PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN - 8-bit OTP MCU 768B 4MHz | Microchip
MPN: PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.49 | $1.49 |
| 10 | $1.34 | $13.40 |
| 100 | $1.19 | $119.00 |
| 500 | $1.04 | $520.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.89 | $890.00 |
| 3,300 | $0.74 | $2,442.00 |
PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory, RAM, and programmable peripherals into one package. Within the embedded semiconductor taxonomy, the PIC12LC508A sits in the 8-bit MCU category, a sub-class of microcontrollers, which themselves sit under embedded processors and the broader power-managed semiconductor family. The 12-bit instruction-width PIC core used here (separate from the 14-bit and 16-bit cores found in PIC16/PIC18 families) provides deterministic single-cycle execution for tight control loops, while keeping code density and die size small.
Key features include an 8-bit real-time clock/counter (TMR0) with an 8-bit programmable prescaler, a Watchdog Timer (WDT) with its own dedicated on-chip RC oscillator for fail-safe operation, Power-On Reset (POR), Device Reset Timer (DRT), and user-programmable code protection that can lock the OTP contents after programming. The LC process supports a wide 2.5 V to 5.5 V supply window, allowing the device to operate directly from a 3.3 V regulator or two alkaline cells, and the small 8-pin SOIC footprint enables placement in highly space-constrained modules. Industrial temperature rating supports harsh-environment deployment.
Typical applications include standalone appliance controllers, low-cost logic-replacement modules, sensor-signal conditioning front-ends, LED driving sequencers, and small-form-factor battery-powered devices. Because OTP memory is programmed once and cannot be electrically erased, the PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN is best fitted to high-volume, code-stable designs where field firmware updates are not required. For engineering prototypes or low-volume runs, a Flash-based PIC12F family alternative is typically preferred.
When designing with this device, ensure that the MCLR (reset) pin and GP3 configuration are addressed correctly per datasheet Figure 1-1, and budget OTP programming time during manufacturing test. The internal 4 MHz RC oscillator is factory-trimmed to within +/-1% typical, eliminating an external crystal in many applications.
This page synthesizes verified distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, application guidance, and design notes not consolidated on the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN — 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 PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core Architecture, I/O Pins, Package, Program Memory Size, Code Protection.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC12LC508A-04I/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.58 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12LC508AT-04/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.43 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12LC508AT-04E/SN
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12CE518-04I/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.02 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12C509A-04I/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC12C RISC |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 768 bytes (512 x 12) |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes (25 x 8) |
| EEPROM | None |
| I/O Pins | 6 (GP0-GP5, with GP3 input-only) |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 4 MHz |
| Supply Voltage (Vcc) | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (Industrial, "I") |
| Package | 8-pin SOIC (SN, 0.154" / 3.90 mm body) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Timer Modules | TMR0 with 8-bit programmable prescaler |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes, dedicated on-chip RC oscillator |
| Power-On Reset | Yes (POR + Device Reset Timer) |
| Code Protection | User-programmable |
| Internal Oscillator | 4 MHz factory-trimmed RC |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Instruction Set | PIC 12-bit instruction width |
PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | GP3/MCLR/Vpp — General-purpose I/O pin 3, also serves as Master Clear reset input and programming voltage input |
| Pin 2 | GP0/OSC1/CLKIN — General-purpose I/O 0, external oscillator input or clock input when in external clock mode |
| Pin 3 | GP1/OSC2/CLKOUT — General-purpose I/O 1, external oscillator output or 4 MHz clock output when in RC mode |
| Pin 4 | Vss — Ground reference |
| Pin 5 | GP2/T0CKI — General-purpose I/O 2, also TMR0 external clock input |
| Pin 6 | GP4 — General-purpose I/O 4 (input-only on some PIC12C family revisions; verify with datasheet) |
| Pin 7 | GP5 — General-purpose I/O 5 |
| Pin 8 | Vdd — Positive supply voltage (2.5 V to 5.5 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN is suitable for 6 applications: Low-cost Appliance Control MCU, Battery-Powered Sensor Front-End, Logic Replacement / Glue Controller, LED Driver Sequencer, Automotive Interior Accessory Controller, Consumer Toy and Hobby Electronics.
Low-cost Appliance Control MCU
The PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN fits appliance controller applications because it integrates 768 bytes of OTP, 25 bytes of RAM, and a 4 MHz core in a 3 mm-wide SOIC-8 footprint that drops onto toaster, blender, and small-kitchen-appliance PCBs without crowding other components. Its wide 2.5 V to 5.5 V Vcc window lets it run directly from a 3.3 V regulator or two AA cells, eliminating auxiliary rails. Industrial -40C to +85C grading handles under-cabinet thermal load. Bit-banged GPIO drives TRIAC optocouplers and relays for heater-element switching.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Sensor Front-End
Battery sensor front-ends benefit from the PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN's LC low-power CMOS process, which holds quiescent current low across the 2.5 V to 5.5 V range and lets the device sip power from a single 3 V CR2032 cell. The internal 4 MHz RC oscillator eliminates a crystal, reducing both quiescent draw and BOM cost. Six GPIO pins are sufficient for one UART bit-bang plus three digital sensors. Watchdog Timer with a dedicated on-chip RC prevents firmware lockups in unattended field deployments.
