PIC16F870T-I/SO - 8-Bit 20MHz 3.5KB Flash MCU | Microchip | 28-SOIC
MPN: PIC16F870T-I/SO ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6.11 | $6.11 |
| 10 | $5.8 | $58.00 |
| 100 | $5.2 | $520.00 |
| 500 | $4.65 | $2,325.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.2 | $4,200.00 |
PIC16F870T-I/SO Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, memory, and peripherals onto one silicon die. The PIC16F870 belongs to Microchip's PIC16 mid-range family, positioned in the product hierarchy as: MCU -> 8-bit microcontroller -> PIC16 mid-range -> Flash MCU. This family is widely used in embedded control applications that require low power, deterministic interrupt response, and ease of programming via only 35 single-word instructions.
Key differentiating features include nanoWatt power management technology for low-power operation, an ICD (In-Circuit Debugger) interface for development, self-programming capability, and a 200 ns instruction cycle. The 22 I/O pins support digital I/O while 5 of them double as analog inputs. The 10-bit ADC delivers sufficient resolution for sensor interfacing in industrial control loops. Internal oscillator and PLL options reduce external component count.
The PIC16F870 architecture combines a Harvard RISC core with separate program and data buses, executing most instructions in a single cycle. The 14-bit instruction word supports bit manipulation, byte operations, and immediate addressing. Peripherals include a USART for serial communication, an MSSP module for SPI/I2C, and Capture/Compare/PWM modules for timing-critical applications.
Typical applications include industrial control systems, sensor signal conditioning, low-cost motor control, consumer appliance control, and battery-powered instruments. The wide operating voltage of 4.0V to 5.5V and -40C to +85C industrial temperature range support deployment in factory automation, HVAC controllers, and remote sensor nodes.
When designing with this MCU, ensure the decoupling capacitor is placed within 3 mm of VDD and use the in-circuit debugger header for prototyping. Note that the T-suffix denotes Tape and Reel packaging, and the I-suffix indicates industrial temperature grade - for non-tape-and-reel orders, consider PIC16F870-I/SO.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, providing actionable engineering guidance beyond raw specification repetition.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16F870T-I/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 PIC16F870T-I/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, ADC, Mounting Type, Self-Programming, Operating Temperature.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F870-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.32 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F873-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F872-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F870T-E/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F870T-E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F870T-I/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Manufacturer | Microchip Technology |
| Series | PIC 16F |
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-Bit |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14 words) Flash |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | 64 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 22 |
| ADC | 10-bit, 5 channels |
| Supply Voltage | 4.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Package / Case | 28-SOIC (0.295 inch, 7.50 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Number of Instructions | 35 single-word instructions |
| Connectivity | UART/USART, SPI, I2C (MSSP) |
| Peripherals | Brown-out Detect/Reset, POR, PWM, WDT |
| Program Memory Type | FLASH |
| Data Converters | A/D 5x10b |
| Oscillator Type | Internal/External |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel (T-suffix) |
PIC16F870T-I/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/RE3 — Master Clear (reset) input or digital I/O |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 — Digital I/O or analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 — Digital I/O or analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2 — Digital I/O or analog input channel 2 |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — Digital I/O, analog input 3, or ADC positive reference |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI — Digital I/O or Timer 0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4/SS — Digital I/O, analog input 4, or SPI slave select |
| Pin 8 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKIN — Crystal oscillator or external clock input |
| Pin 10 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Crystal oscillator or clock output |
| Pin 11 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — Digital I/O, Timer 1 oscillator output, or clock input |
| Pin 12 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — Digital I/O, Timer 1 oscillator input, or CCP2 module |
| Pin 13 | RC2/CCP1 — Digital I/O or Capture/Compare/PWM 1 |
| Pin 14 | RC3/SCK/SCL — Digital I/O, SPI clock, or I2C clock |
| Pin 15 | RC4/SDI/SDA — Digital I/O, SPI data in, or I2C data |
| Pin 16 | RC5/SDO — Digital I/O or SPI data out |
| Pin 17 | RC6/TX/CK — Digital I/O, USART async transmit, or sync clock |
| Pin 18 | RC7/RX/DT — Digital I/O, USART async receive, or sync data |
| Pin 19 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | VDD — Positive power supply |
| Pin 21 | RB0/INT — Digital I/O or external interrupt |
| Pin 22 | RB1 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 23 | RB2 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 24 | RB3/PGM — Digital I/O or low-voltage programming |
| Pin 25 | RB4 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 26 | RB5 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 27 | RB6/PGC — Digital I/O or ICSP clock |
| Pin 28 | RB7/PGD — Digital I/O or ICSP data |
Typical Applications
PIC16F870T-I/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Sensor Interface Module, HVAC Control System, Battery-Powered Remote Sensor Node, Consumer Appliance Control Board, LED Lighting Controller, Automotive Aftermarket Accessory.
Industrial Sensor Interface Module
The PIC16F870T-I/SO is well-suited for industrial sensor interface modules requiring reliable analog signal acquisition. Its 10-bit ADC with 5 channels supports multiple temperature, pressure, or position sensors simultaneously, while the 20 MHz core executes signal conditioning algorithms at 200 ns per instruction. The 22 I/O pins handle digital sensors, status LEDs, and communication interfaces, and the -40C to +85C industrial temperature range tolerates factory-floor environments. The USART and MSSP peripherals enable Modbus RTU, SPI sensor, or I2C device connectivity. According to the Microchip datasheet, the brown-out reset and watchdog timer enhance field reliability in noisy industrial settings. Pair with a 5V LDO such as the MCP1700 for stable rail regulation.
