PIC12CE673-04/P - 8-bit 4MHz MCU, 1.75KB OTP, 8-PDIP | Microchip
MPN: PIC12CE673-04/P β End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.55 | $2.55 |
| 10 | $2.3 | $23.00 |
| 100 | $2.05 | $205.00 |
| 500 | $1.82 | $910.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.6 | $1,600.00 |
PIC12CE673-04/P Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a small, self-contained computing element that executes a reduced instruction set on 8-bit-wide data; it sits inside the broader taxonomy of microcontrollers -> embedded processors -> semiconductors. The PIC12C67X/CE67X family specifically targets cost- and pin-constrained applications where a tiny footprint, low part count, and integrated analog peripherals remove the need for external components. This product belongs to Microchip's classic PIC12 baseline/mid-range family.
Key features of the PIC12CE673-04/P include 1.75 KB OTP program memory, 128 bytes RAM, 16 bytes EEPROM, a 4-channel 8-bit A/D converter, a watchdog timer with its own on-chip RC oscillator, an 8-bit timer/counter with programmable prescaler, and an internal 4 MHz RC oscillator option that can eliminate the external crystal. Power-saving SLEEP mode and an MCLR reset pin round out the feature set.
Architecturally, the PIC12CE673-04/P uses a Harvard RISC core with separate program and data buses; instructions are fetched in parallel with operand reads, which gives deterministic 400 ns instruction execution at 10 MHz (or 1 us at 4 MHz for the -04 grade). CMOS static design allows the clock to be stopped without losing register contents, enabling ultra-low standby current in SLEEP mode.
Typical applications include appliance controls, battery chargers, sensor-interface modules, simple security keypads, and any low-cost embedded product where a full MCU is overkill but a few discrete logic chips cannot deliver the required functionality. Microchip recommends considering PIC12F675 as a newer-generation migration path with Flash memory and enhanced peripherals.
When designing with this part, note that the -04 speed grade limits the oscillator input to 4 MHz; for higher throughput the -10 variant is required. The OTP program memory cannot be reprogrammed in-circuit, so firmware must be fully validated before commitment to production.
This page synthesizes current distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives within the same PDIP-8 footprint, and practical design notes not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet, providing unique procurement and engineering value for sourcing teams.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC12CE673-04/P β same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with PIC12CE673-04/P (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Package, I/O Pins, Operating Temperature, Timers, RoHS Status.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC12CE673-04I/P
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12CE673-10/P
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$2.18 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC12CE674-04/P
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.85 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC12CE518-04/P
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12F675-I/P
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12C671-04/P
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.5 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC12CE673-04/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC (Harvard) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 1.75 KB (1K x 14) |
| Data RAM | 128 bytes |
| EEPROM Data Memory | 16 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 1 us at 4 MHz |
| Instruction Set | 35 single-word instructions |
| I/O Pins | 5 digital I/O + 1 input-only |
| A/D Converter | 4-channel, 8-bit |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit timer/counter with prescaler + WDT |
| Operating Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Package | 8-pin PDIP (0.300 inch, 7.62 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (commercial) |
| Speed Grade Suffix | -04 (4 MHz max) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (lead-free PDIP marking varies) |
PIC12CE673-04/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP/RA5 β Master Clear (reset, active low) / Programming voltage / input-only RA5 |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 β Digital I/O RA0 / analog input AN0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 β Digital I/O RA1 / analog input AN1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2 β Digital I/O RA2 / analog input AN2 |
| Pin 5 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | RA3/AN3 β Digital I/O RA3 / analog input AN3 |
| Pin 7 | RA4/OSC2/CLKOUT β Digital I/O RA4 / oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 8 | VDD β Positive supply voltage (2.5 V to 5.5 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC12CE673-04/P is suitable for 6 applications: Appliance Control Boards, Battery-Powered Sensor Modules, Simple Security Keypads, Battery Charger Controllers, Hobby and Educational Projects, Industrial Sensor Interface Modules.
Appliance Control Boards
The PIC12CE673-04/P fits appliance control boards because its 8-pin PDIP form factor and integrated 4-channel 8-bit A/D let it read thermistor or potentiometer inputs without external ADC chips. Its 1.75 KB OTP memory is sufficient for fixed-function appliance firmware such as fan-speed controllers, coffee-machine user interfaces, and microwave keypad readers. The device's 4 MHz instruction rate delivers 1 MIPS, enough for relay timing and simple state-machine sequencing, while 16 bytes of EEPROM stores user-setpoints across power cycles.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Sensor Modules
For battery-powered sensor modules, the PIC12CE673-04/P is a strong fit because it supports a wide 2.5 V to 5.5 V supply range and consumes only microamps in SLEEP mode, allowing long battery life with intermittent wake-and-measure duty cycles. The 4-channel 8-bit A/D multiplexes temperature, light, or voltage sensors into a single MCU, while 128 bytes of RAM is adequate for short moving averages and threshold decisions. Compared with PIC12F675-I/P, this part lacks Flash reprogrammability but costs slightly less at low volumes.
