PIC16LC72-04/SO - 8-bit 4MHz OTP MCU 28-SOIC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LC72-04/SO ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.06 | $3.06 |
| 10 | $2.85 | $28.50 |
| 100 | $2.55 | $255.00 |
| 500 | $2.21 | $1,105.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.95 | $1,950.00 |
PIC16LC72-04/SO Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, memory, and peripherals; mid-range PIC16C devices specifically trade off Flash program memory for OTP technology, keeping unit prices competitive for high-volume consumer and industrial embedded products. Within the broader hierarchy, the PIC16LC72 belongs to PIC16C family -> mid-range PIC16 -> PIC microcontrollers -> 8-bit microcontrollers -> microcontrollers -> integrated circuits.
Key features include 5-channel 8-bit ADC, synchronous serial port (SPI / I2C), 3 timer modules (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2), 8-bit parallel slave port, watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator, programmable code protection, and a wide operating voltage range typical of the LC family. According to the manufacturer datasheet, the device offers 8-bit-wide Harvard architecture and 14-bit instruction word optimized for compact assembly code density.
Typical applications include industrial automation controllers, consumer appliance interfaces, low-power sensor signal conditioning, and small-form-factor embedded control boards where OTP cost advantages outweigh reprogrammability. The 28-SOIC footprint is the most widely supported mid-range PIC package, simplifying PCB layout for both hand-prototyping and high-volume SMT assembly.
When designing with this part, note that OTP memory cannot be erased or rewritten: firmware must be 100% validated before commitment. For prototype or field-upgradable designs, consider Flash-based members of the PIC16F family in the same 28-SOIC footprint. The 0C to 70C commercial temperature range restricts the LC variant to non-industrial environments; choose the "-I" or "-E" suffix parts for extended-range designs. Prices vary by source per Datasheet View and Compare All Substitutes Image shown is a representation only. Exact specifications should be obtained from the product data sheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LC72-04/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 PIC16LC72-04/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Program Memory Size, ADC, MSL Level, Package, Mounting Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LC72A-04/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC72-04I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC72-04/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC71-04/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC66-04/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F72-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC72-04/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC16C mid-range 8-bit RISC |
| Instruction Set Architecture | Harvard, 14-bit instruction word |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | Not present (OTP device) |
| I/O Pins | 22 |
| ADC | 8-bit, 5 channels |
| Serial Interfaces | SSP (SPI / I2C) |
| Timers | 3 (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes, with on-chip RC oscillator |
| Parallel Slave Port | Yes, 8-bit |
| Package | 28-SOIC (0.295" / 7.50 mm body width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (commercial grade) |
| Technology Family | PIC16C low-power CMOS ("LC") |
| Speed Grade Suffix | -04 (4 MHz) |
| RoHS Status | Check manufacturer (vintage part) |
| MSL Level | 1 (unsealed / dry-pack standard for SOIC) |
PIC16LC72-04/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / Analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 2 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / Analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 3 | RA2/AN2/VREF- — PORTA bit 2 / Analog input channel 2 / ADC VREF- |
| Pin 4 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — PORTA bit 3 / Analog input channel 3 / ADC VREF+ |
| Pin 5 | RA4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 6 | RA5/AN4/SS — PORTA bit 5 / Analog input channel 4 / SPI Slave Select |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator crystal input / external clock in |
| Pin 9 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator crystal output / clock out |
| Pin 10 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 11 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 |
| Pin 12 | RC2/CCP1 — PORTC bit 2 / CCP1 PWM/Capture |
| Pin 13 | RC3/SCK/SCL — PORTC bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 14 | RC4/SDI/SDA — PORTC bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 15 | RC5/SDO — PORTC bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 16 | RC6/TX/CK — PORTC bit 6 / USART TX / USART clock |
| Pin 17 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / USART RX / USART data |
| Pin 18 | VSS — Ground reference (second pin) |
| Pin 19 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 20 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 / External interrupt |
| Pin 21 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 |
| Pin 22 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 |
| Pin 23 | RB3/PGM — PORTB bit 3 / Low-voltage programming |
| Pin 24 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 (interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 25 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 (interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 26 | RB6/PGC — PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 27 | RB7/PGD — PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data |
| Pin 28 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (second pin) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LC72-04/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Automation Controllers, Consumer Appliance Interfaces, Low-Power Sensor Signal Conditioning, HVAC Thermostat Controls, Educational Microcontroller Trainer Boards, Small Embedded Control Boards.
Industrial Automation Controllers
The PIC16LC72-04/SO fits industrial automation control loops that require deterministic 8-bit processing at modest sample rates. Its 4 MHz clock delivers 1 microsecond instruction cycles, well-matched to PID loops running at sub-kHz control rates for motor drives, valve actuators, or sensor multiplexing hubs. The integrated 5-channel 8-bit ADC reads process variables (temperature, pressure, position) directly without an external ADC IC, saving BOM cost and PCB area in dense controller boards. The SSP port (SPI / I2C) talks to digital sensors, EEPROM, or display drivers, while 22 I/O lines drive relays, optocouplers, and status LEDs. Commercial 0-70C temperature range suits cabinet-mounted controllers; for harsher factory floors, choose the PIC16LC72-04I/SO industrial-grade option.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Interfaces
The PIC16LC72-04/SO is widely used in cost-sensitive consumer appliances (washing machines, microwave ovens, small kitchen devices) where OTP memory's lower die cost outweighs the loss of in-field reprogrammability. Its 3.5 KB of program memory is sufficient for keypad scanning, seven-segment or LCD display driving, and basic state-machine control of pumps, heaters, and buzzers. The 22 I/O lines handle matrix keypads (8x4 typical) and parallel LED arrays without external I/O expanders, and the 5-channel ADC reads temperature, humidity, or weight sensors for cooking-cycle automation. The 28-SOIC package supports low-cost SMT assembly lines and survives typical consumer thermal profiles.
