Microchip PIC12C671T-04I/SM 8-Bit Microcontroller Datasheet and Technical Overview

The Microchip PIC12C671T-04I/SM represents a foundational component in the landscape of embedded control, offering a robust and cost-effective solution for a wide array of applications. As a member of the venerable PIC12C6xx family, this 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) combines a compact form factor with a powerful RISC architecture, making it an ideal choice for space-constrained and high-volume consumer, automotive, and industrial projects.

Housed in an 8-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package, this device demonstrates that significant functionality can be integrated into a minimal footprint. The ‘T’ in its designation indicates it is tape and reel packaged, optimized for automated assembly processes in mass production. The ‘I’ suffix confirms its industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, ensuring reliable operation in harsh environmental conditions.

At its core, the PIC12C671 features a high-performance RISC CPU with only 35 single-word instructions. This streamlined architecture allows for rapid development and often enables a single instruction to execute in a single clock cycle, leading to highly efficient code execution. The device operates at a maximum clock speed of 4 MHz, indicated by the ‘-04’ speed grade, providing a solid balance between processing power and low energy consumption.

A key feature of this MCU is its integrated Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC). The PIC12C671 is equipped with a 4-channel, 8-bit resolution ADC, enabling it to interface directly with analog sensors for measuring parameters like temperature, voltage, or pressure. This eliminates the need for an external ADC chip, reducing both system complexity and overall cost.

Memory resources include 1K x 14 bits of EPROM program memory and 64 bytes of RAM data memory. While modest by today's standards, this was ample for the dedicated control tasks it was designed to handle. Furthermore, it contains 128 bytes of EEPROM data memory, which is invaluable for storing critical calibration data, user settings, or other information that must be retained even when power is removed.

The MCU is designed with power efficiency in mind. It features a watchdog timer (WDT) with its own on-chip RC oscillator for reliable operation, along with power-saving Sleep mode. In Sleep mode, power consumption drops to negligible levels, making it perfect for battery-operated applications.

In-circuit serial programming (ICSP) capability is supported, offering tremendous flexibility for prototyping and production by allowing the microcontroller to be programmed even after it has been soldered onto a printed circuit board (PCB).

In summary, the PIC12C671T-04I/SM is a testament to integrated, application-specific design. Its blend of processing capability, analog peripherals, non-volatile data storage, and rugged packaging made it a versatile workhorse for embedded designers.

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip PIC12C671T-04I/SM is a highly integrated, industrial-grade 8-bit MCU. Its strength lies in its compact 8-pin package, integrated 8-bit ADC, and on-chip EEPROM memory, providing a complete single-chip solution for intelligent analog sensor control and low-power embedded applications.

Keywords:

8-bit Microcontroller

Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC)

EEPROM Memory

Industrial Temperature Range

In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP)