PIC17C43-16I/PQ - 8KB OTP 8-bit MCU, 16MHz, 44-MQFP | Microchip
MPN: PIC17C43-16I/PQ ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6.95 | $6.95 |
| 10 | $6.42 | $64.20 |
| 100 | $5.78 | $578.00 |
| 500 | $5.2 | $2,600.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.82 | $4,820.00 |
PIC17C43-16I/PQ Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, non-volatile program memory (ROM/OTP/Flash), working RAM, and peripheral I/O on one die. The PIC17C family sits above the baseline PIC16C line in Microchip's portfolio, adding a wider 16-bit instruction word, a hardware multiplier, an 8-level deep hardware stack, and a more capable peripheral set aimed at real-time control. As a member of the RISC MCU family, the PIC17C43 uses only 58 single-word instructions and Harvard-separated program/data buses, which is why it can complete most instructions in one oscillator cycle.
Key features include the 8.25 MIPS core, on-chip peripherals (USART, capture/compare/PWM timers, 8-bit parallel slave port, watchdog timer), and an external interrupt edge-selectable design. The device has 33 bidirectional I/O pins grouped across multiple ports, and its 16-bit instruction width gives it code density comparable to many 16-bit controllers in the same era. The "I" suffix adds the industrial -40C to +85C operating range, broadening deployment beyond commercial temperature designs.
Architecturally, the PIC17C43 uses an OTP EPROM cell array for program storage (one-time programmable, UV-erasable on windowed variants like PIC17C43/JW), separate 16-bit program and 8-bit data buses, and a multi-source interrupt controller. The 8.25 MIPS figure derives from a four-clock-per-instruction cycle at 33 MHz maximum input (the "-16" speed grade runs the same core at 16 MHz). Microchip themselves recommend migrating new designs to PIC18F4220, which uses Flash memory and is footprint-compatible in many applications.
Typical applications include industrial control subsystems, appliance motor control, security panel logic, automotive body controllers (in non-safety-critical roles), embedded data-acquisition front-ends, and white-goods user-interface controllers. The combination of OTP memory, USART, and PWM peripherals made the PIC17C43 a popular choice in 1990s-era volume production where mask-ROM economics did not justify NRE.
When designing with this part, verify that the chosen toolchain (MPLAB XC8 legacy PIC17C support, or older MPLAB-C17 / Hi-Tech C) is still available, since mainstream XC8 has dropped legacy PIC17C targets in recent years. The OTP memory means firmware bugs require a new device - consider PIC18F4220 for new designs per the manufacturer's own migration note.
This page synthesizes verified distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same PIC17C family, and practical design notes (e.g. PIC17C42A vs PIC17C43 differences, OTP programming constraints, 5V rail tolerance) not found in the bare manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC17C43-16I/PQ — 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 PIC17C43-16I/PQ (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Performance, Mounting Type, Core Architecture, Program Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC17C43-16/PQ
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC17C44-16I/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$15.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C42A-16I/PQ
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC17C42A-25E/PQ
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC17C43-16E/PQ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC17C43-16I/PQ Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC |
| Instruction Set Width | 16-bit |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 8 KB (4K x 16 words) |
| RAM Size | 454 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 16 MHz |
| Performance | 8.25 MIPS (121 ns instruction cycle) |
| Supply Voltage (Vdd) | 4.5 V to 6 V (5 V nominal) |
| I/O Pins | 33 |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (industrial, "I" suffix) |
| Package | 44-pin Metric MQFP (PQ), 10x10 mm body |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount (Gull-wing leads) |
| Data Bus Width | 16-bit (per digchip listing) |
| ROM Type | UVPROM (OTP) |
| Instruction Count | 58 single-word instructions |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC17C43-16I/PQ Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / analog input 0 |
| Pin 2 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / analog input 1 |
| Pin 3 | RA2/AN2 — PORTA bit 2 / analog input 2 |
| Pin 4 | RA3/AN3 — PORTA bit 3 / analog input 3 |
| Pin 5 | RA4/AN4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / analog input 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 6 | RA5/AN5/SS — PORTA bit 5 / analog input 5 / SPI slave select |
| Pin 7 | RA6/AN6 — PORTA bit 6 / analog input 6 |
| Pin 8 | RA7/AN7 — PORTA bit 7 / analog input 7 |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator crystal input / external clock input |
| Pin 10 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator crystal output / clock output |
| Pin 11 | RC0 — PORTC bit 0 |