Recommended
Low-Power Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16LC72-04/SO's CMOS "LC" technology gives lower quiescent current than the standard PIC16C72, making it well suited to battery-powered sensor conditioning front-ends that sleep between measurements. The 4 MHz maximum clock and short wake-up time from Sleep mode suit duty-cycled sensing: wake, sample one ADC channel, transmit via SSP/I2C, return to sleep. With 22 I/O available, multiple sensors (temperature, pressure, gas, light) can share a single MCU, each on its own analog input. Combined with the small 28-SOIC footprint, this enables compact, low-power wireless sensor nodes or handheld instrumentation that runs for months on a single AA battery pair.
Recommended
HVAC Thermostat Controls
The PIC16LC72-04/SO suits residential and light-commercial HVAC thermostat controllers that integrate temperature sensing, setpoint entry via keypad, and relay switching of furnace/AC stages. The 5-channel 8-bit ADC reads indoor temperature, setpoint potentiometer, and humidity sensor; the 22 I/O lines drive the LCD, keypad, and triac-driver optocouplers that switch 24 VAC loads. OTP memory's low cost suits the high-volume thermostat market where firmware is locked at the time of production. The 28-SOLIC package handles SMT automation and the resulting uptime keeps the bill of materials low for OEM thermostat makers.
Recommended
Educational Microcontroller Trainer Boards
The PIC16LC72-04/SO is well suited to introductory microcontroller trainer boards and educational kits for undergraduate embedded-systems courses. The 28-SOLIC package is easy for students to hand-solder or rework, while the PIC16C mid-range instruction set is widely documented in textbooks and Microchip application notes. 3.5 KB OTP fits sample programs covering GPIO, ADC, timers, and SPI/I2C peripheral tutorials without overflowing. The 22 I/O lines support breadboard-friendly breakout of every peripheral, and the PICkit 1 / PICkit 2 programmer chain simplifies in-circuit programming for student projects.
Recommended
Small Embedded Control Boards
The PIC16LC72-04/SO's combination of 3.5 KB OTP, 22 I/O, and 5-channel ADC makes it a general-purpose controller for small embedded boards that read a few analog signals and drive a few digital actuators. Typical examples include battery charger front-ends, vending machine coin acceptors, and small robotics motor controllers. The 28-SOLIC package is supported across all major PCB CAD libraries and pick-and-place libraries, simplifying design. The parallel slave port enables connection to a host CPU when the application outgrows the LC72, while the SSP port supports off-board peripherals.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LC72-04/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LC72A-04/SO | PIC16LC72-04I/SO | PIC16LC71-04/SO | PIC16LC66-04/SO | PIC16F72-I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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-SOIC - same |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 1.75 KB OTP | 14 KB OTP | 2 KB Flash |
| Max Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 368 bytes | 128 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 |
| ADC | 8-bit, 5 channels | 8-bit, 5 channels | 8-bit, 5 channels | 8-bit, 4 channels | 8-bit, 5 channels | 8-bit, 5 channels |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (commercial) | 0C to +70C | -40C to +85C (industrial) | 0C to +70C | 0C to +70C | -40C to +85C (industrial) |
| Memory Type | OTP (one-time programmable) | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | Flash (reprogrammable) |
Key Differentiators
- Low-power CMOS "LC" silicon for battery applications (vs PIC16C72-04/SO (standard PIC16C72))
- 5-channel 8-bit ADC integrated on-chip (vs PIC16LC71-04/SO (4-channel only))
- OTP at $3.06 qty-1 vs Flash at similar price (vs PIC16F72-I/SO (Flash-based))
Design Notes
OTP memory is one-time programmable - firmware bugs cannot be patched. Always prototype with a Flash-based equivalent (PIC16F72-I/SO in the same 28-SOIC footprint) before committing to the PIC16LC72-04/SO production run. Once programmed, the part cannot be erased by UV or electrical means; each firmware revision requires a new reel of parts. Estimate that your IC layout, BOM, and validation should match the Flash prototype before OTP commit.
Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to pin 19 (VDD) and pin 28 (VDD) and use a short ground return to pin 7 and pin 18 (VSS). For ADC accuracy, add a 10 microF range to the analog supply and isolate analog VREF (pin 4 RA3/VREF+) from digital VDD with a ferrite bead or RC filter when sampling low-impedance sensors. The 28-SOIC pad pattern is standard and supported by all major PCB CAD footprints; verify the keep-out clearance matches the 7.50 mm body width.
The "LC" low-power CMOS variant has lower quiescent current than the standard PIC16C72. Use Sleep mode between ADC samples for duty-cycled sensor applications - the part wakes in microseconds from the Watchdog Timer or external interrupt on RB0/INT. Verify your firmware enters Sleep only after disabling the ADC module to avoid idle ADC bias current; this can reduce average Iq from milliamps to tens of microamps in low-duty-cycle applications.
Compliance Information
Vintage OTP MCU; AEC-Q100 not applicable for consumer/industrial microcontrollers. RoHS / lead-free status should be verified against the lot-specific manufacturer documentation before modern SMT lines.
