Microchip PIC16LF1933-I/SS: A Low-Power 8-Bit Microcontroller for Embedded Systems

The Microchip PIC16LF1933-I/SS stands as a quintessential component in the realm of embedded systems design, particularly for applications where power efficiency, integration, and reliability are paramount. As a member of the enhanced mid-range PIC16F family, this 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is engineered to deliver robust performance while operating within the stringent power constraints of battery-powered and portable devices.

Housed in a compact SSOP-28 package, the PIC16LF1933 is defined by its ultra-low-power architecture. It features NanoWatt XLP technology, which enables extreme power reduction in active and sleep modes. This makes it exceptionally suited for applications that demand long battery life, such as remote sensors, medical devices, smart badges, and portable consumer electronics. The MCU can operate with a supply voltage as low as 1.8V, further extending its usability in low-voltage scenarios.

Beyond its power credentials, the device is packed with a rich set of peripherals, making it a highly integrated solution. Its core includes 14 KB of Flash program memory and 512 bytes of RAM, providing ample space for complex firmware. A key strength lies in its versatile analog and digital interfaces. It integrates a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with up to 14 channels, allowing for extensive sensor data acquisition. Furthermore, it includes two comparators and a fixed voltage reference (FVR) for precision analog control.

For communication, the MCU offers multiple serial protocols, including EUSART (for LIN bus support), SPI, and I2C™, facilitating seamless connectivity with a vast ecosystem of sensors, displays, and other peripheral ICs. Enhanced control capabilities are provided by its Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG) and Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) modules, which are essential for motor control and power management applications.

The enhanced core also includes a suite of features aimed at improving code efficiency and developer productivity, such as an interrupt capability with multiple priority levels and a 16-level deep hardware stack.

ICGOODFIND: The PIC16LF1933-I/SS from Microchip is a powerhouse of integration and efficiency. Its standout NanoWatt XLP technology ensures minimal power consumption, while its comprehensive set of analog, control, and communication peripherals consolidates numerous system functions into a single chip. This combination makes it an outstanding choice for designers tackling the challenges of modern, power-sensitive embedded systems.

Keywords:

Low-Power

NanoWatt XLP

Embedded Systems

8-Bit Microcontroller

Peripheral Integration