| Pin 12 | RC1 — PORTC bit 1 |
| Pin 13 | RC2 — PORTC bit 2 |
| Pin 14 | RC3 — PORTC bit 3 |
| Pin 15 | RC4 — PORTC bit 4 |
| Pin 16 | RC5 — PORTC bit 5 |
| Pin 17 | RC6/TX/CK — PORTC bit 6 / USART transmit / clock |
| Pin 18 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / USART receive / data |
| Pin 19 | Vss — Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | RD0 — PORTD bit 0 |
| Pin 21 | RD1 — PORTD bit 1 |
| Pin 22 | RD2 — PORTD bit 2 |
| Pin 23 | RD3 — PORTD bit 3 |
| Pin 24 | RD4 — PORTD bit 4 |
| Pin 25 | RD5 — PORTD bit 5 |
| Pin 26 | RD6 — PORTD bit 6 |
| Pin 27 | RD7 — PORTD bit 7 |
| Pin 28 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 / external interrupt |
| Pin 29 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 |
| Pin 30 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 |
| Pin 31 | RB3 — PORTB bit 3 |
| Pin 32 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 33 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 |
| Pin 34 | RB6 — PORTB bit 6 |
| Pin 35 | RB7 — PORTB bit 7 |
| Pin 36 | RE0/RD — PORTE bit 0 / parallel slave port read |
| Pin 37 | RE1/WR — PORTE bit 1 / parallel slave port write |
| Pin 38 | RE2/CS — PORTE bit 2 / parallel slave port chip select |
| Pin 39 | Vdd — Positive supply (5 V nominal) |
| Pin 40 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 41 | MCLR/Vpp — Master clear reset / programming voltage input |
| Pin 42 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 43 | T1CKI — Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 44 | Vss — Ground reference |
Typical Applications
PIC17C43-16I/PQ is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Control Subsystems, White Goods / Appliance Controllers, Security and Alarm Panel Logic, Automotive Body Controllers (Non-Safety), Embedded Data Acquisition Front-Ends, User Interface / Keypad Controllers.
Industrial Control Subsystems
The PIC17C43-16I/PQ fits industrial control subsystems thanks to its 8.25 MIPS throughput, 16 MHz clock, and 33 I/O lines that drive relays, sensors, and discrete actuators in PLC backplanes. Its 5V TTL-compatible I/O interfaces directly with 5V optocouplers and 24V industrial signal conditioning after translation, and the -40C to +85C industrial temperature grade handles factory-floor ambient swings. The on-chip USART and PWM peripherals support RS-485 comms and proportional valve control, while the 8 KB OTP ROM holds the deterministic control loop and look-up tables. Engineers value the deterministic 121 ns instruction cycle for tight PID loop timing in motor speed and process temperature regulators.
Recommended
White Goods / Appliance Controllers
The PIC17C43-16I/PQ was widely deployed in washing-machine, dishwasher, and refrigerator controllers in the late 1990s, where its 8 KB OTP ROM held wash-cycle profiles and the PWM peripherals drove motor triac gates and valve solenoids. The 33 I/O lines accommodate multi-digit seven-segment displays, keypad scanning, and temperature sensor inputs simultaneously. The 4.5V-6V supply matches rectified 5V rails common in appliances, and the industrial temperature grade survives the thermal envelope behind the appliance panel. Although production volumes have shifted to PIC18F/dsPIC parts, the PIC17C43 remains the incumbent MCU in legacy appliance platforms.
Recommended
Security and Alarm Panel Logic
The PIC17C43-16I/PQ suits security alarm panels by combining 33 I/O for zone monitoring (door contacts, PIR sensors, glass-break detectors) with an on-chip USART for central-station digital communicators. Its 8.25 MIPS core runs multi-zone supervision algorithms in real time, and 454 bytes of RAM is sufficient to debounce multiple zones in parallel. The 5V operation aligns with legacy alarm bus voltages, while OTP ROM prevents firmware reverse-engineering - an intentional feature for security products. The -40C to +85C industrial temperature grade covers indoor and sheltered outdoor installations.
Recommended
Automotive Body Controllers (Non-Safety)
The PIC17C43-16I/PQ served in pre-CAN automotive body-electronics modules such as seat controllers, mirror adjusters, and lighting modules where 5V operation and 33 I/O lines were sufficient. Although not AEC-Q100 qualified, it was commonly specified for body-electronics niches in late-1990s vehicle platforms. The PIC17C43-16E/PQ extended-temperature sibling (-40C to +125C) handled under-dash thermal environments. For new automotive designs, PIC18F/dsPIC33EP families with AEC-Q100 qualification are required; PIC17C43 designs persist only in legacy service channels.
Recommended
Embedded Data Acquisition Front-Ends
The PIC17C43-16I/PQ is appropriate for low-channel-count data acquisition front-ends in test equipment and instrumentation, where its 16 MHz throughput and 33 I/O scan a small array of analog multiplexers and serial ADCs. The USART links to a host PC or display controller, while CCP peripherals trigger timed sample sequences. The 8 KB OTP holds calibration constants and linearization curves, and the 454 bytes RAM is adequate for circular sample buffers at modest rates. Industrial temperature grade supports laboratory and field-portable instrument use.
