PIC16F648A-E/SO - 8-bit 20MHz 7KB Flash MCU | Microchip
MPN: PIC16F648A-E/SO ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4.1 | $4.10 |
| 10 | $3.69 | $36.90 |
| 100 | $3.28 | $328.00 |
| 500 | $2.86 | $1,430.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.55 | $2,550.00 |
PIC16F648A-E/SO Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a compact single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, program memory, RAM, peripherals, and I/O on one die. Microchip's PIC16 family uses a RISC-based Harvard architecture with only 35 single-word instructions, which simplifies firmware development and accelerates time-to-market for embedded designs. Within the broader hierarchy, the PIC16F648A is a mid-range 8-bit MCU positioned between base-line PIC10/12/16 devices and enhanced PIC18 8-bit families, well suited to cost-sensitive mixed-signal and control applications.
Key features include 200 ns instruction execution time, 10-bit ADC with 8 channels, two 8-bit timers plus one 16-bit timer, an internal 4 MHz oscillator, an analog comparator module with programmable reference, and nanoWatt technology for low-power sleep modes. The device supports 4.5 V to 5.5 V supply operation with industrial-grade -40 °C to +125 °C extended temperature range (denoted by the "E" suffix), making it appropriate for harsh-environment designs.
The PIC16F648A is upwards code-compatible with the PIC16F628, PIC16C62XA, PIC16C5X and PIC12CXXX devices, simplifying firmware reuse and migration. Per the Microchip product page, its combination of internal oscillator, USART, CCP and analog peripherals targets mixed-signal applications where multiple discrete ICs would otherwise be required.
Typical applications include automotive body and lighting controllers, industrial sensor interfaces, appliance control boards, security and access systems, and consumer electronics such as battery chargers and small appliances. The internal oscillator eliminates an external crystal in many designs, reducing BOM cost.
When designing with the PIC16F648A-E/SO, note that the "E" suffix denotes the extended temperature grade (-40 °C to +125 °C). For lower-cost commercial-grade designs operating 0 °C to +70 °C or industrial-grade -40 °C to +85 °C, select the PIC16F648A-I/SO variant with identical pinout.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-package drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, helping engineers select and source the PIC16F648A-E/SO with confidence.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16F648A-E/SO — 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 PIC16F648A-E/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Internal Oscillator, RoHS Status, Operating Temperature, Program Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F648A-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F648A-I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.78 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F628A-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.32 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F628A-E/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F627A-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F88-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F648A-E/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | Flash |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB (4K x 14 words) |
| Data RAM | 256 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Clock | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Execution Time | 200 ns |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Number of I/O Pins | 16 |
| Internal Oscillator | 4 MHz (factory calibrated) |
| ADC | 10-bit, 8 channels |
| Timers | 2 x 8-bit, 1 x 16-bit |
| Communication Interfaces | USART |
| Peripherals | CCP (Capture/Compare/PWM), 2 Comparators, Programmable Voltage Reference |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C (Extended grade) |
| Package | 18-pin SOIC (SO) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (lead-free) |
PIC16F648A-E/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2/AN2/CVREF/VREF- — Bidirectional I/O; Analog Input; Comparator Voltage Reference Output; Voltage Reference Minus |
| Pin 2 | RA3/AN3/C1OUT — Bidirectional I/O; Analog Input; Comparator 1 Output |
| Pin 3 | RA4/T0CKI/C2OUT — Bidirectional I/O (open-drain); Timer0 Clock Input; Comparator 2 Output |
| Pin 4 | RA5/MCLR/VPP — Bidirectional I/O; Master Clear (reset) input; Programming voltage input |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0/INT — Bidirectional I/O; External interrupt input |
| Pin 7 | RB1/RX/DT — Bidirectional I/O; USART RX; USART Data |
| Pin 8 | RB2/TX/CK — Bidirectional I/O; USART TX; USART Clock |
| Pin 9 | RB3/CCP1 — Bidirectional I/O; Capture/Compare/PWM channel 1 |
| Pin 10 | RB4/PGM — Bidirectional I/O; Low-voltage programming input |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 12 | RB6/T1OSC1/PGC — Bidirectional I/O; Timer1 Oscillator Input; In-circuit Debugger Clock |
| Pin 13 | RB7/T1OSC2/PGD — Bidirectional I/O; Timer1 Oscillator Output; In-circuit Debugger Data |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (4.5 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 15 | RA6/OSC2/CLKO — Bidirectional I/O; Oscillator Output; Clock Output |
| Pin 16 | RA7/OSC1/CLKI — Bidirectional I/O; Oscillator Input; Clock Input |
| Pin 17 | RA0/AN0 — Bidirectional I/O; Analog Input 0 |
| Pin 18 | RA1/AN1 — Bidirectional I/O; Analog Input 1 |
Typical Applications
PIC16F648A-E/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Body & Lighting Controllers, Industrial Sensor Interface Boards, Home Appliance Control Boards, Security & Access Control Systems, Battery Chargers & Power Banks, HVAC Thermostats & Climate Sensors.
