PIC16LF876AT-I/SO - 8-bit 10MHz 14KB Flash MCU 28-SOIC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF876AT-I/SO ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $9.49 | $9.49 |
| 10 | $8.52 | $85.20 |
| 100 | $7.59 | $759.00 |
| 500 | $6.81 | $3,405.00 |
| 1,000 | $6.05 | $6,050.00 |
PIC16LF876AT-I/SO Overview
A PIC microcontroller (MCU) is a self-contained single-chip computer built around a CPU, program memory, data memory, and on-chip peripherals. The PIC16 family uses Microchip's enhanced mid-range 14-bit instruction set, which provides only 35 single-word instructions yet delivers 200 ns instruction execution time at 20 MHz. Within the broader taxonomy, the PIC16F876A belongs to the 8-bit microcontroller class -> RISC microcontroller -> embedded microcontroller -> integrated circuit. The "LF" prefix indicates a wide-voltage part supporting 2.0V to 5.5V operation, while the "A" suffix marks the silicon revision that adds self-programmability, an ICD debug port, two analog comparators, two Capture/Compare/PWM modules, and a USART/SCI port configurable as 3-wire SPI or I2C.
Key features include five 10-bit ADC channels, two comparators, two CCP modules, one USART, one MSSP (SPI/I2C), 256 bytes of EEPROM, an in-circuit debugger (ICD), Flash self-programming, and wide operating voltage from 2.0V to 5.5V. The instruction set is upward compatible with all PIC16 mid-range parts, so code migrates cleanly to PIC16F873A/874A/877A variants with more memory. The "T" suffix indicates tape-and-reel packaging for high-volume assembly.
Technically, the PIC16LF876A combines Harvard architecture (separate program and data buses) with a powerful 14-bit instruction word that improves code density over 8-bit CISC cores. The 368-byte RAM supports a hardware stack 8 levels deep, and the Flash program memory is rated for 100K erase/write cycles. The peripheral set targets embedded sensing and control: five ADC channels cover most analog sensor interfaces, while the MSSP and USART handle asynchronous serial, SPI, and I2C communication with on-chip EEPROM for parameter storage.
Typical applications include industrial sensor interface boards, battery-powered handheld instruments, automotive body controllers, low-cost HVAC thermostats, and consumer appliance controllers. The wide 2.0V-5.5V range also makes the LF version attractive for 2-cell battery or 3.3V regulated rails. Use the "A" revision whenever self-programming or in-circuit debug is required; use the original PIC16F876 only when migrating legacy firmware that does not need self-programming.
When designing with the PIC16LF876A, ensure MCLR is tied to VDD through a 10kΩ resistor, decoupling caps are placed within 1 cm of VDD/VSS, and the ICSP/ICD pins are reserved for programming header access. The 28-SOIC wide-body package (0.295 inch, 7.50 mm) eases hand-soldering and rework compared to SSOP/QFN packages. This page synthesizes drop-in alternatives, lifecycle signals, and design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF876AT-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 PIC16LF876AT-I/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, ADC, Core Architecture, Instruction Execution Time, Communication Peripherals.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LF876A-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F876A-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F873AT-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F876-04I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF873AT-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.24 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F872-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF876AT-I/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC16 mid-range 8-bit RISC (14-bit instruction word) |
| Program Memory Type | Flash |
| Program Memory Size | 14 KB (8K x 14 words) |
| RAM | 368 bytes |
| EEPROM Data Memory | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 10 MHz |
| Instruction Execution Time | 200 ns at 20 MHz (10 MIPS at 10 MHz input) |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 22 |
| ADC | 10-bit, 5 channels |
| Comparators | 2 |
| CCP Modules | 2 |
| Serial Interfaces | USART/SCI, MSSP (SPI / I2C) |
| In-Circuit Debug | Yes (ICD) |
| Self-Programming | Yes (Flash) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (Industrial "I") |
| Package | 28-SOIC (SO) wide-body, 7.50 mm (0.295 in) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| MSL Level | 1 |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16LF876AT-I/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP/RA3 — Master Clear (reset) / programming voltage / PORTA bit 3 |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / analog input 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / analog input 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2/VREF- — PORTA bit 2 / analog input 2 / ADC VREF- |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — PORTA bit 3 / analog input 3 / ADC VREF+ |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input (open-drain) |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4/SS — PORTA bit 5 / analog input 4 / SPI slave select |
| Pin 8 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output / clock out |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input / external clock in |
| Pin 10 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock |
| Pin 11 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 |
| Pin 12 | RC2/CCP1 — PORTC bit 2 / CCP1 (PWM/capture/compare) |
| Pin 13 | RC3/SCK/SCL — PORTC bit 3 / MSSP SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 14 | RC4/SDI/SDA — PORTC bit 4 / MSSP SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 15 | RC5/SDO — PORTC bit 5 / MSSP SPI data out |
| Pin 16 | RC6/TX/CK — PORTC bit 6 / USART TX / clock |
| Pin 17 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / USART RX / data |
| Pin 18 | VSS — Ground |
| Pin 19 | VDD — Positive supply (2.0V to 5.5V) |
| 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 |
| Pin 25 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 |
| Pin 26 | RB6/PGC — PORTB bit 6 / ICD clock |
| Pin 27 | RB7/PGD — PORTB bit 7 / ICD data |
| Pin 28 | VSS — Ground (alternate pin) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF876AT-I/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Sensor Interface Board, Battery-Powered Handheld Instrument, HVAC Thermostat Controller, Automotive Body Control Module, Consumer Appliance Controller, Data Acquisition Front End.
