PIC16F88T-E/SS - 8-bit 20MHz 7KB Flash MCU | Microchip SSOP-20
MPN: PIC16F88T-E/SS β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.95 | $3.95 |
| 10 | $3.55 | $35.50 |
| 100 | $3.16 | $316.00 |
| 500 | $2.84 | $1,420.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.55 | $2,550.00 |
PIC16F88T-E/SS Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a programmable integrated circuit that combines a CPU, memory, and peripherals on a single die. The PIC16F88 belongs to Microchip's mid-range PIC16 family using a RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) architecture, which executes most instructions in a single cycle for predictable timing. Within the broader taxonomy, this device sits as: 8-bit MCU -> microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC. The 'F' indicates Flash program memory, supporting in-system self-programming and field upgrades.
Key features include nanoWatt technology for low-power operation, an internal 8MHz oscillator, 10-bit ADC, PWM modules, and an automotive temperature grade ('E' suffix = -40C to +125C). The 35 I/O pins on the 18/20/28-pin package family offer flexible interfacing to sensors, displays, and communication buses. On-chip peripherals minimize external component count and reduce BOM cost in space-constrained designs.
The PIC16F88T-E/SS uses an enhanced Harvard architecture with separate program and data buses, allowing simultaneous fetch and execution. Its RISC core supports 35 single-word instructions, simplifying code development in MPLAB X IDE and XC8 compiler environments. The integrated nanoWatt power management provides multiple sleep modes for battery-powered applications, with current consumption dropping into the microamp range during idle.
Typical applications include automotive sensor modules, industrial control, consumer electronics, low-power remote sensing, and small appliances. The combination of Flash memory, EEPROM data storage, and versatile peripherals makes it well-suited for designs requiring firmware updates and persistent configuration storage.
When designing with this device, ensure adequate decoupling (100nF ceramic) near VDD, route the MCLR pin through a proper reset circuit, and respect the 20MHz maximum clock specification at 5V. The 'T' suffix indicates tape and reel packaging for automated assembly, so consider tray or tube variants for prototype runs.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical engineering design notes that complement the Microchip datasheet and parametric databases.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16F88T-E/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 PIC16F88T-E/SS (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Package, ADC, RoHS Status, Mounting Type, Core.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F88T-I/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F88-E/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F88-I/SS
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F87T-I/SO
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.12 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16F882T-I/SO
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.55 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16F870T-E/SS
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$3.85 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16F88T-E/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC16 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | Flash |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB (4K x 14 words) |
| RAM Size | 368 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | 256 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Execution Time | 200 ns (at 20 MHz) |
| Supply Voltage (Vdd) | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 16 to 35 (package-dependent, up to 35) |
| Package | 20-pin SSOP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Temperature Grade | Automotive (-40C to +125C), 'E' suffix |
| Communication Interfaces | I2C, SPI, UART/USART |
| ADC | 10-bit (on-chip) |
| PWM Modules | Yes (CCP/ECCP) |
| Internal Oscillator | 8 MHz |
| Power Technology | nanoWatt low-power modes |
| Packaging | Tape and Reel ('T' suffix) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (lead-free) |
PIC16F88T-E/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/Vpp/RA5 β Master Clear (reset) input / Programming voltage / Port A bit 5 |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 β Port A bit 0 / Analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 β Port A bit 1 / Analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2/Vref- β Port A bit 2 / Analog input channel 2 / ADC Vref- |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/Vref+ β Port A bit 3 / Analog input channel 3 / ADC Vref+ |
| Pin 6 | RA4/AN4/T0CKI β Port A bit 4 / Analog input channel 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN5/SS β Port A bit 5 / Analog input channel 5 / SPI slave select |
| Pin 8 | Vss β Ground reference |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKI/RA7 β Oscillator crystal input / External clock / Port A bit 7 |
| Pin 10 | OSC2/CLKO/RA6 β Oscillator crystal output / Clock output / Port A bit 6 |
| Pin 11 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI β Port C bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 12 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 β Port C bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / Capture-Compare-PWM 2 |
| Pin 13 | RC2/CCP1 β Port C bit 2 / Capture-Compare-PWM 1 |
| Pin 14 | RC3/SCK/SCL β Port C bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 15 | RC4/SDI/SDA β Port C bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 16 | RC5/SDO β Port C bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 17 | RC6/TX/CK β Port C bit 6 / UART transmit / USART clock |
| Pin 18 | RC7/RX/DT β Port C bit 7 / UART receive / USART data |
| Pin 19 | Vss β Ground reference (secondary) |
| Pin 20 | VDD β Positive supply voltage (4.5 V to 5.5 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16F88T-E/SS is suitable for 7 applications: Automotive Sensor Modules, Industrial Control Systems, Consumer Electronics and Small Appliances, Low-Power Remote Sensing, Battery Management and Monitoring, User Interface and Display Driving, Educational and Development Platforms.
