PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO - 8-Bit 4MHz OTP MCU, 3.5KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.42 | $3.42 |
| 10 | $3.08 | $30.80 |
| 100 | $2.74 | $274.00 |
| 500 | $2.45 | $1,225.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.18 | $2,180.00 |
PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO Overview
An OTP microcontroller (One-Time Programmable) is a class of flashless MCU where program memory can be written exactly once during production or board-level programming, after which the code becomes permanent. Within the broader taxonomy, this places the PIC16LCE625 as: microcontroller -> embedded MCU -> 8-bit RISC MCU -> PIC16C family -> OTP-programmed member. OTP MCUs are favored in cost-sensitive, high-volume, fixed-code applications where field firmware updates are not required.
Key features include a 35-instruction RISC core optimized for compact C and assembly code, an internal/external oscillator interface, 128 bytes of on-chip EEPROM for non-volatile parameter storage, 13 general-purpose I/O pins with individual direction control, and integrated peripherals such as a comparator, timer/counter, and brown-out reset. The 4MHz maximum clock input delivers up to 5 MIPS of throughput.
Architecturally, the PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO uses a Harvard bus design with separate program and data paths, allowing instruction fetch and data access to occur in a single cycle. The 'LC' suffix indicates a low-voltage CMOS variant supporting operation down to approximately 2.5V, while the 'E' designation marks the enhanced (industrial) temperature grade. OTP memory offers higher density and lower per-unit cost than UV-EPROM versions in mass production.
Typical applications include appliance control boards, simple sensor interfaces, low-cost consumer electronics, automotive body modules (when qualified appropriately), and industrial control logic. The wide operating voltage range and integrated brown-out reset make it suitable for environments with unstable power rails.
When designing with this device, allocate sufficient time for OTP programming during manufacturing, as OTP parts cannot be reprogrammed or field-updated. Plan for a programming adapter or in-circuit programming header in production fixtures, and use the EEPROM area for user-adjustable parameters that may need modification without re-flashing the OTP code region.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-brand and cross-brand drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LCE625T-04E/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 PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core Architecture, Package, Program Memory Size, RoHS Status, MSL Level.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LCE625-04E/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.98 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LCE625T-04I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LCE625T-04E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.78 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LCE625T-04/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LCE623T-04/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.49 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F630-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 8-bit RISC Microcontroller |
| Core Architecture | PIC16C (Harvard RISC) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable EPROM) |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) |
| RAM Size | 128 x 8 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | 128 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns (single-cycle) |
| Number of I/O Pins | 13 |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V (3.3 V / 5 V typical) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (industrial, 'E' grade) |
| Package / Case | 18-SOIC (0.300 inch, 7.62 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel |
| Integrated Peripherals | Brown-out Detect/Reset, POR, WDT, Comparator, Timer |
| Oscillator Type | External |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — PORTA bit 2 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — PORTA bit 3 (bidirectional digital I/O, also MCLR alternative) |
| Pin 3 | RA4 — PORTA bit 4 (bidirectional digital I/O, open-drain) |
| Pin 4 | MCLR/VPP — Master Clear reset input / programming voltage |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 / external interrupt input |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — PORTB bit 3 (bidirectional digital I/O) |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 (interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 (interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — PORTB bit 6 (interrupt-on-change / ICSP clock) |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — PORTB bit 7 (interrupt-on-change / ICSP data) |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 15 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 16 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 17 | RA0 — PORTA bit 0 (bidirectional digital I/O, analog input) |
| Pin 18 | RA1 — PORTA bit 1 (bidirectional digital I/O, analog input) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Control Boards, Consumer Electronics Remote Controllers, Industrial Sensor Interface Modules, Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety), Smart Home Sensor Nodes, LED Lighting Controllers.
