PIC12CE518T-04E/SM - 8-bit 4MHz OTP MCU 6 I/O SOIJ-8 | Microchip
MPN: PIC12CE518T-04E/SM ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.95 | $2.95 |
| 10 | $2.65 | $26.50 |
| 100 | $2.2 | $220.00 |
| 500 | $1.85 | $925.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.55 | $1,550.00 |
PIC12CE518T-04E/SM Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, non-volatile program memory, working RAM, and peripherals onto one silicon die. The PIC12C5xx family sits at the entry level of Microchip's 8-bit portfolio, sitting hierarchically under: PIC microcontroller -> 8-bit PIC -> PIC12C5xx baseline OTP/EPROM family -> PIC12CE5xx with ADC. RISC architectures like the PIC12CE518 use a fixed instruction width and two-stage pipeline to deliver deterministic instruction timing (one instruction per clock cycle after the pipeline fills), which simplifies real-time scheduling in low-cost embedded designs.
Key features include 4 MHz maximum oscillator frequency, low-power CMOS工艺 giving typical active current below 2 mA at 5 V / 4 MHz, an internal RC oscillator option, and selectable oscillator configurations (RC, XT, LP, HS, INTOSC). The 8-bit ADC with 4 input channels multiplexed across the GPIO pins enables sensor-to-digital conversion without an external ADC IC. The -04E suffix indicates a 4 MHz speed grade and 'E' extended-temperature grade (-40C to +125C) suitable for industrial environments, while 'T' indicates tape-and-reel packaging and 'SM' designates the SOIJ-8 package.
Architecturally, the PIC12CE518 uses a Harvard-style separate program/data bus, with a 12-bit-wide instruction word for OTP memory and 8-bit data path. The 6 I/O pins each have individually controllable weak pull-ups, TTL-buffered input thresholds, and CMOS-compatible output drivers. The MCLR reset, INT interrupt, and GP0-GP5 port pins share the 8 SOIJ pins, with one pin dedicated to MCLR and the remaining six mapped to GPIO and ADC channels.
Typical applications include battery-powered sensor interfaces, simple appliance controls, low-cost LED lighting controllers, automotive interior modules, security keypads, and industrial sensor transmitters. The combination of ADC + OTP memory + 6 I/O makes the PIC12CE518 particularly well-suited for cost-sensitive embedded nodes where a few analog inputs need to be digitized and a few GPIOs need to drive relays, LEDs, or user interfaces.
When designing with this device, ensure the 4 MHz oscillator source is stable and within the chosen mode's drive spec (XT mode = standard crystal, HS = high-speed crystal, LP = low-power 32 kHz, RC = resistor/capacitor). Always enable the Watchdog Timer in safety-critical applications and validate the POR threshold against the slowest expected Vdd rise time. Use the ICD-compatible pinout only with a PIC10/12/16 in-circuit debugger; production boards should leave the MCLR/GP3 pin accessible for in-system programming if firmware updates are anticipated.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC12CE518T-04E/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 PIC12CE518T-04E/SM (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory Size, Instruction Set, Program Memory Type, Core Architecture.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC12CE518-04E/SM
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.6 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12CE518T-04/SM
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.24 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12CE519-04E/SM
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12C672T-04E/SM
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.94 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12F675T-I/SM
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12C509A-04/SM
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.99 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12CE518T-04E/SM Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC |
| Series | PIC12C5xx |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable EPROM) |
| Program Memory Size | 768 bytes (512 x 12) |
| RAM Size | 25 x 8 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 4 MHz |
| Operating Voltage Range | 3.0 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 6 |
| ADC | 8-bit, 4 channels |
| Package | SOIJ-8 (SM), 5.30 mm body |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (E-grade, extended) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes (WDT) |
| Power-On Reset | Yes (POR) |
| Instruction Set | 33 single-word/single-cycle instructions |
PIC12CE518T-04E/SM Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | GP2 — General-purpose I/O / AN2 / T0CKI |
| Pin 2 | GP3/MCLR — General-purpose I/O or Master Clear (reset) |
| Pin 3 | GP4 — General-purpose I/O / AN3 |
| Pin 4 | GP5 — General-purpose I/O |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 6 | GP0 — General-purpose I/O / AN0 |
| Pin 7 | GP1 — General-purpose I/O / AN1 / VREF |
| Pin 8 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (3.0 V to 5.5 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC12CE518T-04E/SM is suitable for 6 applications: Battery-Powered Sensor Interface, Appliance Control MCU, LED Lighting Controller, Automotive Interior Module, Security Keypad and Access Control, Industrial Sensor Transmitter.