Automotive Sensor Modules
The PIC16F88T-E/SS fits automotive sensor modules because of its -40C to +125C automotive temperature grade (E suffix), 5V native operation matching 12V/5V regulated rails, and 7 KB Flash for application code plus 256 bytes EEPROM for calibration data persistence. Its nanoWatt technology enables sleep currents below 1 uA for always-on sensors, while the integrated 10-bit ADC handles analog sensor inputs directly. The 20 MHz core delivers 5 MIPS throughput adequate for filtering and CAN/LIN gateway tasks via the on-chip UART/USART. Engineers should pair this MCU with external CAN transceivers like MCP2515 for full automotive networking; AEC-Q100 qualification is not explicitly listed by Microchip for this part so qualification review is required.
Recommended
Industrial Control Systems
The PIC16F88T-E/SS suits industrial control applications including PLC sub-modules, motor control boards, and HMI peripherals. Its 16 I/O ports handle discrete inputs/outputs and key matrix scanning, while the Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) modules generate timing-critical control signals for relays, solenoids, and small DC motor drives. The 368-byte RAM supports small RTOS-like scheduling or state machines, and the extended temperature range tolerates factory floor thermal stress. Designers should add external watchdog timers and TVS protection for harsh EMC environments; the part's RISC core executes deterministically in 200 ns, ideal for hard real-time control loops.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics and Small Appliances
The PIC16F88T-E/SS is a cost-effective MCU for small appliances such as coffee machines, blenders, and HVAC controllers where the 7 KB Flash holds user-interface state machines, sensor fusion routines, and button-debounce logic. Its I2C and SPI peripherals connect to displays, EEPROM, and digital sensors without glue logic. The UART/USART enables firmware updates via bootloaders, while the internal 8 MHz oscillator removes external crystal cost for non-timing-critical designs. Engineers can use the 10-bit ADC for temperature and humidity sensing with thermistor or SHT-style transducers.
Recommended
Low-Power Remote Sensing
The PIC16F88T-E/SS targets battery-powered remote sensors that sleep for years between wake events. nanoWatt technology provides multiple idle modes with currents below 1 uA, and the Watchdog Timer enables periodic wake cycles to read sensors and transmit data. The on-chip 10-bit ADC handles battery voltage monitoring for state-of-charge estimation, while UART/USART supports low-power sub-GHz radio modules like the MRF89XA. With 256 bytes of EEPROM for configuration storage and 7 KB Flash for application code, the part balances capability with power budget for IoT edge nodes in agriculture, environmental, or asset-tracking applications.
Recommended
Battery Management and Monitoring
The PIC16F88T-E/SS handles battery management tasks in 5V-tolerant systems including cell voltage monitoring, charge cycle control, and safety state machines. Its ADC measures battery voltage with 10-bit resolution (4.88 mV per LSB at 5V Vref) and the PWM module drives MOSFET gate signals for switching regulators or charge controllers. The EEPROM stores learned battery parameters and cycle counts for state-of-health estimation. For multi-cell Li-ion packs, external protection ICs handle cell balancing while this MCU runs supervisory logic and communicates via UART to a host BMS controller.
Recommended
User Interface and Display Driving
The PIC16F88T-E/SS drives small user interfaces including LED indicators, character LCDs, and 7-segment displays. Its 16+ I/O pins handle key matrix scanning up to 4x4 with no external decoding, and the PWM outputs dim LEDs and control buzzer tones. The I2C peripheral connects to 16x2 character LCDs via PCF8574-style expanders, while SPI drives dot-matrix displays or graphical OLEDs. With 7 KB Flash, designers can implement multi-page menu systems, debounce logic, and visual feedback animations without external memory. Engineers should debounce inputs with hardware RC filters for noisy industrial front panels.
