PIC12LCE518-04I/SM - 8-Bit CMOS MCU 768B OTP 4MHz | Microchip
MPN: PIC12LCE518-04I/SM ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.63 | $1.63 |
| 10 | $1.45 | $14.50 |
| 100 | $1.14 | $114.00 |
| 500 | $0.98 | $490.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.86 | $860.00 |
PIC12LCE518-04I/SM Overview
What is a PIC 12C microcontroller? The PIC12C5XX family is Microchip's entry-level 8-bit CMOS microcontroller line, architecturally positioned below the PIC16 and PIC18 families. These MCUs use a RISC-like 33-instruction set with single-cycle execution (except branches which take two cycles), enabling deterministic timing for embedded control loops. The 'L' prefix denotes the low-voltage (2.5V minimum) variant, the 'E' indicates integrated EEPROM data memory, and the PIC12C/12CE series typically ships in 8-pin packages - the smallest footprint in Microchip's OTP line.
Key features include 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 without external supervision. The 6 I/O pins support direct LED drive and digital interfacing, while 12-bit-wide instructions deliver 2:1 code compression versus competing 8-bit MCUs in its class.
The PIC12LCE518-04I/SM integrates 16 bytes of EEPROM data memory, allowing persistent storage of calibration values, configuration parameters, or usage counters without external serial EEPROM. The on-chip WDT with dedicated RC oscillator ensures the MCU recovers from software lockups even if the main system clock fails - critical for unattended appliance and industrial sensor applications.
Typical applications include appliance controllers, LED drivers, sensor signal conditioning, low-end consumer electronics, and battery-powered IoT edge nodes. The wide 2.5V-5.5V supply range permits direct operation from two alkaline cells or a single Li-ion cell. The combination of small footprint, OTP programmability, and integrated EEPROM makes this part a strong fit for high-volume OEM products where unit cost dominates.
When designing with the PIC12LCE518-04I/SM, ensure the MCLR pin is pulled high through a 10 kohm resistor for normal operation and that the supply rail is decoupled with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin. The /SM suffix denotes the SOIJ (Small Outline IC with J-lead) package, which offers superior board-level reliability versus standard SOIC for thermal-cycled environments.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC12LCE518-04I/SM — 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 PIC12LCE518-04I/SM (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core Architecture, Package, RoHS Status, Data EEPROM, I/O Source/Sink Current.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC12LCE518-04/SM
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12CE518-04E/SM
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.6 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12CE519-04I/SM
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12LC518-04I/SM
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12C518-04I/SM
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12F519-I/SN
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12LCE518-04I/SM Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | PIC12C5XX (PIC12CE5XX OTP with EEPROM) |
| Core Architecture | 8-bit RISC |
| Clock Speed | 4 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle | 1 microsecond |
| Instruction Set | 33 single-word instructions |
| Program Memory (ROM) | 768 bytes (512 x 12) OTP |
| RAM | 25 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | 16 bytes (integrated) |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 6 |
| Timers | TMR0 (8-bit with 8-bit programmable prescaler), WDT with on-chip RC oscillator |
| Resets | Power-On Reset (POR), Device Reset Timer (DRT) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Package | 8-SOIJ (5.30 mm / 0.209 in body width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| MSL Level | 1 |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC12LCE518-04I/SM Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 2 | GP5/OSC1/CLKIN — Bidirectional GPIO / oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 3 | GP4/OSC2/CLKOUT — Bidirectional GPIO / oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 4 | GP3/MCLR — Input-only GPIO / Master Clear reset (active low) |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | GP0 — Bidirectional GPIO |
| Pin 7 | GP1 — Bidirectional GPIO |
| Pin 8 | GP2 — Bidirectional GPIO / TOCKI alternate |
Typical Applications
PIC12LCE518-04I/SM is suitable for 7 applications: Appliance Control (White Goods), LED Lighting Drivers, Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes, Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety), Remote Controls and IR Transmitters, Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning, Toy and Hobby Electronics.