Automotive Body & Lighting Controllers
The PIC16F648A-E/SO suits automotive body controllers, interior lighting, and accessory modules thanks to its extended -40 °C to +125 °C temperature range, internal 4 MHz oscillator eliminating crystals, and 16 I/O pins for switches, LEDs, and relays. The CCP module drives PWM dimming for LED lighting, while the USART interfaces with body-CAN or LIN transceivers via simple bit-banged framing. At 7 KB Flash and 256 bytes RAM, the MCU fits firmware for sequencing, soft-start, and diagnostics without an external memory. The 18-SOIC package supports reflow-compatible automotive assembly.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interface Boards
For industrial 4-20 mA loop interfaces, switch signal conditioning, and discrete I/O expansion, the PIC16F648A-E/SO provides the analog and digital peripherals needed in one chip. The 10-bit ADC with 8 channels reads sensor outputs, the two analog comparators implement window-detection thresholds, and the USART links to RS-485 or RS-232 transceivers. Its 4.5-5.5 V supply range matches industrial 5 V rails, and the 20 MHz CPU executes control loops within 200 ns per instruction, adequate for sub-millisecond sensor sampling. The extended temperature grade supports factory-floor environments.
Recommended
Home Appliance Control Boards
Washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens, and induction cooktops benefit from the PIC16F648A-E/SO's integrated peripherals that replace multiple discrete components. The 16-bit timer drives triac-based phase-angle control for heating elements, the CCP module generates PWM for motor speed control, and the comparators implement over-temperature and zero-crossing detection. With 256 bytes EEPROM for storing user settings, the MCU retains configuration through outages. The internal 4 MHz oscillator and low pin count reduce BOM cost in price-sensitive consumer appliances.
Recommended
Security & Access Control Systems
Keypad door locks, alarm panels, and RFID access readers use the PIC16F648A-E/SO as the central controller due to its USART for tag-reader interfaces, 16 I/O for key-matrix scanning, and EEPROM for credential storage. The 200 ns instruction cycle debounces key presses in firmware, while the analog comparators monitor backup-battery voltage. The internal oscillator simplifies PCBs, and the extended temperature grade supports outdoor enclosures. With 256 bytes EEPROM storing thousands of credentials, the device addresses typical commercial access-control requirements.
Recommended
Battery Chargers & Power Banks
Lithium-ion and lead-acid battery chargers use the PIC16F648A-E/SO to implement CC/CV charge algorithms, cell balancing, and status indication. The 10-bit ADC samples charge current and battery voltage, the CCP module drives a synchronous buck MOSFET via PWM, and the comparators provide hardware over-current protection. The internal oscillator and minimal external components keep cost low in consumer power banks. With -40 °C to +125 °C operation, the MCU handles automotive and outdoor solar-charge environments.
