PIC12CE518-04I/SN - 8-bit 4MHz OTP MCU w/ EEPROM | Microchip
MPN: PIC12CE518-04I/SN ⚠ Last Time Buy| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.85 | $1.85 |
| 10 | $1.62 | $16.20 |
| 100 | $1.38 | $138.00 |
| 500 | $1.18 | $590.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.02 | $1,020.00 |
PIC12CE518-04I/SN Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, RAM, non-volatile program memory, and peripheral I/O on a single silicon die. The PIC12CE518 belongs to the OTP (One-Time-Programmable) PIC12C family, which historically targeted low-cost, low-pin-count embedded applications where production volumes justify one-time programming. Within the broader taxonomy, an 8-bit MCU sits between simple 4-bit controllers and 32-bit microprocessors, offering a balance of cost, ease of use, and code density for applications such as consumer appliances, sensor interfaces, and battery-operated devices. The on-chip EEPROM data memory is a distinguishing feature, allowing parameter storage without external serial EEPROM.
Key features include the Enhanced PIC16C5X core architecture with only 33 single-word instructions, four oscillator selections (including an internal 4 MHz RC oscillator with programmable factory calibration), 25 mA source/sink capability per I/O pin suitable for direct LED driving, programmable code protection, a Watchdog Timer with independent oscillator, Power-on Reset, and an operating voltage range of 2.5V to 5.5V. The device consumes only a few milliamps in active mode and supports a power-saving SLEEP mode. Each I/O pin can source or sink 25 mA, eliminating the need for external driver transistors in many interface circuits.
The PIC12CE518 uses a Harvard RISC architecture with separate program and data buses, executing most instructions in a single instruction cycle. The 12-bit wide instruction word optimizes code density for the PIC instruction set, and the two-level deep hardware stack supports subroutine nesting. The 16 bytes of on-chip EEPROM provide non-volatile storage for calibration constants, configuration parameters, or user preferences, with endurance rated for one million erase/write cycles typical. The internal 4 MHz RC oscillator eliminates external crystal components in cost-sensitive designs.
Typical applications include remote control transmitters, low-end consumer electronics, LED lighting controllers, battery chargers, sensor signal conditioning front-ends, smart card readers, and replacement of discrete logic in glue-logic consolidation designs. The 8-pin SOIC package and minimal external component count make it suitable for space-constrained PCB designs. The wide operating voltage range (2.5V to 5.5V) supports both 3.3V and 5V system rails directly from common battery chemistries.
When designing with this device, note that OTP memory cannot be reprogrammed in-circuit, so code development must use a windowed (JW) or compatible flash-based PIC12F part for prototyping. Microchip recommends migrating to PIC12F629 or PIC10F series for new designs. Ensure the MCLR pin is properly tied high via a resistor for normal operation, and place decoupling capacitors close to VDD.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives within the same 8-SOIC footprint, and practical design notes not consolidated on any single manufacturer or distributor page, accelerating part selection and BOM validation.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC12CE518-04I/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 PIC12CE518-04I/SN (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory Size, Operating Temperature, Core Architecture, Instruction Set.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC12CE518-04E/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.38 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12CE518T-04I/SN
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$1.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12CE519-04I/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12C508A-04I/SN
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12C509A-04I/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12F629-I/SN
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.82 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12CE518-04I/SN Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Program Memory Size | 768 B (512 x 12 words) OTP |
| RAM Size | 25 x 8 bytes |
| EEPROM Data Memory | 16 bytes |
| CPU Core | Enhanced PIC16C5X, 8-bit RISC |
| Instruction Set | 33 single-word instructions |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 1 microsecond at 4 MHz |
| Maximum CPU Clock | 4 MHz |
| Number of I/O Pins | 6 |
| I/O Source/Sink Current | 25 mA per pin |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) |
| Package | 8-pin SOIC (SN), 3.90 mm body width |
| Oscillator Options | External RC, External Crystal, External Clock, Internal 4 MHz RC (calibrated) |
| Peripherals | Watchdog Timer, Power-on Reset, SLEEP mode |
| Code Protection | Programmable via configuration bits |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Lead-Free / RoHS | Compliant per Microchip product page |
PIC12CE518-04I/SN Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | GP5/OSC1/CLKIN — General-purpose I/O / Oscillator input / External clock input |
| Pin 2 | GP4/OSC2/CLKOUT — General-purpose I/O / Oscillator output / Clock output |
| Pin 3 | GP3/MCLR/Vpp — General-purpose I/O / Master Clear reset (active low) / Programming voltage |
| Pin 4 | GP2/T0CKI — General-purpose I/O / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 5 | GP1 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 6 | GP0 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.5V to 5.5V) |
Typical Applications
PIC12CE518-04I/SN is suitable for 6 applications: Remote Control Transmitter, LED Lighting Controller, Battery Charger Control, Sensor Signal Conditioning, Glue-Logic Consolidation, Smart Card / RFID Reader.
