Professional IC Distribution & Technical Solutions

PIC16C62B-04/SP – Microchip

#### Manufacturer: MICROCHIP

#### Part Number: PIC16C62B-04/SP

Specifications:

• Core: 8-bit PIC
• Architecture: Harvard
• CPU Speed (Max): 4 MHz
• Program Memory (ROM): 2 KB (2048 words)
• RAM: 128 bytes
• EEPROM: None
• I/O Pins: 22
• Timers:
• Timer0: 8-bit
• Timer1: 16-bit (with prescaler)
• Timer2: 8-bit (with prescaler & postscaler)
• A/D Converter: None
• Comparators: 2 (with programmable reference)
• PWM Modules: None
• Communication Interfaces:
• USART (Software Configurable)
• SPI (Software Configurable)
• I2C (Software Configurable)
• Operating Voltage: 2.5V – 5.5V
• Temperature Range:
• Commercial: 0°C to +70°C
• Industrial: -40°C to +85°C
• Package: 28-pin SPDIP (Plastic DIP)

Features:

• High-performance RISC CPU
• Only 35 single-word instructions
• Interrupt capability
• Power-on Reset (POR)
• Watchdog Timer (WDT) with on-chip RC oscillator
• Low-power consumption modes (Sleep)
• In-circuit serial programming (ICSP) support
• Programmable code protection

Applications:

• Industrial control
• Consumer electronics
• Automotive systems
• Embedded control applications

This is a legacy microcontroller from Microchip’s PIC16C family, designed for cost-sensitive and low-power applications.

(End of factual specifications.)

# PIC16C62B-04/SP: Practical Applications, Design Pitfalls, and Implementation Considerations

## Practical Application Scenarios

The PIC16C62B-04/SP, a mid-range 8-bit microcontroller from Microchip, is designed for embedded control applications requiring moderate processing power and low power consumption. Its key features—including 3.5 KB of program memory, 128 bytes of RAM, and 22 I/O pins—make it suitable for several real-world applications:

1. Industrial Control Systems

The microcontroller’s robust architecture supports simple automation tasks such as sensor interfacing, relay control, and motor driving. Its 4 MHz clock speed ensures timely response in environments requiring deterministic operation, such as conveyor belt controls or HVAC systems.

2. Consumer Electronics

The PIC16C62B-04/SP is often used in appliances like washing machines and microwave ovens, where it manages user inputs, timing functions, and basic safety checks. Its low-power modes (Sleep and Watchdog Timer) enhance energy efficiency in battery-operated devices.

3. Automotive Auxiliary Systems

While not suited for safety-critical applications, this microcontroller is employed in non-critical subsystems like dashboard lighting control, basic infotainment switches, or aftermarket accessory management.

4. Legacy System Upgrades

Engineers frequently select the PIC16C62B-04/SP for retrofitting older systems due to its DIP packaging and ease of integration with existing through-hole PCB designs.

## Common Design-Phase Pitfalls and Avoidance Strategies

1. Inadequate Clock Configuration

The PIC16C62B-04/SP’s 4 MHz internal oscillator requires careful calibration for timing-sensitive tasks. Designers often overlook oscillator stability, leading to erratic behavior.

*Mitigation:* Use external crystals or ceramic resonators for critical timing applications and validate clock settings during prototyping.

2. I/O Pin Misconfiguration

Uninitialized or improperly configured TRIS (TRIState) registers can cause unexpected pin states, leading to short circuits or communication failures.

*Mitigation:* Always define pin directions (input/output) during initialization and verify with a logic analyzer.

3. Memory Constraints

With only 3.5 KB of program memory, inefficient coding practices (e.g., excessive library usage) can exhaust resources.

*Mitigation:* Optimize code using inline assembly for critical routines and leverage compiler optimization flags.

4. Power Supply Noise Sensitivity

The microcontroller is susceptible to voltage fluctuations, especially in industrial environments.

*Mitigation:* Implement decoupling capacitors (100nF) near the VDD/VSS pins and use linear regulators for clean power delivery.

## Key Technical Considerations for Implementation

1. Development Tools

Microchip’s MPLAB X IDE and legacy MPASM assembler are compatible with this microcontroller. Ensure toolchain support for the PIC16C62B-04/SP’s architecture.

2. Interrupt Handling

The limited interrupt vector table requires careful prioritization. Plan ISRs (Interrupt Service Routines) to minimize latency and avoid stack overflows.

3. Thermal Management

While the PDIP package dissipates heat effectively, high ambient temperatures (>