PIC16LC64A-04I/PT - 8-Bit 4MHz MCU 3.5KB OTP 44-TQFP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LC64A-04I/PT ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4.02 | $4.02 |
| 10 | $3.62 | $36.20 |
| 100 | $3.22 | $322.00 |
| 500 | $2.85 | $1,425.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.55 | $2,550.00 |
PIC16LC64A-04I/PT Overview
A PIC microcontroller is a compact computer-on-a-chip based on a RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) Harvard architecture, integrating CPU core, non-volatile program memory, working RAM, peripherals, and I/O into a single IC. Within the embedded hierarchy, PIC16C sits between baseline PIC10/PIC12 8-pin controllers and PIC18/PIC24 16-bit devices, targeting mid-range control tasks that need more code space and I/O than entry-level MCUs. The PIC16C6X family uses OTP program memory rather than Flash, which keeps die cost low but requires mask-programmed or windowed devices for volume production and limited in-circuit reprogrammability.
Key differentiating specifications include 4 MHz maximum operating frequency, 35 single-word instructions with single-cycle execution (except program branches), 8-bit-wide data path, and an industrial-grade -40C to +85C operating temperature range as denoted by the 'I' suffix. The 128-byte RAM and 33 I/O pins enable rich sensor interfacing, while I2C/SPI connectivity supports peripheral expansion. The '04' speed grade limits the oscillator to 4 MHz, suiting low-EMI, deterministic control loops.
Architecture-wise, the PIC16C6X core uses a 14-bit instruction word with separate program and data buses (Harvard), enabling simultaneous fetch and access. The device supports DC to 4 MHz clock input across 2.5V-5.5V supply, with internal brown-out reset, watchdog timer, and power-on reset. The 10-bit ADC multiplexes across multiple channels, sharing pins with digital I/O.
Typical applications include industrial automation controllers, white-goods user interfaces, motor-control front-ends, automotive body electronics (non-safety), HVAC thermostat logic, and battery-powered sensor hubs. The 33 I/O and 3.5 KB OTP make it well-suited for fixed-function appliances where the firmware is finalized before mask programming.
Design consideration: OTP memory cannot be field-updated, so provisioning firmware-update paths requires either mask ROM equivalents or migrating to a Flash-based PIC16F7x pin-compatible successor. Plan for socketed prototypes during firmware bring-up.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LC64A-04I/PT — 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/PT (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core Architecture, Package, Program Memory Type, Mounting Type, Program Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F77-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F877A-I/PT
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F74-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC64A-04I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F914-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.35 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF74-I/PT
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC64A-04I/PT Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-Bit |
| Series | PIC 16C |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes |
| Number of I/O | 33 |
| Connectivity | I2C, SPI |
| Peripherals | Brown-out Detect/Reset, POR, PWM, WDT |
| ADC | 10-bit (per datasheet) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C |
| Package | 44-TQFP (PT) 10x10 mm |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Instruction Set | 35 single-word instructions, RISC |
| Product Status | Obsolete |
PIC16LC64A-04I/PT Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator crystal input or external clock input |
| Pin 2 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator crystal output or clock output |
| Pin 3 | MCLR/VPP — Master Clear (reset) input or programming voltage input |
| Pin 4 | RA0 — PORTA bit 0 (digital I/O or analog input AN0) |
| Pin 5 | RA1 — PORTA bit 1 (digital I/O or analog input AN1) |
| Pin 6 | RA2 — PORTA bit 2 (digital I/O or analog input AN2) |
| Pin 7 | RA3 — PORTA bit 3 (digital I/O or analog input AN3) |
| Pin 8 | RA4 — PORTA bit 4 (digital I/O or analog input AN4, open-drain) |
| Pin 9 | RA5 — PORTA bit 5 (digital I/O or analog input AN5) |
| Pin 10 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 11 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 12 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 (digital I/O or external interrupt input) |
| Pin 13 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 14 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 15 | RB3 — PORTB bit 3 (digital I/O or low-voltage programming) |
| Pin 16 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 (digital I/O, interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 17 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 (digital I/O, interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 18 | RB6 — PORTB bit 6 (digital I/O, interrupt-on-change, ICSP clock) |
