Microchip PIC16C72A-04I/SP: A Robust 8-Bit CMOS Microcontroller with Integrated 5-Channel 8-Bit ADC

The Microchip PIC16C72A-04I/SP stands as a classic and enduring component in the realm of embedded control systems. This 8-bit microcontroller, housed in a 28-pin SPDIP (Skinny Plastic Dual In-line Package), is engineered for applications requiring a blend of digital control and analog signal acquisition. Its core is built on a high-performance RISC architecture, where all instructions are single-cycle except for program branches, which are two-cycle. This design efficiency allows the device to execute instructions at a rate of up to 4 MHz, achieving a throughput of nearly 1 MIPS.

A defining feature of the PIC16C72A is its integrated 5-channel 8-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC). This on-chip peripheral is a significant differentiator, eliminating the need for an external ADC chip and thereby reducing system cost, board space, and complexity. The converter can sequentially sample up to five analog input signals, converting them into corresponding 8-bit digital values. This capability makes the microcontroller exceptionally well-suited for a vast array of sensing and measurement tasks, from reading potentiometers and temperature sensors to monitoring battery levels and more.

Beyond its analog prowess, the device is packed with a rich set of peripherals that enhance its utility in control-oriented designs. It includes three versatile timer modules, a capture/compare/PWM (CCP) module for generating precise timing pulses and waveforms, and a universal synchronous/asynchronous receiver/transmitter (USART) for serial communication with peripherals like PCs, GPS modules, or other microcontrollers. Its 2K x 14 words of EPROM program memory provide ample space for complex firmware, while 128 bytes of RAM handle data manipulation during operation.

Operating over an industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, the PIC16C72A-04I/SP is built for reliability in harsh environments, making it a preferred choice for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications. Its CMOS technology ensures low power consumption, which is critical for battery-operated devices.

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip PIC16C72A-04I/SP remains a highly integrated and cost-effective solution for designers, perfectly balancing processing power, critical analog functionality, and robust peripheral support in a single, durable package.

Keywords: 8-Bit Microcontroller, Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC), CMOS Technology, Embedded Control, RISC Architecture.