Recommended
Educational and Development Platforms
The PIC16F88T-E/SS works well as a teaching and prototyping platform due to its accessible RISC architecture, 35 single-word instructions, and strong toolchain support in MPLAB X IDE with the XC8 compiler. Its 20-pin SSOP package breaks out 16+ I/O lines suitable for breadboard adapters and learning kits, while 7 KB Flash holds representative student projects. The automotive temperature grade allows classroom demos in varied lab environments. Starter code, application notes (AN series from Microchip), and community examples are abundant; PICkit programmers support in-circuit debugging via the ICSP interface.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16F88T-E/SS β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F88T-I/SS | PIC16F88-E/SS | PIC16F88-I/SS | PIC16F87T-I/SO | PIC16F882T-I/SO | PIC16F870T-E/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 20-pin SSOP | 20-pin SSOP - same | 20-pin SSOP - same | 20-pin SSOP - same | 20-pin SSOP - same | 20-pin SSOP - same | 20-pin SSOP - same |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 7 KB | 7 KB | 7 KB | 7 KB | 4 KB | 3.5 KB | 3.5 KB |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Temperature Grade | Automotive -40C to +125C (E) | Industrial -40C to +85C (I) | Automotive -40C to +125C (E) | Industrial -40C to +85C (I) | Industrial -40C to +85C (I) | Industrial -40C to +85C (I) | Automotive -40C to +125C (E) |
| Packaging Format | Tape and Reel (T) | Tape and Reel (T) | Tube (no T suffix) | Tube (no T suffix) | Tape and Reel (T) | Tape and Reel (T) | Tape and Reel (T) |
| RAM Size | 368 bytes | 368 bytes | 368 bytes | 368 bytes | 368 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 128 bytes | 64 bytes |
| 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 | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
Key Differentiators
- Highest Flash memory in SSOP-20 PIC16 family at 7 KB (vs PIC16F870T-E/SS)
- Automotive temperature grade with tape-and-reel convenience (vs PIC16F88-E/SS)
- Larger 368-byte RAM and 256-byte EEPROM versus smaller PIC16 family variants (vs PIC16F882T-I/SO)
- Native 5V operation versus wide-range parts that may need configuration (vs PIC16F870T-E/SS)
Design Notes
Decouple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 20) and a 10 uF bulk capacitor on the same rail. The PIC16F88T-E/SS draws peak supply current around 15 mA at 20 MHz with all peripherals active, so the regulator must provide at least 30 mA headroom. For battery-powered designs, enable nanoWatt sleep modes by clearing the IDLEN bit in the OSCCON register and using the Watchdog Timer for periodic wake-up; sleep current drops below 1 uA typical per Microchip datasheet 30487D.
Route the MCLR pin (pin 1) through a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD and add a 100 nF capacitor to ground for proper reset behavior. Keep the ICSP programming pins (PGD/PGC) accessible for in-circuit debugging with PICkit tools. Place the external crystal or resonator within 5 mm of pins 9-10 (OSC1/OSC2) and surround it with a ground pour for noise immunity; the internal 8 MHz oscillator eliminates this layout constraint for non-timing-critical designs.
Estimated: do not exceed 20 MHz clock speed at 4.5 V minimum Vdd - operation above this requires either reducing frequency or increasing supply voltage. Avoid floating analog inputs by enabling the digital input buffer disable register bits on unused ADC channels, which prevents parasitic current draw of 1-2 mA per floating pin. When migrating from PIC16F87 firmware, verify that the additional PIC16F88 peripherals (such as the enhanced CCP module) are properly initialized in startup code, otherwise unexpected PWM outputs can drive external loads.
Separate analog and digital ground planes when using the 10-bit ADC; connect them at a single point near the Vss pin. Keep digital signal traces away from the analog AN0-AN5 pins to avoid coupling noise into ADC conversions. For SSOP-20 package routing, the 0.65 mm pin pitch supports 0.15 mm trace width with 0.15 mm spacing on a 4-layer PCB, which is the recommended baseline. Use guard rings around sensitive analog sections.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page (lead-free SSOP package). AEC-Q100 is not explicitly listed for this part; the automotive temperature grade -40C to +125C does not imply full AEC-Q100 qualification. Confirm AEC-Q100 status with Microchip directly for safety-critical automotive designs.