Appliance Control (White Goods)
The PIC12LCE518-04I/SM is widely deployed in appliance controllers such as microwave ovens, washing machines, and coffee makers, where its 6 GPIO pins drive relays and triacs while the integrated 16-byte EEPROM stores user settings and error logs. Per the Microchip PIC12CE5XX datasheet, the 2.5V-5.5V supply range allows direct connection to a rectified 5V or 3.3V rail, eliminating the need for additional voltage regulators. The on-chip WDT with its own RC oscillator ensures the MCU recovers from software lockups even if the main oscillator fails - critical for unattended appliances. The 768-byte OTP holds typical appliance state machines in 50% less code than competing 8-bit MCUs.
Recommended
LED Lighting Drivers
The PIC12LCE518-04I/SM drives LED strings and indicator lamps in cost-sensitive lighting products, using software PWM on its GPIO pins to set brightness levels. With each GPIO capable of 25 mA source/sink per the Microchip datasheet, the MCU can directly drive small LEDs or interface with external driver MOSFETs for higher-current LED arrays. The 2.5 V minimum supply enables battery-powered decorative lighting (2-cell alkaline) and emergency exit signs. The integrated WDT protects against software stalls that could leave LEDs in undefined brightness states. The 33-instruction RISC core delivers deterministic timing for smooth PWM dimming without flicker.
Recommended
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes
The PIC12LCE518-04I/SM serves as the controller in low-duty-cycle IoT sensor endpoints where multi-year battery life on 2 AA cells is required. Per the Microchip datasheet, sleep current is under 1 microampere with WDT disabled, and active current is below 1 mA at 4 MHz / 2.5 V. The 16-byte EEPROM stores calibration coefficients and node identifiers without external serial EEPROM, while the 25-byte RAM handles 8-bit sensor reads from thermistors or photodiodes. The 4 MHz internal-external clock selection gives designers flexibility to balance accuracy against power consumption. Industrial -40C to +85C temperature range supports outdoor and unheated-enclosure deployments.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Non-Safety)
Although not AEC-Q100 qualified, the PIC12LCE518-04I/SM is used in non-safety automotive body electronics such as interior lighting controllers, seat-position memory modules, and aftermarket accessories where cost dominates over full automotive qualification. The 8-SOIJ package's J-leads absorb thermal cycling stress better than standard SOIC, important for under-dash modules experiencing 80C daily swings. The 2.5 V-5.5 V supply tolerates 12V battery transients after external clamping. The integrated EEPROM stores seat position and mirror settings across power cycles. Designers targeting production automotive should validate AEC-Q100 with the PIC16F18313 or PIC18F family instead.
Recommended
Remote Controls and IR Transmitters
The PIC12LCE518-04I/SM is well suited to IR remote controls for TVs, set-top boxes, and audio equipment because its 4 MHz clock generates accurate 38 kHz carrier frequencies via software bit-banging, and its <1 microampere sleep current extends battery life for years. Per the Microchip datasheet, the integrated WDT with on-chip RC oscillator prevents lockups during low-battery brownout events. The 6 GPIOs handle IR LED drive, key matrix scanning (up to 12 buttons), and status indicator LEDs without external logic. The 16-byte EEPROM stores paired device IDs and user preferences. The 8-SOIJ package survives drops and ESD events better than PDIP alternatives.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC12LCE518-04I/SM conditions analog sensor signals through comparator-based threshold detection and digital filtering, replacing dedicated op-amp circuitry in low-cost industrial transducers. The integrated EEPROM stores calibration data at the factory, which the firmware uses to linearize sensor output over the -40C to +85C industrial range. Per the Microchip PIC12CE5XX datasheet, the MCU's deterministic 1 microsecond instruction cycle enables accurate time-proportional output control. The 25-byte RAM is sufficient for moving-average filtering and linearization tables. The 8-SOIJ package withstands the vibration and thermal cycling common in factory-floor deployments.
