PIC16C620A-20I/SO - 8-Bit 20MHz OTP MCU 896B | Microchip/SoC
MPN: PIC16C620A-20I/SO ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.39 | $2.39 |
| 10 | $2.15 | $21.50 |
| 100 | $1.78 | $178.00 |
| 500 | $1.52 | $760.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.31 | $1,310.00 |
PIC16C620A-20I/SO Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer containing a CPU core, program memory (ROM/Flash/OTP), data memory (RAM), and configurable I/O peripherals. The PIC16C620A belongs to the product hierarchy: microcontroller -> 8-bit MCU -> PIC16 family -> PIC16C6xx sub-family -> voltage supervisor / comparator-equipped variant. The 16C6xx series is historically significant for introducing on-chip analog comparators and a brown-out reset (BOR) peripheral to the PIC mid-range line, predating and informing the later PIC16F6xx Flash-based family.
Key features include a RISC instruction set of only 35 single-word instructions, a hardware multiplier for limited arithmetic, a 14-bit instruction word, an 8-bit data path, and a programmable watchdog timer with on-chip RC oscillator. The 16C620A also integrates two on-chip analog comparators with programmable reference, a 5-channel 8-bit ADC-free analog subsystem, and a brown-out reset circuit. Industrial-temperature operation (-40C to +85C) and 2.5V to 5.5V wide operating voltage make the part suitable for factory-floor equipment, automotive subsystems, and battery-powered instrumentation. The OTP program memory makes the part intended for volume production where code is stable and field upgrades are not required.
Architecturally, the 16C620A uses a Harvard-class separate instruction/data bus, an 8-level deep hardware stack, and a single-cycle ALU branch structure. The wide-body 18-SOIC package offers a larger lead frame than 8-pin or 14-pin SO packages, easing hand-soldering and rework on legacy boards while retaining surface-mount compatibility with modern pick-and-place lines. The PIC16C620A was among the first PIC16C6xx devices to combine analog comparators and BOR on-chip, eliminating external analog and supervisor ICs in many appliance, motor-control, and security designs.
Typical applications include appliance controllers (washing-machine motor drivers, microwave oven user interfaces), security-system keypad/PIR panels, simple sensor-signal conditioning, and automotive body modules. The 13 I/O pins are sufficient for keyboard-scan, LED/relay-driving, and triac phase-angle control interfaces. The on-chip comparators enable zero-crossing detectors and battery-voltage sensing without external op-amps. Designers choose the 16C620A when code volume is modest, deterministic timing is mandatory, and OTP cost savings outweigh Flash reprogrammability for production runs above a few thousand units per year.
When designing with this device, allocate two I/O pins to the in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) interface to enable factory code loading after PCB assembly; OTP parts cannot be re-programmed in the field. Place a 0.1 uF ceramic bypass capacitor within 5 mm of VDD and a bulk 10 uF electrolytic near the IC, and reserve RB6/RB7 (or GP0/GP1 on related parts) for ICSP clock and data to avoid rework complications if firmware is updated.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16C620A-20I/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 PIC16C620A-20I/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory Size, Core Architecture, Operating Temperature, RAM Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16C620A-20/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.04 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C620A-20E/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.12 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C620A-04/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C620-20/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.52 / Unit
PIC16C620-04I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16C620A-20I/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | PIC16C6xx |
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 896 B (512 x 14) |
| SRAM Data Memory | 96 B |
| EEPROM Data Memory | None |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Word Width | 14 bits |
| Number of I/O Pins | 13 |
| Operating Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial, '-I' suffix) |
| On-Chip Analog Comparators | 2 (per family datasheet) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (programmable) |
| Brown-out Reset (BOR) | Yes (per family datasheet) |
| Package | 18-SOIC (7.50 mm wide-body) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Non-compliant (lead-bearing, /SO package) |
PIC16C620A-20I/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2 — PORTA bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 2 | RA3 — PORTA bit 3 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 3 | RA4 — PORTA bit 4 (digital I/O / comparator output) |
| Pin 4 | MCLR/RA5 — Master Clear reset (input) / PORTA bit 5 |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RB0/INT — PORTB bit 0 / external interrupt input |
| Pin 7 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 8 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 9 | RB3 — PORTB bit 3 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 10 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 (digital I/O, interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 11 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 (digital I/O, interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 12 | RB6/ICSPCLK — PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 13 | RB7/ICSPDAT — PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 15 | OSC1/CLKIN — Crystal oscillator input / external clock in |
| Pin 16 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Crystal oscillator output / Fosc/4 clock out |
| Pin 17 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / analog comparator channel 0 |
| Pin 18 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / analog comparator channel 1 |
Typical Applications
PIC16C620A-20I/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Keypad and User Interface Controller, Security System Keypad and PIR Sensor Hub, Battery-Powered Sensor Signal Conditioner, Automotive Interior Body Module (Legacy), Simple PWM Motor Speed Controller (Brushed DC), Industrial Control Panel Indicator and Annunciator.
