PIC16C770-I/SS - 8-Bit MCU, 20MHz, 3.5KB OTP, 12-bit ADC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C770-I/SS β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4.64 | $4.64 |
| 10 | $4.18 | $41.80 |
| 100 | $3.72 | $372.00 |
| 500 | $3.35 | $1,675.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.98 | $2,980.00 |
PIC16C770-I/SS Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, non-volatile program memory (ROM/Flash/OTP), volatile data memory (RAM), and peripherals such as timers, communication interfaces, and analog converters into one package. The PIC16C770 specifically belongs to the OTP-programmable subset of the PIC16 mid-range family, which sits between baseline (PIC10/12/16) and enhanced mid-range (PIC16F1xxx) architectures. OTP microcontrollers are typically used for low-volume production or where firmware is finalized and field reprogramming is not required, offering a cost advantage over Flash-based equivalents.
Key features include six 12-bit ADC channels with up to 12-bit resolution, a 20 MHz maximum operating frequency yielding a 200 ns instruction cycle, 256 bytes of data RAM, 16 digital I/O pins, and a wide operating voltage range suitable for 5V systems. The integrated 12-bit ADC delivers 4096 discrete codes, providing a substantial improvement over the 8-bit or 10-bit converters found in many competing 8-bit MCUs. The 20-pin SSOP (5.30 mm body width) package supports surface-mount assembly while preserving a small PCB footprint suitable for compact sensor-interface modules.
The architecture uses a RISC instruction set with single-cycle execution for most instructions and a two-stage pipeline, allowing deterministic interrupt response and predictable timing. The 12-bit successive-approximation ADC includes sample-and-hold and supports multiple reference voltage options, enabling direct interfacing with low-level sensor outputs such as thermistors, strain gauges, and bridge sensors. Brown-out Reset (BOR), Power-on Reset (POR), and Watchdog Timer (WDT) with its own on-chip RC oscillator are included for robust operation in industrial environments.
Typical applications include sensor signal conditioning, industrial process control, portable instrumentation, battery chargers, and closed-loop feedback systems where the 12-bit ADC eliminates the need for external ADCs. The combination of OTP program memory and SSOP-20 packaging suits space-constrained designs requiring high-performance analog measurement with stable firmware.
When designing with this device, ensure that the OTP programming step is planned into the manufacturing flow because OTP memory cannot be erased or reprogrammed. Decoupling capacitors of 100 nF should be placed close to VDD/VSS pins, and the analog supply traces (AVDD/AVSS) should be isolated from noisy digital lines to preserve ADC accuracy. The MCLR pin requires a proper reset circuit; an external pull-up and a 10-100 nF capacitor on MCLR will improve noise immunity.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same Microchip PIC16 family, and practical design considerations not consolidated in any single manufacturer document.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C770-I/SS β same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F767-I/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C770-E/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C770T-I/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C770T-E/SS
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$2.85 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16F77-I/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C717-I/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C716-I/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C770-I/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Manufacturer | Microchip Technology |
| Series | PIC 16C |
| Core Size | 8-bit |
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP |
| RAM Size | 256 bytes |
| Data EEPROM Size | 0 bytes (no EEPROM on this part) |
| Number of I/O Pins | 16 |
| ADC Resolution | 12-bit |
| Number of ADC Channels | 6 |
| Supply Voltage (Vdd/Vcc) | 4.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Package | 20-SSOP (5.30 mm body width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Connectivity | I2C, SPI, UART |
| Peripherals | Brown-out Detect, POR, WDT, ADC, PWM |
| Instruction Set | 35 instructions, 14-bit wide |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free | Yes |
