Microchip PIC16F1847-E/SS 8-Bit Microcontroller Technical Overview and Application Guide

The PIC16F1847-E/SS from Microchip Technology represents a versatile and powerful 8-bit microcontroller, leveraging the enhanced mid-range core with a rich set of integrated peripherals. This device is engineered for a broad spectrum of embedded control applications, from consumer electronics and automotive subsystems to industrial automation and Internet of Things (IoT) nodes.

Core Architecture and Performance

At its heart lies the high-performance 8-bit RISC CPU core, operating at speeds up to 32 MHz with a 16-bit wide instruction set. This architecture delivers a remarkable balance of processing power and code efficiency. A key feature is the independent memory access enabled by the 32-level deep hardware stack and a 14-bit program memory word. The device boasts 8 KB of Flash program memory, 512 Bytes of RAM, and 256 Bytes of high-endurance EEPROM, providing ample space for both code and data storage in complex applications.

Advanced and Core Independent Peripherals

The PIC16F1847 stands out with its sophisticated peripheral set designed to minimize CPU intervention and boost system efficiency.

Enhanced Communication Interfaces: It is equipped with multiple serial communication modules, including EUSART (for LIN/DMX support), MSSP (I²C/SPI), and a Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG) perfect for motor control.

Analog Capabilities: A high-performance 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with up to 17 channels and the innovative mTouch capacitive sensing module enable robust interface and sensor integration.

Timing and Control: It features multiple timers (Timer0, Timer1, etc.), a 14-bit Core Independent PWM (CCP) module, and a Hardware Limit Timer (HLT) for precise waveform generation and control.

System Enhancements: Crucial for reliability, the Windowed Watchdog Timer (WWDT) and Programmable Brown-Out Reset (BOR) ensure the microcontroller operates securely under volatile power conditions.

Application Guide

The integration of these features makes the PIC16F1847-E/SS ideal for diverse designs.

Motor Control Systems: Utilize the CWG, CCP, and HLT to generate complementary PWM signals for driving brushed DC or stepper motors efficiently.

Smart Sensors and IoT Nodes: Leverage the high-resolution ADC for sensor data acquisition, the EEPROM for parameter storage, and the low-power modes to create battery-operated devices.

Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI): Implement capacitive touch buttons, sliders, and proximity sensing using the dedicated mTouch peripheral.

Automotive and Industrial Control: The robust EUSART (LIN support), MSSP, and system protection features like BOR make it suitable for harsh environment communications and control tasks.

Development Support

Designing with this microcontroller is streamlined by Microchip's comprehensive ecosystem. The MPLAB X IDE and MPLAB Code Configurator (MCC) graphical tool allow for rapid peripheral initialization and code generation. The PIC16F1847 is also supported by the low-cost PICkit™ 4 programmer/debugger, accelerating the development and debugging process.

ICGOOODFIND: The Microchip PIC16F1847-E/SS is a highly integrated and cost-effective 8-bit MCU solution. Its combination of a high-performance core, advanced analog, communication, and Core Independent Peripherals (CIP) empowers designers to build intelligent, efficient, and reliable embedded systems with reduced development time and complexity.

Keywords: 8-bit Microcontroller, Core Independent Peripherals (CIP), Enhanced Mid-Range Core, Capacitive Sensing (mTouch), Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG).