PIC17C44-33E/P - 8-Bit 33MHz OTP MCU 16KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC17C44-33E/P ⚠ Last Time Buy| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $12.5 | $12.50 |
| 10 | $11.3 | $113.00 |
| 100 | $10.05 | $1,005.00 |
| 500 | $8.95 | $4,475.00 |
| 1,000 | $7.85 | $7,850.00 |
PIC17C44-33E/P Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory, data RAM, and configurable peripherals (I/O, timers, communications) into one package. Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, an MCU sits inside the embedded computing hierarchy: transistor -> integrated circuit -> logic IC -> microcontroller -> 8-bit MCU -> PIC17C family. The PIC17C44 specifically targets high-throughput 8-bit applications that require more horsepower than the PIC16C family while remaining code-compatible with PIC16C5X, PIC12CXXX, and PIC16CXX devices.
Key features include a RISC architecture with only 58 single-word instructions, four-cycle and eight-cycle hardware multiplier options, a 17-bit instruction word with 16-bit data path, and a multi-source interrupt controller with programmable priority. On-chip peripherals include three 16-bit timer/counters, a Universal Synchronous/Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (USART), and an 8-bit parallel slave port. The microcontroller supports external oscillator inputs with configurable crystal/ceramic resonator modes up to 33 MHz.
Typical applications span industrial control systems, automotive body and chassis modules, consumer appliance controllers, HVAC systems, security and alarm panels, and point-of-sale terminals. With 33 I/O pins and abundant peripheral integration, the PIC17C44 fits legacy 8-bit embedded designs where deterministic real-time response, proven PIC architecture, and OTP cost-effectiveness outweigh the higher code density of newer 16-bit or 32-bit MCUs. Designers commonly pair it with EEPROM, LCD driver, and RS-232/RS-485 transceiver companions to complete a full control node.
When designing with this part, verify that your compiler toolchain (MPLAB XC8 legacy mode or MPASM) supports the PIC17C instruction set, and confirm that the 40-pin PDIP land pattern is acceptable for your production assembly process (reflow soldering requires an SOIC variant). OTP memory cannot be re-programmed in-circuit - the PIC17C44-33E/P should be ordered pre-programmed from Microchip or burned with a UV-erasable sibling (PIC17C44/JW) for development.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC17C44-33E/P — 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 PIC17C44-33E/P (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory Size, Program Memory Type, Timers, Mounting Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC17C44-33/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$12.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C44T-33I/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC17C44-33I/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC17C44-25I/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$9.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C44-16I/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$15.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C44-33E/L
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC17C44T-33I/PT
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$8.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C44-33E/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | PIC17C |
| Core Architecture | 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Size | 16 KB (8K x 16) OTP |
| RAM Size | 454 x 8 bytes (454 bytes) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 33 MHz |
| Instruction Execution Time | 121 ns (8.25 MIPS) |
| Instruction Set Size | 58 single-word instructions |
| Number of I/O Pins | 33 |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 4.5 V to 6.0 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C (Extended, "E") |
| Package / Case | 40-pin PDIP (Plastic DIP) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| Oscillator Type | External (Crystal/Ceramic/Resonator) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Data EEPROM | Not present (uses external or none) |
| Timers | Three 16-bit Timer/Counters |
| Communication Interface | USART (1 channel) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (Pb-free matte tin) |
| Peripherals | Brown-out Reset, Watchdog Timer, Parallel Slave Port |
PIC17C44-33E/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | /MCLR — Master Clear (Reset), active low input |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / Analog input 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / Analog input 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2 — PORTA bit 2 / Analog input 2 |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3 — PORTA bit 3 / Analog input 3 |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Timer 0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4 — PORTA bit 5 / Analog input 4 |
| Pin 8 | RA6 — PORTA bit 6 |
| Pin 9 | RA7 — PORTA bit 7 |
| Pin 10 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 11 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 / External interrupt input |
| Pin 12 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 |
| Pin 13 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 |
| Pin 14 | RB3 — PORTB bit 3 |
| Pin 15 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 16 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 |
| Pin 17 | RB6 — PORTB bit 6 |
| Pin 18 | RB7 — PORTB bit 7 |
| Pin 19 | VSS — Ground reference (second VSS) |
| Pin 20 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (+4.5 V to +6.0 V) |
| Pin 21 | RC0 — PORTC bit 0 |
| Pin 22 | RC1 — PORTC bit 1 |
| Pin 23 | RC2 — PORTC bit 2 |
| Pin 24 | RC3 — PORTC bit 3 |
| Pin 25 | RC4 — PORTC bit 4 |
| Pin 26 | RC5 — PORTC bit 5 |
| Pin 27 | RC6/TX/CK — PORTC bit 6 / USART TX / clock |
| Pin 28 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / USART RX / data |
| Pin 29 | RD0 — PORTD bit 0 |
| Pin 30 | RD1 — PORTD bit 1 |
| Pin 31 | RD2 — PORTD bit 2 |
| Pin 32 | RD3 — PORTD bit 3 |
| Pin 33 | RD4 — PORTD bit 4 |
| Pin 34 | RD5 — PORTD bit 5 |
| Pin 35 | RD6 — PORTD bit 6 |
| Pin 36 | RD7 — PORTD bit 7 |
| Pin 37 | VSS — Ground reference (third VSS) |
| Pin 38 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input / external clock in |
| Pin 39 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output / clock out |
| Pin 40 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (second VDD) |
Typical Applications
PIC17C44-33E/P is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Automation Controllers, Automotive Body Control Modules, Security and Fire-Alarm Panels, HVAC Thermostat Controllers, Point-of-Sale (POS) Terminals, Consumer Appliance Control Boards.
