PIC12LC509A-04/P - 1.5KB OTP 8-Bit MCU, 4MHz | Microchip
MPN: PIC12LC509A-04/P ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.07 | $1.07 |
| 10 | $0.95 | $9.50 |
| 100 | $0.78 | $78.00 |
| 500 | $0.62 | $310.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.52 | $520.00 |
PIC12LC509A-04/P Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, memory, and I/O peripherals on one die. The PIC12LC509A belongs to the PIC12 family of low-pin-count MCUs, sitting within the broader PIC microcontroller taxonomy (PIC10/12/16/18 -> 8-bit PIC -> RISC microcontroller -> embedded controller). Its RISC architecture with 33 single-word/single-cycle instructions enables deterministic execution, low power draw, and easy assembly-language programming, making PIC MCUs a popular choice for cost-sensitive embedded applications since the 1990s.
Key features include a programmable 8-bit real-time clock/counter (TMR0) with 8-bit programmable prescaler, Power-On Reset (POR), Device Reset Timer (DRT), Watchdog Timer (WDT) with dedicated on-chip RC oscillator for reliable operation, and programmable code protection. The 1,000,000 erase/write cycle endurance rating (per datasheet) indicates high program-memory durability for OTP-based devices. The 8-pin PDIP package enables easy breadboarding and through-hole assembly, ideal for hobbyist, educational, and legacy industrial designs.
The PIC12LC509A utilizes a Harvard-architecture RISC core with separate program and data buses, providing predictable instruction timing. Its CMOS process and static design minimize power consumption to the microamp range in sleep modes, while the integrated WDT and POR reduce external component count. The 6 general-purpose I/O pins (GP0-GP5) plus GP3/MCLR support digital interfacing for sensors, switches, LEDs, and simple serial protocols implemented in firmware.
Typical applications include battery-powered sensor nodes, automotive body controllers, industrial timing and control circuits, appliance control boards, and consumer electronics such as remote controls and toys. The wide voltage range and low power make it especially suited for battery or energy-harvesting designs where supply regulation is impractical.
When designing with this device, ensure the GP3/MCLR pin is correctly pulled high through a resistor (10k ohm typical) for proper reset behavior, and place a 0.1uF decoupling capacitor close to VDD. The OTP memory cannot be re-programmed in-circuit, so plan for code-stable production quantities.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found on the manufacturer datasheet alone, helping engineers evaluate the PIC12LC509A-04/P for both new designs and legacy maintenance.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC12LC509A-04/P — 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 PIC12LC509A-04/P (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Timers, Watchdog Timer, Core Architecture, Package, Program Memory Size.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC12LC508A-04I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.04 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12F509-I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.86 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12F508-I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.5 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12C509A-04/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12CE518-04E/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12F510-I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.63 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12LC509A-04/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC |
| Core Size | 8-bit |
| Program Memory Size | 1.5KB (1K x 12) OTP EPROM |
| RAM Size | 41 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 4 MHz (-04 suffix) |
| Instruction Execution Time | 1 us per instruction cycle (at 4 MHz) |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Number of I/O Pins | 6 (GP0-GP2, GP4-GP5, GP3/MCLR) |
| Timers | TMR0 (8-bit with 8-bit programmable prescaler) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes, with dedicated on-chip RC oscillator |
| Power-On Reset (POR) | Yes |
| Device Reset Timer (DRT) | Yes |
| Code Protection | Programmable |
| Program Memory Endurance | 1,000,000 erase/write cycles |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) |
| Package Type | 8-pin PDIP (300 mil, through-hole) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (per distributor listings) |
PIC12LC509A-04/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | GP3/MCLR — General-purpose I/O / Master Clear reset input (active low) |
| Pin 2 | GP0 — General-purpose bidirectional I/O, ICSP data |
| Pin 3 | GP1 — General-purpose bidirectional I/O, ICSP clock |
| Pin 4 | GP2 — General-purpose bidirectional I/O, T0CKI timer clock input |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | GP4/OSC2 — General-purpose I/O / oscillator output |
| Pin 7 | GP5/OSC1 — General-purpose I/O / oscillator input |
| Pin 8 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5V to 5.5V) |
Typical Applications
PIC12LC509A-04/P is suitable for 6 applications: Battery-Powered Sensor Nodes, Automotive Body Control Modules, Industrial Timer and Control Circuits, Consumer Appliance Control Boards, Remote Controls and IR Transmitters, Hobbyist and Educational Projects.
Battery-Powered Sensor Nodes
The PIC12LC509A-04/P fits battery-powered sensor nodes through its 2.5V minimum supply voltage, enabling direct operation from two alkaline cells without boost conversion. Its 41 bytes of RAM and 1.5KB OTP accommodate simple sensor reading, threshold comparison, and sleep-cycle duty management. The integrated WDT with dedicated RC oscillator wakes the MCU from sleep reliably, while the static CMOS design draws microamperes in standby. Compared to higher-pin-count MCUs, the 8-pin package keeps node size and BOM cost minimal.
