PIC12LCE518-04/SN - 8-bit OTP MCU, 4 MHz, 768B | Microchip
MPN: PIC12LCE518-04/SN ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $0.9 | $0.90 |
| 10 | $0.78 | $7.80 |
| 100 | $0.66 | $66.00 |
| 500 | $0.5974 | $298.70 |
| 1,000 | $0.54 | $540.00 |
PIC12LCE518-04/SN Overview
An LDO (Low-Dropout) linear regulator maintains a stable output voltage even when the input voltage approaches the output. In the same way, a microcontroller (MCU) is an integrated circuit that combines a CPU, memory, and peripherals into a single chip. Within the MCU hierarchy, the PIC12LCE518 belongs to the 8-bit family -> RISC architecture -> PIC® 12C sub-family -> low-power (LC) OTP segment -> embedded controller class. It is part of the broader power management and embedded systems semiconductor category.
Key features include a wide operating voltage range of 2.5 V to 5.5 V, low-power operation suited to battery-powered designs, an 8-bit real-time clock/counter (TMR0) with an 8-bit programmable prescaler, Power-On Reset (POR), Device Reset Timer (DRT), and a Watchdog Timer (WDT) with its own on-chip RC oscillator for reliable operation. The PIC architecture's 33 single-word instruction set provides easy programmability for both novice and experienced developers.
The PIC12LCE518 uses a Harvard RISC architecture that separates program and data memory buses, enabling simultaneous instruction fetch and data access. This improves throughput over von Neumann designs at the same clock rate. Its CMOS OTP implementation allows one-time field programmability with a simple programmer, which is well-suited to mature products in stable production.
Typical applications include consumer electronics, industrial control, automotive subsystems, remote controls, sensor interfaces, and small appliance controls. The compact 8-pin SOIC footprint and low power consumption make it ideal for cost-sensitive space-constrained designs.
When designing with this MCU, ensure the oscillator configuration matches the application clock accuracy requirement; the internal 4 MHz RC oscillator is suitable for most general-purpose tasks, but applications requiring precise timing should use an external crystal. The OTP nature means firmware must be fully validated before programming - in-circuit reprogramming is not supported.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing from Mouser and LCSC, parametric cross-references from DigiKey, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone, including the ETEI comparison with the flash-based PIC12F519 successor.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC12LCE518-04/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 PIC12LCE518-04/SN (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Operating Temperature, Core Architecture, Data EEPROM, Timers.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC12CE518T-04I/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12CE519-04/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12CE518-04E/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.38 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12F519-I/SN
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12F629-I/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.82 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12LCE518-04/SN Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC RISC |
| Instruction Set | 33 single-word instructions |
| Program Memory | 768 B (512 × 12-bit) OTP |
| RAM | 25 B |
| Data EEPROM | Not present (OTP only) |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Execution Time | 1 µs at 4 MHz |
| I/O Pins | 6 |
| Timers | 1 × 8-bit TMR0 with 8-bit prescaler |
| Watchdog Timer (WDT) | Yes, with on-chip RC oscillator |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Power-On Reset (POR) | Yes |
| Device Reset Timer (DRT) | Yes |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +85 °C (commercial, extended grades) |
| Package | 8-pin SOIC (SN), 1.27 mm pitch |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free | Yes |
PIC12LCE518-04/SN Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | GP2/OSC2 — General-purpose I/O / oscillator output |
| Pin 2 | GP1/OSC1 — General-purpose I/O / oscillator input |
| Pin 3 | GP0 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 4 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 5 | GP3/MCLR — Input-only I/O / Master Clear reset (active low) |
| Pin 6 | GP4 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 7 | GP5 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 8 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5 V to 5.5 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC12LCE518-04/SN is suitable for 6 applications: Remote Control Transmitters, Industrial Sensor Interfaces, Small Appliance Controls, Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety), Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes, Hobby and Educational Electronics.
Remote Control Transmitters
The PIC12LCE518-04/SN is well suited to handheld IR/RF remote control transmitters where 6 I/O pins are sufficient for key matrix scanning and one modulation output. Its 768 B OTP program memory fits typical fixed-code or simple rolling-code remote firmware, while the 2.5 V to 5.5 V supply range supports direct operation from a single 3 V coin cell or two AA cells. The 1 µs instruction execution at 4 MHz enables accurate carrier generation for 38 kHz IR protocols. Compared to Flash MCUs, the OTP architecture reduces per-unit cost, critical in high-volume consumer remote production. The TMR0 with 8-bit prescaler simplifies periodic carrier burst timing, and the watchdog timer prevents lock-up during extended battery life.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interfaces
The PIC12LCE518-04/SN fits compact industrial sensor interface modules that read a single transducer and output a conditioned digital or analog signal. Its 6 I/O pins handle digital sensors, status LEDs, and a one-wire or UART output to a host PLC. The 4 MHz clock provides 1 µs instruction resolution, sufficient for debouncing mechanical switches and driving simple PWM outputs. Industrial temperature grade variants support -40 °C to +85 °C operation. The OTP memory architecture suits fixed-function sensor modules that do not require firmware updates. The watchdog timer with its own RC oscillator ensures reliable operation in electrically noisy industrial environments.
Recommended
Small Appliance Controls
The PIC12LCE518-04/SN powers small appliance control boards such as coffee makers, blenders, fans, and simple kitchen timers. Six I/O pins drive keypad scanning, status LEDs, relay/triac control, and buzzer feedback. The 2.5 V to 5.5 V range permits unregulated supply via a small linear regulator, reducing BOM cost. The PIC RISC architecture's deterministic 1 µs instruction cycle enables precise timer-based cooking or blending cycles without real-time OS overhead. OTP memory locks the final firmware, preventing accidental user reprogramming. The 8-pin SOIC package is easy to hand-solder or reflow on small single-layer boards typical of cost-sensitive consumer appliances.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety)
The PIC12LCE518-04/SN serves non-safety automotive body electronics such as interior lighting controllers, seat position memory, and accessory timers. Six I/O pins are sufficient for switch input, LED drive, and LIN-bite serial communication via bit-banged UART. The extended temperature grade variant operates across automotive cabin environments. While not AEC-Q100 qualified, the part is widely used in non-critical automotive subsystems. OTP memory ensures the firmware cannot be tampered with after assembly. The 4 MHz oscillator and TMR0 prescaler support debouncing of mechanical switches and PWM dimming of interior LED lighting.
Recommended
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes
The PIC12LCE518-04/SN is a strong fit for ultra-low-power battery-operated IoT sensor nodes that wake periodically to read a sensor and transmit a brief message. Its low-power CMOS process minimizes quiescent current in sleep mode, while the 2.5 V to 5.5 V supply range supports 3 V coin cells or 3.6 V Li-SOCl2 primary batteries. Six I/O pins wake from sleep on interrupt, read a sensor via one-wire or I/O bit-banging, and drive a low-power RF or LoRa module enable line. The OTP architecture is acceptable for fixed-application nodes where firmware updates are not required. The watchdog timer maintains reliable operation over multi-year battery life.
Recommended
Hobby and Educational Electronics
The PIC12LCE518-04/SN is widely used in hobby and educational projects such as LED blinkers, simple games, electronic dice, and introductory microcontroller tutorials. Its simple 33-instruction PIC architecture makes it ideal for teaching embedded programming fundamentals. Six I/O pins support enough LEDs, buttons, and a piezo buzzer for engaging classroom projects. The 8-pin SOIC package fits standard breadboard adapters. While OTP memory prevents in-circuit reprogramming for development, hobbyists typically use Flash-based PIC12F equivalents during learning and switch to OTP parts only for final production. The wide 2.5 V to 5.5 V supply range accommodates varied educational power setups.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC12LCE518-04/SN — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC12CE518T-04I/SN | PIC12CE519-04/SN | PIC12CE518-04E/SN | PIC12F519-I/SN | PIC12F629-I/SN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 8-pin SOIC (SN) | 8-pin SOIC (SN) - same | 8-pin SOIC (SN) - same | 8-pin SOIC (SN) - same | 8-pin SOIC (SN) - same | 8-pin SOIC (SN) - same |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (768 B) | OTP (768 B) | OTP (768 B) | OTP (768 B) | Flash (1 KB) | Flash (1 KB) |
| RAM | 25 B | 25 B | 25 B | 25 B | 41 B | 64 B |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz (8 MHz internal) | 4 MHz (20 MHz internal) |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| ADC | No | No | Yes (4-channel 8-bit) | No | No | Yes (10-bit) |
| Reprogrammable | No (OTP only) | No (OTP only) | No (OTP only) | No (OTP only) | Yes (Flash) | Yes (Flash) |
| Unit Price (approx., as of 2026-09-16) | $0.60 | $0.80 | $0.95 | $0.85 | $0.95 | $1.10 |
Key Differentiators
- Lowest-cost 8-bit PIC MCU with wide voltage range (vs PIC12F519-I/SN)
- Wide 2.5 V to 5.5 V supply range (vs PIC12CE518T-04I/SN)
- 8-pin SOIC package with proven long-term supply (vs PIC12F629-I/SN)
Design Notes
The PIC12LCE518-04/SN supports a wide 2.5 V to 5.5 V supply range, but decoupling is critical even for low-power 8-bit MCUs. Place a 100 nF ceramic capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 8), with a 10 µF bulk capacitor near the supply entry. The internal POR circuit requires VDD rise time within datasheet limits to guarantee proper reset. For battery applications, add a 100 kΩ MCLR pull-up to prevent spurious resets during brown-out events. Estimated: at 4 MHz active current ~1 mA, quiescent sleep current ~1 µA (low-power 'L' variant).
Pin 5 (GP3/MCLR) is shared between general-purpose input and Master Clear reset - configuring it as a reset requires the internal weak pull-up disabled in software. For reliable operation in electrically noisy environments (motors, relays, solenoids), add a 10 kΩ external pull-up to VDD on MCLR. Keep the oscillator traces (GP1/OSC1, GP2/OSC2) short and away from switching signals; add a 4-layer ground plane if possible to minimize EMI pickup on the 4 MHz clock signal.
OTP memory cannot be erased or re-programmed - a single programming error or firmware bug requires scrapping the part. Validate firmware on a Flash-based PIC12F519 development board before committing to OTP production. The 25-byte RAM is shared with the stack (12 levels deep), so deep function call nesting can corrupt RAM if not carefully designed. The watchdog timer must be cleared periodically or it will reset the MCU - configure WDT postscaler appropriately for the application loop time.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page and distributor listings. Not AEC-Q100 qualified; not recommended for safety-critical automotive applications. Lead-free SOIC package suitable for modern reflow soldering profiles.
