PIC17C766-33E/L - 33MHz 8-bit OTP MCU 32KB | Microchip PLCC-84
MPN: PIC17C766-33E/L ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18.5 | $18.50 |
| 10 | $16.2 | $162.00 |
| 100 | $13.95 | $1,395.00 |
| 500 | $12.1 | $6,050.00 |
| 1,000 | $10.45 | $10,450.00 |
PIC17C766-33E/L Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a small computer-on-a-chip built around a CPU, program memory, data RAM, and peripheral interfaces, optimized for embedded control. The PIC17C family sits in the taxonomy: MCU -> 8-bit MCU -> PIC microcontroller -> RISC MCU -> power management/control IC family. PIC MCUs use a Harvard RISC architecture with separate program and data buses, enabling single-cycle instruction execution and predictable interrupt latency.
Key features include 58 single-word instructions for simplified programming, single-cycle execution at 121ns (except program branches and table reads/writes which take two cycles), 50 digital I/O pins for external interfacing, and an integrated peripheral set including timers, USART, and capture/compare/PWM modules. The PLCC-84 (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) package provides 84 J-bend terminations on a 29.31mm x 29.31mm body, suitable for socketed or reflow-soldered assembly.
The PIC17C766 uses a high-performance 8-bit RISC CPU core with a 16-bit wide instruction word and a 16-bit-wide data path, providing 8.25 MIPS throughput. The OTP program memory allows one-time factory or field programming, and the wide instruction set enables compact code density. The device integrates multiple peripheral modules that reduce external component count for embedded applications.
Typical applications include industrial automation controllers, automotive body and chassis electronics, HVAC control systems, embedded instrumentation, and legacy PIC-based products. It is also used in printer controllers, motor control boards, and display drivers. Microchip recommends the newer flash-based PIC18F8520 as the modern equivalent for new designs.
Design considerations: OTP memory cannot be erased or reprogrammed; for in-system reprogrammability, migrate to the PIC18F8520. The PLCC-84 package requires a socket or carefully designed land pattern with adequate thermal relief for the 4.5-5.5V supply. Decoupling capacitors (100nF plus 10uF bulk) should be placed within 5mm of the VDD pins.
This page synthesizes verified distributor pricing, pin-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes for engineers evaluating the PIC17C766-33E/L for legacy maintenance or new design work.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC17C766-33E/L — 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 PIC17C766-33E/L (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Mounting Type, Package, Core Architecture, RoHS Status, I/O Pins.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC17C756AT-33I/L
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$12.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C756AT-33E/L
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$10.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C762T-33/L
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$15.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC17C766-33E/L Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC (Harvard) |
| Family | PIC17C |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 33 MHz |
| Instruction Execution Time | 121 ns (single cycle) |
| Program Memory | 32 KB (16K x 16) OTP |
| Data Bus Width | 16 bit |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 50 |
| Instruction Set Size | 58 single-word instructions |
| Throughput | 8.25 MIPS |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (E grade) |
| Package | 84-pin PLCC (29.31 x 29.31 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount (J-lead) |
PIC17C766-33E/L 84-pin plcc (29.31 x 29.31 mm) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for PIC17C766-33E/L (84-pin plcc (29.31 x 29.31 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 PIC17C766-33E/L.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
PIC17C766-33E/L is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Automation Controllers, Automotive Body Electronics, HVAC Control Systems, Embedded Instrumentation, Legacy Printer Controllers, Motor Control Boards.
Industrial Automation Controllers
The PIC17C766-33E/L fits industrial automation controllers where its 50 I/O pins drive sensors, relays, and motor drivers. The 8.25 MIPS throughput handles multi-loop PID control and communication stacks, while the -40C to +125C Extended temperature grade supports cabinet environments and field enclosures. Place 100nF plus 10uF bulk decoupling within 5mm of VDD pins and reserve analog references for sensor signal conditioning.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
Automotive body and chassis ECUs benefit from the PIC17C766-33E/L's 50 I/O pins for body controller modules, lighting control, and HVAC actuators. The Extended -40C to +125C temperature grade handles under-dash thermal stress, and the 33 MHz core processes CAN or LIN stack and switch debouncing. OTP memory locks firmware at production; migrate to PIC18F8520 or DSPIC33EV128GM106T-I/PT for flash-based reprogrammability.
