PIC16C620-20I/P Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PIC16C620-20I/P is an 8-bit microcontroller from Microchip Technology's PIC® 16C series, featuring 896B of OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory and operating at 20MHz. This device is designed for embedded applications requiring basic microcontroller functionality with 13 I/O pins and integrated peripherals including brown-out detection, power-on reset, and watchdog timer. The product maintains Active status with verified programmability through DiGi-Electronics. Substitute parts are identified when OTP memory limitations require migration to reprogrammable alternatives or when enhanced peripheral integration becomes necessary for application requirements.

Substiute Parts

PIC16C620-20I/P

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 1100PIC16C620-20I/P Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PIC16F627A-I/P

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 4694PIC16F627A-I/P Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PIC16C620-20I/P is based on the following criteria:

Core Compatibility Parameters:

• Identical processor architecture (PIC core)
• Matching 8-bit core size
• Equivalent 20MHz operating speed
• Compatible 18-DIP package footprint
• Matching voltage supply range compatibility
• Identical operating temperature range

Substitution Logic: The PIC16F627A-I/P qualifies as a direct substitute based on maintaining identical core processor type, core size, speed rating, and physical package dimensions. The transition from OTP to FLASH memory type represents a functional enhancement rather than a limitation, as FLASH memory provides reprogrammability while maintaining full instruction set compatibility and peripheral integration at the same speed and voltage specifications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the PIC16C620-20I/P and PIC16F627A-I/P maintain Active product status with ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected classification. The PIC16F627A-I/P provides enhanced capabilities through FLASH memory technology, enabling field reprogrammability compared to the OTP limitation of the PIC16C620-20I/P. Both devices are verified as programmable through DiGi-Electronics and maintain identical thermal operating ranges and package footprints, ensuring direct socket compatibility in 18-DIP through-hole applications. The PIC16F627A-I/P offers increased program memory (1.75KB versus 896B), expanded RAM (224 x 8 versus 80 x 8), and three additional I/O pins (16 versus 13), with integrated UART/USART connectivity and PWM peripherals. The voltage supply range of the PIC16F627A-I/P (3V ~ 5.5V) remains compatible with applications designed for the PIC16C620-20I/P (3V ~ 6V) within the 3V to 5.5V overlap window.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PIC16F627A-I/P directly replace the PIC16C620-20I/P in existing designs?

A: Yes, for applications operating within the 3V to 5.5V supply range. Both devices share identical core processor architecture, 8-bit size, 20MHz speed, and 18-DIP package footprint. Existing PCB layouts and socket configurations require no modification. Code compatibility is maintained at the instruction set level, though the expanded memory and I/O capabilities of the PIC16F627A-I/P may require firmware updates to utilize additional resources.

Q: What are the key differences between OTP and FLASH memory in these devices?

A: The PIC16C620-20I/P uses OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory, which can be programmed once during manufacturing and cannot be reprogrammed. The PIC16F627A-I/P uses FLASH memory, which supports multiple programming cycles, enabling field updates and development flexibility. Both memory types execute code identically during operation.

Q: Does the PIC16F627A-I/P require different programming equipment?

A: Both devices are compatible with standard PIC microcontroller programmers. The PIC16F627A-I/P's FLASH memory requires programming equipment capable of FLASH technology support, which is standard in modern PIC programming tools. DiGi-Electronics verification confirms programmability for both devices.

Q: Are there voltage supply considerations when substituting these parts?

A: The PIC16C620-20I/P operates at 3V ~ 6V, while the PIC16F627A-I/P operates at 3V ~ 5.5V. Applications using supply voltages between 5.5V and 6V must be redesigned or the supply voltage adjusted to 5.5V maximum for PIC16F627A-I/P compatibility. Applications within the 3V to 5.5V range experience no voltage-related constraints.

Q: What additional peripherals does the PIC16F627A-I/P provide?

A: The PIC16F627A-I/P includes UART/USART connectivity and PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) capabilities not specified in the PIC16C620-20I/P. Both devices include brown-out detection/reset, power-on reset, and watchdog timer functions. The expanded peripheral set of the PIC16F627A-I/P enables additional application functionality without requiring external components.

Q: How do the I/O pin counts affect circuit design?

A: The PIC16C620-20I/P provides 13 I/O pins, while the PIC16F627A-I/P provides 16 I/O pins. Both devices use identical 18-DIP packages with the same physical footprint. The three additional I/O pins on the PIC16F627A-I/P are available for expanded application functionality and do not impact existing pin assignments for the 13 pins common to both devices.