PIC16LC771T-I/SO - 8-Bit 20MHz 7KB OTP MCU | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LC771T-I/SO ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6.95 | $6.95 |
| 10 | $6.2 | $62.00 |
| 100 | $5.45 | $545.00 |
| 500 | $4.85 | $2,425.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.3 | $4,300.00 |
PIC16LC771T-I/SO Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, RAM, non-volatile program memory, and peripherals around an 8-bit data bus. The PIC16 family uses a Harvard RISC architecture with separate program and data buses, enabling single-cycle instruction execution. Within Microchip's MCU portfolio, the PIC16LC771 belongs to the mid-range PIC16 family, sharing core peripherals with the PIC16C7x series but adding 12-bit ADC resolution for higher-precision analog measurement. This category of MCU bridges the gap between simple 8-bit controllers (PIC10/12/16) and 16-bit dsPIC devices.
Key features include 12-bit ADC with up to 6 input channels, a USART module for asynchronous and synchronous serial communication, an SSP module supporting SPI and I2C, two 8-bit timers and one 16-bit timer/counter, and a 14-bit instruction word architecture optimized for compact code density. The 'LC' suffix designates the low-voltage CMOS variant, and the 'T' suffix denotes tape-and-reel packaging.
The PIC16LC771T-I/SO is built on Microchip's standard CMOS process and runs at up to 20MHz, providing 5 MIPS performance. The 12-bit ADC (versus the 10-bit ADC found in the related PIC16C771) gives 4x finer conversion resolution for sensor and instrumentation applications. The integrated USART and SSP peripheral set makes the device suitable as a communications front-end controller in larger systems.
Typical applications include industrial sensor signal conditioning, low-power data acquisition modules, battery-powered handheld instruments, and 3.3V/5V mixed-voltage control boards. The 'I' industrial temperature grade spans -40C to +85C.
When designing with this MCU, observe the OTP programming constraint: code is written once and cannot be erased, so production units must use pre-programmed devices or in-circuit programming before final test. Ensure the MCLR reset circuit includes the proper pull-up and decoupling, and verify the oscillator configuration bits match the chosen crystal or resonator.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes that complement the Microchip datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LC771T-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 PIC16LC771T-I/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in ADC, Package, Operating Temperature, Program Memory Size, Timers.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LC771-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC770T-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC770-E/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC717T-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.72 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC716T-04I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LC771T-I/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC RISC (Harvard) |
| Family | PIC16 (mid-range) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB (4K x 14 words) |
| Data RAM | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Set | PIC16C, 35 instructions, 14-bit word |
| ADC | 12-bit, up to 6 channels |
| Supply Voltage (Vdd) | 3.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial, 'I' grade) |
| Package | 20-pin SOIC (SO) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel ('T' suffix) |
| Timers | Two 8-bit + one 16-bit Timer/Counter |
| Communication Peripherals | USART, SSP (SPI/I2C) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lifecycle | Obsolete - not recommended for new designs |
PIC16LC771T-I/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP — Master Clear reset input / programming voltage input |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / ADC input channel 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / ADC input channel 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2/VREF- — PORTA bit 2 / ADC input channel 2 / ADC negative reference |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — PORTA bit 3 / ADC input channel 3 / ADC positive reference |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4/SS — PORTA bit 5 / ADC input channel 4 / SPI Slave Select |
| Pin 8 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 10 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 11 | RC1/T1OSI — PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input |
| Pin 12 | RC2/CCP1 — PORTC bit 2 / Capture/Compare/PWM module 1 |
| 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 transmit / USART clock |
| Pin 17 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / USART receive / USART data |
| Pin 18 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 / external interrupt |
| Pin 19 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.0V to 5.5V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LC771T-I/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning, Low-Power Data Acquisition Module, Battery-Powered Handheld Instruments, Mixed-Voltage 3.3V/5V Control Boards, Industrial Communication Front-End, Replacement Part in Legacy Equipment.
Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16LC771T-I/SO fits industrial sensor front-ends because its 12-bit ADC delivers 4x finer conversion resolution than the 10-bit PIC16LC770 in the same 20-pin SOIC footprint. With 6 ADC channels and selectable Vref, the MCU can digitize strain gauges, thermocouples via op-amp front-ends, and 4-20mA current loops directly. The 20MHz core executes averaging and linearization routines in real time, while 256 bytes RAM accommodates a small moving-average filter. Industrial -40C to +85C operation matches factory-floor environments, and the 3.0V-5.5V supply tolerates 24V industrial rails after regulation. Place 100nF decoupling on VDD/VSS and a 10k pull-up on MCLR per Microchip reference designs.
Recommended
Low-Power Data Acquisition Module
The PIC16LC771T-I/SO suits battery-powered data loggers and portable measurement modules because the 'LC' low-voltage CMOS core operates down to 3.0V, allowing direct 3.3V Li-Ion or 2xAA battery operation. The 12-bit ADC captures sensor data with sufficient resolution for environmental monitoring (temperature, humidity, pressure), and 7KB OTP stores acquisition schedules and calibration tables. The integrated USART streams logged data to a host Bluetooth or WiFi module at low duty cycle. The 20MHz core returns to sleep between samples, drawing microamp-level standby current. Use the 16-bit Timer1 as a real-time-clock tick source for accurate sample timing without an external RTC.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Handheld Instruments
The PIC16LC771T-I/SO is appropriate for handheld test instruments (multimeters, calibrators, environmental meters) because the 'LC' low-voltage variant runs directly from 3V battery packs, and the 12-bit ADC provides sufficient resolution for handheld-grade measurements. The 20MHz core drives LCD interfaces, button-scan matrices, and RS-232/USB-UART bridges from a single chip. 256 bytes of RAM is adequate for menu state and measurement history buffers. The industrial -40C to +85C range covers field-deployed equipment, and the 20-pin SOIC occupies minimal PCB area. Pair with an external EEPROM (24LC256 via I2C) for non-volatile measurement log storage.
