PIC16LC773-I/SS - 8-bit MCU 7KB OTP 20MHz 28-SSOP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LC773-I/SS โ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5.32 | $5.32 |
| 10 | $4.78 | $47.80 |
| 100 | $4.25 | $425.00 |
| 500 | $3.79 | $1,895.00 |
| 1,000 | $3.41 | $3,410.00 |
PIC16LC773-I/SS Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a programmable integrated circuit that combines a CPU, memory (ROM/RAM), and peripherals on a single die. The PIC16LC773 belongs to the mid-range PIC16 family, sitting between the baseline PIC10/12/16 and the high-performance PIC18 families. It executes one instruction per clock cycle (Harvard RISC architecture), delivering approximately 5 MIPS at 20 MHz, which is competitive with contemporary 8051 and AVR MCUs from this era. Its place in the hierarchy is: PIC16 8-bit MCU -> mid-range microcontroller -> RISC MCU -> embedded controller.
Key features include 22 digital I/O pins, three timers (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2), a 12-bit ADC with up to 8 channels, a USART module for serial communication, an SSP module for SPI/I2C, and a Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) module. The 'LC' prefix designates the low-voltage CMOS process, which reduces power consumption relative to the standard 'C' EPROM variants while retaining OTP programmability.
Technically, the PIC16LC773-I/SS uses a 14-bit instruction set with 35 single-word instructions, 8-level hardware stack, and a Harvard bus architecture that allows simultaneous instruction fetch and data access. The 12-bit ADC provides 8 input channels with 10 us conversion time. Industrial temperature grade (-40C to +85C) is indicated by the '-I' suffix.
Typical applications include industrial control systems, sensor signal conditioning with on-chip ADC, motor control using the CCP/PWM module, low-power embedded instruments, and legacy 5V designs requiring moderate performance. The 28-SSOP package suits space-constrained surface-mount designs.
When designing with this device, note that the OTP memory cannot be reprogrammed; for development or field-upgradeable applications, choose the PIC16C773 (EPROM windowed) or a Flash-based PIC16F equivalent. Provide a 100 nF decoupling capacitor near VDD and ensure MCLR is properly biased for reliable operation.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LC773-I/SS โ 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 PIC16LC773-I/SS (same form factor and footprint) โ differing in ADC, Core Architecture, Maximum Clock Speed, Operating Temperature, Package.
Quick Comparison Tool โ Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LC773T-I/SS
โ Drop-In๐ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC773/SS
โ Drop-In๐ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC773-I/SO
โ Drop-Inโ In Stock
$5.95 / Unit
View Datasheet โPIC16LC773-I/SP
โ Drop-In โ ๏ธ ๅๆฐๅพ ้ช่ฏ๐ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F876-I/SS
โ Drop-In๐ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LC773-I/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC16 8-bit RISC (Harvard) |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB (4K x 14) OTP |
| RAM Size | 256 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | None (OTP only) |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz |
| ADC | 12-bit, up to 8 channels |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 22 |
| Timers | 3 (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2) |
| Communication Interfaces | USART, SSP (SPI/I2C) |
| PWM Modules | 1 (CCP) |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) |
| Package | 28-pin SSOP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Instruction Set | 14-bit, 35 instructions |
| Stack Depth | 8 levels hardware |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16LC773-I/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP โ Master Clear reset input / programming voltage |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 โ PORTA bit 0 / Analog input 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 โ PORTA bit 1 / Analog input 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2 โ PORTA bit 2 / Analog input 2 |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ โ PORTA bit 3 / Analog input 3 / ADC positive reference |
| Pin 6 | RA4/AN4/T0CKI โ PORTA bit 4 / Analog input 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN5/SS/VDD โ PORTA bit 5 / Analog input 5 / SSP slave select / VDD |
| Pin 8 | VSS โ Ground reference |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKI โ Oscillator crystal input / external clock input |
| Pin 10 | OSC2/CLKO โ Oscillator crystal output / clock output |
| Pin 11 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI โ PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 12 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 โ PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 output |
| Pin 13 | RC2/CCP1 โ PORTC bit 2 / CCP1 PWM output |
| Pin 14 | RC3/SCK/SCL โ PORTC bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 15 | RC4/SDI/SDA โ PORTC bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 16 | RC5/SDO โ PORTC bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 17 | RC6/TX/CK โ PORTC bit 6 / USART transmit / USART clock |
| Pin 18 | RC7/RX/DT โ PORTC bit 7 / USART receive / USART data |
| Pin 19 | VSS โ Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | VDD โ Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 21 | RB0/INT โ PORTB bit 0 / external interrupt |
| Pin 22 | RB1 โ PORTB bit 1 |
| Pin 23 | RB2 โ PORTB bit 2 |
| Pin 24 | RB3 โ PORTB bit 3 |
| Pin 25 | RB4 โ PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 26 | RB5 โ PORTB bit 5 |
| Pin 27 | RB6/PGC โ PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 28 | RB7/PGD โ PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data |
Typical Applications
PIC16LC773-I/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Process Control, Sensor Signal Conditioning, Motor Control and PWM Drive, Low-Power Embedded Instruments, Building Automation HVAC, Automotive Body Electronics (Legacy).
Industrial Process Control
The PIC16LC773-I/SS suits industrial process control with its 12-bit resolution ADC and 22 digital I/O pins. The 12-bit ADC with 8 channels supports direct interface to 4-20 mA loop transmitters, thermocouples (with cold-junction compensation), and pressure transducers, providing 4096 LSB resolution for precise process variable measurement. The on-chip PWM module drives proportional solenoid valves, motor speed controllers, or heating element control via solid-state relays. Industrial temperature grade (-40C to +85C) ensures reliable operation in factory environments. The 28-SSOP footprint integrates well into DIN-rail controller PCBs.