Remote Control Transmitter
The PIC12CE518-04I/SN fits remote control transmitters because its 768 bytes OTP memory easily holds fixed IR/RF command codes, 6 I/O pins drive button matrix scanning plus a transmitter output, and the 25 mA per-pin source/sink directly drives IR LEDs without driver transistors. The internal 4 MHz calibrated RC oscillator eliminates external crystal cost, critical in sub-$1 consumer transmitters. The 2.5V-5.5V operating range supports single-cell Li-ion or 2xAA battery configurations directly. SLEEP mode cuts current to microamps during standby, extending battery life to multiple years. The 16-byte EEPROM stores paired device IDs and user configuration. Compared with discrete encoder ICs, the PIC12CE518 enables custom protocols and easy code reuse across product variants. Industrial -40C to +85C rating suits outdoor gate and garage-door applications.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controller
The PIC12CE518-04I/SN drives LED lighting controllers because its 6 I/O pins with 25 mA source/sink directly interface to MOSFET gates or low-current LED strings without buffer transistors. The 4 MHz CPU executes PWM dimming control loops in 1 microsecond per instruction, providing deterministic timing for color-mixing or chasing effects. The internal calibrated 4 MHz RC oscillator keeps BOM cost low for consumer-grade fixtures. The 16-byte EEPROM stores user brightness presets and color preferences across power cycles. Operating voltage 2.5V-5.5V supports both 3.3V and 5V LED driver rails. SLEEP mode reduces standby power to meet energy-saving regulations. The 8-SOIC package fits into small inline controllers and bulb retrofits where board space is constrained. Microchip recommends migrating to PIC12F629 for new designs requiring field firmware updates.
Recommended
Battery Charger Control
The PIC12CE518-04I/SN fits battery charger control because its 2.5V-5.5V operating range handles single-cell Li-ion, NiMH, and lead-acid chemistries directly. The 4 MHz CPU samples voltage and current feedback at sufficient rates for CC-CV (constant-current constant-voltage) charge profiles, while the 16-byte EEPROM stores battery chemistry parameters, capacity lookup tables, and user charge-history logs. The 6 I/O pins interface to MOSFET gates, status LEDs, and temperature sensors without external logic. The internal calibrated RC oscillator eliminates crystal cost in consumer chargers. Industrial -40C to +85C rating supports garage, automotive accessory, and outdoor charger applications. SLEEP mode minimizes quiescent drain when the charger is idle. The 33 single-word instruction set simplifies implementation of safety timers and fault-detection routines required by UL and IEC battery standards.
Recommended
Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC12CE518-04I/SN conditions sensor signals because its 4 MHz CPU executes linearization and averaging algorithms on bridge sensors, thermistors, or thermopiles within 1 microsecond per instruction. The 16-byte EEPROM retains calibration coefficients unique to each sensor module, eliminating per-unit trim potentiometers in volume production. The 6 I/O pins drive four-wire sensor interfaces plus UART or one-wire diagnostic outputs. The internal 4 MHz RC oscillator avoids crystal cost in disposable or sub-$5 sensor modules. Wide 2.5V-5.5V supply supports battery-powered wireless sensor nodes. SLEEP mode between conversions drops current below 1 microamp, extending coin-cell life. The industrial temperature rating suits HVAC, automotive, and outdoor sensor applications. Microchip recommends PIC12F629 for new sensor designs requiring on-chip ADC and flash calibration updates.
Recommended
Glue-Logic Consolidation
The PIC12CE518-04I/SN replaces discrete 74HC logic gates because its 33 single-word instructions and 6 I/O pins implement state machines, timing chains, and protocol converters in a single 8-SOIC chip. The 4 MHz CPU runs at 1 MIPS, replacing dozens of logic ICs in timing-critical applications such as motor control interlocks or industrial signal debouncers. The 16-byte EEPROM stores mode-selection jumpers and user settings without mechanical DIP switches. Industrial temperature rating -40C to +85C suits factory automation, replacing legacy 74LS TTL that is obsolete and power-hungry. The internal 4 MHz RC oscillator eliminates external clock components. SLEEP mode cuts power consumption versus equivalent discrete logic by 80 percent. Microchip recommends PIC12F629 for new glue-logic designs needing in-system firmware updates.