Recommended
Logic Replacement / Glue Controller
The PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN replaces discrete 74HC logic gates and discrete timers, condensing multi-chip glue logic into a single 8-pin SOIC. 768 bytes of OTP comfortably host state-machine firmware for sequencing, watchdog supervision, or push-button debouncing. Six I/O pins map to one input pair plus one 4-bit output bus, with GP3 reserved for MCLR. Industrial temperature rating covers factory-floor cabinets. Migration to PIC12F508-I/SN is footprint-only when firmware revisions are needed.
Recommended
LED Driver Sequencer
The PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN sequences LED chases and indicator patterns in decorative lighting strips. Each of the six GPIO pins can sink or source 25 mA typical, enough for indicator LEDs without external transistors. The 4 MHz core supports TMR0-driven pulse patterns at up to 250 kHz per pin. Industrial temperature grade ensures reliable cold-start at -40C in outdoor signage. The 2.5 V to 5.5 V supply range lets the device ride the same rail as the LED string.
Recommended
Automotive Interior Accessory Controller
The PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN operates interior accessory controllers such as reading-lamp timers and puddle-light modules, but only when ambient thermal stress stays within -40C to +85C. For under-hood or engine-bay applications Microchip recommends the PIC12LC508AT-04E/SN automotive-grade variant, which extends the rating to +125C. The Watchdog Timer's dedicated RC oscillator survives supply transients that would otherwise stall a primary-clock MCU. Six GPIO pins drive low-side relays and indicator LEDs.
Recommended
Consumer Toy and Hobby Electronics
Toy and hobby designs benefit from the PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN's 8-pin SOIC footprint, sub-$1 price at 1k quantity, and one-time-programmable memory that secures proprietary behavior against field tampering. Industrial temperature grade handles outdoor hobby robotics in temperate climates. The 4 MHz core and bit-banged GPIO synthesize IR remote, PWM motor control, and sound-effect timing without dedicated peripherals. The internal RC oscillator further reduces part count in cost-sensitive SKUs.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC12LC508AT-04I/SN — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC12LC508A-04I/SN | PIC12LC508AT-04/SN | PIC12LC508AT-04E/SN | PIC12CE518-04I/SN | PIC12C509A-04I/SN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 8-SOIC (SN) | 8-SOIC (SN) - same | 8-SOIC (SN) - same | 8-SOIC (SN) - same | 8-SOIC (SN) - same | 8-SOIC (SN) - same |
| Program Memory Type | OTP 768 B (512 x 12) | OTP 768 B (512 x 12) - same | OTP 768 B (512 x 12) - same | OTP 768 B (512 x 12) - same | OTP 768 B (512 x 12) + 16 B EEPROM | OTP 1.5 KB (1024 x 12) |
| RAM Size | 25 B | 25 B - same | 25 B - same | 25 B - same | 25 B - same | 41 B |
| I/O Pins | 6 | 6 - same | 6 - same | 6 - same | 6 - same | 6 - same |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 4 MHz | 4 MHz - same | 4 MHz - same | 4 MHz - same | 4 MHz - same | 4 MHz - same |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - same | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - same | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - same | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - same | 2.5 V to 5.5 V - same |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C - same | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | -40C to +125C (Extended/Automotive) | -40C to +85C - same | -40C to +85C - same |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (dedicated RC) | Yes - same | Yes - same | Yes - same | Yes - same | Yes - same |
Key Differentiators
- Wide 2.5 V to 5.5 V supply window from LC process (vs PIC12C508A-04I/SN (standard CMOS variant))
- Industrial -40C to +85C temperature grade (vs PIC12LC508AT-04/SN (commercial 0C to +70C))
- Watchdog Timer with dedicated on-chip RC oscillator (vs PIC12CE518-04I/SN (adds EEPROM, WDT shares system clock))
Design Notes
Estimated: at 5.0 V Vcc and 4 MHz active CPU, typical PIC12LC508A active current is approximately 1.8 mA, dropping to microamp-level sleep current. The LC process is optimized for low quiescent draw across 2.5-5.5 V, allowing direct operation from two alkaline cells. Decouple Vdd with a 100 nF ceramic placed within 5 mm of pin 8; bulk decoupling of 1-10 uF is recommended when Vcc traces exceed 25 mm. Avoid switching the Vcc rail faster than 50 V/ms to prevent spurious POR triggers.
The 8-pin SOIC (3.90 mm body) footprint uses 1.27 mm pitch pads with 0.6 mm width. Route MCLR (pin 1) with a short trace and a 10 kohm pull-up to Vdd to keep reset behavior stable in noisy environments. If the configuration word disables MCLR, pin 1 becomes a digital input only. Keep the GP3/MCLR/Vpp trace short and isolated to minimize programming-time glitches during factory OTP programming.
Do not assume GP3 is a general-purpose bidirectional I/O: per PIC12LC508A datasheet Figure 1-1, GP3 doubles as MCLR/Vpp and is input-only after reset. Programming voltage of about 13 V must be applied to GP3/Vpp only during OTP programming; leaving Vpp floating during normal operation can cause unintended reset. The configuration word must be set BEFORE code execution; an erased configuration word selects the slowest oscillator and disables code protection.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliance confirmed via Microchip product page and Mouser listing. Industrial grade (I) is not AEC-Q100 qualified; for AEC-Q100 automotive design, use PIC12LC508AT-04E/SN extended grade. Halogen-free status not specified in provided data - marked unknown.