Recommended
Simple Security Keypads
The PIC12CE673-04/P suits simple security keypads because its 5 I/O pins can matrix-scan a 12-key or 16-key pad directly, and the 16-byte EEPROM stores PIN codes and lockout counters. SLEEP-mode current in the microamp range preserves battery life on wireless door-keypads, and the watchdog timer guards against code lockup. Microchip's baseline PIC instruction set is small enough that custom keypad firmware fits in 1.75 KB OTP with room for beep-pattern generation.
Recommended
Battery Charger Controllers
In single-cell NiMH or lead-acid battery charger controllers, the PIC12CE673-04/P delivers precise PWM duty control through its 8-bit timer, while the 4-channel A/D monitors voltage, current, and temperature for CC/CV charge profile transitions. The 16-byte EEPROM is suitable for storing calibration constants and charge-cycle counters. Operating at 4 MHz gives deterministic loop timing without jitter, which is important for accurate end-of-charge detection on lithium chemistries.
Recommended
Hobby and Educational Projects
The PIC12CE673-04/P is a popular teaching MCU because the PIC architecture is documented in countless textbooks and tutorials, and the 8-pin PDIP is breadboard-friendly. Its 1.75 KB OTP, while not reprogrammable, encourages good firmware-version-control discipline in coursework. The integrated A/D and EEPROM let students learn analog sampling and non-volatile storage in a single chip, and the 35-instruction RISC core is approachable for assembly-language teaching.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interface Modules
Industrial sensor-interface modules leverage the PIC12CE673-04/P's small footprint and integrated A/D to condition 4-20 mA loop signals or 0-10 V analog sensors into digital readings. The 8-bit A/D resolution is sufficient for non-precision monitoring (level, pressure, humidity indicators), while 16 bytes of EEPROM stores calibration trim per channel. The industrial-grade variant PIC12CE673-04I/P extends the operating range to -40C to +85C, allowing deployment in factory-floor enclosures.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC12CE673-04/P β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC12CE673-04I/P | PIC12CE673-10/P | PIC12CE674-04/P | PIC12F675-I/P | PIC12C671-04/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 8-PDIP (0.300 inch) | 8-PDIP - same | 8-PDIP - same | 8-PDIP - same | 8-PDIP - same | 8-PDIP - same |
| Program Memory | 1.75 KB OTP | 1.75 KB OTP | 1.75 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 1.75 KB Flash | 1.75 KB OTP |
| Max Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 10 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz | 4 MHz |
| EEPROM Data Memory | 16 bytes | 16 bytes | 16 bytes | 16 bytes | 128 bytes (Flash-emulated) | 0 bytes |
| A/D Converter | 4-channel 8-bit | 4-channel 8-bit | 4-channel 8-bit | 4-channel 8-bit | 4-channel 10-bit + comparator | 4-channel 8-bit |
| Operating Temperature | 0C to +70C (commercial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | 0C to +70C (commercial) | 0C to +70C (commercial) | -40C to +85C (industrial) | 0C to +70C (commercial) |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | Active (recommended) | NRND |
Key Differentiators
- Integrated EEPROM data memory in 8-pin PDIP (vs PIC12C671-04/P)
- Modern Flash-based upgrade path in identical footprint (vs PIC12F675-I/P)
- Industrial-temperature variant available (vs PIC12CE673-04I/P)
Design Notes
Estimated: at VDD=5 V and 4 MHz active clock, typical operating current is 2-5 mA. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to pin 8 (VDD) and a bulk 10 uF electrolytic nearby; the PIC12CE673's analog references are sensitive to VDD ripple, especially when the A/D converter samples at high source impedance. For battery applications, leverage SLEEP mode aggressively - this drops quiescent current to <1 uA while retaining RAM and EEPROM contents.
The 8-pin PDIP package allows generous routing tolerances, but keep the crystal or resonator traces (pins 15-16 area if migrated to PIC16 pinout parts, or RA4/OSC2 pin 7 here) short to reduce stray capacitance. Leave space for an MCLR pull-up resistor (typically 10 kohm) and a programming-header footprint so the OTP device can be programmed in-circuit during prototyping. The exposed die-attach paddle is not present on PDIP, so no thermal pad is required.
Common pitfalls include: (1) forgetting the MCLR pin requires a valid logic-high for normal operation - if left floating, the device will randomly reset; (2) the -04 suffix limits the oscillator to 4 MHz, so designers upgrading to -10 firmware without changing speed-grade will fail; (3) OTP memory cannot be reprogrammed - plan for code-banking or migrate to PIC12F675-I/P if field updates are required; (4) RA5 is input-only, so attempting to drive it as output will not work and may damage the part over time.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - this is a commercial-grade MCU intended for industrial and consumer applications, not automotive. Lead-free PDIP termination.