Recommended
Smart Card / RFID Reader
The PIC12CE518-04I/SN suits smart card and low-frequency RFID reader applications because its 4 MHz CPU handles ISO 7816 or 125 kHz RFID protocols with deterministic 1 microsecond timing. The 6 I/O pins drive the reader antenna, ISO contact interface, and status LEDs without external logic. The internal calibrated RC oscillator keeps BOM cost low for sub-$5 readers. The 16-byte EEPROM stores paired card IDs or access tokens for entry-control systems. Operating voltage 2.5V-5.5V supports both USB-powered and battery-operated readers. SLEEP mode reduces standby current for portable readers. Industrial temperature rating enables outdoor intercom and gate-entry installations. Microchip recommends PIC12F629 with hardware UART for new reader designs requiring higher baud-rate handling.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC12CE518-04I/SN — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC12CE518-04E/SN | PIC12CE518T-04I/SN | PIC12CE519-04I/SN | PIC12C508A-04I/SN | PIC12F629-I/SN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 8-SOIC (SN) | 8-SOIC (SN) - same | 8-SOIC (SN) - same | 8-SOIC (SN) - same | 8-SOIC (SN) - same | 8-SOIC (SN) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 768B OTP (512 x 12) | 768B OTP (512 x 12) - same | 768B OTP (512 x 12) - same | 1536B OTP (1024 x 12) - +100% | 768B OTP (512 x 12) - same | 1K x 14 flash - reprogrammable |
| RAM | 25 bytes | 25 bytes - same | 25 bytes - same | 25 bytes - same | 25 bytes - same | 64 bytes - +156% |
| EEPROM | 16 bytes | 16 bytes - same | 16 bytes - same | 16 bytes - same | 0 bytes - lost | 128 bytes - +700% |
| Max CPU Clock | 4 MHz | 4 MHz - same | 4 MHz - same | 4 MHz - same | 4 MHz - same | 20 MHz - +400% |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5V to 5.5V | 2.5V to 5.5V - same | 2.5V to 5.5V - same | 2.5V to 5.5V - same | 2.5V to 5.5V - same | 2.0V to 5.5V - wider |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) - same | -40C to +85C (Industrial) - same | -40C to +85C (Industrial) - same | -40C to +85C (Industrial) - same |
| Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) | OTP - same | OTP - same | OTP - same | OTP - same | Flash (reprogrammable) |
| Lifecycle | Last-Time-Buy | Last-Time-Buy | Last-Time-Buy | Last-Time-Buy | Last-Time-Buy | Active |
Key Differentiators
- On-chip 16-byte EEPROM for non-volatile parameter storage (vs PIC12C508A-04I/SN)
- Enhanced PIC16C5X core with 33 single-word instructions (vs PIC12C508 (older baseline))
- Direct 25 mA per-pin I/O drive eliminates external drivers (vs Discrete 74HC logic or PIC10F200 (lower drive))
- Internal 4 MHz calibrated RC oscillator eliminates external crystal (vs PIC16 series requiring external clock)
Design Notes
Estimated: the PIC12CE518 contains OTP (one-time-programmable) memory; once programmed, code cannot be erased or rewritten. Prototype development must use a JW (windowed) ceramic package variant or a compatible flash-based PIC12F part such as PIC12F629-I/SN to iterate firmware. Microchip's product page explicitly recommends PIC12F629 as the newer replacement, and the PIC12F629 shares the same 8-SOIC footprint, enabling a PCB-only swap once firmware is finalized.
Estimated: the MCLR pin (pin 3) must be tied to VDD through a pull-up resistor (typically 10 kohm) for normal operation. If left floating, the device may randomly reset or fail to start. During programming, MCLR is raised to Vpp (~13V) and should not be continuously pulled high by a low-impedance path. Place a 0.1 microfarad decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 8), with a bulk 1-10 microfarad capacitor on the same supply rail for noise suppression.
Estimated: when using the internal 4 MHz RC oscillator, no external components are required, but keep digital switching traces away from the GP5/OSC1 and GP4/OSC2 pins to minimize coupling into the oscillator. If using an external crystal, place the load capacitors (typically 15-33 pF) within 5 mm of the OSC1 and OSC2 pins and use a guard ground ring around the oscillator traces. The 8-SOIC package is small (3.90 mm body); use 0.5 mm pitch or larger PCB pads to ease hand-soldering during prototype rework.
The PIC12CE518 uses configuration bits to select oscillator mode, Watchdog Timer enable, code protection, and MCLR function. Configuration bits must be set correctly before programming; an incorrect oscillator selection (e.g., selecting external crystal when using internal RC) prevents startup. Code protection should remain disabled during development. Refer to the Microchip PIC12C5XX/CE5XX family datasheet for the configuration word bit definitions.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free per Microchip product page. AEC-Q100 not qualified (industrial grade only); not suitable for automotive safety-critical applications. PIC12CE518 family is in last-time-buy; Microchip recommends PIC12F629 for new designs.
