PIC16C620-20/SO - 8-Bit 20MHz OTP MCU, 896B Code, 13 I/O | Microchip
MPN: PIC16C620-20/SO| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4.2 | $4.20 |
| 10 | $3.78 | $37.80 |
| 100 | $3.36 | $336.00 |
| 500 | $2.94 | $1,470.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.52 | $2,520.00 |
PIC16C620-20/SO Overview
A microcontroller (microcontroller unit, MCU) is a single-chip computer containing a CPU core, program and data memory, I/O peripherals, and often analog blocks. The PIC16C620 belongs to the mid-range PIC16 family, sitting hierarchically between 8-bit baseline PIC10/PIC12 parts and 16-bit PIC24/dsPIC devices. It uses a RISC Harvard architecture with 35 single-cycle instructions, a hardware multiplier is absent, and the OTP program memory is one-time programmable by the user (versus flash which is re-programmable). This positions it for cost-sensitive, fixed-function embedded control rather than firmware-iterable designs.
Key features include 13 I/O pins capable of 25 mA source/sink per pin (sufficient for direct LED drive), four oscillator modes (RC, HS, XT, LP) supporting external crystals from 32.768 kHz up to 20 MHz, an analog comparator module with two comparators and a programmable reference, a 8-bit timer (TMR0) with 8-bit prescaler, and a Watchdog Timer with its own on-chip RC oscillator for reliable brown-out recovery. Power management includes SLEEP mode with < 1 µA typical standby current, plus a power-on reset and brown-out reset circuit.
The architecture uses a 14-bit instruction word with an 8-bit data path. The ALU and working register (W) execute most instructions in a single 200 ns instruction cycle at 20 MHz. A two-level hardware stack handles subroutine nesting, and 8 Special Function Registers (SFRs) control peripherals. The OTP memory cell is one-time programmable, requiring a UV-erasable window-less package for development iterations — most designs instead move to the flash-based PIC16F628 drop-in for production.
Typical applications include appliance controls, security-system sensor interfaces, small motor control via PWM, automotive body electronics (non-safety), and industrial timer/relay replacement circuits. The internal comparators enable low-cost analog signal conditioning without an external op-amp. Designed with the OTP memory caveat in mind, products with stable firmware and modest volume are ideal PIC16C620 candidates; for in-field reprogrammability, migrate to PIC16F628 (same pinout, same peripherals) — pin-compatible with the SOIC package footprint.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C620-20/SO — 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 PIC16C620-20/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in RoHS Status, Timers, Package, Program Memory Size, RAM Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C620-04/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C620-10/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C620-04I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C620-04I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C620-04/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F628-04/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F628-20/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16C620-20/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 8-bit Microcontroller (MCU) |
| Series | PIC 16C |
| Core Architecture | RISC, Harvard |
| Program Memory Size | 896 B (512 x 14 words), OTP |
| RAM Size | 80 B (80 x 8) |
| EEPROM | None (OTP device) |
| Number of I/O Pins | 13 |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns @ 20 MHz |
| Operating Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Oscillator Type | External (RC / HS / XT / LP modes) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 °C to +70 °C (Commercial) |
| I/O Pin Source/Sink Current | 25 mA / 25 mA |
| Internal Comparators | 2 with programmable voltage reference |
| Timers | TMR0 (8-bit with 8-bit prescaler), WDT |
| Peripherals | Brown-Out Reset, Power-On Reset, SLEEP mode |
| Package | 18-SOIC (0.295", 7.50 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging | Tube |
| RoHS Status | ROHS3 Compliant |
| Supplier Device Package | 18-SOIC |
PIC16C620-20/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O pin, analog comparator input |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O pin, analog comparator input |
| Pin 3 | RA4 — Bidirectional I/O pin, TOCKI (Timer0 clock input) |
| Pin 4 | MCLR — Master Clear (reset) input, programming voltage input |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0/INT — Bidirectional I/O pin, external interrupt input |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O pin |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O pin |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O pin |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O pin, interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O pin, interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 12 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O pin, ICSP clock, interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O pin, ICSP data, interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 15 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator crystal output, or RC clock output (Fosc/4) |
| Pin 16 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator crystal input, or external clock input |
| Pin 17 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O pin, analog comparator input |
| Pin 18 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O pin, analog comparator input |
Typical Applications
PIC16C620-20/SO is suitable for 7 applications: Appliance Control Panels, Security Sensor Interface Modules, Small Motor Control (PWM), Industrial Timer and Relay Replacement, Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety), Smart Sensor Signal Conditioning, Low-Cost Consumer Electronics.
