Microchip PIC16F690T-I/SS 8-Bit Microcontroller: Features and Applications
The Microchip PIC16F690T-I/SS is a versatile and cost-effective 8-bit microcontroller belonging to Microchip’s popular PIC® MCU family. Housed in a 20-pin SSOP package, this device is designed for a wide range of embedded control applications, offering a compelling mix of performance, peripheral integration, and power efficiency.
Key Features
At its core, the PIC16F690 leverages a high-performance RISC architecture with an optimized instruction set, allowing for efficient code execution. It operates at a maximum frequency of 20 MHz, delivering 5 MIPS of throughput. A standout feature is its nanowatt technology, which enables extremely low power consumption through multiple selectable clock modes and a suite of power-management modes, making it ideal for battery-operated devices.
The microcontroller includes 4 KB of Flash program memory, 256 bytes of EEPROM data memory, and 256 bytes of SRAM. Its rich set of integrated peripherals significantly reduces external component count and system cost. Notable peripherals include:
Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC): A 10-bit ADC with up to 12 channels for precise analog signal acquisition.
Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) Module: Provides functionality for timing operations, waveform generation, and motor control.
Enhanced Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (EUSART): Supports both RS-232 and RS-485 protocols for robust serial communication.
Two Analog Comparators: For simplifying external analog signal conditioning.
In-Circuit Serial Programming™ (ICSP™): Facilitates easy firmware updates without removing the chip from the circuit board.
Primary Applications
The combination of its compact size, peripheral set, and low-power operation makes the PIC16F690T-I/SS suitable for a diverse array of applications, including:
Consumer Electronics: Remote controls, smart sensors, and small appliances.
Automotive Systems: Sensors, actuators, and interior body control modules.
Industrial Control: Small-scale motor control, power supplies, and environmental monitoring systems.
Internet of Things (IoT) End Nodes: Simple, connected devices where low power consumption is paramount.
Hobbyist and Educational Projects: Its ease of use and widespread support make it a favorite in the maker community.
The Microchip PIC16F690T-I/SS stands out as a highly integrated and power-efficient 8-bit microcontroller solution. Its robust peripheral set, including a multi-channel ADC, communication interfaces, and nanowatt power management, makes it an excellent choice for designers seeking to create compact, reliable, and cost-sensitive embedded systems across consumer, automotive, and industrial markets.
Keywords: 8-bit Microcontroller, Low Power Consumption, Nanowatt Technology, Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC), Embedded Control.
