8-bit PIC at 4 MHz — what you're getting
The Microchip PIC16F877-04I/PT is a mid-range 8-bit PIC MCU in the PIC® 16F family, clocked at 4 MHz with 14 KB (8K x 14) Flash program memory, 368 x 8 bytes of RAM, and 256 x 8 bytes of EEPROM. It runs on a 4V to 5.5V supply rail — a 5V-only part, not 3.3V — and comes in a 44-TQFP (10x10 mm) surface-mount package with 33 I/O lines.
Peripherals and connectivity — what the 33 I/O bring
On-chip peripherals include brown-out detect and reset (BOR/POR), a PWM module, and a watchdog timer (WDT). With 33 I/O, it can drive a 7-segment multiplexed display plus a keypad matrix while leaving serial lines free.
Memory sizing — 14 KB Flash, 368 bytes RAM, 256 bytes EEPROM
Program memory is 14 KB Flash (8K x 14-bit words). That's enough for a moderate control loop with a serial protocol stack and a lookup table, but tight for a full TCP/IP or USB stack. RAM at 368 bytes limits buffered data handling — expect to manage UART/SPI buffers carefully if you're streaming more than a few hundred bytes. The 256 bytes of EEPROM are useful for calibration constants, serial numbers, or configuration parameters that survive power cycles without wear-leveling concerns. Each byte is rated for typical 1M erase/write cycles.
Not AEC-Q100 qualified, so skip it for safety-critical automotive or mil-spec programs.
Lifecycle and sourcing status
Microchip lists the PIC16F877-04I/PT as Active product status. Production continues through Microchip's authorized distribution channel. ROHS3 compliant per the listing. The 44-TQFP package is MSL 3 — standard moisture sensitivity, bake before reflow if the sealed bag has been open beyond the floor-life window.