Microchip offers miniature microcontroller package

The PIC12F617 MCU features 3.5Kbyte of self-programmable Flash program memory (with a self-read-write capability) and peripherals such as a 10-bit analogue-to-digital converter (ADC), a comparator, a pulse-width modulator (PWM) and a VREF for closed-loop-control applications - all in a miniature 3 x 3mm DFN package.

The Flash programmable memory with a self-read-write capability serves as a low-cost alternative to data EEPROM and is useful when an application requires remote updates or the ability to store system data or look-up tables.

The MCU features an 8MHz internal oscillator, an on-chip four-channel 10-bit ADC, a comparator with hysteresis and a PWM with complementary outputs that provide a framework for applications such as light-emitting-diode control, motor control, capacitive touch keys and system monitors.

Microchip has also announced a price reduction on the rest of the PIC16F61X members, including the PIC12F609, PIC12F615, PIC16F610 and PIC16F616 MCUs and their corresponding high-voltage variants.

Microchip's complete suite of standard development tools can be used with the PIC12F617 MCU, including the free MPLAB IDE, along with the Hi-Tech C compiler for PIC12 MCUs.

The Hi-Tech Lite edition is a free, fully functional compiler with no time limitations.

The MPLAB ICD eight- and 14-pin debugging header (part number AC162083, priced at USD35 or GBP22) is required for debugging the PIC16F616 and PIC12F617 devices.