Microchip PIC16F628-20I/SS 8-Bit Microcontroller Overview
The Microchip PIC16F628-20I/SS is a high-performance, 8-bit microcontroller unit (MCU) from Microchip Technology’s extensive PIC® (Peripheral Interface Controller) family. Built on an enhanced mid-range RISC architecture, this MCU is engineered to deliver a compelling blend of processing capability, power efficiency, and peripheral integration, making it a versatile solution for a wide array of embedded control applications.
Operating at a maximum frequency of 20 MHz, denoted by the "-20" in its part number, the device offers a robust 5 MIPS (Million Instructions Per Second) performance. This speed ensures efficient handling of tasks in applications such as industrial control systems, consumer electronics, automotive subsystems, and sophisticated hobbyist projects. The "I/SS" suffix indicates its industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) and its package type: a 20-pin Shrink Small Outline (SSOP), which is ideal for space-constrained PCB designs.
A key feature of the PIC16F628 is its on-board 4 MHz precision internal oscillator, which can be user-configured for various clock modes. This eliminates the need for an external crystal for many applications, reducing both component count and overall system cost. The MCU is equipped with 3.5 KB of Flash program memory and 224 bytes of RAM, providing ample space for complex firmware.
The peripheral set is notably rich for a device in its class. It includes:
Two versatile timers (Timer0 and Timer1) and one 8-bit timer with an 8-bit prescaler (Timer2).
Two Capture, Compare, PWM modules (CCP1) offering flexibility for motor control, power conversion, and signal generation.
A Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (USART) module for serial communication (UART, SPI, I2C™), enabling easy connectivity with PCs, sensors, and other peripherals.
A comparator module for analog signal comparison tasks.
Furthermore, the PIC16F628-20I/SS supports In-Circuit Serial Programming™ (ICSP™), greatly simplifying the process of firmware updates and prototyping without removing the chip from the circuit.
The Microchip PIC16F628-20I/SS stands out as a highly integrated and cost-effective 8-bit microcontroller. Its combination of a 20 MHz clock speed, internal oscillator, versatile communication peripherals, and a compact SSOP package makes it an excellent choice for developers seeking to balance performance, power, and physical size in their embedded designs.
Keywords:
1. 8-Bit Microcontroller
2. 20 MHz
3. Internal Oscillator
4. SSOP Package
5. Peripheral Integration