Recommended
Mixed-Voltage 3.3V/5V Control Boards
The PIC16LC771T-I/SO fits mixed-voltage control boards that need to bridge 3.3V sensors and 5V actuator drivers because the LC variant operates from 3.0V to 5.5V, providing flexibility for either rail. The PIC16 core's digital I/O can drive 5V-tolerant peripherals when running at 5V and 3.3V logic when running at 3.3V. The 12-bit ADC reads analog signals from both 3.3V sensors and 5V op-amp outputs with appropriate Vref scaling. The USART and SSP (SPI/I2C) connect to 3.3V wireless modules or 5V legacy peripherals without level shifters in single-rail segments. Use careful pin-by-pin voltage analysis to avoid exceeding abs-max on any pin.
Recommended
Industrial Communication Front-End
The PIC16LC771T-I/SO serves as a UART/SPI-to-RS485 or UART-to-Modbus communication front-end controller because the integrated USART handles RS-232/RS-485 transceivers and the SSP module runs SPI or I2C master/slave links. The 20MHz core manages protocol framing, CRC checking, and address filtering in software, offloading the main system processor. 7KB OTP stores Modbus register maps or proprietary protocol stacks. The 12-bit ADC monitors the communication line voltage for diagnostics. Industrial -40C to +85C operation supports factory and outdoor enclosures. Add an isolation barrier (ADM2485) and a TVS diode on the RS-485 bus for surge protection.
Recommended
Replacement Part in Legacy Equipment
The PIC16LC771T-I/SO is suitable for sustaining legacy industrial equipment where the existing PCB was designed for the 20-pin SOIC PIC16 family and the firmware is locked in OTP. Because the part is obsolete, sourcing authentic stock is critical; pair with cross-reference verification, lot-date-code checks, and counterfeit-detection inspection (XRF, decapsulation) per IPC standards. The 12-bit ADC remains adequate for legacy sensor inputs, and the 20MHz core matches original timing budgets. For long-term support, Microchip recommends migrating to PIC16F877A-I/P with a daughter-board adapter, but for one-to-one board replacement, the PIC16LC771T-I/SO is the correct drop-in. Document ECN/PCN history before integrating into service-stock BOMs.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LC771T-I/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LC771-I/SO | PIC16LC770T-I/SO | PIC16LC770-E/SO | PIC16LC717T-I/SO | PIC16LC716T-04I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 20-pin SOIC | 20-pin SOIC - same | 20-pin SOIC - same | 20-pin SOIC - same | 20-pin SOIC - same | 20-pin SOIC - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same |
| Core / Architecture | 8-bit PIC16 RISC | 8-bit PIC16 RISC | 8-bit PIC16 RISC | 8-bit PIC16 RISC | 8-bit PIC16 RISC | 8-bit PIC16 RISC |
| Max CPU Frequency | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz (04 speed grade) |
| Program Memory | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP |
| Data RAM | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 128 bytes |
| ADC Resolution | 12-bit | 12-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 8-bit |
| ADC Channels | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4 |
| Supply Voltage | 3.0 V to 5.5 V | 3.0 V to 5.5 V | 3.0 V to 5.5 V | 3.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 6.0 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) | -40 C to +125 C (Extended) | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) |
Key Differentiators
- 12-bit ADC in a 20-pin SOIC package (vs PIC16LC770T-I/SO)
- Industrial temperature grade availability (vs PIC16LC770-E/SO)
- Full 7KB OTP program memory (vs PIC16LC717T-I/SO)
Design Notes
Place a 100nF ceramic decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 20) and a bulk capacitor (10uF to 22uF) on the same supply rail. For battery-powered designs, an LDO regulator such as the MCP1700-3302E (3.3V) provides clean power from a single-cell Li-Ion source. Add a reverse-polarity protection diode on the battery input. The 'LC' variant tolerates supply droop down to 3.0V but oscillator stability degrades below 3.3V at maximum frequency.
OTP memory cannot be erased. For development and field firmware updates, use the flash-based PIC16F877A or PIC16F887 instead. If the OTP device must be used in production, verify the assembled firmware using a sample programmed on an emulator or windowed ceramic part (PIC16C771 in CERDIP) before committing to the OTP flow. Incorrect configuration bits are the most common OTP-programming error - double-check oscillator, watchdog, brown-out, and code-protect settings before programming.
The 12-bit ADC requires careful analog front-end design to achieve full resolution. Use a low-impedance buffer (MCP6002 op-amp) between the sensor and ADC input, and keep analog traces short and routed away from digital lines. Add a small RC low-pass filter (1k ohm + 100pF) at each ADC input for noise rejection. Reference voltage stability directly affects ADC accuracy - use a low-noise reference such as MCP1525 or MCP1541 for better than 1 LSB precision. Acquire and convert cycles must respect the minimum Tacq and Tad timing per the datasheet electrical characteristics.
Follow Microchip's analog design guidelines: separate analog and digital ground planes joined at a single point near the MCU's VSS pin (pin 19). Place the ADC reference bypass capacitor (100nF) and bulk capacitor (10uF) close to the VREF+ pin (pin 5). Route the crystal traces (OSC1/OSC2, pins 9 and 8) short and symmetrical, with the load capacitors placed within 2-3 mm of the MCU. Keep switching power supplies and high-current traces away from the analog portion of the circuit.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliance per Microchip product documentation. Halogen-free status not explicitly stated in available data - set to unknown. AEC-Q100 not applicable for industrial-grade 8-bit MCU (automotive applications would require PIC16F877A-I/P or similar automotive-qualified part).