| Pin 19 | RB7 — PORTB bit 7 (digital I/O, interrupt-on-change, ICSP data) |
| Pin 20 | RC0 — PORTC bit 0 (digital I/O or timer1 oscillator) |
| Pin 21 | RC1 — PORTC bit 1 (digital I/O or timer1 oscillator) |
| Pin 22 | RC2 — PORTC bit 2 (digital I/O or CCP1 output) |
| Pin 23 | RC3 — PORTC bit 3 (digital I/O or SCL for I2C) |
| Pin 24 | RC4 — PORTC bit 4 (digital I/O or SDA for I2C) |
| Pin 25 | RC5 — PORTC bit 5 (digital I/O or SDO for SPI) |
| Pin 26 | RC6 — PORTC bit 6 (digital I/O or TX for USART) |
| Pin 27 | RC7 — PORTC bit 7 (digital I/O or RX for USART) |
| Pin 28 | RD0 — PORTD bit 0 (digital I/O or PSP data) |
| Pin 29 | RD1 — PORTD bit 1 (digital I/O or PSP data) |
| Pin 30 | RD2 — PORTD bit 2 (digital I/O or PSP data) |
| Pin 31 | RD3 — PORTD bit 3 (digital I/O or PSP data) |
| Pin 32 | RD4 — PORTD bit 4 (digital I/O or PSP data) |
| Pin 33 | RD5 — PORTD bit 5 (digital I/O or PSP data) |
| Pin 34 | RD6 — PORTD bit 6 (digital I/O or PSP data) |
| Pin 35 | RD7 — PORTD bit 7 (digital I/O or PSP data) |
| Pin 36 | RE0 — PORTE bit 0 (digital I/O or AN6 or RD control) |
| Pin 37 | RE1 — PORTE bit 1 (digital I/O or AN7 or WR control) |
| Pin 38 | RE2 — PORTE bit 2 (digital I/O or CS control) |
| Pin 39 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 40 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| 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/PT is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Automation Controllers, White Goods User Interface Controllers, HVAC Thermostat Logic, Battery-Powered Sensor Hubs, Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety), Motor Control Front-End.
Industrial Automation Controllers
The PIC16LC64A-04I/PT suits industrial automation control modules that need deterministic 8-bit processing at low clock rates. With 4 MHz maximum operation, 35 single-cycle RISC instructions, and 33 I/O lines, the MCU can manage conveyor sequencing, sensor multiplexing, and relay-driver outputs without software timing jitter. The brown-out reset and watchdog timer peripherals guard against industrial supply disturbances and firmware lock-ups in 24V factory-bus environments. Its -40C to +85C industrial temperature range handles unheated cabinet deployments. Engineers typically pair it with opto-isolated inputs and 5V relay drivers, using I2C to read temperature sensors and SPI to drive LED indicators.
Recommended
White Goods User Interface Controllers
The PIC16LC64A-04I/PT is a classic fit for white-goods user-interface panels in washing machines, dishwashers, and microwave ovens. Its 33 I/O lines easily accommodate 7-segment LED or LCD displays, keypad scanning matrices, and rotary encoder inputs. The 3.5 KB OTP program memory is sufficient for fixed-function appliance firmware that is fully validated before production mask programming, keeping per-unit cost low. The 4 MHz clock eliminates switching-noise concerns in noise-sensitive kitchen environments, and the 2.5V-5.5V supply range supports both 3.3V and 5V display driver designs. OTP also prevents firmware theft by contract manufacturers.
Recommended
HVAC Thermostat Logic
The PIC16LC64A-04I/PT handles HVAC thermostat logic where 8-bit processing, modest code space, and industrial temperature tolerance are sufficient. Its 10-bit ADC reads thermistor or temperature sensor ICs for ambient and setpoint measurements, while PWM outputs drive furnace or fan control relays through triac interfaces. The brown-out reset prevents misoperation during brown-outs common on shared HVAC transformer circuits. With 33 I/O and I2C, the MCU can also interface with humidity sensors, CO2 modules, and Wi-Fi expansion boards. The 'LC' low-voltage variant supports 3.3V battery-backed thermostat designs using 2xAA cells.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Sensor Hubs
The PIC16LC64A-04I/PT enables compact battery-powered sensor hubs thanks to its low-voltage 'LC' 2.5V-5.5V operation and modest 4 MHz clock that keeps active current low. The 128-byte RAM and 3.5 KB OTP handle star-network sensor polling, time-stamping, and sleep-mode coordination across multiple I2C sensor channels. Watchdog timer and brown-out reset guard against battery end-of-life brown-outs and firmware stalls in remote deployments. With 33 I/O and SPI, the MCU can drive low-power RF transceivers for wireless telemetry or LoRa modules. Industrial -40C to +85C operation supports outdoor sensor enclosures.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety)
The PIC16LC64A-04I/PT historically powered automotive body controllers for seat adjusters, mirror controls, lighting dimmers, and accessory multiplexers where AEC-Q100 qualification was not strictly required. Its 33 I/O handle multiple motor drivers and switch inputs, while I2C connects to dashboard switch panels and SPI to LED driver chains. The 4 MHz clock avoids AM-band interference that plagues higher-frequency MCUs in automotive environments. Although now obsolete, the part still ships in volume to aftermarket repair channels. Modern replacements like PIC16F877A-I/PT add Flash programmability and CAN capability.
