PIC16LC64A-04I/L - 4MHz 8-Bit MCU 3.5KB OTP 44-PLCC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LC64A-04I/L ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $7.62 | $7.62 |
| 10 | $6.97 | $69.70 |
| 100 | $5.18 | $518.00 |
| 500 | $4.42 | $2,210.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.97 | $3,970.00 |
PIC16LC64A-04I/L Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that contains a CPU, program memory, data RAM, and programmable I/O peripherals. The PIC16LC64A belongs to the product-type hierarchy MCU -> microcontroller -> 8-bit microcontroller -> embedded controller -> semiconductor. Its RISC instruction set uses only 35 single-word instructions with most executing in a single instruction cycle, providing deterministic timing for control loops. The wide operating voltage range allows operation directly from a 3.3V or 5V rail, and the low-power consumption (5 mA typical active at 5V/4 MHz) makes the part suitable for battery-backed or energy-conscious designs.
The PIC16LC64A features a Harvard architecture with separate 14-bit program and 8-bit data buses, a 13-bit program counter capable of addressing 8K x 14 words of program memory, an 8-level hardware stack, and an integrated watchdog timer. Its built-in peripherals in this 'LC' low-power CMOS variant include timers, an analog comparator, and synchronous serial port (SSP) capability (SPI / I2C master mode). With internal RC oscillator support and power-on reset, the device can boot and run with a minimum of external components.
The 44-pin PLCC (J-Lead) package provides through-hole-compatible socket assembly while still being surface-mountable on the PCB, easing prototyping and field replacement. Although the OTP ('C') program-memory version is one-time programmable, it is widely used in low-to-mid volume commercial and industrial products where code lock-in is acceptable and tooling cost for masked-ROM parts is not justified. The 'I' industrial temperature grade and 'L' PLCC package suffix are key ordering codes.
Typical applications include general-purpose embedded control (appliances, HVAC, instrumentation), human-machine interface front panels, motor-driver sequencers, sensor-signal processing front-ends, RS-232/RS-485 protocol converters, and battery-powered industrial sensors. Its 33 I/O pins allow direct drive of keypads, LED arrays, and small graphic LCDs without external expanders.
When designing with PIC16LC64A-04I/L, ensure that the in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) header is accessible because OTP programming must occur after PCB assembly. Decouple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the supply pin, and reserve a MCLR pull-up to VDD through 10 kohm if in-circuit programming is required.
This page synthesizes current distributor stock, drop-in PIC16LC6X alternatives, and practical design notes that complement the Microchip datasheet and device errata for legacy PIC16C6X designs.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LC64A-04I/L — 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 PIC16LC64A-04I/L (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Mounting Type, Operating Temperature, Package, Program Memory Size, Program Memory Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
No drop-in alternatives available for this product.
Request AlternativesPIC16LC64A-04I/L Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-Bit |
| Family | PIC16CXX (PIC16LC64A) |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes |
| Number of I/O | 33 |
| Max CPU Speed | 4 MHz |
| Operating Voltage | 2.5 V to 6.0 V |
| Oscillator Type | External (Crystal/RC) |
| Peripherals | Watchdog Timer, Brown-out Detect (variant dependent), SSP/SPI, Timer0/1/2, Analog Comparator |
| Connectivity | SSP (SPI / I2C master) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) |
| Package | 44-PLCC (J-Lead, 16.59x16.59 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Instruction Set | 35 single-word instructions, mostly single-cycle |
PIC16LC64A-04I/L Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP — Master Clear (Reset) input / ICSP programming voltage |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 — Port A bit 0 / Analog input 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 — Port A bit 1 / Analog input 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2/VREF- — Port A bit 2 / Analog input 2 / ADC reference negative |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — Port A bit 3 / Analog input 3 / ADC reference positive |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI — Port A bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/SS/AN4 — Port A bit 5 / SPI slave select / Analog input 4 |
| Pin 8 | RE0/RD/AN5 — Port E bit 0 / Parallel read / Analog input 5 |