Recommended
User Interface / Keypad Controllers
The PIC17C43-16I/PQ drives human-machine interfaces (HMIs) in embedded products where its 33 I/O scan 4x4 to 8x8 keypad matrices and multiplexed LCD or LED displays while a host CPU handles the application layer. The 8.25 MIPS core debounces key presses and implements auto-repeat in firmware, while the USART links to the host over RS-232 or RS-485. The 5V supply aligns with legacy HMI bus voltages, and OTP ROM locks the UI personality to a single part number. This role is well-served by the 8 KB program space for menu tree logic.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC17C43-16I/PQ — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC17C43-16/PQ | PIC17C44-16I/PQ | PIC17C42A-16I/PQ | PIC17C42A-25E/PQ | PIC17C43-16E/PQ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 44-MQFP (PQ) | 44-MQFP (PQ) - same | 44-MQFP (PQ) - same | 44-MQFP (PQ) - same | 44-MQFP (PQ) - same | 44-MQFP (PQ) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same |
| Program Memory | 8 KB OTP | 8 KB OTP | 16 KB OTP (+100%) | 4 KB OTP (-50%) | 4 KB OTP (-50%) | 8 KB OTP |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 16 MHz | 16 MHz | 16 MHz | 16 MHz | 25 MHz (+56%) | 16 MHz |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (industrial) | 0C to +70C (commercial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | -40C to +125C (extended) | -40C to +125C (extended) |
| RAM Size | 454 bytes | 454 bytes | 454 bytes | 454 bytes | 454 bytes | 454 bytes |
| I/O Pins | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5 V to 6 V | 4.5 V to 6 V | 4.5 V to 6 V | 4.5 V to 6 V | 4.5 V to 6 V | 4.5 V to 6 V |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM | OTP EPROM |
Key Differentiators
- Industrial temperature grade (-40C to +85C) (vs PIC17C43-16/PQ)
- Upgradable to PIC17C44 within same footprint (vs PIC17C42A-16I/PQ)
- 5V-only operation matches legacy industrial rails (vs PIC18F4220 (Flash successor))
- 8.25 MIPS deterministic throughput (vs PIC17C42A-25E/PQ)
Design Notes
PIC17C43-16I/PQ uses OTP EPROM (one-time programmable). Any firmware bug discovered after programming requires a new device - there is no in-circuit reprogramming. Develop and debug on a windowed PIC17C43/JW (UV-erasable) sibling in a 44-pin CERDIP/CERQUAD windowed package, then freeze code and commit to OTP for production. Maintain a programming verification step (signature/CRC readback) at the contract manufacturer to catch wrong code before units ship.
PIC17C43-16I/PQ requires a clean 5V regulated rail within 4.5V-6V. Add a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to each Vdd pin (the 44-MQFP exposes multiple Vss/Vdd pairs; consult the datasheet pinout for exact pin numbers) plus a bulk 10 uF tantalum at the regulator output. PIC17C parts do NOT have on-chip brown-out reset on all speed grades; for noisy industrial environments, add an external voltage supervisor (e.g. MCP100/MCP809) tied to MCLR for reliable reset behavior.
The 44-pin Metric MQFP (PQ) has 0.8 mm lead pitch and gull-wing leads - design PCB land patterns per IPC-7351 MQFP standards with adequate solder mask dam. Maintain at least 5 mm of copper clearance around the lead frame to prevent solder wicking. Since the package is obsolete, second-source MQFP footprints or pin-compatible TQFP parts (e.g. PIC18F4220 in 44-TQFP) make future rework and migration far easier - design the PCB to accept both packages if your production volume warrants it.
At industrial -40C to +85C, junction temperature must stay below 150C (estimated from typical MQFP theta_JA of ~50 C/W on 4-layer FR4). At 5V operation with all 33 outputs driving 20 mA loads simultaneously, total package dissipation can approach 500 mW; in enclosed industrial cabinets, derate the maximum ambient temperature to 70C or add a thermal via array under the exposed pad (if available). The 'E' (extended) suffix parts are rated to +125C for harsher environments.
The PIC17C43-16I/PQ clock input is sensitive to noise on OSC1/OSC2; keep crystal traces short and surround them with a ground guard ring. For high-noise industrial environments, prefer a 4-pin crystal module over a 2-pin discrete crystal. When using the internal RC oscillator option, verify that the chosen frequency tolerance matches the UART baud-rate accuracy requirement (typically <2% error at 16 MHz for 9600 baud).
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - standard industrial grade only. For automotive applications, no AEC-Q100 alternative exists within the PIC17C family; migrate to PIC18F/dsPIC33EP families.
