Microchip PIC16F84A-04/P 8-Bit Microcontroller Data Sheet and Technical Specifications
The Microchip PIC16F84A-04/P stands as a seminal figure in the history of 8-bit microcontrollers, renowned for its robustness, ease of use, and enduring presence in educational and industrial applications. This device is a member of Microchip's extensive PIC® microcontroller family, built upon a high-performance RISC architecture that emphasizes simplicity and cost-effectiveness without sacrificing critical functionality.
Core Architecture and Performance
At its heart, the PIC16F84A features a fully static, 8-bit CMOS-based core with a RISC instruction set comprising just 35 single-word instructions. Operating at a clock frequency of up to 4 MHz (as denoted by the -04 speed grade), it achieves a instruction cycle time of 1 µs, enabling efficient execution of control-oriented tasks. The fully static design allows the device to maintain its state down to DC, making it suitable for low-speed and low-power applications.
Memory Configuration
A key feature of this microcontroller is its non-volatile EEPROM data memory. It is equipped with:
1K x 14 words of Flash Program Memory: This allows for up to 1024 instructions and enables easy field reprogramming, a significant advantage over OTP (One-Time Programmable) devices for prototyping and product updates.
68 bytes of SRAM: For data storage and manipulation during operation.
64 bytes of EEPROM Data Memory: This memory space is separate from the program memory and can endure up to 10 million erase/write cycles. It is ideal for storing critical data like calibration constants, device parameters, or user settings that must be retained even after a power loss.
I/O Ports and Peripherals
The PIC16F84A-04/P provides 13 bidirectional I/O pins, organized into two ports (Port A and Port B). Each pin can be individually configured as an input or output, providing direct interface capabilities with switches, LEDs, relays, and other digital peripherals. Notably, the RB0/INT pin features an external interrupt capability, allowing the microcontroller to respond immediately to external events. Furthermore, the device includes an 8-bit timer/counter (TMR0) with an 8-bit programmable prescaler and a watchdog timer (WDT) with its own on-chip RC oscillator for reliable operation.
Operating Characteristics and Packaging
The device is designed for a wide operating voltage range, typically from 2.0V to 5.5V, supporting both battery-powered and mains-regulated applications. Its low power consumption (typically < 2 mA at 5V, 4 MHz) makes it an excellent choice for portable electronics. The part number suffix /P indicates that it is supplied in a plastic dual in-line (PDIP) 18-pin package, which is ideal for through-hole PCB assembly and breadboard prototyping.
Development Support
A vast ecosystem of development tools, including the classic MPLAB® IDE, programmers, debuggers, and third-party compilers (like CCS C, mikroC), has been built around this microcontroller. Its simple architecture makes it an unparalleled tool for learning fundamental microcontroller concepts, from basic I/O control to interrupt handling and EEPROM data management.
ICGOODFIND Summary: The Microchip PIC16F84A-04/P remains a foundational and highly accessible 8-bit microcontroller. Its blend of reprogrammable Flash memory, enduring EEPROM, straightforward I/O, and a vast support ecosystem solidifies its status as a timeless component for hobbyists, students, and engineers designing simple, reliable control systems.
Keywords: PIC16F84A, EEPROM Memory, 8-bit Microcontroller, Flash Program Memory, RISC Architecture
