Microchip PIC16F687-I/SS 8-Bit Microcontroller Overview and Application Guide

The Microchip PIC16F687-I/SS is a high-performance, cost-effective 8-bit microcontroller built on PIC® architecture, offering a versatile solution for embedded control applications. Housed in a 20-pin SSOP package, this device combines robust processing capabilities with low power consumption, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial, automotive, and consumer electronics.

Core Features and Architecture

At its heart, the PIC16F687 leverages an enhanced mid-range core with 14 KB of Flash program memory and 368 bytes of RAM. It operates at a maximum frequency of 20 MHz, delivering 5 MIPS performance. The microcontroller integrates 256 bytes of EEPROM for non-volatile data storage, critical for applications requiring parameter retention without power. Its nanowatt technology enables ultra-low-power operation, supporting multiple power-saving modes like Sleep and Idle.

Peripheral Integration

The PIC16F687-I/SS excels in peripheral integration, featuring:

- 12-channel 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) for precision sensor interfacing.

- Enhanced Capture/Compare/PWM (ECCP) module for motor control and power regulation.

- Two comparators and a voltage reference for analog signal conditioning.

- USART, SPI, and I2C modules for seamless serial communication.

- In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) capability, simplifying firmware updates.

Application Areas

This microcontroller is ideal for applications demanding compact design and efficient control, such as:

- Sensor interfaces and data loggers utilizing its ADC and EEPROM.

- Motor control systems leveraging the ECCP module.

- Power management systems with low-power modes and analog comparators.

- Consumer appliances (e.g., smart remotes, LED controllers) due to its small form factor and communication interfaces.

Development Support

Microchip provides comprehensive development tools, including the MPLAB X IDE and PICKit™ programmers, enabling rapid prototyping and debugging. The PIC16F687’s compatibility with hardware libraries and code examples accelerates time-to-market.

ICGOODFIND

The PIC16F687-I/SS stands out for its balance of performance, power efficiency, and integration, offering designers a flexible platform for embedded systems. Its rich peripheral set and development ecosystem make it a pragmatic choice for cost-sensitive and power-constrained projects.

Keywords:

1. 8-bit Microcontroller

2. Low Power Consumption

3. Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC)

4. Enhanced CCP

5. ICSP Programming