PIC16C774-I/PQ - 8-Bit 20MHz 7KB OTP MCU, 12-bit ADC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C774-I/PQ ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $13.54 | $13.54 |
| 10 | $12.19 | $121.90 |
| 100 | $10.83 | $1,083.00 |
| 500 | $9.61 | $4,805.00 |
| 1,000 | $8.94 | $8,940.00 |
PIC16C774-I/PQ Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory (ROM/Flash/OTP), data memory (RAM), and peripheral interfaces such as ADC, timers, and communication controllers. PIC microcontrollers use a RISC Harvard architecture with a small instruction set (35 single-word instructions in the PIC16C77x family) that simplifies programming and shortens development cycles; PIC MCUs sit within the broader taxonomy of microcontrollers -> microprocessors -> embedded processors -> semiconductors. The PIC16C77x mid-range family is widely used for industrial control, instrumentation, and consumer products requiring moderate performance with rich analog and digital I/O.
Key features include brown-out detect (BOD) and power-on reset (POR) for robust supply supervision, a programmable watchdog timer, an in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) interface, and an operating voltage range of 4.0 V to 5.5 V (-I industrial temperature grade -40C to +85C). The 12-bit ADC supports 10 channels of analog input, allowing high-resolution measurement of sensor signals without external ADC circuitry. The instruction set is upwards compatible with PIC16C5X and PIC12CXXX devices, easing migration from older designs.
The PIC16C774 architecture pairs a 14-bit-wide program memory bus (typical of mid-range PIC16) with an 8-bit data path, enabling single-cycle instruction fetch and a 200 ns instruction time at 20 MHz oscillator. The integrated 12-bit ADC is the highest-resolution converter in the PIC16C7x family, and the high pin count (44 pins) provides ample digital I/O for keypad scanning, LCD driving, and parallel bus expansion. OTP memory supports low-volume production runs and prototype builds where Flash reprogrammability is not required.
Typical applications include industrial process control, data acquisition systems, instrumentation front-ends, HVAC controllers, and white-goods appliance control. The 12-bit ADC with 10 channels is particularly well suited to multi-sensor analog front ends such as weigh scales, temperature scanning, and battery monitoring. The USART and SSP peripherals simplify connection to RS-232/RS-485 networks and SPI/I2C peripherals.
Designers should verify whether OTP is acceptable for the intended production volume - for high-volume runs, Flash-based PIC18F or PIC16F equivalents are usually more economical. The 44-MQFP footprint is legacy through-hole-replaceable; modern designs often migrate to 44-pin TQFP variants. Always place a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor on VDD and use a 20 MHz crystal with appropriate load capacitors per datasheet guidance.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in pin-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes that supplement the manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers and buyers make an informed sourcing decision.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C774-I/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 PIC16C774-I/PQ (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Size, RAM Size, Communication Interfaces, Instruction Set, Operating Temperature.
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| Manufacturer | Microchip Technology |
| Series | PIC 16C |
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-bit |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB (4K x 14) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| RAM Size | 256 x 8 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | None |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns |
| ADC Resolution | 12-bit |
| Number of ADC Channels | 10 |
| Number of I/O Pins | 33 |
| Number of Timers | 3 (2x 8-bit + 1x 16-bit) |
| Communication Interfaces | USART, SPI, I2C (via SSP) |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (Industrial grade) |
| Package / Case | 44-MQFP (10x10 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Number of Pins | 44 |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (programmable) |
| Brown-out Detect / POR | Yes |
| In-Circuit Serial Programming | Yes (ICSP) |
| Instruction Set | 35 single-word instructions, PIC16C5X/PIC12CXXX upward compatible |
PIC16C774-I/PQ 44-mqfp (10x10 mm) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for PIC16C774-I/PQ (44-mqfp (10x10 mm) package). This analog component features input, output, and power supply pins. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for offset null, compensation, and enable pin configurations. Ideal for signal conditioning and amplifier circuits.
No detailed pinout data available for PIC16C774-I/PQ.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
PIC16C774-I/PQ is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Process Control, Data Acquisition Systems, HVAC and Building Automation Controllers, Medical Instrumentation Front-Ends, White Goods and Appliance Control, Automotive Aftermarket Electronics.
Industrial Process Control
The PIC16C774-I/PQ's 10-channel 12-bit ADC and 33 I/O pins make it well-suited for industrial process control PLCs and distributed I/O modules. The 12-bit resolution (4096 LSBs) delivers approximately 1 mV resolution on a 0-5V sensor signal - adequate for thermocouple linearization via software lookup tables, pressure transducer readout (typically 0.5-4.5V output), and 4-20 mA current loop digitization with a sense resistor. The USART interfaces to RS-485 transceivers for multi-drop industrial fieldbus wiring, while the SSP provides SPI access to digital potentiometers and I2C EEPROM calibration storage. Industrial -40C to +85C operation tolerates factory floor thermal conditions.
Recommended
Data Acquisition Systems
With its 12-bit ADC sampling up to 10 channels, the PIC16C774-I/PQ serves as a compact front-end for low-channel-count data acquisition systems such as laboratory instruments, environmental monitoring loggers, and battery test equipment. At 20 MHz oscillator the ADC conversion takes approximately 20 us per channel, supporting aggregate sample rates of ~5 ksps across multiple channels. The 256-byte RAM limits per-sample buffering to roughly 128 12-bit readings before flush - sufficient for trigger-then-capture patterns but inadequate for continuous high-speed streaming without external SRAM. Brown-out detect and watchdog timer provide unattended-deployment reliability.
Recommended
HVAC and Building Automation Controllers
The PIC16C774-I/PQ fits HVAC controller boards that need to scan multiple analog sensors (temperature, humidity, pressure) while driving digital outputs for fan relays, damper actuators, and indicator LEDs. The 10 ADC channels handle thermistor bridges, NTC sensors, and 0-10V actuator feedback signals. Three timers provide PWM for triac-fired heater control and variable-speed fan drive via opto-isolated TRIAC drivers. Industrial temperature grade and 33 I/O pins comfortably accommodate keypad input, LCD interface, and communication to a central building management system via RS-485 or optoisolated RS-232.
Recommended
Medical Instrumentation Front-Ends
The PIC16C774-I/PQ's 12-bit ADC resolution is sufficient for medical instrumentation such as digital thermometers, blood pressure monitors, and pulse oximeter front-ends where the sensor signal has been pre-amplified and conditioned to the 0-5V input range. The 256-byte RAM supports transient buffer storage between the ADC sampling and the LCD display update. The PIC16C7x instruction set allows efficient implementation of moving-average filters and linearization routines for thermocouple and thermistor sensors. Designers should note that FDA/IEC 60601 medical compliance requires additional system-level validation beyond MCU selection.
Recommended
White Goods and Appliance Control
Washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens, and induction cooktops historically used PIC16C77x family MCUs for motor timing, sensor monitoring, and user interface control. The PIC16C774-I/PQ's 33 I/O pins handle seven-segment LED or LCD displays, mechanical or capacitive keypads, and motor direction relays. Three timers provide PWM for universal motor speed control and buzzer drive. The 12-bit ADC reads water level sensors, motor current feedback, and NTC temperature probes. Industrial temperature range tolerates the thermal environment inside appliance enclosures.
Recommended
Automotive Aftermarket Electronics
While the standard PIC16C774-I/PQ lacks AEC-Q100 qualification, it is used in non-safety automotive aftermarket products such as gauge clusters, alarm system controllers, GPS tracker data loggers, and aftermarket ECUs for engine monitoring. The 12-bit ADC digitizes 0-5V sensor signals including MAP sensors, oxygen sensors (after signal conditioning), and oil pressure transducers. The USART links to GPS modules, GSM modems, or OBD-II diagnostic interfaces. Designers should verify automotive temperature and EMC requirements are met by surrounding components and PCB design practices.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C774-I/PQ — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C774-I/P | PIC16C77-04I/PQ | PIC16F877A-I/PQ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 44-MQFP (10x10 mm) | 40-PDIP (different package) | 44-MQFP (10x10 mm) | 44-MQFP (10x10 mm) |
| Program Memory | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB OTP | 8 KB OTP | 14 KB Flash |
| ADC Resolution | 12-bit | 12-bit | 8-bit | 10-bit |
| Number of ADC Channels | 10 | 10 | 8 | 8 |
| Maximum Clock | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Memory Type | OTP (one-time programmable) | OTP | OTP | Flash (reprogrammable) |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Active |
| Unit Price (qty-1) | $13.54 | Higher (through-hole premium) | $10-12 (obsolete premium) | $5-7 (active production) |
Key Differentiators
- Highest ADC resolution in PIC16C7x family (vs PIC16C77-04I/PQ)
- Flash reprogrammability eliminates OTP production risk (vs PIC16F877A-I/PQ)
- 10 ADC channels vs 8 on legacy siblings (vs PIC16C77-04I/PQ)
Design Notes
The PIC16C774-I/PQ requires a regulated 5.0 V (+/-10%) supply; place a 100 uF bulk capacitor near the MCU VDD pin and a 0.1 uF ceramic decoupling capacitor as close to each VDD/VSS pair as the PCB layout allows. The ADC's AVSS and AVDD pins should be tied to clean analog ground and supply; for best 12-bit ADC accuracy add a ferrite bead between digital VDD and analog AVDD. The brown-out detect (BOD) and power-on reset (POR) handle supply ramp events, but designers must verify the supply rise time meets datasheet specifications to guarantee clean reset.
For the 44-MQFP package, route the 20 MHz crystal traces (OSC1/OSC2) within 1 cm of the MCU pins with a ground guard ring; long crystal traces pick up noise that injects clock jitter into the instruction timing. The analog input traces (AN0-AN9) should be kept away from switching digital lines and the USART TX trace to minimize ADC channel crosstalk. Place the ICSP connector at the board edge so programming clips can reach without removing the MCU - critical for OTP parts that cannot be reprogrammed if code is wrong.
Estimated: writing to OTP memory is irreversible - if a code bug is discovered after programming, the chip must be physically replaced. Always prototype with a Flash-based PIC16F877A-I/PQ or PIC18F452-I/PQ in the same 44-MQFP footprint, then port the validated firmware to OTP PIC16C774-I/PQ for production. The MCLR pin is active-low reset; tie to VDD through a 10 kohm pull-up with a 100 nF cap to ground for clean reset behavior. Never leave the LVP (low-voltage programming) pin floating or the MCU may inadvertently enter programming mode.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free status not specified in verified web data; PIC16C774-I/PQ is a legacy OTP part predating widespread RoHS adoption. AEC-Q100 not applicable - this part is not automotive qualified. For RoHS-compliant modern designs use PIC16F877A-I/PQ instead.