Recommended
HVAC Control System
For HVAC damper, valve, and blower motor control, the PIC16F870T-I/SO delivers the deterministic interrupt response and PWM generation required for closed-loop regulation. The Capture/Compare/PWM module drives TRIAC or FET gates for AC phase-angle or DC proportional control, while the 10-bit ADC reads thermistor temperature feedback. With 3.5 KB Flash and 128 bytes RAM, the MCU runs scheduling logic, PID control, and user-interface handling. The industrial -40C to +85C temperature range covers unconditioned equipment rooms and rooftop installations. According to Microchip application notes, the nanoWatt technology reduces standby power between active cycles, an important feature for energy-conscious HVAC designs.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Remote Sensor Node
The PIC16F870T-I/SO's nanoWatt technology makes it suitable for battery-powered remote sensor nodes transmitting periodic measurements via UART or SPI to a parent node. The internal oscillator and sleep modes minimize current draw between transmissions, extending battery life to multiple years on a single lithium cell. The 10-bit ADC samples sensor signals with adequate precision for environmental monitoring of temperature, humidity, or soil moisture. The 22 I/O pins accommodate radio modules, indicator LEDs, and configuration switches. According to Microchip datasheet, typical sleep currents are well below 1 microamp, ideal for solar or battery-backed deployments.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Control Board
For washing machines, microwave ovens, dishwashers, and small kitchen appliances, the PIC16F870T-I/SO provides reliable 8-bit control at an attractive price point. The 22 I/O pins drive seven-segment displays, keypads, relay coils, and indicator LEDs, while the PWM module controls motor speed or heater elements. Self-programming Flash enables factory calibration and field firmware updates via the ICD interface. The 35-instruction RISC core simplifies coding for small development teams, and the wide third-party toolchain support (MPLAB X, XC8 compiler) accelerates time-to-market. According to Microchip, the device is rated for 100K write/erase cycles on Flash and 1M cycles on EEPROM, sufficient for consumer product lifetimes.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controller
The PIC16F870T-I/SO can serve as the central controller in addressable LED drivers, DMX512 receivers, and architectural lighting systems. The PWM module generates multiple channels of dimming signals, while the USART handles DMX512 or RS-485 communication. The 3.5 KB Flash is sufficient for color-mixing algorithms and scene presets, and the 20 MHz clock ensures flicker-free PWM at refresh rates above 100 Hz. The 5V supply range matches typical LED driver ICs, simplifying power architecture. According to Microchip application notes, the nanoWatt sleep modes are useful for standby lighting fixtures to meet energy regulations.
Recommended
Automotive Aftermarket Accessory
While the PIC16F870T-I/SO is not AEC-Q100 qualified, it is widely used in non-safety automotive aftermarket applications such as alarm systems, auxiliary lighting controllers, gauge clusters, and infotainment accessories. The 5V operation and -40C to +85C industrial temperature range tolerate cabin and trunk environments. The USART interfaces with OBD-II diagnostic tools, while the ADC reads analog sensor inputs such as fuel level or temperature. For under-hood or safety-critical applications, Microchip's PIC16F series automotive-grade (Q1) parts should be selected instead. According to Microchip datasheet, the ESD ratings meet typical automotive aftermarket requirements.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16F870T-I/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F870-I/SO | PIC16F873-I/SO | PIC16F872-I/SO | PIC16F870T-E/SO | PIC16F870T-E/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SOIC | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SOIC - same | 28-SSOP - same pinout, smaller footprint |
| Flash Memory | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) | 3.5 KB | 7 KB (+100%) | 3.5 KB | 3.5 KB | 3.5 KB |
| RAM | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 192 bytes (+50%) | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes |
| ADC Channels | 5 x 10-bit | 5 x 10-bit | 8 x 10-bit (+60%) | 5 x 10-bit | 5 x 10-bit | 5 x 10-bit |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +125C (Extended) |
| Packaging Format | Tape & Reel | Tube | Tube | Tube | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel |
| MSSP Module (I2C/SPI) | Yes | Yes | Yes | No (reduced peripherals) | Yes | Yes |
Key Differentiators
- Lowest-cost 8-bit PIC16 with full peripheral set in 28-SOIC (vs PIC16F872-I/SO)
- Tape-and-reel format for high-volume SMT assembly (vs PIC16F870-I/SO)
- Industrial temperature grade with nanoWatt power management (vs PIC16F873-I/SO)
Design Notes
Estimated: Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 3 mm of the VDD pin (pin 20) and a bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic capacitor on the main 5V supply rail. The PIC16F870T-I/SO can source/sink up to 25 mA per pin and 200 mA across all I/O, so high-current loads (relays, LEDs) should use driver transistors. Add a 10 kohm pull-up on MCLR (pin 1) to VDD for reliable reset behavior, and consider a diode from MCLR to VDD for ESD protection.
Route the crystal traces (OSC1/OSC2) short and symmetric, with ground guard traces, to minimize EMI coupling. Keep the ICSP header (RB6/RB7, MCLR) accessible for in-circuit debugging and field firmware updates. Use a continuous ground plane on the bottom layer and place bypass capacitors as close as possible to each supply pin. According to Microchip analog design guidelines, isolate analog (RA0-RA5) and digital (RB, RC) traces to reduce ADC switching noise coupling into sensor signals.
Do not exceed the absolute maximum VDD of 7.5V or the 5.5V operating maximum, as the internal ESD clamps can be damaged. Ensure configuration bits (fuses) are correctly set: disable the Watchdog Timer unless explicitly used, select the correct oscillator mode (HS for 20 MHz crystal), and enable Brown-out Reset at 4.0V. When migrating from PIC16F870 (Tube) to PIC16F870T (Tape and Reel), no firmware change is required - only the supplier part number differs. For LF (low-voltage) operation, use PIC16LF870-I/SO instead.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - select PIC16F870 automotive Q1 variants for safety-critical or under-hood automotive applications.
