PIC17C44T-33/PT - 33MHz 8-Bit OTP MCU 16KB | Microchip
MPN: PIC17C44T-33/PT ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18.5 | $18.50 |
| 10 | $16.2 | $162.00 |
| 100 | $13.85 | $1,385.00 |
| 500 | $11.4 | $5,700.00 |
| 1,000 | $9.95 | $9,950.00 |
PIC17C44T-33/PT Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory (ROM/Flash/OTP), working RAM, and peripheral interfaces (I/O, timers, serial ports, ADC) into one package. The PIC17C family occupies Microchip's high-end 8-bit tier — above PIC16 and baseline PIC12/PIC14 — and uses a 16-bit instruction word with an 8-bit data path, which improves code density for arithmetic-heavy embedded control. The PIC17C44T-33/PT sits at the top of the family with maximum program memory and maximum clock speed.
Key features include a 16-level hardware stack for fast interrupt servicing, 33 I/O pins with individual direction control, multiple timer/counter modules, a USART for serial communication, and 8 MIPS-sustained execution. The 'T' suffix denotes tape-and-reel packaging, and the '-33' denotes the 33 MHz maximum clock. The OTP EPROM memory allows one-time programming using a standard EPROM programmer, suitable for production runs where code stability is finalized.
Typical applications include industrial control systems, motor control, automotive body electronics, security and alarm systems, and smart sensor interfaces where a deterministic 8-bit core with abundant I/O outperforms baseline PIC16 designs. Designers favor this family for interrupt-heavy, real-time control loops where the 16-bit instruction word and 121 ns cycle simplify timing budgets.
When designing with this part, ensure the external clock source meets the 33 MHz maximum with proper rise/fall times and that decoupling capacitors (typically 0.1 µF ceramic per VDD pair) are placed close to the supply pins. The OTP memory cannot be erased, so development should use the PIC17C44 JW windowed version or migrate to the flash-based PIC18F442 recommended by Microchip as the modern replacement.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC17C44T-33/PT — 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 PIC17C44T-33/PT (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory Type, Program Memory Size, Maximum Clock Frequency, Core Architecture.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC17C44-33/PT
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC17C44T-25I/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$8.45 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C44-25I/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$9.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C44-16I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C44-16I/PQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$15.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C44T-33/PT Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Family | PIC® 17C |
| Core Architecture | 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP EPROM |
| Program Memory Size | 16 KB (8K x 16) |
| RAM Size | 454 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 33 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 121 ns |
| Performance | 8.25 MIPS |
| Number of I/O Pins | 33 |
| Instruction Set Size | 58 single-word instructions |
| Package Type | TQFP-44 (10x10 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature Range | Commercial (0C to +70C) |
PIC17C44T-33/PT tqfp-44 (10x10 mm) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for PIC17C44T-33/PT (tqfp-44 (10x10 mm) package). This digital IC includes GPIO, communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C), and power pins. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for alternate pin functions and configuration options. Essential for embedded system design and PCB layout.
No detailed pinout data available for PIC17C44T-33/PT.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
PIC17C44T-33/PT is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Motor Control, Security and Alarm Systems, Automotive Body Electronics, Smart Sensor Interfaces, Embedded Control with UART Communication, Legacy Appliance Control.
Industrial Motor Control
The PIC17C44T-33/PT's 8.25 MIPS throughput at 33 MHz and 33 I/O pins suit multi-axis stepper and DC motor control loops where deterministic interrupt response matters. Its 121 ns instruction cycle enables PWM generation up to ~50 kHz with low jitter, and the 454-byte RAM supports PID controller state variables without external memory. Designers favor this part for legacy industrial equipment where the OTP memory has been finalized and code stability is critical.
Recommended
Security and Alarm Systems
The PIC17C44T-33/PT's 33 I/O pins map directly to multi-zone alarm panels, supporting wired sensors, keypads, sirens, and communication modules from a single chip. Its 16 KB OTP program memory accommodates complex zone-state machines and communication protocol stacks. The 121 ns instruction cycle allows the MCU to scan inputs and respond to alarm events within microseconds, critical for UL-listed security equipment where response time affects certification.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
Legacy automotive body controllers — window lifts, seat controllers, lighting modules — used the PIC17C44T-33/PT for its robust 8-bit core, abundant I/O, and reliable OTP memory. Its 33 MHz clock and 8.25 MIPS performance handle multiple LIN-style communication tasks while simultaneously driving relay and PWM outputs. Although this part is obsolete for new automotive designs, many 1990s and 2000s-era vehicles still rely on it for service replacements.
