PIC16C771-E/SS - 8-bit MCU, 7KB OTP, 12-bit ADC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C771-E/SS ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.69 | $3.69 |
| 10 | $3.32 | $33.20 |
| 100 | $2.96 | $296.00 |
| 500 | $2.65 | $1,325.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.35 | $2,350.00 |
PIC16C771-E/SS Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a programmable integrated circuit that executes instructions 8 bits at a time. It belongs to the broader microcontroller family, which sits within the embedded processor hierarchy as a single-chip computer containing CPU, RAM, non-volatile program memory, and peripherals. 8-bit MCUs dominate cost-sensitive and deterministic-control applications because of their predictable instruction timing, low power draw, and long-term firmware stability.
Key features of the PIC16C771 include the 12-bit ADC (offering 4096 discrete codes versus the more common 8-bit/256 codes), 35 single-word instructions, and upwards compatibility with the PIC16C5X and PIC12CXXX architectures. It supports in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) and provides an internal oscillator option, reducing external component count. The 20 MHz clock yields 5 MIPS of throughput, and the wide 2.5V-5.5V operating range suits both 3.3V and 5V designs.
Technically, the device uses a RISC-based Harvard architecture with separate program and data buses, enabling simultaneous instruction fetch and operand access. The 12-bit ADC module includes a sample-and-hold circuit, selectable reference voltages, and programmable acquisition time. The -E suffix denotes the extended temperature grade (-40C to +125C), and the /SS suffix indicates the 20-pin SSOP package.
Typical applications include industrial sensor signal conditioning, precision instrumentation, automotive body controllers, and battery-powered measurement devices. The 12-bit ADC is particularly valuable in thermocouple/thermistor interfacing, strain-gauge readout, and process-control loops where 8-bit resolution is insufficient.
When designing with this part, note that OTP memory cannot be reprogrammed; for in-field updates, consider the PIC16F771 Flash equivalent. Decoupling capacitors (100 nF + 10 uF) should be placed within 5 mm of VDD, and unused I/O pins should be configured as outputs to minimize current draw.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, supporting faster component selection and BOM validation.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C771-E/SS — 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 PIC16C771-E/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory Size, ADC, Program Memory Type, RoHS Status.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F771-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C770-I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.98 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C771-I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C717-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.28 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C771-E/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB (4K x 14) |
| RAM | 256 bytes |
| EEPROM | 0 bytes (none on this device) |
| CPU Speed | 20 MHz (200 ns instruction cycle, 5 MIPS) |
| I/O Pins | 16 |
| ADC | 12-bit, 6 channels |
| ADC Resolution | 12 bit (4096 codes) |
| Operating Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C (Extended, -E grade) |
| Package | 20-pin SSOP (5.30 mm body width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Instruction Set | 35 single-word instructions |
| Architecture Compatibility | PIC16C5X and PIC12CXXX |
| MSL Level | 1 |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16C771-E/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / Analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 2 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / Analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 3 | RA2/AN2 — PORTA bit 2 / Analog input channel 2 |
| Pin 4 | RA3/AN3 — PORTA bit 3 / Analog input channel 3 |
| Pin 5 | RA4/AN4 — PORTA bit 4 / Analog input channel 4 |
| Pin 6 | RA5/AN5 — PORTA bit 5 / Analog input channel 5 |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator crystal input / external clock |
| Pin 9 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator crystal output / clock output |
| Pin 10 | RC0 — PORTC bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 11 | RC1 — PORTC bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 12 | RC2 — PORTC bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 13 | RC3 — PORTC bit 3 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 14 | RC4 — PORTC bit 4 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 15 | RC5 — PORTC bit 5 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 16 | RC6 — PORTC bit 6 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 17 | RC7 — PORTC bit 7 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 18 | MCLR/VPP — Master clear reset / programming voltage |
| Pin 19 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5V-5.5V) |
| Pin 20 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 / external interrupt |
Typical Applications
PIC16C771-E/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Precision Sensor Signal Conditioning, Industrial Process Control, Battery-Powered Measurement Devices, Automotive Body Controllers, Medical Monitoring Equipment, Test and Measurement Instrumentation.
Precision Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16C771-E/SS is well suited for precision sensor front-ends where the 12-bit ADC eliminates external converter cost. Its 4096-code resolution across 6 analog inputs handles thermocouple, thermistor, and strain-gauge signals directly. The 5 MIPS throughput at 20 MHz runs linearization algorithms in real time, while the 2.5V-5.5V range supports both 3.3V and 5V sensors. Compared with 8-bit ADC MCUs, the 16x finer quantization yields 0.024% resolution for industrial process control loops.