Industrial Automation Controllers
The PIC17C44-33E/P fits industrial automation controllers because of its deterministic 8-bit architecture, 33 MHz clock, and extended -40 °C to +125 °C temperature range. With 33 digital I/O lines, the MCU can directly interface with opto-isolated inputs, relay drivers, and triac outputs commonly used in PLC-style controllers. Its USART enables Modbus RTU communication with HMIs and SCADA systems over RS-485 links. The 16 KB OTP memory is sized for typical ladder-logic-to-C translation firmware, while 454 bytes RAM supports small data buffers. Unlike modern Cortex-M0 alternatives, the PIC17C44's RISC core executes interrupt handlers in a deterministic four-cycle latency, which simplifies real-time motion control loops.
Recommended
Automotive Body Control Modules
The PIC17C44-33E/P serves automotive body-control applications including central locking, lighting control, mirror positioning, and wiper logic where its extended temperature grade (-40 °C to +125 °C) survives under-dash thermal stress. The 33 MHz clock provides sufficient throughput for multiplexed LIN-substitute networks and PWM-driven LED tail-lights with smooth dimming curves. Its three 16-bit timers generate precise PWM outputs for DC motor speed control in seat adjusters and HVAC blowers. Although newer AEC-Q100 PIC18F variants exist, the PIC17C44-33E/P remains cost-effective for non-safety body functions and is commonly paired with CAN or LIN transceivers for in-vehicle networking. OTP memory secures firmware against accidental reprogramming in harsh under-hood environments.
Recommended
Security and Fire-Alarm Panels
The PIC17C44-33E/P is well suited to security and fire-alarm control panels because its 33 I/O pins accept numerous zone inputs and indicator outputs without external I/O expanders. The watchdog timer and brown-out reset provide failsafe operation during power glitches common in alarm installations. Its USART interfaces with digital keypads, GSM dialers, and IP-communicator modules via RS-232. The 454 bytes RAM is sufficient to log recent alarm events and zone status. With OTP memory, alarm manufacturers can lock down firmware to prevent tampering. Compared to newer Flash PIC18F parts, the PIC17C44-33E/P's lower cost and proven reliability in security installations make it preferred for mature product lines in production.
Recommended
HVAC Thermostat Controllers
The PIC17C44-33E/P powers HVAC thermostat controllers with its 33 MHz throughput enabling proportional-integral control loops for heating and cooling stages. The 16 KB OTP holds thermistor linearization tables, scheduling firmware, and user-interface state machines. Three 16-bit timers generate PWM outputs for variable-speed blower motors and triac-fired electric heat stages. The extended temperature grade ensures reliable operation in plenum-mounted thermostat locations where ambient can exceed 70 °C. The USART interfaces with Wi-Fi or ZigBee modules for smart-thermostat connectivity. Its low power consumption and brown-out reset make it robust against brownouts from HVAC compressor inrush currents, a common failure mode in cheaper 8-bit MCUs.