Recommended
Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16LC773-I/SS integrates a 12-bit ADC that conditions analog signals from sensors such as load cells, RTDs, and gas detectors. With 8 analog input pins and 12-bit resolution (1 LSB ~1.2 mV at 5V VREF), the MCU digitizes low-level sensor outputs and applies digital filtering before transmitting via USART. The 256-byte RAM buffer accommodates sample averaging algorithms; the 7KB OTP program memory holds calibration tables. The 2.5V-5.5V supply range supports battery-powered remote sensors with low quiescent current draw.
Recommended
Motor Control and PWM Drive
The PIC16LC773-I/SS provides motor control capability through its Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) module generating PWM signals at up to 20 kHz from the 20 MHz system clock. Combined with Timer2 for period control and USART for command interface, the MCU drives brushed DC motors, low-power stepper drivers, and DC fans. The 22 I/O pins provide direction control lines, enable signals, and fault feedback inputs. The 12-bit ADC samples motor current for closed-loop torque or speed regulation, while the PWM output stage delivers up to 10-bit resolution duty cycle control.
Recommended
Low-Power Embedded Instruments
The PIC16LC773-I/SS operates from 2.5V-5.5V, supporting battery-powered instruments including handheld multimeters, portable data loggers, and field measurement tools. The 'LC' low-voltage CMOS process reduces active current to approximately 2 mA at 5V/4 MHz and supports sleep mode at <5 uA for extended battery life. The 7KB OTP program memory stores calibration constants and measurement routines; the 12-bit ADC delivers laboratory-grade precision. The 28-SSOP package suits handheld enclosures with limited PCB real estate.
Recommended
Building Automation HVAC
The PIC16LC773-I/SS fits HVAC building automation subsystems including thermostats, damper controllers, and zone temperature regulators. Its 12-bit ADC reads thermistor bridges with 0.1ยฐC accuracy, while PWM outputs drive proportional hot-water valves or variable-speed fan motors. The USART interfaces with central building management systems via RS-485 transceivers. Industrial temperature grade tolerates equipment room environments. The OTP memory secures proprietary HVAC control algorithms against unauthorized firmware modification by competitors.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Legacy)
Although not AEC-Q100 qualified, the PIC16LC773-I/SS historically served automotive body electronics applications including interior lighting controllers, seat position memory modules, and accessory multiplexers. Its 22 I/O pins handle switch inputs and relay outputs; the 12-bit ADC monitors battery voltage and temperature sensors. For new automotive designs, the AEC-Q100 qualified PIC16F876A-I/SS or PIC16F877-I/P is recommended, but legacy systems can continue using the PIC16LC773-I/SS with appropriate derating and qualification documentation.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LC773-I/SS โ comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LC773T-I/SS | PIC16LC773/SS | PIC16LC773-I/SO | PIC16F876-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SOIC wide - same pinout | 28-SSOP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 7 KB OTP | 7 KB OTP - same | 7 KB OTP - same | 7 KB OTP - same | 14 KB Flash - upgrade |
| RAM Size | 256 bytes | 256 bytes - same | 256 bytes - same | 256 bytes - same | 368 bytes - +44% |
| ADC Resolution | 12-bit | 12-bit - same | 12-bit - same | 12-bit - same | 10-bit - downgrade |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 20 MHz | 20 MHz - same | 20 MHz - same | 20 MHz - same | 20 MHz - same |
| Operating Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - same | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - same | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - same | 2.0 V to 5.5 V - wider |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) | -40 C to +85 C - same | 0 C to +70 C (Commercial) | -40 C to +85 C - same | -40 C to +85 C - same |
| Memory Type | OTP (one-time programmable) | OTP - same | OTP - same | OTP - same | Flash - upgrade |
Key Differentiators
- Higher 12-bit ADC resolution vs Flash-based PIC16F876 alternative (vs PIC16F876-I/SS)
- OTP memory security advantage vs Flash reprogrammability (vs PIC16F876-I/SS)
- Lower-voltage operation than EPROM-based PIC16C773 (vs PIC16C773-I/SS)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 20) with short traces to VSS (pin 19). Add a bulk capacitor (10 uF tantalum or aluminum) at the board power input. The PIC16LC773-I/SS has dual VDD/VSS pairs (pins 7/8 alternative and pins 19/20 main); connect both pairs even if only pin 19/20 is the primary supply. Estimated: total IC current draw at 20 MHz/5 V is approximately 15-20 mA active.
Route the MCLR pin (pin 1) with a 10 kV pull-up resistor to VDD and a 100 nF capacitor to VSS for proper reset behavior. The ICSP clock (PGC, pin 27) and data (PGD, pin 28) lines should have series resistors (~10 kV) if long traces are required to the programming connector. Keep analog inputs (RA0-RA5) physically separated from digital switching traces to minimize ADC noise coupling. Use a ground plane under the MCU for low-impedance return paths.
Do not assume OTP memory can be rewritten - the PIC16LC773-I/SS is One-Time-Programmable and only supports a single programming operation per address. For development or field-upgradeable designs, choose the PIC16F876-I/SS (Flash) instead. Ensure configuration bits are set correctly (oscillator selection, watchdog timer, code protection) before programming - incorrect config bits can lock the device or prevent ICSP access. Maximum VDD is 5.5 V; exceeding this damages the device.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - choose PIC16F876A-I/SS or PIC16F877-I/P for AEC-Q100 automotive applications. Halogen-free status not explicitly stated in datasheet.