Recommended
Motor Control Front-End
The PIC16LC64A-04I/PT serves as a motor-control front-end for low-power brushed DC, stepper, and small BLDC applications where its PWM peripheral and 33 I/O are sufficient. The MCU generates PWM drive signals for H-bridge MOSFET drivers, reads back EMF sensing through the 10-bit ADC, and implements basic commutation logic in firmware. The 4 MHz clock provides adequate timing resolution for sub-kHz PWM frequencies typical of small motor drives. Brown-out reset and watchdog timer prevent motor driver misbehavior during supply transients from inductive loads. Industrial -40C to +85C operation covers motor bay environments.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LC64A-04I/PT — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F77-I/PT | PIC16F877A-I/PT | PIC16F74-I/PT | PIC16LC64A-04I/P | PIC16F914-I/PT | PIC16LF74-I/PT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 44-TQFP (PT) 10x10 mm | 44-TQFP (PT) - same | 44-TQFP (PT) - same | 44-TQFP (PT) - same | 40-PDIP - NOT same | 44-TQFP (PT) - same | 44-TQFP (PT) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB OTP | 7 KB Flash | 14 KB Flash | 7 KB Flash | 3.5 KB OTP | 7 KB Flash | 7 KB Flash |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes | 368 bytes | 368 bytes | 192 bytes | 128 bytes | 256 bytes | 192 bytes |
| Maximum Clock | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Number of I/O | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 36 | 33 |
| Memory Type | OTP | Flash (re-programmable) | Flash (re-programmable) | Flash (re-programmable) | OTP | Flash (re-programmable) | Flash (re-programmable) |
| Connectivity | I2C, SPI | I2C, SPI, USART | I2C, SPI, USART, PSP | I2C, SPI, USART | I2C, SPI | I2C, SPI, USART, LCD | I2C, SPI, USART |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (I grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Active | Active | Active | Obsolete | Active | Active |
Key Differentiators
- Pin-compatible Flash upgrade with 2x program memory (vs PIC16F77-I/PT)
- Higher-memory 44-TQFP upgrade for code expansion (vs PIC16F877A-I/PT)
- Integrated LCD driver for display-based applications (vs PIC16F914-I/PT)
Design Notes
OTP program memory on the PIC16LC64A-04I/PT cannot be erased or re-programmed. Allocate extra engineering time for firmware validation using windowed ceramic-package samples (JW suffix) before committing to plastic-OTP production units. A single firmware bug requires a new PCB population since there is no field-update path. Plan firmware version control with a configuration-bit review checklist covering oscillator mode, watchdog enable, brown-out voltage, and code-protect bits.
The PIC16LC64A-04I/PT operates from 2.5V to 5.5V Vdd. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of each VDD pin (pins 11 and 40) and a single 10 uF bulk capacitor near the MCU. The brown-out reset peripheral should be enabled in configuration bits to hold the MCU in reset when Vdd drops below threshold, preventing code execution errors during supply transients. Use MCP1700 or MCP1727 LDOs for 3.3V designs from higher-voltage rails.
The 44-TQFP package has 0.8 mm pin pitch requiring careful PCB layout. Use 0.4 mm-wide traces with 0.2 mm clearance, and consider via-in-pad for ground pads to improve thermal dissipation and reduce ground bounce. Route the OSC1/OSC2 crystal traces short and symmetric, with the crystal placed within 10 mm of the MCU pins, and guard the MCLR/VPP trace to avoid capacitive coupling that could trigger spurious resets.
Route the ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) pins RB6 and RB7 with accessible test points or header footprint for production programming. Even though the PIC16LC64A-04I/PT uses OTP, programming via VPP/RB6/RB7 is required during board assembly. The 10-bit ADC inputs (RA0-RA5, RE0-RE2) should be guarded from digital switching traces to avoid crosstalk. Add series ferrite beads on analog supply rails if switch-mode supplies share the board.
Compliance Information
Obsolete part from 1990s era; original RoHS compliance status not documented in current verified data. Verify with date code and distributor documentation. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - not recommended for new automotive designs.