Recommended
Point-of-Sale (POS) Terminals
The PIC17C44-33E/P is used as the primary controller in compact POS terminals, barcode-scanner interfaces, and receipt-printer hubs. Its 33 I/O pins connect to 4x4 matrix keypads, character LCD displays, magnetic-stripe readers, and serial barcode scanners simultaneously. The 16 KB OTP stores menu/transaction firmware while 454 bytes RAM holds active transaction buffers. USART links to thermal printers and external modems. The extended temperature grade supports kitchen-printer hub installations where temperatures can exceed 60 °C. Although modern POS systems use ARM Cortex parts, the PIC17C44-33E/P remains popular for low-cost card readers, vending machines, and ticketing kiosks because of its low BOM cost and long-term Microchip availability through distribution.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Control Boards
The PIC17C44-33E/P controls consumer appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, and microwave ovens. Its 33 MHz clock drives the main control loop while three timers handle motor PWM, buzzer, and door-lock control. The extended temperature grade ensures reliable operation in compressor-adjacent locations. With 33 I/O pins, it directly drives 7-segment displays, button matrices, and triac-based heater elements. The 16 KB OTP accommodates complex wash-cycle profiles and diagnostic routines. Its deterministic interrupt response simplifies IEC 60730 Class B safety compliance for software-controlled appliances. Manufacturers continue to use PIC17C44-33E/P for mature appliance platforms where firmware is finalized and Flash reprogrammability is unnecessary.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC17C44-33E/P — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC17C44-33/P | PIC17C44T-33I/P | PIC17C44-33I/P | PIC17C44-25I/PQ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 40-PDIP | 40-PDIP - same | 40-PDIP - same | 40-PDIP - same | 44-MQFP/PQ - different |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 33 MHz | 33 MHz | 33 MHz | 33 MHz | 25 MHz |
| Program Memory | 16 KB OTP | 16 KB OTP | 16 KB OTP | 16 KB OTP | 16 KB OTP |
| RAM | 454 bytes | 454 bytes | 454 bytes | 454 bytes | 454 bytes |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C (Extended) | 0 °C to +70 °C (Commercial) | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5 V to 6.0 V | 4.5 V to 6.0 V | 4.5 V to 6.0 V | 4.5 V to 6.0 V | 4.5 V to 6.0 V |
| I/O Pins | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 |
| Lifecycle Status | Last Time Buy | Last Time Buy | Last Time Buy | Last Time Buy | Last Time Buy |
Key Differentiators
- Extended industrial temperature grade -40 °C to +125 °C (vs PIC17C44-33/P)
- Highest speed grade in the PIC17C44 family at 33 MHz (vs PIC17C44-25I/PQ)
- Pin-compatible with all other PIC17C44-33x variants in 40-pin PDIP (vs PIC17C44-25I/PQ (PQ = 44-pin MQFP))
- Largest instruction throughput in 8-bit PIC17C family (vs PIC16F877A-I/P)
Design Notes
The PIC17C44-33E/P requires a clean 5.0 V supply with a maximum rise time of 50 ms at power-on for correct Power-On Reset (POR) operation. Place a 0.1 µF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of each VDD pin (pins 20 and 40) and a bulk 10 µF tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitor on the VDD rail near the device. A ferrite bead on the supply line can further reduce switching-conductor noise. The PIC17C44's internal brown-out reset triggers at approximately 4.0 V, providing a safety margin for undervoltage events.
Estimated: at 33 MHz clock, the OSC1/OSC2 traces should be kept under 10 mm and routed over a continuous ground plane to minimize radiated EMI. For crystal/ceramic resonator operation, place the load capacitors (typically 15-33 pF) within 3 mm of the OSC1 and OSC2 pins. Avoid routing digital I/O signals under the oscillator traces. The 40-pin PDIP is a through-hole package, so thermal dissipation is limited to about 1 W - the PIC17C44-33E/P itself dissipates < 50 mA active / 5 µA sleep so thermal design is straightforward.
Do not apply voltages below -0.3 V or above VDD+0.3 V to any digital I/O pin, as the PIC17C44 lacks internal ESD protection diodes to VDD/VSS beyond those specifications. Ensure /MCLR is pulled high through a 10 kΩ resistor to VDD with a 0.1 µF capacitor to ground for noise immunity - omitting the capacitor makes the device susceptible to spurious resets. When using the parallel slave port (PSP), add 10 kΩ pull-ups on the PORTD data lines because the PSP does not engage internal pull-ups in PSP mode.
The USART on the PIC17C44-33E/P supports baud rates up to approximately 1.5 Mbaud at 33 MHz clock, but for long-distance RS-485 communication, limit baud to 115200 to keep signal integrity manageable on unshielded cable. Add a 120 Ω termination resistor at each end of the RS-485 bus. For noisy industrial environments, use shielded twisted-pair cable with the shield grounded at one end only. The USART's hardware flow control (CTS/RTS) is not available on the PIC17C44 - software XON/XOFF must be implemented if flow control is required.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product declaration; matte tin lead finish; REACH SVHC compliant. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - for AEC-Q100 automotive, consider PIC18F variants.
