Does PIC16F18856 have a centre metal pad?

[treez]

Hello, Do you know if the 6X6mm version of the PIC16F18856 has a centre metal pad? The datasheet doesn’t say. The recommended land pattern (page 664) has a centre pad, and it is a potential short circuit hazard to the pin pads.......so we will not follow the recommended land pattern if the actual IC itself doesn’t have a metal centre pad.
PIC16F18856 datasheet
https://ww1.microchip.com/downloads/en/DeviceDoc/PIC16(L)F18856_76 Data Sheet DS40001824C.pdf

 

[FvM]

Page 664 shows the 44 Pin TQFP package with 10x10 mm body (PT package type) and no enhanced pad. I guess you refer to the 28 pin QFN (ML) package. The package bottom is sketched on page 652-653, including exposed pad dimensions. Don't see anything unclear about it.

The pin table specification for exposed pad is "should be connected to VSS", so you may guess if the device will still work without connecting it. The exposed pad area must be kept free of non VSS traces and vias though.