Microchip PIC16LF872T-I/SS 8-Bit Microcontroller Overview and Application Guide

The Microchip PIC16LF872T-I/SS is a high-performance, low-power 8-bit microcontroller unit (MCU) from Microchip Technology's extensive PIC16 family. Engineered with a robust suite of integrated peripherals and fabricated using advanced low-power technology, this MCU is an ideal solution for a vast array of embedded control applications, particularly those demanding energy efficiency and a compact form factor. Housed in a 28-pin Shrink Small Outline Package (SSOP), it offers a compelling blend of performance, features, and power economy.

Core Architecture and Key Features

At the heart of the PIC16LF872T-I/SS lies a modified Harvard architecture RISC CPU. This design enables single-cycle execution for most instructions, achieving a throughput of up to 5 MIPS at its maximum operating frequency of 20 MHz. The "LF" designation signifies its low-voltage and low-power characteristics, capable of operating from a supply voltage as low as 2.0V, making it exceptionally suited for battery-powered and portable devices.

Its integrated feature set is comprehensive:

Program Memory: 8 KB of self-programmable Flash memory, allowing for flexible and in-circuit firmware updates.

RAM: 368 bytes of general-purpose SRAM for data handling and 256 bytes of EEPROM for non-volatile data storage.

Peripherals: It includes a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with up to 8 input channels, two analog comparators, three timers/counters (including one 16-bit timer), and a Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) module.

Communication Interfaces: It supports both synchronous and asynchronous communication protocols with a Master Synchronous Serial Port (MSSP) that can be configured as either I²C or SPI and a Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (USART).

Application Guide

The versatility of the PIC16LF872T-I/SS allows it to serve as the central control unit in numerous domains:

Industrial Control: Its robust I/O and communication features make it perfect for sensor interfacing, motor control (using the PWM module), and managing human-machine interfaces (HMIs) in control systems.

Consumer Electronics: The low-power operation is critical for devices like remote controls, smart home sensors, portable chargers, and advanced toys.

Automotive: While not for safety-critical systems, it is well-suited for auxiliary functions such as interior lighting control, simple sensor nodes, or aftermarket accessories.

Medical Devices: The combination of analog signal acquisition (via the ADC) and low-power sleep modes enables its use in portable medical monitors and diagnostic equipment.

When designing with this MCU, developers should leverage Microchip's MPLAB X Integrated Development Environment (IDE) and the XC8 compiler for efficient code development and debugging. Special attention should be paid to power management configuration to maximize battery life by utilizing the various built-in Sleep modes.

ICGOOODFIND

The Microchip PIC16LF872T-I/SS stands out as a highly integrated and power-efficient 8-bit MCU. Its balanced combination of processing capability, ample memory, versatile peripherals, and ultra-low-power operation solidifies its position as a top choice for designers tackling complex embedded challenges where power consumption and physical size are critical constraints.

Keywords:

1. Low-Power

2. 8-Bit Microcontroller

3. Embedded Control

4. PIC16 Family

5. Peripheral Integration