PIC16C770-I/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP β Master Clear (reset) input / programming voltage |
| Pin 2 | OSC1/RA7 β Oscillator input / digital I/O RA7 |
| Pin 3 | OSC2/RA6 β Oscillator output / digital I/O RA6 |
| Pin 4 | RC0 β Digital I/O RC0 / analog input AN0 |
| Pin 5 | RC1 β Digital I/O RC1 / analog input AN1 |
| Pin 6 | RC2 β Digital I/O RC2 / analog input AN2 |
| Pin 7 | RC3 β Digital I/O RC3 / analog input AN3 |
| Pin 8 | RC4 β Digital I/O RC4 / analog input AN4 |
| Pin 9 | RC5 β Digital I/O RC5 / analog input AN5 |
| Pin 10 | RC6 β Digital I/O RC6 / TX/CK |
| Pin 11 | RC7 β Digital I/O RC7 / RX/DT |
| Pin 12 | RA0 β Digital I/O RA0 / analog input AN6 |
| Pin 13 | RA1 β Digital I/O RA1 / analog input AN7 |
| Pin 14 | RA2 β Digital I/O RA2 |
| Pin 15 | RA3 β Digital I/O RA3 |
| Pin 16 | RA4 β Digital I/O RA4 / T0CKI |
| Pin 17 | RA5 β Digital I/O RA5 / SS |
| Pin 18 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 19 | VDD β Positive supply voltage (4.0 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 20 | AVDD β Analog positive supply / tied to VDD |
Typical Applications
PIC16C770-I/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning, Battery Charger Control, Portable Instrumentation, Closed-Loop Process Control, Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety), Home Appliance Control Boards.
Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16C770-I/SS is ideally suited for industrial sensor interfacing thanks to its integrated 12-bit ADC with six channels. The 12-bit resolution (4096 codes) directly digitizes low-level outputs from strain gauges, thermistors, and bridge sensors without requiring an external precision ADC, reducing BOM cost and PCB area. Its 20 MHz core (200 ns instruction cycle) handles linearization, averaging, and digital filtering in real time, while the 16-SSOP industrial-temperature rating (-40C to +85C) supports factory-floor deployment. The 5V supply rail integrates cleanly with legacy 5V industrial transceivers.
Recommended
Battery Charger Control
The PIC16C770-I/SS controls single- and multi-cell battery chargers using its 12-bit ADC to monitor charging current, battery voltage, and cell temperature with high precision. The 16 I/O pins drive MOSFET switches, status LEDs, and enable communication via I2C or UART to a host BMS. The 200 ns instruction cycle supports CC-CV charging algorithms and delta-V detection at the required sampling rates. OTP memory locks in the validated charging profile to prevent field tampering. The SSOP-20 footprint suits compact charger modules embedded in portable tools.
Recommended
Portable Instrumentation
Handheld multimeters, calibrators, and field data loggers benefit from the PIC16C770-I/SS combination of a 12-bit ADC, low-pin-count SSOP-20 package, and industrial temperature range. The 12-bit ADC quantizes sensor signals with 0.024% resolution, while the 16 I/O pins drive LCD segments, keypads, and isolated comms ports. The Harvard RISC architecture delivers deterministic interrupt response critical for time-stamped measurements. OTP program memory protects calibration coefficients from accidental field overwrites.
Recommended
Closed-Loop Process Control
PID controllers, motor speed regulators, and HVAC actuators leverage the PIC16C770-I/SS to digitize feedback variables and drive PWM outputs at deterministic rates. The Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) peripheral generates precise control signals, while the 12-bit ADC samples process variables with sub-0.1% accuracy. Brown-out Reset and Watchdog Timer provide fault tolerance for unattended industrial installations. The RISC core executes control loops within the 200 ns instruction budget, leaving headroom for serial diagnostics.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety)
Although not AEC-Q100 qualified, the PIC16C770-I/SS fits non-safety automotive body modules such as interior lighting, seat-position memory, and accessory controllers where its 12-bit ADC adjusts LED current and motor speed. The 16-SSOP industrial temperature grade handles cabin-temperature environments, and the OTP memory locks in module-specific configuration. Brown-out Reset and Watchdog Timer provide robustness against load-dump transients when paired with proper external protection. Use the PIC16F767 for production with Flash reprogrammability.