Appliance Control Boards
The PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO is well suited for low-cost appliance control boards including washing machines, microwave ovens, and dishwashers. Its 3.5KB OTP program memory holds main control loop and timing routines, while 128 bytes of EEPROM stores user-selected cycle parameters that persist across power loss. The integrated brown-out reset and watchdog timer prevent lockup in noisy motor environments. Compared with flash MCUs the OTP design slashes per-unit cost in high-volume appliance SKUs, and the 13 available I/O pins easily accommodate relay drivers, button inputs, LED indicators, and a seven-segment or LCD display interface.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics Remote Controllers
Handheld IR/RF remote controls benefit from the PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO's low power consumption at 3.3V and the small 18-SOIC footprint. The 4MHz RISC core runs the IR protocol encoder in real time while the 13 I/O pins handle the keypad matrix, status LEDs, and IR LED driver. OTP programming eliminates the need for in-circuit programming headers in production, reducing BOM cost and tamper risk. The 200ns instruction cycle provides sufficient bandwidth for protocols such as RC-5, NEC, and SIRC, and the integrated brown-out reset prevents spurious transmissions as battery voltage drops near end-of-life.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interface Modules
In industrial 4-20mA sensor transmitters and digital sensor interface boards, the PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO delivers reliable signal conditioning with its on-chip analog comparator and 13 digital I/O. The -40C to +125C enhanced industrial temperature grade supports deployment in factory floor environments. The integrated watchdog timer protects against firmware lockups caused by EMI on long sensor cables. With 128 bytes of EEPROM the part stores calibration coefficients and linearization tables, while the 3.5KB OTP holds sensor-specific firmware. Brown-out reset ensures defined behavior during brown-out events on 24V industrial buses stepped down to 5V or 3.3V rails.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety)
For non-safety automotive body electronics such as interior lighting controllers, seat memory modules, and accessory timers, the PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO provides adequate processing at low cost. The integrated brown-out reset and watchdog timer are essential for the harsh automotive electrical environment with load-dump transients. The 13 I/O pins drive LED arrays and read multiplexed switch inputs. Note that AEC-Q100 qualification is not stated for this part; for safety-critical or powertrain applications choose a Q-graded PIC16F equivalent. The OTP memory ensures code cannot be altered accidentally during vehicle service.
Recommended
Smart Home Sensor Nodes
Low-cost smart-home sensor nodes for temperature, humidity, door/window contact, and PIR motion detection are excellent fits for the PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO. Operating from 2.5V to 5.5V the MCU runs directly from two AA cells or a small lithium backup, with brown-out reset providing clean shutdown when batteries deplete. The 128-byte EEPROM stores network pairing keys and last-known state, while the 3.5KB OTP holds the ZigBee/LoRa sub-GHz protocol stack for sub-GHz proprietary links. With 4MHz maximum clock and 200ns instruction cycle the part comfortably handles periodic sensor sampling and packet transmission.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controllers
The PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO is commonly deployed in entry-level LED driver controllers for decorative lighting, signage, and architectural fixtures. The 13 I/O pins drive multiple PWM channels for RGB or RGBW LED strings, while the 4MHz RISC core executes smooth color-transition algorithms within the 3.5KB OTP program space. The integrated analog comparator enables current-sense feedback for constant-current regulation without external op-amps. EEPROM stores user-selected color scenes and brightness presets. Operating from 3.3V or 5V rails the MCU integrates easily with common buck and boost LED driver topologies.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LCE625T-04E/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LCE625-04E/SO | PIC16LCE625T-04I/SO | PIC16LCE625T-04E/SS | PIC16LCE625T-04/SO | PIC16LCE623T-04/SO | PIC16F630-I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 18-SOIC | 18-SOIC | 18-SOIC | 20-SSOP | 18-SOIC | 18-SOIC | 18-SOIC |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 1 KB Flash |
| Maximum Clock | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz |
| I/O Pins | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C | -40 C to +125 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +125 C | 0 C to +70 C | 0 C to +70 C | -40 C to +85 C |
| Memory Type | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | Flash |
| Unit Price (qty 1000) | $2.18 | $2.18 (est.) | $2.05 (est.) | $2.35 (est.) | $1.98 (est.) | $1.95 (est.) | $1.60 (est.) |
Key Differentiators
- Enhanced -40C to +125C industrial temperature grade (vs PIC16LCE625T-04/SO)
- Tape & Reel packaging for high-volume SMT assembly (vs PIC16LCE625-04E/SO)
- Lower cost per unit than flash equivalents at volume (vs PIC16F630-I/SO)
Design Notes
OTP program memory cannot be erased or reprogrammed. Verify firmware with a flash-based prototype (e.g., PIC16F630) before committing to OTP production orders. Allocate engineering time for programming fixture setup, and consider in-circuit programming headers on pilot builds. The 'E' enhanced industrial grade (-40C to +125C) is preferred for any field-deployed product where operating temperature cannot be tightly controlled.
Add a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin, with a 10 uF bulk capacitor on the same rail. For battery-powered designs operating below 3V, enable the brown-out reset at the lowest threshold (BOREN=1, BORV<1:0>=11 per datasheet) to prevent code corruption during battery end-of-life. The internal comparator draws ~40 uA and should be disabled when not in use to minimize quiescent current.
Keep the MCLR/VPP trace short and surrounded by ground to prevent spurious resets from EMI. Place the 4MHz crystal or resonator within 5mm of OSC1/OSC2 pins with a solid ground plane beneath. RB6 and RB7 are shared with ICSP clock/data lines - do not place series resistors below 100 ohms on these pins or in-circuit programming may fail. Maintain a keep-out area of at least 2mm under the ICSP test pads to prevent probe contact issues.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance per Microchip product page. AEC-Q100 automotive qualification is not stated for this OTP part - for AEC-Q100 qualified automotive MCUs refer to PIC16F variants with Q1 suffix. Lead-free and halogen-free per Microchip environmental certification.
