Microchip PIC16F628AT-I/SS Microcontroller: Technical Overview and Application Guide
The Microchip PIC16F628AT-I/SS is a high-performance, 8-bit CMOS microcontroller that leverages the powerful RISC architecture of the PIC16F series. Housed in a compact 20-SSOP package, this device is designed for applications requiring a robust set of peripherals, low power consumption, and a small form factor. Its combination of flash program memory, EEPROM data memory, and a wide operating voltage range makes it a versatile choice for both hobbyists and industrial designers.
Technical Overview
At its core, the PIC16F628A operates at speeds up to 20 MHz, executing most instructions in a single clock cycle, which provides an effective throughput of 5 MIPS. It features 3.5 KB of Flash program memory and 224 bytes of RAM, supplemented by 128 bytes of EEPROM data memory for non-volatile storage of critical parameters. This memory configuration is ideal for storing data logs, calibration constants, or user settings that must persist through power cycles.
A key strength of this microcontroller is its rich set of integrated peripherals. It includes two versatile timers (Timer0 and Timer1), a powerful Compare/Capture/PWM (CCP) module, and a USART (Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter) for serial communication protocols like RS-232, RS-485, and LIN. Furthermore, it incorporates an analog comparator module with two comparators, allowing for basic analog signal conditioning without an external IC.
A significant feature that distinguishes it from earlier models is an internal 4 MHz oscillator, which can be used as the system clock, eliminating the need for an external crystal for timing-insensitive applications, thereby reducing component count and board space. The device also supports a wide operating voltage range from 2.0V to 5.5V, making it suitable for battery-powered and portable applications.
Application Guide
The PIC16F628A's peripheral set makes it an excellent fit for a diverse array of applications:
Consumer Electronics: Used in remote controls, LED lighting controllers, and small appliances for its PWM control and low-power sleep modes.
Industrial Control: Ideal for sensor interfaces, motor control (using the CCP module for PWM), and simple logic control systems due to its robustness and EEPROM.
Automotive: Suitable for non-critical subsystems like interior lighting control or simple sensor nodes, benefiting from its wide voltage range.
Hobbyist Projects: A popular choice for DIY electronics, robotics, and prototyping due to its ease of programming and comprehensive feature set.
Smart Sensors: Its analog comparator and USART enable it to process sensor data and communicate readings to a central unit.
Development is supported by Microchip's mature MPLAB X IDE and the widespread PICkit programmer/debugger ecosystem, allowing for rapid prototyping and debugging.
ICGOODFIND Summary
The PIC16F628AT-I/SS remains a highly capable and cost-effective 8-bit microcontroller. Its optimal blend of program memory, EEPROM, versatile peripherals like USART and CCP, and an internal oscillator provides a powerful, self-contained solution for embedded control. While newer 16-bit and 32-bit MCUs offer more performance, the PIC16F628A continues to be a reliable workhorse for applications where its resources are perfectly matched to the task, offering proven reliability and a vast support community.
Keywords: PIC16F628A, Microcontroller, RISC Architecture, EEPROM, CCP Module