Battery-Powered Sensor Interface
The PIC12CE518T-04E/SM is well suited for ultra-low-cost battery-powered sensor nodes that need a few analog channels digitized without an external ADC. Its integrated 8-bit ADC samples thermistor/photodiode voltages on GP0/GP1/GP2/GP4 and the 4 MHz core runs sensor polling loops while consuming under 2 mA active. The 768-byte OTP holds calibration tables and a small state machine, and the extended -40C to +125C temperature grade handles outdoor and automotive sensor pods. Compared with discrete 555-timer + op-amp designs, this single-chip implementation reduces PCB area by ~70% and improves long-term calibration stability. Use the on-chip POR and WDT to wake after brownouts and watchdog any stuck I/O state.
Recommended
Appliance Control MCU
The PIC12CE518T-04E/SM is widely used as a low-cost MCU in small appliances (coffee makers, blenders, slow cookers, kitchen timers) where it reads push buttons, drives LED indicators, and times motor or heater cycles. Six GPIO pins are sufficient for 2-3 status LEDs, 2-3 push-button inputs, and one triac/relay drive. The 8-bit ADC can monitor mains-voltage-derived signals or temperature sensors for safety shutdown. With 4 MHz operation and a 768-byte OTP program, the firmware fits comfortably in this MCU and the -40C to +125C rating handles the heat near stove tops. Replacing electromechanical timers with this PIC implementation improves timing accuracy from seconds to milliseconds and enables user-programmable features at minimal BOM cost.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controller
The PIC12CE518T-04E/SM can drive multi-channel LED fixtures with PWM-like bit-banging, color-temperature mixing, or simple on/off sequencing in cost-sensitive consumer lighting products. The 4 MHz core generates software PWM at sufficient resolution for visible-light color blending, and 6 GPIOs handle 3 LED channels (red/green/blue) plus a mode button and status LED. The integrated ADC allows ambient-light sensing via an LDR on one of the analog-capable pins, enabling automatic brightness adjustment. At 3.0 V minimum supply, the part runs directly from a 2-AA battery stack or a small switching regulator. Compared with dedicated LED driver ICs, this MCU-based approach adds programmability (custom patterns, fade curves) at the cost of firmware development.
Recommended
Automotive Interior Module
Within an automotive interior (reading lamps, vanity mirror controllers, ambient lighting, simple sensor pods), the PIC12CE518T-04E/SM handles button decoding, RGB LED control, and ADC-based ambient-light sensing. The extended -40C to +125C temperature grade covers the cabin and door-panel thermal envelope. The 8-pin SOIJ footprint fits behind trim panels where PCB area is scarce. Note that for under-hood or AEC-Q100-mandated positions, designers should select the automotive-graded PIC12F family or PIC16F equivalent - the PIC12CE518T-04E/SM is not AEC-Q100 qualified. For cabin-only automotive uses, the combination of low cost, small package, and wide temperature range remains attractive.