Recommended
Toy and Hobby Electronics
The PIC12LCE518-04I/SM powers cost-sensitive consumer toys, educational kits, and hobbyist projects where its 33-instruction RISC core is easy to learn and its 768-byte OTP is sufficient for typical toy control sequences. Per the Microchip datasheet, the 2.5V minimum supply works from a single Li-ion or 2-cell alkaline pack, while the 6 GPIO pins drive motors, LEDs, and buzzers. The integrated EEPROM stores user-configurable parameters such as sound volume or motor speed profiles. The 8-SOIJ package is small enough for wearable and handheld designs, and the WDT protects against the inevitable rough handling by young users. PICkit programmers and MPLAB X IDE support make student-friendly development straightforward.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC12LCE518-04I/SM — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC12LCE518-04/SM | PIC12CE518-04E/SM | PIC12CE519-04I/SM | PIC12F519-I/SN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 8-SOIJ (5.30 mm) | 8-SOIJ (5.30 mm) - same | 8-SOIJ (5.30 mm) - same | 8-SOIJ (5.30 mm) - same | 8-SOIC (3.90 mm) - same pinout, narrower body |
| Program Memory | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP | 1.5 KB OTP (+96%) | 1.5 KB Flash (reprogrammable) |
| Minimum Supply Voltage | 2.5 V | 2.5 V | 3.0 V | 3.0 V | 2.0 V |
| Data EEPROM | 16 B | 16 B | 16 B | 16 B | 64 B (Flash emulated) |
| Clock Speed | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 8 MHz |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | 0C to +70C (Commercial) | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Memory Type | OTP | OTP | OTP | OTP | Flash |
Key Differentiators
- Lowest supply voltage in PIC12CE5XX family (vs PIC12CE518-04E/SM)
- Industrial -40C to +85C temperature range (vs PIC12LCE518-04/SM)
- Integrated EEPROM data memory (vs PIC12LC518-04I/SM)
- Proven long-term supply stability (vs PIC12F519-I/SN (Flash))
Design Notes
Decouple VDD with a 100 nF X7R ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of pin 1 (VDD) and pin 5 (VSS). For battery-powered designs operating below 3.0 V, add a 10 microfarad bulk capacitor to handle 4 MHz active-current transients (estimated peak 1.5 mA per Microchip datasheet). The MCLR pin (pin 4) must be pulled to VDD through a 10 kohm resistor during normal operation; failure to do so results in continuous reset.
GP3 is input-only because it doubles as the MCLR reset pin - do not configure it as output in firmware. The PIC12CE518 instruction set is identical to PIC16C5X but with 12-bit (not 14-bit) instruction width, so source code is NOT compatible with PIC16F or PIC18F families without recompilation. The 'L' low-voltage variant supports 2.5 V minimum; substituting a PIC12CE518 (3.0 V minimum) into an 'L' socket will brown out at low battery voltage.
Route the oscillator traces (GP4/OSC2 and GP5/OSC1) as short as possible and keep them away from switching noise sources. For crystal oscillator mode, place the 27 pF load capacitors symmetrically within 3 mm of the oscillator pins. The 8-SOIJ package offers superior thermal-cycling reliability over 8-SOIC due to J-lead compliance; use /SM parts for automotive and industrial deployments. Estimated: SOIJ-8 thermal resistance theta_JA is approximately 100 C/W on a 1 oz copper 4-layer board.
The PIC12LCE518-04I/SM dissipates less than 5 mW even at 4 MHz / 5 V active operation, so thermal management is not a design concern. However, the Watchdog Timer with its own on-chip RC oscillator (per Microchip datasheet) continues running during sleep, adding approximately 1-7 microamperes depending on WDT prescaler setting. For battery life calculations, measure actual sleep current with the WDT configuration matching production firmware, not with WDT disabled as often shown in marketing materials.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Microchip product declaration. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - for automotive safety applications choose PIC16F18313 or higher-tier parts. Halogen-free per Microchip package materials declaration.