Appliance Keypad and User Interface Controller
The PIC16C620A-20I/SO fits appliance user-interface modules (washing machine panels, microwave oven keypads, dishwasher displays) because its 13 digital I/O pins comfortably drive 4x4 matrix keypads and 7-segment LED or LCD multiplexed displays. The 896-byte OTP program memory is sufficient for state-machine control of mode selection, timer sequencing, and buzzer/relay activation, while the 20 MHz CPU clock (200 ns instruction cycle) gives deterministic button-debounce and display-refresh timing without RTOS overhead. The two on-chip analog comparators enable zero-crossing detection for triac-driven AC loads (heaters, pumps, valves), and the brown-out reset prevents memory corruption across mains-brownout events that are common on appliance lines.
Recommended
Security System Keypad and PIR Sensor Hub
The PIC16C620A-20I/SO is well-matched to wired security panels requiring keypad scanning, PIR-sensor signal conditioning, and siren-driver control. Its two analog comparators can implement a window-comparator PIR front-end (replacing an external op-amp), while the watchdog timer handles firmware hang detection - critical for safety/security equipment where a stuck MCU could disable the alarm. The 96-byte SRAM supports a small event queue (entry/exit delays, zone status flags) without external memory, and the 20 MHz clock enables rapid polling of multiple zones in the <100 ms response window required by UL 1023 household-alarm standards.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Sensor Signal Conditioner
The PIC16C620A-20I/SO suits 2-cell alkaline or 3-cell NiMH battery-powered sensor signal conditioners because its 2.5V to 5.5V wide operating range covers the full battery discharge curve without a boost converter. The PIC mid-range sleep/idle current (in the low-uA range per the PIC16C62X datasheet) extends battery life, while the 20 MHz active-mode throughput lets the MCU wake, sample the on-chip comparators, run a control algorithm, and return to sleep quickly to minimize average power. Industrial -40C to +85C operation is critical for outdoor and cold-storage deployments.
Recommended
Automotive Interior Body Module (Legacy)
The PIC16C620A-20I/SO supports automotive interior body modules - door-lock controllers, mirror-position memory, seat-adjustment switches, and headlight-delay timers - using the 13 I/O pins for switch matrix reading and relay driving. The wide -40C to +85C industrial temperature range covers cabin environments, while the 20 MHz clock handles CAN-LIN bit-banging and switch-debounce in legacy vehicles without an automotive bus IC. Designers must note that the part is NOT AEC-Q100 qualified; AEC-Q100 designs should use the qualified PIC16F1829-I/SO replacement.
Recommended
Simple PWM Motor Speed Controller (Brushed DC)
The PIC16C620A-20I/SO implements single-channel brushed-DC motor speed control using its CCP module for PWM generation and one analog comparator for back-EMF sensing. At 20 MHz, the PWM resolution reaches approximately 8-9 effective bits at 20 kHz switching frequency, sufficient for small fans, pumps, and toys. The 13 I/O pins accommodate direction-control H-bridge signals, tacho input, and start/stop buttons without external logic. Brown-out reset protects the motor from undefined drive states during voltage dips.
