Microchip PIC16F72T-I/SO 8-Bit Microcontroller Datasheet and Application Overview
The Microchip PIC16F72T-I/SO is a high-performance, 8-bit microcontroller belonging to the PIC16F7x family, built on Microchip’s robust and low-power RISC architecture. Housed in a 28-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package, this microcontroller is designed for a wide range of embedded control applications, offering a compelling blend of performance, peripheral integration, and cost-effectiveness.
Core Architecture and Key Features
At its heart, the PIC16F72 features an enhanced RISC CPU core capable of operating at speeds up to 20 MHz, executing most instructions in a single cycle (200 ns instruction time). This ensures efficient and speedy processing for real-time control tasks. It is equipped with 2K words of Flash program memory, 128 bytes of RAM, and 128 bytes of EEPROM data memory, providing ample space for code and non-volatile data storage.
A standout feature of this MCU is its integrated Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC). The 8-channel, 8-bit ADC allows the device to interface directly with a variety of analog sensors, making it ideal for measurement and monitoring applications. Furthermore, it includes three versatile timer modules (Timer0, Timer1, and Timer2) for tasks ranging from simple event counting to complex PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) generation.
Peripheral Integration for System Control
The PIC16F72T-I/SO is particularly well-suited for power control and motor drive applications due to its Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) module. This module can be configured for PWM output, which is essential for controlling the speed of DC motors, brightness of LEDs, or in power converter circuits. An additional comparator further enhances its analog capabilities.
Communication with other system components is facilitated through both a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) and an Inter-Integrated Circuit (I²C) bus, supporting communication with peripheral chips like memory, sensors, and other microcontrollers. A Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (USART) is also onboard, enabling full-duplex serial communication for connections to PCs, modems, or other serial devices.
Application Overview
The combination of its peripherals makes the PIC16F72T-I/SO extremely versatile. Typical applications include:
Motor Control: Brushed DC motor control using its PWM outputs.
Power Management Systems: Implementation of SMPS (Switch Mode Power Supplies) and inverters.
Industrial Control: Serving as a dedicated controller for sensors, actuators, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs).
Consumer Electronics: Used in appliances, power tools, and intelligent chargers.
Automotive Accessories: Controlling auxiliary systems like lighting and small motors.
Design and Development Support
Development is supported by Microchip’s comprehensive MPLAB X Integrated Development Environment (IDE) and the extensive range of hardware tools, including the PICkit™ programmer. Its wide operating voltage range (4.0V to 5.5V) and industrial temperature rating (-40°C to +85°C) ensure reliability in demanding environments.
ICGOODFIND: The Microchip PIC16F72T-I/SO is a highly integrated and cost-optimized 8-bit MCU, perfectly balancing processing power, rich peripherals (including ADC, PWM, and serial comms), and rugged reliability. It remains a top choice for designers developing efficient control systems in industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
Keywords:
1. 8-Bit Microcontroller
2. RISC Architecture
3. Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC)
4. Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
5. Embedded Control