Appliance Control Panels
The PIC16C620-20/SO fits appliance control panels (washing machines, microwaves, dishwashers) because its 13 I/O pins directly drive 7-segment displays, keypad matrices, and relay coils at 25 mA per pin, while the two internal comparators handle sensor signal conditioning without external op-amps. At 20 MHz, the MCU executes control loops in under 1 ms with deterministic timing, and the OTP memory locks firmware permanently, preventing costly field-tampering on consumer appliances. Brown-out reset plus watchdog timer handle noisy mains environments reliably.
Recommended
Security Sensor Interface Modules
PIR motion sensors, door/window contacts, and glass-break detectors use the PIC16C620-20/SO to debounce inputs, drive alarm LEDs, and signal the main panel via relay or open-collector output. The 80-byte RAM buffers event logs, while the on-chip comparator with programmable voltage reference monitors battery voltage for low-battery alerts — eliminating an external op-amp and reference IC. The < 1 µA SLEEP current extends battery life to 2+ years in wireless sensors.
Recommended
Small Motor Control (PWM)
Brush-DC and small stepper motor controllers use the PIC16C620-20/SO to generate PWM signals, monitor back-EMF, and implement closed-loop current control. The 20 MHz clock provides 8-bit PWM at 78 kHz with 1 µs resolution — sufficient for DC motor speed control below 1 kW. Hardware brown-out reset and 25 mA I/O drive 12 V gate drivers directly through discrete transistors, while the OTP memory locks the motor-control algorithm against unauthorized tuning.
Recommended
Industrial Timer and Relay Replacement
Legacy electromechanical timer/relay circuits migrate to the PIC16C620-20/SO for solid-state reliability, programmable timing sequences, and self-diagnostics. The 13 I/O directly drive SSR (solid-state relay) gates and read contactor status, while the internal WDT with dedicated RC oscillator ensures the timer recovers from EMI-induced lockup without external supervisor ICs. OTP memory locks the timing program at production, eliminating accidental field reprogramming.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety)
Interior lighting controllers, seat-position memories, and accessory timers use the PIC16C620-20/SO in non-safety body-electronics applications. The 2.5-5.5 V supply range tolerates automotive 12 V battery transients after regulation, and the brown-out reset prevents MCU lockup during cranking. For safety-critical ECUs (ABS, airbag, steering) use an AEC-Q100-qualified part instead — the PIC16C620-20/SO is commercial-grade only.
Recommended
Smart Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16C620-20/SO's two internal comparators with programmable voltage reference condition thermocouple, thermistor, and strain-gauge signals without external op-amps. The 20 MHz CPU performs linearization and scaling in firmware, while the 13 I/O drive 4-digit LED displays or UART output to a host controller. OTP memory locks calibration coefficients permanently, ensuring consistent sensor readings across production units.