Recommended
Automotive Body Control Modules
The PIC12LC509A-04/P serves automotive body controllers for low-complexity functions like interior lighting timers, door-lock pulse generation, and simple relay drivers. Its 6 I/O pins handle a handful of switches and loads, while the -40C to +85C industrial temperature range meets cabin and under-hood requirements in many applications. The PIC architecture's deterministic interrupt latency and built-in WDT ensure reliable operation in electrically noisy vehicle environments, though automotive safety-critical systems typically require AEC-Q100 qualified parts.
Recommended
Industrial Timer and Control Circuits
The PIC12LC509A-04/P powers industrial timing and control boards where cost and reliability outweigh processing power. Its TMR0 with 8-bit programmable prescaler handles interval timing, pulse-width measurement, and event counting without external counters. The 4MHz instruction rate supports deterministic control loops for relay sequencing and conveyor timing. Combined with the industrial -40C to +85C operating range, this MCU is well-suited for factory-floor equipment enclosures and motor control peripheral boards.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Control Boards
The PIC12LC509A-04/P is ideal for consumer appliance controls such as coffee makers, toasters, fans, and small kitchen devices. Its 8-pin PDIP package simplifies through-hole PCB assembly for high-volume manufacturing, while the OTP memory reduces per-unit cost once code is finalized. The wide 2.5V-5.5V supply range accepts both battery and rectified mains-derived DC rails. Low sleep current extends battery life in cordless appliances like electric toothbrushes and portable blenders.
Recommended
Remote Controls and IR Transmitters
The PIC12LC509A-04/P suits simple remote controls for TVs, fans, and lighting where its 6 I/O pins drive IR LEDs, button matrices, and status indicators. The 4MHz oscillator with internal RC option eliminates external crystals in space-constrained housings. Its 1.5KB OTP memory holds encoding routines for NEC, RC5, and proprietary IR protocols. The low operating voltage (2.5V minimum) supports two-cell battery configurations that maximize standby life in handheld remotes.
Recommended
Hobbyist and Educational Projects
The PIC12LC509A-04/P is well-suited to hobbyist electronics, Maker projects, and university embedded systems courses. Its 8-pin PDIP package fits standard breadboards and through-hole perfboards, eliminating the need for SMD soldering skills. The PIC assembly language with only 33 instructions provides an accessible introduction to RISC programming, while the OTP architecture teaches production-firmware concepts. Low unit cost makes it ideal for classroom kits where students program and sacrifice multiple devices during learning.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC12LC509A-04/P — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC12LC508A-04I/P | PIC12F509-I/P | PIC12F508-I/P | PIC12C509A-04/P | PIC12CE518-04E/P | PIC12F510-I/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 8-pin PDIP | 8-pin PDIP - same | 8-pin PDIP - same | 8-pin PDIP - same | 8-pin PDIP - same | 8-pin PDIP - same | 8-pin PDIP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory Type | 1.5KB OTP EPROM | 768B OTP | 1.5KB Flash | 768B Flash | 1.5KB OTP | 768B OTP + EEPROM | 1.5KB Flash |
| Program Memory Size | 1.5KB (1K x 12) | 768B | 1.5KB | 768B | 1.5KB | 768B | 1.5KB |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.0V to 5.5V | 2.0V to 5.5V | 3.0V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.0V to 5.5V |
| I/O Pins | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| ADC | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes (8-bit) |
Key Differentiators
- Lowest-voltage baseline PIC12 OTP option (vs PIC12C509A-04/P)
- Larger code space than 508A variant (vs PIC12LC508A-04I/P)
- Cost-optimized OTP for high-volume production (vs PIC12F509-I/P)
Design Notes
Place a 0.1uF ceramic decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 8), with the ground return to pin 5 (VSS) on the shortest path. For designs with high-current loads or noisy switching peripherals, add a bulk capacitor (10uF to 47uF electrolytic or tantalum) on the supply rail near the MCU. The PIC12LC509A's internal POR and DRT handle power-up sequencing, but proper decoupling remains critical for noise-sensitive analog sensor readings and reliable WDT operation.
The GP3/MCLR pin (pin 1) requires a 10k ohm pull-up resistor to VDD for normal operation; leaving it floating or driving it low puts the MCU in reset. When using the internal RC oscillator mode, do not connect external components to pins 6 and 7 (OSC2/OSC1). Remember that OTP program memory cannot be erased or rewritten, so any firmware bug in production programming is permanent - prototype all code on a Flash-based PIC12F509 first to avoid scrapping parts.
Keep the ICSP programming interface accessible on the PCB by bringing GP0 (pin 2, ICSPDAT) and GP1 (pin 3, ICSPCLK) to test points or a 2-pin header. The MCLR/GP3 pin (pin 1) also needs connection to the programming voltage rail during in-circuit programming. For production programming, design the PCB layout so a pogo-pin programming fixture can contact all three ICSP signals plus VDD and VSS - skipping this step often requires hand-programming every unit.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance confirmed via distributor listings (LCSC, Hotenda). Not AEC-Q100 qualified - automotive safety-critical applications should use PIC12F509 variants with AEC-Q100 documentation.
