Microchip PIC17C756A-33I/L: A Comprehensive Technical Overview

The Microchip PIC17C756A-33I/L represents a significant member of the high-performance PIC17CXXX family of 8-bit microcontrollers. This device is engineered for applications demanding robust computational power, extensive I/O capabilities, and reliable operation in industrial environments. Operating at a clock frequency of 33 MHz, it delivers a formidable balance of speed and efficiency for complex embedded control tasks.

Architecturally, the PIC17C756A is built around an enhanced RISC CPU core. This core features a 16-bit wide instruction set, enabling most instructions to execute in a single cycle, thereby achieving a throughput of up to 8.25 MIPS. This performance is crucial for time-sensitive applications such as motor control, automotive systems, and advanced industrial automation. The microcontroller integrates a substantial 16 KB of EPROM program memory, providing ample space for sophisticated application code, alongside 902 bytes of RAM for data handling and stack operations.

A standout feature of this MCU is its sophisticated Peripheral Integration. It is equipped with a versatile 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with up to 12 input channels, facilitating precise measurement of analog signals. For communication, it includes both a Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (USART) for serial communication (RS-232, RS-485) and a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) for high-speed communication with peripheral chips like sensors and memory. Furthermore, it incorporates multiple 16-bit timers/counters and Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) modules, essential for generating precise waveforms, measuring time intervals, and controlling power devices.

The "L" suffix in its part number denotes that it is supplied in a PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) package, which is suitable for through-hole mounting and offers good mechanical stability. The "-33I" indicates its 33 MHz maximum operating frequency and its qualification for the Industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C), ensuring reliable performance under harsh conditions.

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip PIC17C756A-33I/L is a powerful and highly integrated 8-bit microcontroller solution. Its combination of high-speed processing, substantial memory, and a rich set of peripherals makes it an exceptionally capable controller for demanding embedded systems. While newer 16-bit and 32-bit architectures have since emerged, the PIC17C756A remains a testament to robust design for complex control applications in industrial and automotive fields.

Keywords:

8-bit Microcontroller

33 MHz

RISC Architecture

Industrial Temperature Range

Peripheral Integration