Industrial Sensor Interface Board
PIC16LF876AT-I/SO suits industrial sensor hubs because its 5-channel 10-bit ADC handles up to five analog sensors simultaneously while the wide-voltage 2.0V-5.5V range accommodates 24V-bus-derived rails after a small LDO. The 22 digital I/O pins drive status LEDs, relay coils, and keypad matrices; the MSSP port provides I2C bus connectivity to digital temperature sensors and EEPROMs.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Handheld Instrument
PIC16LF876AT-I/SO targets battery-powered instruments because its LF wide-voltage design operates directly from two alkaline cells (2.0V-3.2V) without a boost converter. The 256-byte EEPROM stores calibration constants across battery swaps; Flash self-programming supports field firmware updates via a 3-wire ICD interface. Sleep current in the low-microamp range (per PIC16F876A datasheet) extends handheld runtime.
Recommended
HVAC Thermostat Controller
PIC16LF876AT-I/SO drives low-cost HVAC thermostats because the two CCP modules generate PWM outputs for triểm-fired heater control, while the 5-channel ADC reads thermistor temperature, humidity sensor, setpoint potentiometer, and supply voltage. The USART connects to a Wi-Fi or Modbus module for smart-thermostat networking, and the 256-byte EEPROM stores setpoint schedules through power cycles.
Recommended
Automotive Body Control Module
PIC16LF876AT-I/SO fits automotive body controllers (non-safety) such as mirror adjusters, lighting drivers, and accessory multiplexers because the LF wide-voltage range handles 12V automotive rails (8V-16V transients) after a 5V regulator, and the 22 I/O pins drive multiple relays via MOSFET pre-drivers. The MSSP and USART provide LIN/CAN-ready serial connectivity for body-electronics networks.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Controller
PIC16LF876AT-I/SO drives consumer appliance controllers such as microwave keypads, washing-machine displays, and coffee machines because the 5-channel ADC reads analog sensors (water level, weight, temperature), the two CCP modules generate PWM for motor speed or heater triac phase-control, and the USART interfaces with a 7-segment display driver. The 14 KB Flash fits full-appliance control firmware with diagnostics.
Recommended
Data Acquisition Front End
PIC16LF876AT-I/SO provides a compact 5-channel 10-bit data acquisition front end because the 22 I/O pins route multiplexer control signals while the MSSP port streams converted samples to a host via SPI at 10 MHz. The 256-byte EEPROM stores calibration coefficients, and Flash self-programming supports remote firmware updates for field-deployed sensor pods.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF876AT-I/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LF876A-I/SO | PIC16F876A-I/SO | PIC16F873AT-I/SO | PIC16F876-04I/SO | PIC16LF873AT-I/SO | PIC16F872-I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-SOIC (SO) | 28-SOIC (SO) - same | 28-SOIC (SO) - same | 28-SOIC (SO) - same | 28-SOIC (SO) - same | 28-SOIC (SO) - same | 28-SOIC (SO) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Flash Program Memory | 14 KB | 14 KB | 14 KB | 7 KB | 14 KB | 7 KB | 7 KB |
| RAM | 368 bytes | 368 bytes | 368 bytes | 192 bytes | 368 bytes | 192 bytes | 128 bytes |
| EEPROM | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | none | 256 bytes | none | none |
| Maximum Clock | 10 MHz (20 MHz on F-version) | 10 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 10 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.0V to 5.5V | 2.0V to 5.5V | 4.0V to 5.5V | 4.0V to 5.5V | 2.0V to 5.5V | 2.0V to 5.5V | 2.0V to 5.5V |
| ADC Channels / Resolution | 5 x 10-bit | 5 x 10-bit | 5 x 10-bit | 5 x 10-bit | 5 x 10-bit | 5 x 10-bit | 5 x 8-bit |
| Self-Programming | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Key Differentiators
- Wide-voltage 2.0V-5.5V operation versus standard 4.0V-5.5V on PIC16F876A-I/SO (vs PIC16F876A-I/SO)
- On-chip 256-byte EEPROM versus none on PIC16F873AT-I/SO (vs PIC16F873AT-I/SO)
- Modern silicon revision with self-programming versus no self-programming on PIC16F876-04I/SO (vs PIC16F876-04I/SO)
Design Notes
PIC16LF876AT-I/SO operates from 2.0V to 5.5V, but the brown-out reset (BOR) and ADC accuracy degrade at the low end. Place a 100 nF decoupling cap within 5 mm of VDD pin 20 and VSS pin 19, plus a 10 uF bulk cap on the rail. For 3.3V-only systems, an MCP1700 LDO avoids boost-converter losses.
Route the ICSP/ICD pins (RB6/PGC = pin 26, RB7/PGD = pin 27, MCLR/VPP = pin 1) to a programming header without series resistors greater than 4.7 kohm. Keep the 28-SOIC wide-body package exposed thermal pad area on the bottom layer free of vias under the part - the SO package has no thermal pad, so simple single-side copper pour is sufficient.
MCLR (pin 1) must never float - tie to VDD through a 10 kohm resistor, with the ICSP VPP path using a diode or direct connection to the programmer. Do not exceed 13.5V on MCLR/VPP; use the Microchip ICD tool's regulated VPP. Crystal-mode oscillator configuration on pins 9/10 requires HS mode in CONFIG for >4 MHz crystals; default XT works only up to 4 MHz.
When using the 5-channel 10-bit ADC, set all unused ANx pins to digital I/O and tie them to defined logic levels to avoid floating-input ADC noise. Acquire samples with at least 1.2 uS acquisition time at 10 MHz and use the internal RC ADC clock derived from Fosc/16 or Fosc/32 for stable conversions.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - choose automotive-grade PIC16F876A-I/SOVAO or PIC18F equivalents for AEC-Q100 automotive designs.