| Pin 9 | RE1/WR/AN6 — Port E bit 1 / Parallel write / Analog input 6 |
| Pin 10 | RE2/CS/AN7 — Port E bit 2 / Parallel chip select / Analog input 7 |
| Pin 11 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5 V to 6.0 V) |
| Pin 12 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 13 | OSC1/CLKIN — Crystal oscillator input / external clock in |
| Pin 14 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Crystal oscillator output / clock out (RC mode) |
| Pin 15 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — Port C bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator out / Timer1 clock in |
| Pin 16 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — Port C bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator in / CCP2 |
| Pin 17 | RC2/CCP1 — Port C bit 2 / Capture-Compare-PWM 1 |
| Pin 18 | RC3/SCK/SCL — Port C bit 3 / SPI SCK / I2C SCL |
| Pin 19 | RD0/PSP0 — Port D bit 0 / Parallel Slave Port bit 0 |
| Pin 20 | RD1/PSP1 — Port D bit 1 / Parallel Slave Port bit 1 |
| Pin 21 | RD2/PSP2 — Port D bit 2 / Parallel Slave Port bit 2 |
| Pin 22 | RD3/PSP3 — Port D bit 3 / Parallel Slave Port bit 3 |
| Pin 23 | RC4/SDI/SDA — Port C bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 24 | RC5/SDO — Port C bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 25 | RC6 — Port C bit 6 |
| Pin 26 | RC7 — Port C bit 7 |
| Pin 27 | RD4/PSP4 — Port D bit 4 / Parallel Slave Port bit 4 |
| Pin 28 | RD5/PSP5 — Port D bit 5 / Parallel Slave Port bit 5 |
| Pin 29 | RD6/PSP6 — Port D bit 6 / Parallel Slave Port bit 6 |
| Pin 30 | RD7/PSP7 — Port D bit 7 / Parallel Slave Port bit 7 |
| Pin 31 | VSS — Ground reference (second VSS) |
| Pin 32 | VDD — Positive supply (second VDD) |
| Pin 33 | RB0/INT — Port B bit 0 / External interrupt |
| Pin 34 | RB1 — Port B bit 1 |
| Pin 35 | RB2 — Port B bit 2 |
| Pin 36 | RB3 — Port B bit 3 |
| Pin 37 | RB4 — Port B bit 4 |
| Pin 38 | RB5 — Port B bit 5 |
| Pin 39 | RB6/PGC — Port B bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 40 | RB7/PGD — Port B bit 7 / ICSP data |
| Pin 41 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 42 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 43 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 44 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LC64A-04I/L is suitable for 7 applications: Industrial Sensor Interface and Data Acquisition, HVAC Control Board and Thermostat Front End, Appliance Control Board (Washing Machine / Dishwasher Front Panel), Battery-Powered Industrial Sensor / Wireless Node MCU, Automotive Aftermarket Accessory Controller (Non-Safety), RS-232 / RS-485 Protocol Converter Bridge, Small Graphic LCD and Keypad User Interface Panel.
Industrial Sensor Interface and Data Acquisition
The PIC16LC64A-04I/L's 33 digital I/O and 8-channel ADC (in ROM-mask variants) make it a strong fit for industrial sensor interfaces. With 3.5 KB OTP and 128-byte RAM, the device can sample 4-20 mA loop signals, debounce mechanical switches, format ASCII strings for RS-232, and drive indicator LEDs. The 2.5-6.0 V supply tolerance accepts raw 5 V (post-regulation) or 3.3 V rails common in factory automation backplanes, while -40 C to +85 C ensures the unit survives cabinet-temperature swings.
Recommended
HVAC Control Board and Thermostat Front End
In HVAC controllers the PIC16LC64A-04I/L scans a keypad matrix, drives a 7-segment or 16x2 character LCD, and runs a PID loop on temperature sensor inputs. Its 33 I/O easily expand to drive triac optocouplers that switch 24 VAC loads (fan relays, compressor contactors), while the SSP module reads an SPI temperature/humidity sensor. The wide supply range lets the same firmware support both 5 V logic and 3.3 V LCD modules without BOM changes.
Recommended
Appliance Control Board (Washing Machine / Dishwasher Front Panel)
White-goods control boards rely on the PIC16LC64A-04I/L for cycle sequencing, motor-driver handshake, and user-interface handling. Its 35 single-word RISC instructions keep firmware footprint within the 3.5 KB OTP envelope, while the 33 I/O drive seven-segment LEDs, scan rotary encoders, and read water-level / door-switch sensors. Industrial-temperature grade (-40 C to +85 C) tolerates motor-housing heat, and the 44-PLCC sockets allow rapid assembly-line rework.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Industrial Sensor / Wireless Node MCU
The PIC16LC64A's 'LC' low-power CMOS implementation draws only 5 mA typical active at 5 V / 4 MHz and falls to microamp sleep currents, making it well-suited to battery or solar-powered wireless sensor nodes. Combined with an SPI radio module (e.g., MRF24J40) it forms a periodic-telemetry node reporting temperature or level readings to a gateway. The 33 I/O accommodate multiple sensor channels and a status LED without external mux.
