Microchip PIC16F73-I/SP 8-bit Microcontroller Data Sheet and Application Overview

The Microchip PIC16F73-I/SP is a high-performance, low-cost 8-bit microcontroller built on Microchip’s robust PIC® architecture. Housed in a 28-pin SPDIP package, this device is designed for a wide array of embedded control applications, offering a powerful integration of analog and digital peripherals within a single IC.

Core Architecture and Performance

At its heart, the PIC16F73 features a RISC-based CPU with a 35-word instruction set, enabling simple yet efficient programming and fast execution. Operating at a maximum frequency of 20 MHz, it achieves a instruction cycle time of 200 ns, providing the responsive performance necessary for real-time control tasks. Its 4K words of Flash program memory offer ample space for application code and facilitate convenient field reprogramming.

Integrated Peripherals for Enhanced Functionality

A key strength of the PIC16F73 lies in its rich set of integrated peripherals, which significantly reduces external component count and total system cost.

Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC): The device includes a 5-channel, 8-bit ADC, essential for interfacing with real-world analog sensors such as temperature, pressure, or potentiometers.

Timers and CCP Modules: It is equipped with three timers/counters (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2). Two Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) modules provide critical functionality for generating pulse-width modulated signals to control motor speed, LED intensity, or for capturing external event timings.

Communication Interfaces: The Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (USART) supports serial communication protocols (like RS-232 and RS-485), enabling easy data exchange with PCs or other peripherals. A Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) and Inter-Integrated Circuit (I²C) bus further expand its connectivity options for interfacing with serial EEPROMs, sensors, and other ICs.

I/O and Interrupt Capability: With 22 I/O pins, the microcontroller offers sufficient digital interface lines. An interrupt capability allows the processor to respond promptly to external events, improving efficiency in multi-tasking environments.

Application Overview

The combination of these features makes the PIC16F73-I/SP exceptionally versatile. It is perfectly suited for a broad spectrum of applications, including:

Automotive Electronics: Sensor interfacing, actuator control, and auxiliary control systems.

Industrial Control: Motor control systems, power supplies, and process controllers.

Consumer Appliances: Advanced control for washing machines, microwaves, and remote controls.

Hobbyist and DIY Projects: Its ease of use and availability make it a popular choice for robotics and prototyping.

ICGOODFIND Summary

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip PIC16F73-I/SP stands out as a highly integrated and cost-effective 8-bit MCU solution. Its balanced mix of processing power, abundant peripherals (including ADC, CCP, and serial communication modules), and enduring popularity in the industry make it a reliable and versatile choice for both simple and complex embedded designs across automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

Keywords: 8-bit Microcontroller, PIC16F73, Embedded Control, Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC), Pulse-Width Modulation (PWM)