Recommended
HVAC Control Systems
HVAC controllers leverage the PIC17C766-33E/L's 8.25 MIPS for thermostat loops, multi-stage fan control, and serial communications to indoor units. The 50 I/O pins interface with NTC temperature sensors, TRIAC drivers, and LCD or seven-segment displays. The Extended temperature grade suits rooftop and outdoor equipment. Note OTP limits firmware updates; migrate to flash-based PIC18F8520 for service-reprogrammable thermostats.
Recommended
Embedded Instrumentation
Bench-top instrumentation such as data loggers, signal generators, and process meters use the PIC17C766-33E/L to coordinate ADC sampling, display driving, and key/rotary encoder inputs. The 33 MHz core executes averaging and conversion routines, while 50 I/O pins handle parallel LCD interfaces and relay outputs. The PLCC-84 socketed package aids factory calibration cycles where the MCU is swapped or upgraded.
Recommended
Legacy Printer Controllers
Printer controller boards use the PIC17C766-33E/L to handle stepper motor control, paper-feed timing, and parallel/serial host interfaces. The 8.25 MIPS throughput drives print-head sequencing and the 50 I/O pins connect to sensors, drivers, and keypads. Because the firmware is locked into OTP, only production-line replacement is supported; use PIC18F8520 for new printer designs requiring firmware revision.
Recommended
Motor Control Boards
Motor control boards for low-power DC and stepper applications use the PIC17C766-33E/L to generate PWM signals, read encoder feedback, and sequence H-bridge drivers. The 33 MHz core produces center-aligned PWM at typical motor frequencies and the 50 I/O pins handle multiple drive axes. For closed-loop vector control, migrate to DSPIC33EP64MC504-E/MV, which adds DSP instructions and dedicated motor-control peripherals.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC17C766-33E/L — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC17C756AT-33I/L | PIC17C756AT-33E/L | PIC17C762T-33/L | PIC17C756A-33E/PT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | PLCC-84 (29.31 x 29.31 mm) | PLCC-84 (same) | PLCC-84 (same) | PLCC-84 (same) | TQFP-80 (different) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 33 MHz | 33 MHz | 33 MHz | 33 MHz | 33 MHz |
| Program Memory | 32 KB OTP | 32 KB OTP | 32 KB OTP | 16 KB OTP (-50%) | 32 KB OTP |
| Temperature Grade | Extended (-40C to +125C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Extended (-40C to +125C) | Industrial (-40C to +85C) | Extended (-40C to +125C) |
| Throughput | 8.25 MIPS | 8.25 MIPS | 8.25 MIPS | 8.25 MIPS | 8.25 MIPS |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Memory Type | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP |
Key Differentiators
- Extended -40C to +125C operating range (vs PIC17C756AT-33I/L)
- 32 KB OTP matches the larger program-memory variants (vs PIC17C762T-33/L)
- Flash-based modern migration path available (vs PIC17C756A-33E/PT)
Design Notes
The PIC17C766-33E/L operates from a single 4.5 V to 5.5 V supply. Place a 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of each VDD pin, plus a 10 uF bulk tantalum or ceramic capacitor on the main supply rail. Add bulk capacitance if the board drives high-current loads (relays, LEDs) from the same 5 V rail. AVSS and VSS pins must be tied to a low-impedance ground plane.
The PLCC-84 package uses J-leaded terminations on a 29.31 mm x 29.31 mm body. For socketed designs, use a through-hole PLCC socket to simplify replacement. For surface-mount, follow IPC-7351 land pattern recommendations and ensure adequate thermal relief on the pads. Keep the quartz crystal or resonator within 5 mm of OSC1/OSC2 pins and guard the trace with a ground ring to reduce EMI.
OTP (one-time programmable) memory cannot be erased or reprogrammed; a programming error bricks the device permanently. Always program a small batch and verify before full production. Also note that Microchip marks the PIC17C766 as obsolete and recommends migrating to PIC18F8520 for new designs; reserve PIC17C766-33E/L for legacy maintenance. Verify lead-free and RoHS status with the manufacturer before RoHS-critical procurement.
Compliance Information
RoHS, lead-free, REACH, and halogen-free status not confirmed in verified distributor data; consult Microchip product page or material declaration. Not AEC-Q100 qualified (Extended grade is temperature only).