Recommended
Automotive Aftermarket Accessory Controller (Non-Safety)
Although not AEC-Q100 qualified, the PIC16LC64A-04I/L (industrial -40 C to +85 C) is often used in non-safety automotive aftermarket accessories such as alarm keypads, lighting controllers, and auxiliary display panels. Its SSP module interfaces to SPI-driven LED drivers and CAN-transceiver ICs, while the 33 I/O manage relays, keyfob decoders, and buzzer PWM. Designers should add external transient protection (TVS diodes) and Watchdog Timer for unattended operation.
Recommended
RS-232 / RS-485 Protocol Converter Bridge
The PIC16LC64A-04I/L's integrated SSP module and a software UART bit-banged on standard I/O make it a low-cost bridge for protocol conversion between RS-232 (PC COM port) and RS-485 (industrial fieldbus). Two hardware USARTs are not present, but 3.5 KB OTP comfortably holds the conversion tables and small protocol stack. The 44-PLCC socket assembly allows quick replacement during field service calls.
Recommended
Small Graphic LCD and Keypad User Interface Panel
With 33 I/O the PIC16LC64A-04I/L directly drives a 64x128 or 128x64 graphic LCD module over SPI through the SSP peripheral, while scanning a 4x4 matrix keypad using a single analog input via voltage-divider trick. The 128-byte RAM holds a small display buffer and the 3.5 KB OTP holds character-set tables and menu logic. The 44-PLCC package is one of the few that gives the I/O budget for this combo at the PIC16C6X price point.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LC64A-04I/L — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LC63A-04I/SS | PIC16LC64A-04I/PQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 44-PLCC (J-Lead, 16.59x16.59 mm) | 28-SSOP - DIFFERENT PACKAGE | 44-MQFP - DIFFERENT PACKAGE |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB OTP (2K x 14) | 3.5 KB OTP (2K x 14) | 3.5 KB OTP (2K x 14) |
| Core / Speed | 8-bit PIC / 4 MHz | 8-bit PIC / 4 MHz | 8-bit PIC / 4 MHz |
| I/O Count | 33 | 22 | 33 |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes |
| Operating Voltage | 2.5 V to 6.0 V | 2.5 V to 6.0 V | 2.5 V to 6.0 V |
| Temperature Grade | Industrial (-40 C to +85 C) | Industrial (-40 C to +85 C) | Commercial (0 C to +70 C) |
| Pin Compatibility (drop-in) | n/a (reference part) | NOT pin-compatible (different package) | NOT pin-compatible (MQFP vs PLCC) |
Key Differentiators
- 44-PLCC socket compatibility for easy field service (vs PIC16LC63A-04I/SS)
- Industrial temperature grade vs Commercial grade at same die (vs PIC16LC64A-04I/PQ)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of pins 11 and 12 (VDD/VSS pair), and add a 10 uF bulk capacitor near the socket for the ICSP programming pulse transients. Keep the ICSP header (RB6/RB7 and MCLR) accessible at PCB edge so the OTP can be programmed after assembly.
Estimated: PIC16LC64A active current at 4 MHz / 5 V with all I/O unloaded is approximately 5 mA typical. The OTP memory is one-time programmable - any code bug requires a chip swap, so reserve a programming-test socket on the production line. Make sure CONFIG bits (WDT, oscillator, code-protect) are set before programming the user code, not after, because once code-protect is enabled it cannot be cleared on OTP.
The PIC16LC64A 'LC' variant supports a sleep mode drawing <1 uA typical (WDT disabled), making it suitable for battery-backed designs. Use Brown-Out Reset (BOR) enabled config bit to avoid corrupted registers during supply dips below 2.5 V; the BOR trip voltage is hardware-fixed at approximately 4 V for the 5 V mode.
Compliance Information
PIC16LC64A-04I/L is Obsolete per Microchip product lifecycle. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - industrial temperature grade only. RoHS/lead-free status for the PLCC /L variant not explicitly stated in the provided distributor data and is flagged [DATA_NEEDED].