Recommended
HVAC Thermostats & Climate Sensors
Wall thermostats and HVAC zone controllers use the PIC16F648A-E/SO for temperature sensing, schedule logic, and relay or TRIAC fan control. The ADC reads thermistor or digital-sensor outputs, the USART interfaces with Wi-Fi or HVAC-bus modules, and the PWM drives variable-speed fan motors. EEPROM stores user setpoints and weekly schedules, surviving power outages. The extended temperature grade supports operation near heating elements, and the 18-SOIC package fits in standard thermostat enclosures.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16F648A-E/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F648A-I/SO | PIC16F648A-I/SS | PIC16F628A-I/SO | PIC16F628A-E/SO | PIC16F627A-I/SO | PIC16F88-I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 18-SOIC (300 mil) | 18-SOIC (300 mil) - same | 18-SOIC (300 mil) - same | 18-SOIC (300 mil) - same | 18-SOIC (300 mil) - same | 18-SOIC (300 mil) - same | 18-SOIC (300 mil) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 7 KB | 7 KB | 7 KB | 3.5 KB | 3.5 KB | 1.75 KB | 7 KB |
| Data RAM | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 224 bytes | 224 bytes | 368 bytes | ||
| Data EEPROM | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 256 bytes | ||
| Max CPU Clock | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | ||
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C (Extended) | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) | -40 °C to +125 °C (Extended) | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | ||
| ADC Channels | 8 x 10-bit | 8 x 10-bit | No ADC | No ADC | 7 x 10-bit |
Key Differentiators
- Larger Flash memory than PIC16F628A (vs PIC16F628A-I/SO)
- Includes 10-bit ADC unlike PIC16F628A/PIC16F627A (vs PIC16F628A-I/SO)
- Extended temperature grade (-40 °C to +125 °C) (vs PIC16F648A-I/SO)
- Internal 4 MHz oscillator eliminates external crystal (vs PIC16F88-I/SO)
Design Notes
The PIC16F648A-E/SO operates from a single 4.5 V to 5.5 V supply on VDD (pin 14), with VSS (pin 5) as ground. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close to VDD as possible, and add a bulk 10 µF tantalum or ceramic capacitor on the supply rail for transient suppression. Estimated: assuming 25 mA active current and 4.5 V supply, the MCU dissipates approximately 0.11 W, well within the SOIC package's thermal limits without heatsinking.
Route the 20 MHz crystal traces (RA6/OSC2 and RA7/OSC1) as short, symmetric pairs with a guard ground, and keep them away from high-current switching traces to minimize EMI coupling. When using the internal 4 MHz oscillator, configure RA6 and RA7 as digital I/O to free two pins. Place the MCLR pull-up resistor (typically 10 kΩ) close to pin 4 and avoid long traces to prevent spurious resets from noise injection.
Common pitfalls include: (1) using the wrong voltage grade for the application — the "E" suffix is required for extended -40 °C to +125 °C operation; (2) omitting the AVDD/VREF decoupling when using the ADC; (3) forgetting that RA4 is open-drain and requires a pull-up for high-side driving; (4) leaving ICSP pins RB6/RB7 unused without proper isolation, which can interfere with in-circuit programming. Per Microchip datasheet, ICD/debug requires proper isolation resistors on PGC/PGD to prevent debugger conflicts.
The 10-bit ADC achieves best performance with an acquisition time greater than 1.5 µs and a 5 V reference. When reading ratiometric sensors (e.g., potentiometers, thermistor bridges), use VDD as ADC VREF+ to cancel supply noise; for absolute voltage measurements, use an external low-noise reference such as the MCP1525 or MCP1541. Estimated: with 20 MHz Fosc and ADC clock divisor of 16, the ADC sampling rate is approximately 76.8 ksps at full 10-bit resolution.
Compliance Information
RoHS-compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified — for AEC-Q100 designs, Microchip recommends PIC16F18444 or other automotive-graded PIC16/18 devices.