Microchip PIC16F917-I/PT 8-Bit Microcontroller: Features and Target Applications
The Microchip PIC16F917-I/PT is a versatile 8-bit microcontroller from the enhanced mid-range PIC16F family, engineered to deliver robust performance and a rich set of integrated peripherals. Housed in a 44-pin TQFP package, this microcontroller is designed for a wide array of embedded control applications, offering an optimal balance of processing power, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Key Features:
At its core, the device operates with a 16 MHz internal oscillator, providing a solid clock source without requiring external components. It is built on a Harvard architecture with a 14-bit wide instruction set, enabling efficient and deterministic code execution. A standout feature is its 8K words of Flash program memory and 368 bytes of RAM, ensuring ample space for complex firmware.
The peripheral set is particularly rich, headlined by a liquid crystal display (LCD) controller capable of driving up to 96 segments. This makes it an ideal choice for applications requiring a user interface. It also includes a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with 14 channels for precise sensor data acquisition, multiple communication interfaces like USART, SPI, and I2C, and two comparators for analog signal conditioning. Furthermore, it boasts enhanced ESD protection and nanoWatt technology, which is crucial for battery-powered and low-power devices that must operate for extended periods.
Target Applications:
The integration of these features directly informs its target markets. The built-in LCD driver positions it as a premier solution for consumer appliances like microwave ovens, coffee makers, and air conditioners that require alphanumeric or custom symbol displays. In the industrial automation sector, its robust I/O count, communication modules, and ADC are perfect for sensor interfaces, data loggers, and control panels. The microcontroller's reliability and analog capabilities also make it suitable for automotive accessories such as dashboard displays and climate control units. Finally, its low-power operation is a key enabler for portable medical devices and various handheld instruments.
ICGOODFIND: The PIC16F917-I/PT stands out as a highly integrated solution, effectively combining a dedicated display controller with comprehensive analog and digital peripherals. This unique blend makes it exceptionally powerful for cost-sensitive designs that demand a user interface, reliable control, and energy efficiency.
Keywords: 8-Bit Microcontroller, LCD Controller, Low-Power Management, Embedded Control, Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC)
