PIC16CR73-I/SS - 8-bit CMOS ROM MCU, 7KB ROM, 20MHz | Microchip
MPN: PIC16CR73-I/SS β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $7.92 | $7.92 |
| 10 | $7.13 | $71.30 |
| 100 | $6.42 | $642.00 |
| 500 | $5.71 | $2,855.00 |
| 1,000 | $5.01 | $5,010.00 |
PIC16CR73-I/SS Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory, data RAM, and peripheral interfaces into one package, used to sense, control, and actuate embedded systems. PIC microcontrollers sit within the 8-bit microcontroller taxonomy, alongside AVR and 8051 architectures, and are widely used for cost-sensitive, low-power, deterministic control tasks where bit-level I/O and interrupt latency dominate design decisions.
Key features of the PIC16CR73-I/SS include five 8-bit I/O ports (PORTA-PORTE), a 10-bit multi-channel Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) module, two 8-bit Timer/Counter modules and one 16-bit Timer/Counter module, a Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (USART/SCI) port, and a Master Synchronous Serial Port (SSP) supporting SPI and I2C. The device also integrates a watchdog timer with its own on-chip RC oscillator for failsafe operation, brown-out reset circuitry, and in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) for field updates.
The PIC16CR73 family uses a Harvard bus architecture that separates program and data memory paths, enabling instruction fetch and operand access in the same cycle. The 14-bit instruction word yields compact code density, and the ROM-based (CR) variant is targeted at low-cost, mature-product production runs where flash reprogramming is not required.
Typical applications include industrial automation control nodes, sensor signal conditioning interfaces, HVAC actuator drivers, automotive body electronics subsystems, consumer appliance controllers, and embedded serial communication bridges where deterministic timing and small footprint matter more than large memory.
When designing with the PIC16CR73-I/SS, ensure the watchdog timer is either enabled in software or disabled by configuration bits to prevent unwanted resets. Use the ICSP interface pins (RB6/RB7) for in-circuit programming, reserving them from general I/O to avoid contention.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes drawn from manufacturer datasheets and verified web data, providing information that goes beyond any single source datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16CR73-I/SS β 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 PIC16CR73-I/SS (same form factor and footprint) β differing in ADC, Instruction Cycle Time, Data EEPROM, Package, Program Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F73-I/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C73B-20/SS
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$4.56 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16CR73-I/SO
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$4.7 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16C73-20/SS
β Drop-In β οΈ εζ°εΎ ιͺθ―π Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F873A-I/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16CR73-I/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 8-bit CMOS ROM Microcontroller (MCU) |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB ROM (4K x 14) |
| RAM Size | 192 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 22 |
| Maximum CPU Clock Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns at 20 MHz |
| Architecture | RISC, 35 single-word instructions |
| Instruction Word Width | 14-bit |
| ADC | 10-bit, multi-channel |
| Timer Modules | Two 8-bit, one 16-bit (TMR0, TMR1, TMR2) |
| Communication Peripherals | USART/SCI, SSP (SPI / I2C) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) |
| Package / Case | 28-pin SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
PIC16CR73-I/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP β Master Clear (reset) input / programming voltage |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 β PORTA bit 0 / Analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 β PORTA bit 1 / Analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2 β PORTA bit 2 / Analog input channel 2 |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ β PORTA bit 3 / Analog input 3 / ADC positive reference |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI β PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4/SS β PORTA bit 5 / Analog input 4 / SPI Slave Select |
| Pin 8 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKIN β Crystal oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 10 | OSC2/CLKOUT β Crystal oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 11 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI β PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 12 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 β PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 module |
| Pin 13 | RC2/CCP1 β PORTC bit 2 / CCP1 module (PWM/Capture/Compare) |
| Pin 14 | RC3/SCK/SCL β PORTC bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 15 | RC4/SDI/SDA β PORTC bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 16 | RC5/SDO β PORTC bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 17 | RC6/TX/CK β PORTC bit 6 / USART TX / USART clock |
| Pin 18 | RC7/RX/DT β PORTC bit 7 / USART RX / USART data |
| Pin 19 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | VDD β Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 21 | RB0/INT β PORTB bit 0 / External interrupt input |
| Pin 22 | RB1 β PORTB bit 1 |
| Pin 23 | RB2 β PORTB bit 2 |
| Pin 24 | RB3 β PORTB bit 3 |
| Pin 25 | RB4 β PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 26 | RB5 β PORTB bit 5 |
| Pin 27 | RB6/PGC β PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock input |
| Pin 28 | RB7/PGD β PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data I/O |
Typical Applications
PIC16CR73-I/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Automation Control Nodes, HVAC Actuator Drivers, Automotive Body Electronics, Consumer Appliance Controllers, Embedded Serial Communication Bridges, Sensor Signal Conditioning Interfaces.
Industrial Automation Control Nodes
The PIC16CR73-I/SS fits industrial control applications because it combines 22 I/O pins with industrial -40C to +85C temperature operation and a 10-bit ADC for analog sensor interfacing. Its 7KB ROM program memory suits deterministic fixed-function control loops, while the USART and SSP peripherals handle industrial protocol bridges (RS-485, SPI sensor I/O). The 20 MHz CPU delivers 5 MIPS throughput, sufficient for PID-like control loops at 1 kHz update rates. Brown-out reset and watchdog timer features provide failsafe operation in electrically noisy factory environments, and the 28-SSOP package occupies minimal PCB area in DIN-rail mounted controllers.
