PIC18C801T-I/PT - 8-Bit 25MHz ROMless MCU 80-TQFP | Microchip
MPN: PIC18C801T-I/PT ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $9.5 | $9.50 |
| 10 | $8.55 | $85.50 |
| 100 | $7.42 | $742.00 |
| 500 | $6.65 | $3,325.00 |
| 1,000 | $5.99 | $5,990.00 |
PIC18C801T-I/PT Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer containing a processor core, RAM, peripherals, and in some variants non-volatile program storage. ROMless MCUs are a subset in which the CPU and SRAM are integrated on-die but the program memory is external. This architecture sits within the broader taxonomy of embedded microcontrollers -> microcontrollers -> microcontrollers -> 8-bit microcontrollers -> semiconductor ICs, and is typically chosen when a design needs maximum program memory flexibility, real-time field-software updates, or larger code spaces than what internal flash provides.
Key features include the PIC18 RISC instruction set architecture with single-cycle execution for most instructions, 25 MHz maximum clock for 10 MIPS throughput, 1536-byte general-purpose RAM, 37 I/O lines, an industrial-grade -40C to +85C operating range (I-suffix), and 5V operating voltage. The wide 16-bit instruction word simplifies C-compiler code generation, and the Harvard bus architecture separates program and data paths for deterministic interrupt response.
The PIC18C801 is built on an enhanced PIC18 core using a 16-bit instruction word, four 8-bit ports (PORTA-PORTD), and configurable peripheral subsystems. ROMless operation means firmware is fetched from outside the chip, which simplifies field upgrades and lets designers target a single MCU across product variants that share external memory but differ in firmware. The device supports standard PIC18 peripherals including timers, capture/compare/PWM, USART, and an external memory interface.
Typical applications include industrial automation controllers, embedded data-acquisition front-ends, legacy PIC18C migration designs, large-code-space control systems, and external-memory-based firmware platforms. It is well suited to designs where 5V-tolerant I/O and PIC18 tool-chain compatibility are required. For new designs the flash-based PIC18F equivalents are generally recommended; the PIC18C801 remains relevant for 5V systems, external-memory architectures, and long-lifecycle industrial equipment.
When designing with this device, plan for external program memory (e.g., EPROM/Flash), an external memory interface glue-logic budget if needed, and decoupling on each VDD/VSS pair. The 80-pin TQFP package requires a 12x12 mm PCB land pattern and standard JEDEC reflow profile.
This page consolidates distributor pricing, drop-in compatible PIC18C801 variants, and 80-TQFP design notes not presented together in any single distributor or manufacturer page. Where distributor snippets are used verbatim (e.g., pin counts and RAM size) we cite the source directly.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC18C801T-I/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 PIC18C801T-I/PT (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory Type, Operating Temperature, Core Architecture, Maximum CPU Clock.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC18C801-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.25 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18C801T-I/L
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$8.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18C658T-I/PT
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$6.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18C801T-I/PT Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Architecture | PIC18 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | ROMless (external) |
| On-chip RAM | 1536 bytes (1.5K x 8) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 25 MHz |
| Instruction Throughput | 10 MIPS |
| Operating Voltage | 5 V |
| Number of I/O Pins | 37 (4 x 8-bit ports) |
| Package | 80-pin TQFP (12 x 12 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (industrial) |
| Temperature Suffix | I |
| Lead Free / RoHS | Per suffix; /PT = Pb-free indicator |
PIC18C801T-I/PT 80-pin tqfp (12 x 12 mm) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for PIC18C801T-I/PT (80-pin tqfp (12 x 12 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 PIC18C801T-I/PT.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
PIC18C801T-I/PT is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Automation Controllers, 5V Embedded Data Acquisition, Legacy PIC18C Migration Designs, External-Memory Industrial Gateways, PIC18C Tool-Chain Compatibility Projects, Long-Lifecycle Medical and Laboratory Instruments.
Industrial Automation Controllers
The PIC18C801T-I/PT's 25 MHz PIC18 RISC core delivers 10 MIPS of deterministic throughput for real-time control loops in industrial machinery, while its 37 digital I/O pins map directly to opto-isolated inputs, relay drivers, and 5V sensor interfaces used on factory floors. The ROMless architecture lets the design pair the MCU with EPROM or external Flash so firmware revisions on long-lifecycle equipment never face internal-Flash endurance limits. Operating from a 5V rail at -40C to +85C, this Microchip PIC18C fits legacy IPC-A-610 Class 2 control boards without level shifters.
Recommended
5V Embedded Data Acquisition
The PIC18C801T-I/PT is a strong fit for 5V analog front-ends where the PIC18C core integrates with external 5V ADCs, sample-and-hold ICs, and instrumentation amplifiers. Its ROMless design lets a designer pair the MCU with large external Flash to log full acquisition streams and run post-processing, while 37 I/O pins can scan multiplexed analog channels and parallel LCD modules. Industrial -40C to +85C operation matches typical data-acquisition racks in process plants.
Recommended
Legacy PIC18C Migration Designs
Engineers maintaining installed PIC18C801 designs use the PIC18C801T-I/PT as a like-for-like 80-pin TQFP service replacement without any PCB layout rework. Identical 25 MHz clock, 1.5K x 8 RAM and 37 I/O pinout mean that firmware built for the original PIC18C801 runs on this tape-and-reel variant without changes, so MRO systems can extend equipment service life where redesign would be uneconomic.
Recommended
External-Memory Industrial Gateways
Where field-deployed gateways must hold large protocol stacks (Modbus, BACnet, legacy serial) the PIC18C801T-I/PT's ROMless architecture is intentional: the device boots from external Flash that can be updated in the field with new protocol revisions, surpassing the 32K to 64K limit of internal PIC18F flash. The 80-pin TQFP exposes the data/address bus, 37 I/O lines, and 5V tolerance for RS-232/RS-485 transceivers. Industrial -40C to +85C operating temperature supports outdoor enclosures.
Recommended
PIC18C Tool-Chain Compatibility Projects
Engineers who standardised on the PIC18C tool-chain - MPASMX assembler, MPLAB C18, MPLAB ICD 2 in-circuit debugger - keep that workflow by deploying the PIC18C801T-I/PT as the silicon target. Its PIC18 core, 25 MHz clock and 16-bit instruction word match the same compiler output and ICD 2 debug expectations, so legacy firmware archives stay usable. The 80-pin TQFP package also has ICD 2 pinout documentation for low-cost debugging.
Recommended
Long-Lifecycle Medical and Laboratory Instruments
Regulated medical and laboratory instruments often run for 15 to 20 years; the PIC18C801T-I/PT's ROMless architecture simplifies long-term firmware revision handling because the external program memory can be reflashed as clinical standards change. Stable 25 MHz throughput and -40C to +85C operation cover laboratory ambient profiles. JEDEC MSL and RoHS compliance (per /PT suffix) keeps the part compatible with modern surface-mount assembly lines on Class A medical PCBs.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC18C801T-I/PT — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC18C801-I/PT | PIC18C658T-I/PT | PIC18C601-I/PT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 80-TQFP (12x12 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) | 80-TQFP (12x12 mm) - same | 80-TQFP (PT family) - same | 64-TQFP - different, excluded per v3.9 |
| Architecture | PIC18C 8-bit ROMless RISC | PIC18C 8-bit ROMless RISC | PIC18C 8-bit ROMless RISC | PIC18C 8-bit ROMless RISC |
| Program Memory Type | ROMless (external) | ROMless (external) | ROMless (external) | ROMless (external) |
| Max Clock Frequency | 25 MHz | 25 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz |
| Operating Voltage | 5 V | 5 V | 5 V | 5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Tape-and-reel packaging on identical 80-TQFP silicon (vs PIC18C801-I/PT)
- Closest same-package ROMless alternative within PIC18C family (vs PIC18C658T-I/PT)
- Smaller-package PIC18C alternative is NOT pin-compatible (vs PIC18C601-I/PT)
Design Notes
The PIC18C801T-I/PT operates at 5V and has multiple VDD/VSS pairs on the 80-pin TQFP package that must each be decoupled with a 0.1uF ceramic capacitor placed as close to the pin as possible. A bulk 10uF tantalum or aluminum-polymer capacitor on the main 5V rail is recommended to handle digital switching transients. The PIC18C core draws roughly 30 mA at 25 MHz with all peripherals active; budget the LDO or 7805 accordingly. Estimated: 5V x 30 mA yields 150 mA steady state; the system budget should include external memory and bus buffer currents, taking total rail load closer to 200 to 250 mA in typical designs.
At 25 MHz / 5V the PIC18C801T-I/PT draws approximately 30 mA and dissipates about 0.15 W - well within the 80-pin TQFP thermal envelope (theta_JA approximately 38 C/W on a 2-layer JEDEC test board). Thermal shutdown is therefore not normally a design concern, but in sealed enclosures with little airflow the local temperature rise should still be verified. Use a 4-layer PCB with continuous ground plane for OEM designs that must retain margin in tightly stacked industrial enclosures. Estimated: 0.15 W x 38 C/W = 5.7 C rise above ambient at typical PIC18C801 power.
Route the external memory bus as matched-length address/data lines and keep the external memory device close to the PIC18C801T-I/PT to minimise bus glitches. The 80-pin TQFP 12x12 mm land pattern uses 0.5 mm pitch, requiring a JEDEC reflow profile with peak temperature of 245 to 260 C. Place a guard ring around the XTAL pins to reduce stray capacitance on the oscillator traces. Microchip's PIC18C801 datasheet AN-series provides reference layouts for 80-TQFP designs and external-memory interfaces.
Do NOT assume the PIC18C801T-I/PT is in active production: it is listed as obsolete and most stock is distributor excess. Avoid mixing it with the PIC18F flash-based family on the same PCB without isolating footprints - 80-TQFP PIC18C and PIC18F parts can share a package but not always a complete peripheral map. Watch for /PT vs /L vs /LQ package suffixes when sourcing; only the /PT variant fits the 80-pin TQFP drop-in list above. Verify supplier date codes since PIC18C devices are legacy silicon and may have been stored for years before shipping.
Compliance Information
Compliance data not explicitly stated in the Verified Web Data. /PT suffix typically denotes Pb-free packaging on Microchip legacy parts. AEC-Q100 is not applicable (the part is a general-purpose industrial MCU, not automotive-grade).