Recommended
Home Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16C770-I/SS drives white-goods controllers in washing machines, dishwashers, and microwave ovens by combining its 12-bit ADC for temperature and level sensing with PWM outputs for motor and heater control. The 16-SSOP package drops into high-volume consumer appliance PCBs, while the industrial temperature rating handles under-cabinet heat rise. OTP memory ensures that the appliance firmware cannot be accidentally reflashed in the field, supporting regulatory compliance. Watchdog Timer recovers the MCU from mains-borne transient faults.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C770-I/SS β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F767-I/SS | PIC16C770-E/SS | PIC16C770T-I/SS | PIC16F77-I/SS | PIC16C717-I/SS | PIC16C716-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 20-SSOP (5.30 mm) | 20-SSOP (same) | 20-SSOP (same) | 20-SSOP (same) | 20-SSOP (same) | 20-SSOP (same) | 20-SSOP (same) |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP | 3.5 KB Flash | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP | 8 KB Flash | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP |
| RAM | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 368 bytes | 256 bytes | 128 bytes |
| ADC Resolution | 12-bit | 12-bit | 12-bit | 12-bit | 12-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit |
| ADC Channels | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Max Clock Frequency | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C |
| Memory Type | OTP | Flash | OTP | OTP | Flash | OTP | OTP |
Key Differentiators
- Highest resolution ADC in the PIC16 20-pin SSOP family (vs PIC16C717-I/SS)
- Flash reprogrammability with identical pinout and peripherals (vs PIC16F767-I/SS)
- Extended-temperature option for industrial deployments (vs PIC16C770-E/SS)
- Larger RAM and program memory in same SSOP-20 footprint (vs PIC16F77-I/SS)
Design Notes
Decouple VDD and AVDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the respective pins, plus a bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic capacitor on the main supply rail. AVdd and AVss must be tied to Vdd/Vss even if the ADC is unused, per the Microchip datasheet, to prevent latch-up. The MCLR pin should have a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD and a 100 nF capacitor to VSS for noise immunity. Power-on Reset and Brown-out Reset thresholds are configured via configuration bits.
Because the PIC16C770 uses OTP memory, firmware bugs cannot be fixed after programming - the part must be discarded and a new one programmed. Use the Flash equivalent PIC16F767-I/SS for all prototype development and qualification, then transition to the OTP PIC16C770 only after firmware is fully validated. Per Microchip's migration note, oscillator configuration, ADC calibration, and peripheral initialization differ slightly between the C and F variants; review both datasheets before swapping. Estimated: code-development cycle time increases 30-50% when prototypes use OTP parts.
Isolate the analog traces (RC0-RC5, RA0, RA1 when used as analog inputs) from noisy digital lines by routing them on a separate PCB layer or by maintaining at least 3 mm of clearance. Place a ground pour around the analog section, connected to AVss at a single point to avoid ground loops. The 12-bit ADC achieves 70 dB SNR only with proper analog layout; clock signals should not cross analog traces. Use a ferrite bead or LC filter between digital Vdd and analog AVdd to suppress switching noise from the core.
The PIC16C770's 12-bit ADC achieves its full resolution only with a low-impedance input source. Use an op-amp buffer (e.g., MCP6002) between high-impedance sensors and the analog input pins to maintain settling time within the ADC acquisition window. The ADC clock should be derived from Fosc/32 or slower to allow the sample-and-hold capacitor to fully charge, per the datasheet's electrical characteristics. For multi-channel scanning, add 10 uF hold capacitors on the analog inputs to limit cross-channel charge injection.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free status confirmed via Microchip product page; halogen-free status not explicitly stated in the verified data. The PIC16C770 is NOT AEC-Q100 qualified - do not use in automotive safety-critical applications.