Recommended
HVAC Actuator Drivers
The PIC16CR73-I/SS is well suited to HVAC damper and valve actuator control where the 10-bit ADC reads temperature and pressure sensors, while PWM modules drive triac-controlled AC loads. The five I/O ports allow simultaneous management of multiple actuators, and the 192-byte RAM supports modest scheduling buffers for closed-loop control. The industrial temperature grade meets HVAC equipment thermal specifications, and the 7KB ROM accommodates the entire control algorithm plus calibration tables. ROM-based firmware prevents accidental firmware corruption from brownouts common in compressor-driven systems.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
For automotive body modules (window lifters, mirror adjusters, seat controllers), the PIC16CR73-I/SS provides 22 robust I/O pins for relay and motor drive interfaces, plus the 10-bit ADC for current sensing and position feedback. The 20 MHz CPU handles LIN or UART-based body control communication at automotive baud rates. Although the -I/SS industrial grade is rated to +85C rather than the +125C automotive grade, it suits non-engine-compartment body modules. The 28-SSOP package enables compact modules behind door panels and dashboards where PCB area is constrained.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Controllers
Consumer appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and microwave ovens benefit from the PIC16CR73-I/SS deterministic control, modest memory, and low cost. The 10-bit ADC reads water level sensors, temperature probes, and humidity detectors, while PWM outputs drive motor control triacs and display LED drivers. The USART enables communication with inverter boards and user interface panels. The 7KB ROM is ample for appliance control state machines, and the ICSP pins allow factory programming before final assembly. ROM-based pricing suits the high-volume appliance market where firmware is fully matured.
Recommended
Embedded Serial Communication Bridges
The PIC16CR73-I/SS excels as a serial protocol bridge converting between SPI, I2C, and UART interfaces, leveraging its integrated SSP (SPI/I2C) and USART peripherals. The 20 MHz CPU handles real-time protocol conversion with adequate latency headroom. With 22 I/O pins and 192 bytes of RAM, the device can simultaneously manage multiple serial channels while running conversion firmware. ROM-based firmware ensures reliable long-term operation in industrial serial converters, RFID readers, and barcode scanner interfaces where firmware is fixed.
Recommended
Sensor Signal Conditioning Interfaces
The PIC16CR73-I/SS serves as a low-cost sensor signal conditioning front-end, digitizing analog sensor outputs via its 10-bit ADC and transmitting processed data via SPI or UART. The RISC architecture provides deterministic interrupt response for time-critical sensor sampling, while the 7KB ROM holds calibration coefficients and linearization lookup tables. The industrial temperature range suits outdoor sensor enclosures and process control instrumentation. The watchdog timer and brown-out reset features protect against sensor field failures from power glitches.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16CR73-I/SS β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F73-I/SS | PIC16C73B-20/SS | PIC16CR73-I/SO | PIC16C73-20/SS | PIC16F873A-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP | 28-SOIC (wide) | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory Type | 7KB ROM (4K x 14) | 7KB Flash (reprogrammable) | 7KB EPROM (UV-erasable) | 7KB ROM (same die) | 7KB EPROM (UV-erasable) | 7KB Flash (reprogrammable) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| RAM Size | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 192 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 |
| ADC Resolution | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| In-System Reprogrammable | No (ROM) | Yes (Flash + ICSP) | No (EPROM, UV-erasable) | No (ROM) | No (EPROM, UV-erasable) | Yes (Flash + ICSP) |
Key Differentiators
- Lowest per-unit cost for high-volume production with fixed firmware (vs PIC16F73-I/SS)
- Pin-compatible migration path to flash-based PIC16F73-I/SS (vs PIC16C73-I/SP (28-SPDIP EPROM))
- Industrial temperature grade with 28-SSOP footprint (vs PIC16C73-04/SO (commercial grade EPROM))
Design Notes
The PIC16CR73-I/SS uses one-time-programmable ROM, not flash. Engineers designing new products must commit firmware to Microchip for mask ROM programming at high-volume production. Always prototype with PIC16F73-I/SS (flash) or PIC16C73B-I/SS (EPROM) first, then transition to PIC16CR73-I/SS only after firmware is fully frozen. Confirm configuration bits (oscillator selection, watchdog enable, code protect) before submitting ROM code to Microchip, as they cannot be changed after mask production.
When laying out the PCB for PIC16CR73-I/SS in 28-SSOP, place decoupling capacitors (100 nF ceramic + 10 uF tantalum) within 5 mm of the VDD pin (20) and VSS pins (8 and 19). Keep crystal traces short (<10 mm) and symmetric between OSC1 (pin 9) and OSC2 (pin 10). Route MCLR (pin 1) with a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD and a 100 nF capacitor to VSS for clean reset behavior. Use a ground pour under the MCU to reduce EMI susceptibility.
The ICSP programming pins RB6/PGC (pin 27) and RB7/PGD (pin 28) must remain accessible during production programming. Do not place these pins under BGAs or dense components, and ensure they are not driven by external circuits during programming. If using RB6/RB7 for general I/O in production, ensure the external load does not exceed 25 mA source/sink or the ICSP programmer will not be able to override the pin state during programming.
Estimated: At 20 MHz with all peripherals active and 22 I/O pins sourcing 20 mA total, the PIC16CR73-I/SS draws approximately 25-30 mA from VDD. For battery-powered designs, use the 4 MHz oscillator mode (PIC16CR73-04I/SS) which draws under 4 mA active. Brown-out reset should be enabled via configuration bits to prevent MCU operation below 4.0V, avoiding EEPROM corruption and unpredictable program execution during VDD sag.
Compliance Information
Compliance data not present in verified web data; recommend consulting Microchip product page or requesting CoC directly. PIC16CR73-I/SS is an industrial-grade MCU, not automotive-qualified; AEC-Q100 status does not apply.
