/O expanders in mid-complexity designs.
When migrating designs, note the PIC16C74A is OTP-based - firmware must be committed at programming time and cannot be field-updated. Microchip recommends migrating to the flash-based PIC16F74 equivalent for new designs; the PIC16F74 maintains pin and peripheral compatibility, enabling drop-in firmware porting with minimal risk.
Key design considerations include the oscillator configuration (XT, HS, RC, LP modes), required decoupling on VDD/VSS pairs, and MCLR pull-up impedance. OTP programming requires a high-voltage (13V typical) VPP pulse during device programming - production programmers must support this algorithm.
This page synthesizes verified distributor pricing, drop-in-compatible same-package alternatives, and practical design notes beyond what the manufacturer datasheet provides, including lifecycle status and recommended migration paths to flash-based MCUs.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C74A-10I/PQ — 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-10I/PQ (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory Type, Timers, ADC, Core Architecture.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F74-I/PQ
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C74A-10/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C74A-04I/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C74A-04/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.8 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C74A-10I/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.37 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C74A-10I/PQ Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 8-bit RISC Microcontroller (MCU) |
| Family | PIC16C7X mid-range |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB |
| Data RAM | 192 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 33 |
| Number of Pins | 44 |
| Package | MQFP-44 (PQ) |
| Package Code | PQ (Metric Quad Flat Pack) |
| Terminal Form | GULL WING |
| Package Shape | SQUARE |
| Maximum Oscillator Frequency | 10 MHz (-10 speed grade) |
| Instruction Set Architecture | Harvard, 14-bit instructions |
| Stack Depth | 8 levels (hardware) |
| ADC | 8 channels, 8-bit resolution |
| Timers | Two 8-bit + one 16-bit |
| Communication Interfaces | USART (SCI/SPI), Parallel Slave Port |
| Special Features | Brown-out Reset, Watchdog Timer, Sleep mode |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (industrial, /I) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
PIC16C74A-10I/PQ Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input or external clock input |
| Pin 2 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output; in RC mode, Fosc/4 output |
| Pin 3 | MCLR — Master clear reset input (active low) |
| Pin 4 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / analog channel 0 |
| Pin 5 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / analog channel 1 |
| Pin 6 | RA2/AN2 — PORTA bit 2 / analog channel 2 |
| Pin 7 | RA3/AN3/VREF — PORTA bit 3 / analog channel 3 / ADC VREF |
| Pin 8 | RA4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 9 | RA5/AN4/SS — PORTA bit 5 / analog channel 4 / SPI slave select |
| Pin 10 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 11 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 12 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 / external interrupt |
| Pin 13 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 |
| Pin 14 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 |
| Pin 15 | RB3 — PORTB bit 3 |
| Pin 16 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 17 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 |
| Pin 18 | RB6 — PORTB bit 6 |
| Pin 19 | RB7 — PORTB bit 7 |
| Pin 20 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 21 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 22 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / T1 clock input |
| Pin 23 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 |
| Pin 24 | RC2/CCP1 — PORTC bit 2 / Capture Compare PWM 1 |
| Pin 25 | RC3/SCK/SCL — PORTC bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 26 | RC4/SDI/SDA — PORTC bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 27 | RC5/SDO — PORTC bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 28 | RC6/TX/CK — PORTC bit 6 / USART TX / USART clock |
| Pin 29 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / USART RX / USART data |
| Pin 30 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 31 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 32 | RD0 — PORTD bit 0 / PSP data |
| Pin 33 | RD1 — PORTD bit 1 / PSP data |
| Pin 34 | RD2 — PORTD bit 2 / PSP data |
| Pin 35 | RD3 — PORTD bit 3 / PSP data |
| Pin 36 | RD4 — PORTD bit 4 / PSP data |
| Pin 37 | RD5 — PORTD bit 5 / PSP data |
| Pin 38 | RD6 — PORTD bit 6 / PSP data |
| Pin 39 | RD7 — PORTD bit 7 / PSP data |
| Pin 40 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 41 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 42 | RE0/RD — PORTE bit 0 / PSP read control |
| Pin 43 | RE1/WR — PORTE bit 1 / PSP write control |
| Pin 44 | RE2/CS — PORTE bit 2 / PSP chip select |
Typical Applications
PIC16C74A-10I/PQ is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Automation Controllers, Automotive Body Electronics, Consumer White Goods Controllers, HVAC Sensor Nodes, Remote Control and IR Transmitter Systems, Embedded Data Acquisition Front-Ends.
Industrial Automation Controllers
The PIC16C74A-10I/PQ fits industrial automation as a sensor-conditioning and machine-control MCU. Its 33 I/O pins drive relays, optocouplers, and indicator LEDs directly, while the integrated 8-channel 8-bit ADC digitizes thermocouple-amplified signals, pressure transducers, and 4-20 mA loop inputs. The 10 MHz oscillator provides 100 ns instruction cycle, sufficient for PLC scan loops under 10 ms, and the -40C to +85C industrial temperature grade tolerates factory-floor thermal stress. Brown-out reset and watchdog timer protect against supply brown-outs and code runaway common in motor-driven cabinets. Consider the flash-based PIC16F74 for new designs to enable field firmware updates.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
The PIC16C74A-10I/PQ is used in non-safety automotive body modules such as climate control panels, instrument cluster sub-controllers, and seat-adjustment logic. Its 33 I/O lines interface with switches, dashboard LEDs, and stepper motor drivers, while the integrated USART communicates with the body control module over LIN or asynchronous serial. Industrial temperature grade handles -40C cold-start and engine-bay thermal conditions. The 7 KB OTP memory holds fixed HVAC/cluster calibration tables. Note: NRND status means new automotive programs should migrate to PIC16F74 or dsPIC33 families with AEC-Q100 qualification.