Recommended
Industrial Control Panel Indicator and Annunciator
The PIC16C620A-20I/SO drives industrial control-panel annunciators - LED stacks, buzzer/horn alarms, and 7-segment status displays - reading 4-20 mA analog loop signals through the on-chip analog comparators for threshold-based alarm triggering. The 18-SOIC wide-body package is well-suited to through-hole-feel hand-soldering on legacy control panels while remaining surface-mount compatible. The -40C to +85C industrial temperature range ensures reliable operation in factory-floor cabinets near motors and heaters, and the OTP program memory locks firmware to prevent unauthorized modification of safety-critical alarm thresholds.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16C620A-20I/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16C620A-20/SO | PIC16C620A-20E/SO | PIC16C620A-04/SO | PIC16C620-20/SO | PIC16C620-04I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 18-SOIC (7.50 mm wide-body) | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 896 B OTP | 896 B OTP | 896 B OTP | 896 B OTP | 896 B OTP | 896 B OTP |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz (-80%) | 20 MHz | 4 MHz (-80%) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | -40C to +125C (Extended) | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Silicon Revision | 'A' revision (with BOR, analog comparators) | 'A' revision (same die) | 'A' revision (same die) | 'A' revision (same die) | Pre-A revision (no BOR) | Pre-A revision (no BOR) |
| Brown-out Reset (BOR) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Unit Price @ 1000 (USD, approx.) | 1.31 | 1.28 (-2%) | 1.45 (+11%) | 1.20 (-8%) | 1.10 (-16%) | 1.05 (-20%) |
| RoHS Status | Non-compliant (lead-bearing /SO) | Non-compliant | Non-compliant | Non-compliant | Non-compliant | Non-compliant |
Key Differentiators
- Industrial -40C to +85C operating range (vs PIC16C620A-20/SO)
- 20 MHz CPU clock for deterministic real-time control (vs PIC16C620A-04/SO)
- 'A' silicon revision with on-chip analog comparators and BOR (vs PIC16C620-20/SO (pre-A))
Design Notes
Power the PIC16C620A-20I/SO from a regulated 2.5V to 5.5V rail with a 0.1 uF ceramic bypass capacitor placed within 5 mm of the VDD pin and a 10 uF bulk electrolytic near the IC. Brown-out reset (BOR) is enabled by configuration fuse - leave it enabled for industrial applications where mains dips are common, because BOR prevents undefined execution from corrupted program memory during VDD transients. For battery-powered designs, use the PIC sleep mode (low-uA range per the datasheet) and wake via the watchdog timer or external interrupt on RB0/INT to extend battery life.
Do not assume OTP parts can be re-programmed - the PIC16C620A-20I/SO can be programmed only once via ICSP using RB6 (ICSPCLK) and RB7 (ICSPDAT). Validate firmware on a PIC16F628A-I/SO prototype (Flash-based, same die footprint) before committing OTP units to production. Also note that the MCLR pin (pin 4) is configured as RA5 in some configurations - if MCLR is disabled, pin 4 becomes a digital I/O and you lose the reset function, which can lock you out of ICSP programming.
The PIC16C620A-20I/SO operates from -40C to +85C per the industrial '-I' suffix. For continuous operation near the upper temperature limit, ensure the SOIC package's thermal resistance (theta_JA approximately 100 C/W on a standard 1-oz 2-layer JEDEC test board) is adequate - typically not a concern for a low-current CMOS MCU, but if the part drives multiple relays or LEDs sourcing >50 mA total, the additional self-heating can push junction temperature above safe limits.
Place the 18-SOIC footprint on a 0.300 inch (7.62 mm) SOIC land pattern with 0.050 inch (1.27 mm) pitch. Route the crystal traces (OSC1 pin 15, OSC2 pin 16) as short as possible and guard them with a ground pour to minimize EMI coupling; keep the crystal within 10 mm of the IC. Reserve RB6/RB7 as ICSP clock/data on a 0.1 inch header or test pad to allow factory programming and field debug access without desoldering the chip.
When using the on-chip analog comparators for zero-crossing detection or sensor thresholding, isolate the analog pins (RA0-RA4) from digital switching signals on the PCB. Route comparator reference voltages through a filtered RC network (10 kohm + 100 nF) and place analog ground islands if the design mixes high-current digital loads (relays, triacs) with low-level analog signals. Avoid running high-frequency clock traces (OSC2/CLKOUT) parallel to analog traces to prevent comparator output chatter.
Compliance Information
The /SO (18-SOIC) package uses lead-bearing (SnPb) terminations and is therefore not RoHS compliant. The PIC16C620A silicon is not AEC-Q100 qualified; for AEC-Q100 automotive applications, use the PIC16F1829-I/SO replacement. REACH compliance is per Microchip's product-level declarations; check the specific lot's declaration of conformity for full substance disclosure.
