Microchip Technology AC164301

Overview

AC164301 from Microchip Technology is a 40-pin DIP socket module designed for use with the MPLAB PM3 Universal Device Programmer to support programming of PICmicro® and dsPIC30F microcontrollers in dual-inline-package (DIP) form. It provides mechanical and electrical interface compatibility for 40-pin DIP devices, features multi-pin connector mounting for high-reliability socket attachment, and enables rapid device changeover without PCB rework.

For engineers reviewing the AC164301 datasheet, AC164301 pinout, AC164301 application, or AC164301 equivalent, this socket module is selected specifically for programming legacy and prototyping 40-pin DIP-packaged Microchip MCUs and DSCs - requiring precise socket-to-device alignment, thermal stability during repeated insertion cycles, and interoperability with MPLAB PM3's 40-programmable-pin architecture.

Technical Context

The AC164301 is a passive mechanical and electrical interface component that maps the 40-pin DIP footprint to the MPLAB PM3's universal 40-pin programmable socket interface. It does not contain active circuitry, IC logic, or firmware, and relies entirely on the host PM3 unit for voltage regulation, timing control, and programming protocol execution.

Its design supports In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP™) signal routing through dedicated pins including VPP, VDD, VSS, PGD, and PGC, and maintains signal integrity via gold-plated contacts and low-inductance path geometry optimized for 5 V TTL-level programming waveforms used by PICmicro® and dsPIC30F families.

Key Specifications

Availability

AC164301 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for MCU prototyping labs, production programming stations, and embedded development teams requiring stable component supply for PIC and dsPIC device programming infrastructure.

Supply support for AC164301 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Microchip Technology Inc. is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and development tools for embedded control applications.

The AC164301 belongs to Microchip's MPLAB PM3 socket module product line, engineered to extend the universal programming capability of the MPLAB PM3 platform across diverse Microchip MCU package types while minimizing socket inventory and maximizing field configurability.

FAQ

What is the AC164301 used for?

The AC164301 is a 40-pin DIP socket module for the MPLAB PM3 programmer, enabling physical and electrical interfacing between the programmer and 40-pin DIP-packaged Microchip PICmicro® and dsPIC30F devices. It allows reliable, repeatable programming without soldering or custom fixtures. The AC164301 must be installed onto the MPLAB PM3 base unit and used with compatible firmware and MPLAB IDE software to perform device programming.

Does the AC164301 include programming firmware or software?

No, the AC164301 is a passive hardware socket module with no embedded firmware, memory, or software. All programming logic, voltage control, and protocol handling are executed by the host MPLAB PM3 unit and MPLAB IDE software. The AC164301 serves solely as a mechanical and signal-routing interface - its functionality depends entirely on correct integration with the MPLAB PM3 system and up-to-date Microchip device support files.

Which Microchip devices are confirmed compatible with the AC164301?

The AC164301 supports all 40-pin DIP Microchip devices listed in the MPLAB PM3 documentation, including PIC16F877A, PIC18F452, PIC18F4620, dsPIC30F3014, and dsPIC30F4013. Compatibility requires matching pin count, DIP package width (0.600″), and adherence to Microchip's ICSP™ pinout conventions. Devices with non-standard pinouts or non-5V tolerant I/O may require verification against the specific device datasheet.

Can the AC164301 be used with older PROMATE II programmers?

No, the AC164301 is designed exclusively for the MPLAB PM3 platform and is not mechanically or electrically compatible with PROMATE II programmers. However, Microchip offers the AC164350 adapter to allow legacy PROMATE II socket modules to be mounted on the MPLAB PM3 - the AC164301 itself is not an adapter and does not provide cross-platform functionality.

Is the AC164301 RoHS compliant?

Yes, the AC164301 conforms to Microchip's RoHS-compliant manufacturing standards as documented in Microchip's official product change notices and material declarations dated Q1 2004 onward. Lead-free finish is applied to all contact surfaces, and the housing meets halogen-free requirements per IPC-4101D. Full compliance documentation for AC164301 is available through Microchip's quality portal using the part number and date code.