Microchip Technology AC164378

Overview

AC164378 from Microchip Technology is a socket module designed for programming PIC18F8xJ94 microcontrollers in 80-lead QFP (12×12 mm, PT package code) using the MPLAB PM3 production programmer (DV007004). It provides mechanical and electrical interface compatibility, supports high-volume programming workflows, and enables reliable device insertion and contact alignment during automated or benchtop programming.

For engineers reviewing the AC164378 datasheet, AC164378 pinout, AC164378 application, or AC164378 equivalent, key considerations include QFP-80 PT package support, MPLAB PM3 integration, mechanical retention design, thermal stability during repeated insertion cycles, and compatibility verification via Microchip's Development Tool Selector (DTS).

Technical Context

The AC164378 is a passive hardware adapter-not an IC or active circuit-and functions solely as a zero-insertion-force (ZIF) socket interface between the MPLAB PM3 programmer and target PIC18F8xJ94 devices in 80L QFP (PT) packaging. It replicates the exact pad pitch (0.5 mm), land pattern, and lead count of the target MCU to ensure signal integrity and contact reliability during programming.

No onboard logic, voltage regulation, or timing circuitry is present. All electrical signals-including VDD, VSS, PGD, PGC, MCLR, and VPP-are routed directly from the PM3's programming header to the socket contacts without buffering, level-shifting, or conditioning. Compatibility is strictly limited to PIC18F8xJ94 devices in the specified 80-pin QFP-PT variant.

Key Specifications

Availability

AC164378 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-volume production programming, engineering validation labs, and contract manufacturing environments requiring stable component supply for PIC18F8xJ94-based embedded control, industrial sensor nodes, and automotive body electronics.

Supply support for AC164378 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 is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and development tools for embedded applications.

The AC164378 belongs to Microchip's MPLAB® programming hardware ecosystem and was engineered specifically to enable production-grade programming of PIC18F8xJ94 MCUs in 80L QFP-PT packages-supporting factory flash programming, firmware revision control, and post-silicon validation workflows.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the AC164378 socket module?

The AC164378 is a mechanical ZIF socket adapter that enables the MPLAB PM3 programmer to interface reliably with PIC18F8xJ94 microcontrollers in 80-lead QFP-PT packaging. It does not contain active circuitry; its role is purely physical and electrical interconnection. The AC164378 ensures precise alignment, consistent contact pressure, and repeatable programming cycles without damaging device leads.

Which PIC microcontroller families are supported by the AC164378?

The AC164378 is explicitly validated only for the PIC18F8xJ94 family in the 80-lead QFP (12×12 mm, PT) package. Microchip's DTS tool and product documentation do not list support for any other device family, variant, or package type. Using the AC164378 with non-PIC18F8xJ94 devices or different QFP variants may result in misalignment, poor contact, or programming failure.

Is the AC164378 compatible with MPLAB ICD or PICkit programmers?

No. The AC164378 is mechanically and electrically designed exclusively for use with the MPLAB PM3 production programmer (model DV007004). It lacks the pinout, signal mapping, and power delivery architecture required for MPLAB ICD or PICkit series programmers. Attempting integration with those tools will not establish functional communication or programming capability for the AC164378.

Does the AC164378 require external power or configuration software?

No. The AC164378 is a passive hardware interface with no onboard power regulation, firmware, or configuration requirements. It draws no power independently and requires no driver installation or software setup. Power, clock, and programming signals are supplied entirely by the MPLAB PM3 unit. The AC164378 operates transparently once physically mounted on the PM3's socket interface.

How can I verify if the AC164378 is the correct socket for my PIC18F8xJ94 device?

Confirm your device's full part number ends in "-PT" (e.g., PIC18F87J94-I/PT) and has 80 leads in a 12×12 mm QFP package. Then consult Microchip's official Development Tool Selector (DTS) at microchip.com/dtsapp-enter your exact PIC18F8xJ94 part number to validate AC164378 as the recommended socket module. Do not rely on package dimensions alone; PT code verification is mandatory for AC164378 compatibility.