PIC12LC672-04I/P - 8-Bit OTP MCU 3.5KB 4MHz | Microchip
MPN: PIC12LC672-04I/P ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.23 | $2.23 |
| 10 | $2.05 | $20.50 |
| 100 | $1.86 | $186.00 |
| 500 | $1.62 | $810.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.41 | $1,410.00 |
PIC12LC672-04I/P Overview
An MCU (Microcontroller Unit) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory, RAM, and programmable peripherals on one die. Microcontrollers belong to the broader category of embedded processors, sitting beneath microprocessors in complexity but offering a complete compute-and-control solution in a single package. The PIC12LC672 specifically belongs to Microchip's PIC12C67X family of low-pin-count CMOS MCUs with on-chip ADC, hierarchically nested within: microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC. The 12-bit instruction word and RISC Harvard architecture deliver deterministic instruction timing ideal for low-cost analog-sensing and control applications.
Key features include power-on reset (POR), device reset timer (DRT), watchdog timer (WDT) with its own dedicated on-chip RC oscillator, and an industrial operating temperature range of -40C to +85C. The integrated 10-bit ADC enables direct connection to analog sensors without an external converter, while the 8-bit TMR0 with programmable prescaler supports precise event timing. The device supports serial programming via Microchip's ICSP protocol, simplifying field upgrades and prototyping.
Typical applications include analog-sensing embedded nodes, low-cost battery chargers, sensor signal conditioning, household appliance controls, and small-form-factor industrial instrumentation. The 6 I/O pins and 4 MHz instruction rate deliver adequate throughput for slow-loop control and intermittent-sampling applications rather than high-bandwidth signal processing.
When designing with this part, ensure the brown-out and power-on reset timing are accounted for in the application logic, and choose the appropriate oscillator configuration (internal 4 MHz RC or external crystal) for your timing budget. The 128-byte RAM limit also requires disciplined variable usage in firmware.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC12LC672-04I/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 PIC12LC672-04I/P (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Timers, Program Memory Size, Watchdog Timer, I/O Pins, Program Memory Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC12LC672-04/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12C672-04/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12C672-04I/P
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12CE674-04/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12F509-I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.86 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12LC672-04I/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC (Harvard) |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) |
| RAM Size | 128 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 4 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Number of I/O Pins | 6 |
| ADC | 8-bit, 4 channels |
| Timers | 1 x 8-bit (TMR0 with programmable prescaler) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes, with dedicated on-chip RC oscillator |
| Power-On Reset (POR) | Yes |
| Device Reset Timer (DRT) | Yes |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Package Type | PDIP-8 (DIP-8, 0.300 inch, plastic) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Programming Method | ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) |
PIC12LC672-04I/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 2 | OSC1/CLKIN — Oscillator input or external clock input |
| Pin 3 | OSC2/CLKOUT — Oscillator output or clock output |
| Pin 4 | GP5 — General-purpose digital I/O pin |
| Pin 5 | GP4 — General-purpose digital I/O pin |
| Pin 6 | GP3/MCLR/VPP — General-purpose I/O, Master Clear reset, or programming voltage input |
| Pin 7 | GP2 — General-purpose digital I/O pin |
| Pin 8 | VSS — Ground reference |
Typical Applications
PIC12LC672-04I/P is suitable for 6 applications: Analog Sensor Interface Node, Battery-Powered Remote Control, Household Appliance Control, Industrial Limit Switch Detector, Automotive Interior Lighting Controller, Low-Cost Battery Charger Controller.
Analog Sensor Interface Node
The PIC12LC672-04I/P fits analog sensor interface nodes because its integrated 8-bit ADC directly digitizes thermistor, potentiometer, or photodiode signals without an external converter, while 128 bytes of RAM supports basic smoothing and threshold logic. Operating from 2.5V to 5.5V lets it run directly from a 3.3V regulated rail or a 5V supply, and the industrial -40C to +85C temperature range supports outdoor and factory-floor deployment. The 4 MHz clock and 6 I/O pins are sufficient for slow-loop sampling and digital control handshake, while ICSP allows field firmware updates during sensor calibration.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Remote Control
The PIC12LC672-04I/P suits battery-powered remote controls because the 2.5V minimum supply voltage supports direct operation from two AA cells down to their end-of-life voltage, and the CMOS core draws low active and standby current for extended battery life. Six I/O pins can drive IR LEDs, button matrices, or piezo buzzers, and the 8-bit TMR0 with programmable prescaler generates accurate carrier frequencies for IR transmission. The PDIP-8 through-hole package simplifies hand-soldered prototypes and hobbyist assembly, while OTP memory locks firmware to prevent field tampering of the remote protocol.
Recommended
Household Appliance Control
The PIC12LC672-04I/P integrates well into household appliance controls such as small fans, coffee makers, or bread machines where cost-sensitive designs need basic MCU intelligence. The 6 I/O pins drive relay transistors, status LEDs, and user input buttons, while the ADC reads NTC temperature sensors for closed-loop thermal control. The -40C to +85C industrial temperature grade covers under-cabinet and garage environments, and the watchdog timer with dedicated RC oscillator prevents firmware lockup in unattended appliances. OTP memory ensures production firmware cannot be reverse-engineered or altered by end users.
