PIC16LC72-04/SO Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PIC16LC72-04/SO is an 8-bit microcontroller from Microchip Technology's PIC® 16C series, featuring 4.6KB OTP program memory, 128 bytes of RAM, and 22 I/O pins. This device is classified as obsolete, making identification of compatible alternatives essential for ongoing system support and new design implementations. The part operates at 4MHz with a supply voltage range of 2.5V to 6V and includes integrated peripherals such as PWM, watchdog timer, and brown-out detection.

Substiute Parts

PIC16LC72-04/SO

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 2031PIC16LC72-04/SO Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PIC16LF72-I/SO

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 2205PIC16LF72-I/SO Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PIC16LC72-04/SO is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Core Processor Architecture: Must be PIC-based to maintain instruction set compatibility
• Core Size: Must remain 8-bit
• Program Memory Size: Must be 4.6KB (2K x 14) to accommodate existing firmware
• RAM Size: Must be 128 x 8 bytes minimum
• I/O Pin Count: Must provide 22 I/O pins for circuit compatibility
• Package Type: Must be 28-SOIC to fit existing PCB layouts
• Peripheral Set: Must include I2C, SPI, PWM, WDT, and brown-out detection
• Data Converter: Must include A/D 5x8b functionality

The PIC16LF72-I/SO qualifies as a direct substitute based on these parameters. While it features FLASH memory instead of OTP and operates at higher speed (20MHz vs. 4MHz), it maintains identical pin configuration, I/O count, peripheral functionality, and package form factor.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PIC16LF72-I/SO is the qualified substitute for the obsolete PIC16LC72-04/SO. Selection is justified on the following basis:

• Product Status: The PIC16LC72-04/SO is obsolete; the PIC16LF72-I/SO is active and maintains full production availability
• Compliance: Both devices are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting current regulatory requirements
• Pin and Package Compatibility: Identical 28-SOIC package ensures direct PCB compatibility without layout modifications
• Functional Equivalence: Matching I/O count (22 pins), peripheral set, memory architecture (4.6KB program, 128 bytes RAM), and data converter specifications ensure firmware compatibility
• Enhanced Capabilities: The substitute offers FLASH memory (reprogrammable vs. OTP), higher operating speed (20MHz vs. 4MHz), and extended temperature range (-40°C to 85°C vs. 0°C to 70°C), providing design flexibility for future applications

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PIC16LF72-I/SO directly replace the PIC16LC72-04/SO in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both devices share identical pin configuration, I/O count, package form factor, and peripheral functionality. No PCB modifications are required. Firmware compiled for the PIC16LC72-04/SO will execute on the PIC16LF72-I/SO without modification.

Q: What is the primary difference between these two parts?

A: The main difference is program memory type: the PIC16LC72-04/SO uses OTP (one-time programmable) memory, while the PIC16LF72-I/SO uses FLASH memory. FLASH memory is reprogrammable, enabling in-circuit updates and development flexibility. The PIC16LF72-I/SO also operates at higher speed (20MHz vs. 4MHz) and supports a wider operating temperature range.

Q: Are there voltage supply compatibility concerns?

A: The PIC16LC72-04/SO operates at 2.5V to 6V; the PIC16LF72-I/SO operates at 2V to 5.5V. The substitute has a lower minimum voltage (2V vs. 2.5V) but a lower maximum voltage (5.5V vs. 6V). For applications operating within the 2.5V to 5.5V range, both devices are fully compatible. Applications requiring operation above 5.5V must retain the original part.

Q: Does the package remain the same?

A: Yes. Both devices use the 28-SOIC package with identical pin spacing (0.295", 7.50mm width). No package-related design changes are necessary.

Q: Is the substitute part currently available?

A: Yes. The PIC16LF72-I/SO is classified as active product status with verified availability. The PIC16LC72-04/SO is obsolete and subject to limited availability.