Recommended
Smart Sensor Interfaces
The PIC17C44T-33/PT's 33 I/O pins accommodate multi-channel sensor hubs that aggregate analog inputs via on-chip or external ADCs and report over UART/SPI. With 454 bytes of RAM, the MCU can buffer sensor samples before forwarding to a host processor, and the 8.25 MIPS performance handles sensor fusion algorithms at modest sampling rates. This application benefits from the OTP memory's one-time-programmed stability for fixed calibration constants.
Recommended
Embedded Control with UART Communication
The PIC17C44T-33/PT integrates a hardware USART that simplifies serial communication with PCs, modems, GPS receivers, and other serial peripherals. At 33 MHz, the USART can sustain baud rates up to ~1.5 Mbaud with low error, and the 121 ns instruction cycle keeps the main loop responsive while servicing the serial interrupt. Designers use this combination in point-of-sale terminals, telemetry modules, and RS-232/RS-485 gateway products.
Recommended
Legacy Appliance Control
White-goods appliances — washing machines, dishwashers, ovens, HVAC controls — historically used the PIC17C44T-33/PT for its reliable 8-bit core, 33 I/O pins for keypad/display/relay interfaces, and 16 KB OTP for finalized firmware. The 121 ns instruction cycle supports real-time motor and heater control loops. Service technicians still source this part for repairing older equipment where the OEM firmware has been locked in OTP for two decades.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC17C44T-33/PT — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC17C44-33/PT | PIC17C44T-25I/PQ | PIC17C44-25I/PQ | PIC17C44-16I/PT | PIC17C44-16I/PQ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | TQFP-44 (10x10 mm) | TQFP-44 (10x10 mm) - same | MQFP-44 (PQ variant) | MQFP-44 (PQ variant) | TQFP-44 (10x10 mm) - same | MQFP-44 (PQ variant) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 33 MHz | 33 MHz | 25 MHz (-24%) | 25 MHz (-24%) | 16 MHz (-52%) | 16 MHz (-52%) |
| Program Memory Size | 16 KB OTP | 16 KB OTP | 16 KB OTP | 16 KB OTP | 16 KB OTP | 16 KB OTP |
| RAM Size | 454 bytes | 454 bytes | 454 bytes | 454 bytes | 454 bytes | 454 bytes |
| Number of I/O Pins | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 33 |
| Temperature Grade | Commercial (0C to +70C) | Commercial (0C to +70C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) |
| Packaging Carrier | Tape & Reel (T suffix) | Tray (no T suffix) | Tape & Reel | Tray | Tray | Tray |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Highest clock speed (33 MHz) in the PIC17C44 family (vs PIC17C44-16I/PT)
- Tape-and-reel packaging for SMT production (vs PIC17C44-33/PT)
- Commercial temperature grade optimized for cost-sensitive designs (vs PIC17C44-25I/PQ)
Design Notes
The PIC17C44T-33/PT requires stable VDD supply; place a 0.1 µF ceramic decoupling capacitor close to each VDD/VSS pair on the 44-pin TQFP package. For designs operating near the 33 MHz maximum, add a bulk 10 µF electrolytic or tantalum capacitor at the board supply entry to suppress transient currents during high-speed instruction cycles. The OTP memory programming voltage (typically 13V on MCLR/VPP) must be cleanly decoupled during programming to avoid memory errors.
Do not confuse the PIC17C44T-33/PT (TQFP-44 package, OTP) with the PIC17C44 JW (windowed ceramic DIP, erasable). The TQFP package is one-time-programmable only — code cannot be erased or rewritten. For development, use the JW windowed version or migrate to the flash-based PIC18F442 that Microchip officially recommends. Engineers maintaining legacy products should also verify that their OTP programmer supports the PIC17C family's 16-bit instruction word format.
The TQFP-44 package has a typical θJA of approximately 50–60 °C/W depending on PCB copper area. At full 33 MHz operation, internal switching losses generate modest self-heating; commercial-grade parts (0°C to +70°C) require derating only in enclosed, high-ambient-temperature environments. For industrial-temperature applications, specify the PIC17C44-25I/PQ or PIC17C44T-25I/PQ variants explicitly rather than substituting commercial parts beyond their specified range.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, lead-free, and halogen-free status not confirmed in current 2026-09-25 distributor data. The PIC17C44 family predates the RoHS directive, so original Microchip specifications do not certify RoHS compliance; some authorized distributors (e.g., TrustCompo) state their inventory is RoHS-compliant and lead-free, but engineers should verify with a certificate of conformance. The part is not AEC-Q100 qualified and should not be specified for new automotive designs.