The Microchip PIC16C73B-20I/SO: A Robust 8-Bit CMOS Microcontroller with Integrated Peripherals

In the realm of embedded control, the pursuit of a perfectly balanced microcontroller—one that offers a potent mix of processing capability, integrated features, and cost-effectiveness—is perpetual. The Microchip PIC16C73B-20I/SO stands as a classic and enduring solution that meets this challenge, providing a comprehensive, all-in-one package for a vast array of industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

Fabricated with reliable CMOS technology, this microcontroller is engineered for high performance and low power consumption. The "20" in its designation signifies its operation at 20 MHz, enabling a crisp 200 ns instruction cycle time. This speed ensures the device can handle complex control algorithms and real-time responses with ease. At its core lies an 8-bit RISC CPU, renowned for its simplicity and efficiency, offering only 35 single-word instructions to learn yet delivering a surprising level of computational power.

The true strength of the PIC16C73B-20I/SO lies in its rich set of integrated peripherals, which drastically reduce system component count, board space, and overall design complexity. This integration is the cornerstone of its value proposition. Key features include:

Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC): A 5-channel, 8-bit ADC allows the microcontroller to interface directly with analog sensors, monitoring variables like temperature, voltage, or pressure without external ICs.

Timers/CCP Modules: With three timers/counters, including two Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) modules, the device excels at waveform generation, time measurement, and motor control functions.

Serial Communications: The inclusion of both a Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (USART) and an Inter-Integrated Circuit (I²C) bus provides flexible connectivity options for communicating with peripherals, PCs, or other microcontrollers in a network.

I/O and Interrupts: Its 22 I/O pins are programmable and feature high sink/source capability, while multiple interrupt sources allow the CPU to respond promptly to external events.

Housed in a 28-pin Small Outline (SOIC) package, the PIC16C73B-20I/SO is designed for space-conscious applications. Its extended industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) makes it a robust choice for harsh operating environments where reliability is non-negotiable.

ICGOOODFIND: The Microchip PIC16C73B-20I/SO remains a highly relevant and powerful 8-bit CMOS microcontroller. Its robust integration of critical peripherals like the ADC, USART, and CCP modules consolidates system functionality into a single, efficient chip. Designed for performance and durability, it continues to be a top choice for engineers developing sophisticated embedded control systems.

Keywords: 8-Bit Microcontroller, Integrated Peripherals, CMOS Technology, ADC, USART.