Recommended
Low-Cost Consumer Electronics
Toys, remote controls, low-end audio peripherals, and novelty gadgets use the PIC16C620-20/SO to embed simple control logic at sub-$1 BOM cost. The 18-SOIC package is hand-solderable for prototypes, and the OTP memory prevents firmware piracy in high-margin consumer products. The 2.5 V minimum supply enables 2×AA battery operation with a boost regulator, while SLEEP mode < 1 µA extends battery life.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C620-20/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C620-04/SO | PIC16C620-10/SO | PIC16F628-20/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 18-SOIC | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same |
| Max Clock Frequency | 20 MHz | 4 MHz | 10 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Program Memory | 896 B OTP | 896 B OTP | 896 B OTP | 2048 B Flash |
| RAM Size | 80 B | 80 B | 80 B | 224 B |
| EEPROM | None | None | None | 128 B |
| I/O Pins | 13 | 13 | 13 | 16 |
| Operating Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Memory Type | OTP (one-time programmable) | OTP | OTP | Flash (re-programmable) |
| Internal Comparators | 2 with CVREF | 2 with CVREF | 2 with CVREF | 2 with CVREF |
Key Differentiators
- Highest speed grade in the PIC16C620 OTP family (vs PIC16C620-04/SO)
- Locked firmware vs field-upgradable flash memory (vs PIC16F628-20/SO)
- Industry-standard 18-SOIC footprint with broad second-source availability (vs PIC16C620-04/P (PDIP))
Design Notes
The PIC16C620-20/SO operates from 2.5 V to 5.5 V with a typical supply current of < 2 mA active at 20 MHz / 5 V and < 1 µA in SLEEP mode, per the Microchip datasheet. Decouple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of pin 14, plus a 10 µF tantalum bulk capacitor if the supply is shared with relays or motors. Brown-out reset is enabled by configuration bit and triggers at ~4.0 V (BOREN=1); for 3.3 V-only systems, disable BOR or accept the reset threshold.
Place the 18-SOIC decoupling capacitor (100 nF) as close as possible to pin 14 (VDD) with a wide ground trace to pin 5 (VSS). Keep the crystal/oscillator traces short (< 10 mm) and shield them from RB port switching traces to avoid EMI coupling. For ICSP programming, expose pins 12 (RB6/ICSPCLK) and 13 (RB7/ICSPDAT) plus pin 4 (MCLR/VPP) on a programming header or test pad; do not place series resistors > 470 ohm on these signals.
Critical pitfalls: (1) OTP memory cannot be re-programmed — once a bit is programmed to 0 it cannot be returned to 1 except via UV erasure on a JW package variant. Verify firmware extensively before final programming. (2) The MCLR pin (pin 4) is a reset input — leaving it floating causes unpredictable resets; tie to VDD via 10 kohm pull-up if not used. (3) OSC1/OSC2 (pins 16, 15) configuration depends on oscillator mode (RC/HS/XT/LP) selected via config bits — mismatch causes no start-up or unstable clock. (4) I/O source/sink 25 mA is per-pin, not per-port — total port sink must stay under 200 mA to avoid latch-up.
The PIC16C620-20/SO in 18-SOIC has a thermal resistance (theta-JA) of approximately 100 °C/W per Microchip package thermal data. At full active load (20 MHz, 5 V, all I/O switching) the device dissipates ~250 mW, resulting in a 25 °C junction rise above ambient — well within the 0 °C to +70 °C commercial rating. No heatsink required. For industrial temperature operation (-40 °C to +85 °C) use the PIC16C620-04I/SO or PIC16C620-10I/SO variant explicitly.
When using the internal comparators with the CVREF programmable voltage reference, add a 10 nF bypass capacitor on the VREF pin to filter reference noise; otherwise comparator threshold jitter can reach 10-20 mV. For sensitive analog sensing (thermocouple, strain gauge), use the lowest CVREF range that fits the signal swing and oversample in firmware. The analog comparator inputs (RA0-RA3) have input leakage < 1 nA typical but up to ±5 µA in worst-case — keep source impedances below 10 kohm to avoid offset drift.
Compliance Information
ROHS3 compliant per GlobalSpec datasheet listing. Lead-free packaging confirmed. REACH, halogen-free, and conflict-mineral status were not explicitly listed in the verified distributor web data and are marked accordingly. AEC-Q100 not applicable — this is a commercial-grade part; for automotive safety applications use the automotive-grade PIC16 family variants.
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