Recommended
Security Keypad and Access Control
The PIC12CE518T-04E/SM is a fit for low-cost security keypads and entry-system controllers where it scans a 3x4 or 4x4 matrix keypad, debounces inputs, drives a relay or buzzer, and stores entry codes in a small state machine. The 6 GPIOs can matrix-scan up to 12 keys using a 3x4 arrangement (3 columns + 4 rows), and the ADC can monitor a tamper switch or supply voltage for tamper detection. The on-chip WDT prevents the keypad from locking up if the firmware enters an invalid state. Compared with dedicated keypad controller ICs, the PIC implementation is more flexible (custom codes, lockout timing, audit trails) but requires firmware development. The 768-byte OTP is sufficient for code tables and lockout logic.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Transmitter
For 4-20 mA loop-powered or simple industrial sensor transmitters, the PIC12CE518T-04E/SM digitizes a sensor signal via the 8-bit ADC, performs linearization or scaling in firmware, and outputs the result via GPIO bit-banging or simple analog reconstruction. The -40C to +125C industrial temperature grade covers factory-floor environments, and the 4 MHz core handles modest update loops (1-100 Hz typical). The 6 I/O pins are sufficient for SPI sensor interface + status LED + HART modem chip-select where used. Compared with dedicated ASIC sensor conditioners, this MCU approach is highly flexible across sensor types (RTD, thermocouple, strain gauge) but requires per-product firmware development. The OTP memory locks the calibration at programming time, providing long-term stability for deployed units.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC12CE518T-04E/SM — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC12CE518-04E/SM | PIC12CE518T-04/SM | PIC12CE519-04E/SM | PIC12F675T-I/SM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | SOIJ-8 (SM) | SOIJ-8 (SM) - same | SOIJ-8 (SM) - same | SOIJ-8 (SM) - same | SOIJ-8 (SM) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory | 768 B OTP | 768 B OTP | 1536 B OTP | 2048 B OTP | 1024 words flash |
| RAM Size | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 25 bytes | 64 bytes | 128 bytes |
| ADC | 8-bit, 4 ch | 8-bit, 4 ch | 8-bit, 4 ch | 10-bit, 4 ch | No ADC |
| Max Clock | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 20 MHz (4 MHz INTOSC) | 4 MHz |
| Operating Voltage | 3.0-5.5 V | 3.0-5.5 V | 3.0-5.5 V | 2.0-5.5 V | 3.0-5.5 V |
| Memory Type | OTP | OTP | OTP | Flash (reprogrammable) | OTP |
| Internal Oscillator | No (external required) | No | No | Yes, 4 MHz calibrated | |
| Temperature Grade | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +125C (E) | 0C to +70C (commercial) | -40C to +85C (I) |
Key Differentiators
- Integrated 8-bit ADC without external IC (vs PIC12C508A)
- Higher temperature grade than PIC12F equivalent (vs PIC12F675T-I/SM)
- Doubled OTP memory vs base PIC12CE518 (vs PIC12CE518)
Design Notes
The PIC12CE518T-04E/SM operating voltage is 3.0-5.5 V per the Microchip PIC12C5xx datasheet (DS40194E). Operation below 3.0 V is not guaranteed and EPROM read errors may occur. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible between VDD (pin 8) and VSS (pin 5); add a 10 uF bulk capacitor at the regulator output for transient suppression. The internal POR holds the device in reset until VDD rises above the POR threshold (~1.5-2.0 V typical); for slow-rising supplies, an external RC delay on MCLR is recommended.
Choose the oscillator mode (LP/XT/HS/RC/INTOSC) via configuration fuses at programming time. For 4 MHz designs the XT mode with a parallel-resonant crystal and two 15-33 pF load capacitors is the standard reference circuit. The HS mode supports 4-20 MHz crystals but the -04 speed grade limits effective operation to 4 MHz. The INTOSC option (internal RC, approximately 4 MHz nominal) eliminates external components but provides only +/- 10% accuracy across temperature. For UART or timing-critical applications use an external crystal in XT mode.
Watch out for three common design mistakes: (1) Connecting MCLR/GP3 directly to VDD without a pull-up - the MCLR function requires a pull-up to VDD (typically 10 kOhm) for normal operation; (2) Forgetting that GP3 is input-only - it cannot be used as an output pin, only as MCLR or digital input; (3) Choosing the 'I' (industrial -40C to +85C) suffix instead of 'E' (extended -40C to +125C) when the design will see temperatures above 85C, e.g. near a heater or under direct sunlight. The 'E' suffix on the PIC12CE518T-04E/SM is essential for outdoor or industrial deployments.
Compliance Information
RoHS, REACH, lead-free, and halogen-free status not explicitly stated in the verified distributor data. Microchip's legacy PIC12C5xx family was originally released before RoHS mandates; many legacy parts were transitioned to lead-free / RoHS-compliant versions over time, but specific compliance must be confirmed on the manufacturer certificate of conformance (CoC) for each date code. AEC-Q100 is not applicable for consumer/industrial -40C to +125C parts in the Microchip legacy PIC family; the automotive Q-graded versions are not available in the PIC12C5xx line.