Recommended
Consumer White Goods Controllers
The PIC16C74A-10I/PQ drives washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens, and refrigerator control boards. Its 8-channel ADC reads temperature sensors, water-level probes, and door switches; its 33 I/O drives triac-controlled motor/relay outputs. The 10 MHz instruction rate handles debounced user-input scanning and timing sequences within interrupt-driven firmware. Industrial temperature rating tolerates appliance thermal envelopes. OTP memory locks final firmware at production to prevent field tampering. For next-generation appliances, design with PIC16F74 flash to enable OTA-style factory firmware updates via bootloader.
Recommended
HVAC Sensor Nodes
The PIC16C74A-10I/PQ serves as a multi-sensor HVAC node controller, reading zone temperature, humidity (via external conditioning), and air-quality signals through its 8-channel ADC. USART or parallel slave port interfaces with the central HVAC controller board. Sleep mode current under 1 uA typical allows battery-backed sensor operation during power-loss events. The -40C to +85C rating covers outdoor air-handler installations. Industrial grade ensures reliability in attic/roof environments. For smart-building applications, consider PIC16F74 to support remote firmware updates as protocols evolve.
Recommended
Remote Control and IR Transmitter Systems
The PIC16C74A-10I/PQ is well suited for universal remote controls and IR/RF transmitter base stations, where 33 I/O lines scan a keypad matrix, drive IR LEDs via PWM, and read status LEDs. The hardware USART communicates with companion RF modules at standard baud rates. 7 KB OTP stores fixed protocol libraries for multiple device brands. Industrial temperature grade handles field deployment. The 10 MHz instruction cycle sustains 38 kHz IR carrier generation via timer interrupts. For learning remotes, however, OTP is a constraint - PIC16F74 flash is preferred.
Recommended
Embedded Data Acquisition Front-Ends
The PIC16C74A-10I/PQ functions as a low-cost 8-channel data-acquisition frontend, sampling analog sensors and streaming digitized values to a host PC or external controller via the USART or parallel slave port. With 8-bit ADC resolution and up to ~20 ksps throughput, it captures vibration, strain-gauge, or process-control signals adequately for non-precision monitoring. The 10 MHz clock and 192-byte RAM buffer bursts of samples before block transfer. Industrial temperature range and brown-out reset support unattended industrial installations. PIC16F74 is recommended for designs requiring field calibration updates.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C74A-10I/PQ — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F74-I/PQ | PIC16C74A-10/PQ | PIC16C74A-04I/PQ | PIC16C74A-04/PQ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | MQFP-44 (PQ) | MQFP-44 (PQ) | MQFP-44 (PQ) | MQFP-44 (PQ) | MQFP-44 (PQ) |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB Flash | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB OTP |
| Max Oscillator Frequency | 10 MHz | 20 MHz | 10 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| RAM | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 |
| Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | 0C to +70C (Commercial) |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | Active | NRND | NRND | NRND |
Key Differentiators
- Industrial temperature grade in OTP memory class (vs PIC16C74A-10/PQ)
- 10 MHz speed grade for real-time control (vs PIC16C74A-04I/PQ)
- Pin-to-pin flash migration path to PIC16F74 (vs PIC16F74-I/PQ)
Design Notes
Decoupling: Place 100 nF ceramic capacitors as close as possible to each VDD/VSS pair (pins 11/10, 21/20, 31/30, 41/40) to suppress switching transients on the internal logic. Add a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitor near the MCU supply pin. Brown-out reset is enabled by configuration fuse; verify BOR voltage threshold (default 4.0V) matches supply rail tolerances to avoid spurious resets during power-line sag events.
OTP programming requires a high-voltage VPP pulse (typically 13V) on the MCLR pin during programming. Production programmers must support the PIC16C7X programming algorithm; commercial gang programmers from Data I/O, BP Microsystems, and Xeltek handle this family. Do not confuse PIC16C74A (OTP) with PIC16F74 (flash) at the firmware-development stage - the F variant uses standard ICSP low-voltage programming instead of high-voltage VPP.
PCB layout for MQFP-44: Route all analog signals (AN0-AN7 on PORTA) away from PORTC digital switching lines and the oscillator pins. Use a ground pour under the package with stitching vias around the periphery. Place the crystal/ceramic resonator within 5 mm of OSC1/OSC2 and guard those traces with ground on both sides. Keep the MCLR pull-up resistor (typically 10 kOhm) close to the MCLR pin to minimize noise injection.
Compliance Information
RoHS/REACH status not confirmed in verified web data; many PIC16C7X OTP parts predate RoHS directives. AEC-Q100 not qualified (industrial grade only). For automotive applications, migrate to PIC16F74-AQ or dsPIC33 AEC-Q100 variants.