Recommended
Industrial Limit Switch Detector
The PIC12LC672-04I/P functions as a low-cost limit-switch or proximity-sensor detector in industrial equipment, reading switch states through its digital I/O pins and reporting them through a single-wire serial protocol to a host controller. The integrated ADC can additionally monitor a 4-20 mA current loop or potentiometer for valve-position feedback. The -40C to +85C industrial temperature range and through-hole PDIP package tolerate vibration and thermal cycling in factory cabinets. The 3.5KB OTP program memory stores debounce algorithms, fault counters, and Modbus-style framing for diagnostic reporting.
Recommended
Automotive Interior Lighting Controller
The PIC12LC672-04I/P can serve as a low-cost automotive interior lighting controller when paired with external 12V drivers, reading door-switch or dashboard-button inputs and PWM-driving LED strings through a simple transistor interface. The wide 2.5V to 5.5V supply range tolerates cranking transients when powered through a 5V regulator, and the 6 I/O pins cover multiple lighting zones. The OTP memory locks calibration constants such as fade curves and brightness levels to prevent field tampering. Note that for full AEC-Q100 automotive qualification, designers should select an explicitly automotive-grade MCU from Microchip's PIC16 family.
Recommended
Low-Cost Battery Charger Controller
The PIC12LC672-04I/P suits low-cost NiCd or NiMH battery charger controllers where the ADC monitors battery voltage and temperature while PWM output on a digital I/O pin regulates charging current through a pass transistor. The integrated watchdog timer prevents firmware lockup during long charge cycles, and the -40C to +85C industrial temperature range supports garage and workshop environments. The OTP memory stores the charge algorithm and safety timeouts, ensuring consistent charging behavior across production units. The 4 MHz instruction rate is adequate for the slow voltage and temperature sampling typical of overnight chargers.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC12LC672-04I/P — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC12LC672-04/P | PIC12C672-04I/P | PIC12CE674-04/P | PIC12F509-I/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | PDIP-8 (through-hole) | PDIP-8 (same) | PDIP-8 (same) | PDIP-8 (same) | PDIP-8 (same) |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB EPROM (reprogrammable) | 3.5 KB OTP + 16B EEPROM data | 1.5 KB Flash (reprogrammable) |
| RAM | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 128 bytes | 41 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 3.0 V to 5.5 V (narrower) | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V (wider) |
| I/O Pins | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 (one fewer) |
| Temperature Grade | Industrial -40C to +85C | Commercial 0C to +70C | Industrial -40C to +85C | Commercial 0C to +70C | Industrial -40C to +85C |
Key Differentiators
- Wide supply voltage range down to 2.5V (vs PIC12C672-04I/P)
- Industrial temperature grade included (vs PIC12LC672-04/P)
- Integrated multi-channel ADC for analog sensing (vs PIC12F509-I/P)
- OTP memory for low-cost production (vs PIC12F509-I/P)
Design Notes
The PIC12LC672-04I/P operates from 2.5V to 5.5V and supports both 3.3V and 5V rails without level translation. Decouple VDD with a 0.1uF ceramic capacitor placed within 5mm of the VDD pin, and add a 10uF bulk capacitor at the regulator output if the supply traces exceed 50mm. Brown-out reset is not explicitly confirmed in the verified data, so external voltage supervision (such as a MCP100 reset supervisor) is recommended for applications where firmware lockup on low voltage is unacceptable.
Route the MCLR/VPP pin to a dedicated ICSP header with a 10k pull-up to VDD and avoid placing capacitors on this line that would slow the reset edge. Keep the OSC1/OSC2 traces short (under 10mm) and guarded by a ground ring if using a crystal oscillator, since long traces increase EMI susceptibility and degrade clock stability. Place the decoupling capacitor ground return directly to the VSS pin via a short via to minimize supply noise.
Do not assume GP3/MCLR functions as a general output - it is an input-only or MCLR pin. Note that OTP program memory cannot be reprogrammed; verify your firmware with windowed PIC12C672 EPROM samples before committing to OTP production. The 128-byte RAM limit requires careful stack and variable management; allocate interrupt-safe buffers in the lower RAM bank to avoid bank-switching overhead. Always configure the watchdog timer for safety-critical applications to recover from firmware lockup.
When using the ADC, add a 100nF ceramic bypass cap on the VDD pin and an additional 10uF bulk cap on the AVSS reference. Source impedance to ADC inputs should be below 10 kOhm to avoid acquisition-time errors, and add an external buffer op-amp if your sensor output impedance exceeds this limit. Enable the ADC acquisition delay in firmware to allow the sample-and-hold capacitor to settle before conversion, especially when scanning multiple channels in sequence.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliance per Heisener and distributor listings. Not AEC-Q100 qualified; for full automotive-grade qualification consider PIC16F series with explicit AEC-Q100 documentation. Industrial temperature grade -40C to +85C is per the /I suffix.