Recommended
Industrial Process Control
In factory automation loops, the PIC16C771-E/SS provides deterministic 200 ns instruction execution for PID control. The 12-bit ADC captures 4-20 mA loop signals via a burden resistor, while PWM outputs drive valve actuators. Extended -40C to +125C temperature operation tolerates cabinet environments near motor drives. The 16 I/O pins accommodate HMI keypads and indicator LEDs without external I/O expanders, reducing BOM cost in PLC and DCS modules.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Measurement Devices
Low-power portable instruments benefit from the PIC16C771-E/SS sleep modes and 12-bit ADC precision. The ADC can wake the CPU on threshold crossings, enabling multi-month battery life in field data loggers. Wide 2.5V-5.5V supply operation supports direct lithium or 3xAA battery stacks without regulators. Compared with 16-bit ADC MCUs at similar price, the PIC16C771 offers adequate precision for environmental monitoring at significantly lower cost.
Recommended
Automotive Body Controllers
The PIC16C771-E/SS extended temperature grade supports automotive underhood and cabin environments. Six 12-bit ADC channels read sensors for HVAC blend doors, seat position, and lighting feedback. SSOP-20 footprint suits compact PCB modules behind dashboards. While Microchip recommends PIC16F equivalents for new automotive designs, the OTP PIC16C771-E/SS remains in use for cost-sensitive, firmware-stable body electronics in established vehicle platforms.
Recommended
Medical Monitoring Equipment
The PIC16C771-E/SS 12-bit ADC supports medical devices such as blood-pressure monitors, pulse oximeters, and infusion pump sensors. The deterministic instruction timing ensures consistent sample rates critical for physiological signal capture. Extended temperature tolerance accommodates sterilization environments. For FDA-classified designs, Microchip's clinical-validation documentation for legacy PIC16C family parts accelerates regulatory submissions compared with newer MCUs.
Recommended
Test and Measurement Instrumentation
Bench-top instruments like multimeters and signal analyzers leverage the PIC16C771-E/SS 12-bit ADC for mid-range precision measurements. Six channels support voltage, current, and temperature inputs simultaneously with 200 ns instruction timing for fast autoranging. The 35-instruction RISC set simplifies assembly coding for measurement algorithms. Compared with external ADC solutions, the integrated converter reduces PCB area while meeting the 0.1% accuracy needs of handheld DMMs.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C771-E/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F771-I/SS | PIC16C770-I/SS | PIC16C771-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 20-pin SSOP | 20-pin SSOP - same | 20-pin SSOP - same | 20-pin SSOP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (7 KB) | Flash (7 KB) | OTP (7 KB) | OTP (7 KB) |
| ADC Resolution | 12-bit (6 channels) | 12-bit (6 channels) | 10-bit (6 channels) | 12-bit (6 channels) |
| CPU Speed | 20 MHz (5 MIPS) | 20 MHz (5 MIPS) | 20 MHz (5 MIPS) | 20 MHz (5 MIPS) |
| Operating Voltage | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V |
| Temperature Grade | Extended (-40C to +125C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | Active | NRND | NRND |
Key Differentiators
- 12-bit ADC vs typical 10-bit in same family (vs PIC16C770-I/SS)
- Flash reprogrammability with identical pinout (vs PIC16F771-I/SS)
- Extended temperature grade option (vs PIC16C771-I/SS)
Design Notes
Decoupling: Place a 100 nF ceramic capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 19) and a 10 uF tantalum or ceramic bulk capacitor near the MCU. For ADC accuracy, add a separate AVdd filter (10 ohm + 10 uF) if the analog supply is isolated. Brown-out reset should be enabled below 4.5V for 5V systems to prevent code corruption during voltage dips.
Layout: Route analog signals (RA0-RA5) away from digital switching traces; maintain a ground guard ring around analog pins. Keep the crystal/oscillator traces short (<10 mm) and surround them with a grounded copper pour to minimize EMI coupling. The SSOP-20 footprint requires 0.65 mm pitch traces - use 0.15 mm trace/space design rules.
OTP memory is one-time programmable - firmware bugs cannot be fixed after programming. Always verify code in a PIC16F771-I/SS Flash equivalent before committing to PIC16C771 production programming. Unused I/O pins should be configured as outputs (set to logic 0) to minimize sleep current. The MCLR pin must not be left floating; tie through a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page and distributor listings. AEC-Q100 not qualified - for automotive applications requiring formal qualification, consider PIC16F1939 or similar modern automotive-grade MCU. REACH and conflict minerals status not explicitly listed in verified data.
