PIC12LC672T-04/SM - 8-Bit CMOS MCU 4MHz 3.5KB OTP 8-SOIJ | Microchip
MPN: PIC12LC672T-04/SM ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.45 | $3.45 |
| 10 | $3.1 | $31.00 |
| 100 | $2.78 | $278.00 |
| 500 | $2.45 | $1,225.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.2 | $2,200.00 |
PIC12LC672T-04/SM Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory, data memory, and programmable peripherals. In the broader system hierarchy, the PIC12LC672 belongs to the 8-bit PIC microcontroller family, itself a subcategory of microcontrollers under embedded processors. The 'LC' prefix indicates the low-voltage CMOS variant, optimized for battery-friendly 3.3V systems while remaining 5V tolerant - useful when a design must bridge legacy 5V peripherals and modern 3.3V logic.
Key features include 3.5 KB OTP program memory, 128 bytes RAM, four analog input channels with 8-bit ADC, an 8-bit real-time counter (TMR0) with programmable prescaler, a Watchdog Timer (WDT) with dedicated on-chip RC oscillator, Power-On Reset (POR), Device Reset Timer (DRT), and an internal 4 MHz oscillator. The integrated 8-bit ADC eliminates the need for an external converter in simple sensor interfaces such as thermistor or potentiometer reading.
Architecturally, the PIC12LC672 uses Microchip's classic RISC Harvard architecture with a 12-bit instruction word and a two-stage pipeline, delivering 1 MIPS at 4 MHz. CMOS static design means clock can be stopped without losing register state - ideal for ultra-low-power sleep modes. The device's six general-purpose I/O pins multiplex with the ADC inputs, oscillator pins, and reset, allowing designers to remap peripheral functions as application needs dictate.
Typical applications include consumer remote controls, battery-powered sensor nodes, appliance front-panel controllers, simple motor control signal conditioning, low-end security keypads, and embedded timers in industrial 24V systems stepped down to 3.3V or 5V rails. The combination of ADC + small OTP memory makes it well suited for cost-sensitive analog-front-end products.
When designing with this part, remember that OTP memory cannot be re-programmed - production firmware must be finalized before mask programming, or the part should be replaced by an EPROM/Flash equivalent (e.g., PIC12F675 or PIC12F683) for prototyping. Decoupling capacitors (100 nF) should be placed within 5 mm of VDD, and unused I/O pins should be configured as outputs to minimize quiescent current.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in PIC12 family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC12LC672T-04/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 PIC12LC672T-04/SM (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Operating Temperature, Program Memory Size, Timers, ADC.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC12LC672-04I/SM
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12LC672-04/SM
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12C672T-04I/SM
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12C672-04E/SM
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC12C672-04/SM
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12C672T-04E/SM
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.94 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC12LC672T-04/SM Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 8-Bit CMOS Microcontroller (MCU) |
| Series | PIC 12C |
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC RISC, Harvard, 12-bit instruction word |
| Clock Speed (Max) | 4 MHz |
| Program Memory Size | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP |
| ROM Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Data EEPROM | None on PIC12LC672 (PIC12CE67x variants only) |
| I/O Pins | 6 |
| ADC | 8-bit, 4-channel integrated |
| Timers | TMR0 (8-bit) with programmable prescaler; WDT with dedicated RC oscillator |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | 0 C to +70 C (commercial grade) |
| Package | 8-SOIJ (SOIJ-8, surface-mount) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (per Microchip product family standard) |
PIC12LC672T-04/SM Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | GP5/OSC1/CLKIN — GPIO GP5 / Oscillator input / External clock input |
| Pin 2 | GP4/OSC2/CLKOUT — GPIO GP4 / Oscillator output / Clock output (4 MHz) |
| Pin 3 | GP3/MCLR/VPP — GPIO GP3 / Master Clear reset (active low) / Programming voltage |
| Pin 4 | GP2/AN2/T0CKI — GPIO GP2 / ADC input AN2 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 5 | GP1/AN1/CIN- — GPIO GP1 / ADC input AN1 / Comparator inverting input |
| Pin 6 | GP0/AN0/CIN+ — GPIO GP0 / ADC input AN0 / Comparator non-inverting input |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | VDD — Positive supply input (2.5 V to 5.5 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC12LC672T-04/SM is suitable for 6 applications: Consumer Remote Controls, Battery-Powered Sensor Nodes, Appliance Front-Panel Controllers, Low-End Security Keypads, Industrial 24V-to-3.3V Step-Down Sensor I/O, Embedded Timers and PWM Signal Conditioning.
Consumer Remote Controls
The PIC12LC672T-04/SM fits consumer infrared remote controls because its 2.5V-5.5V supply range works directly from two AAA cells (3V nominal), while 3.5 KB OTP stores the button matrix and protocol state machine for protocols such as NEC, RC5, or SIRC. Six I/O pins are sufficient for a 5-button plus IR-LED drive topology, and the integrated 8-bit ADC can monitor battery voltage to provide a low-battery indication. The MCU's CMOS static design and sleep-mode current of less than 1 uA extend battery life to multiple years in standby, which is the dominant operating mode for remote controls. Compared to a discrete logic remote controller, this part consolidates timing, debouncing, and protocol generation into one IC.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Sensor Nodes
The PIC12LC672T-04/SM is well suited to wireless or wired battery-powered sensor nodes such as thermostats, leak detectors, or portable data loggers. Its 2.5V minimum supply enables operation directly from a single Li-FeS2 AA cell (1.5V nominal with boost) or 2x AA alkaline cells (3V), and the 8-bit ADC digitizes thermistor, photocell, or moisture sensor signals with adequate resolution for threshold-based decisions. The 4 MHz CPU speed handles simple moving-average filtering and decision logic while drawing under 2 mA active. Integrated Power-On Reset and Watchdog Timer ensure reliable operation in unattended deployments where brownouts and firmware lockups are common failure modes in the field.
Recommended
Appliance Front-Panel Controllers
The PIC12LC672T-04/SM serves as the front-panel controller in appliances such as microwave ovens, washing machines, and coffee makers, where it scans a small keypad matrix, drives a 7-segment or character LCD, and reads a rotary encoder. Its 4 MHz clock is sufficient to debounce keys and multiplex displays without flicker, while 3.5 KB OTP holds the menu logic and timing routines. The wide 2.5V-5.5V supply range accepts a 5V regulated rail common in white goods, and the 6 I/O pins can be expanded with a low-cost I/O expander if more buttons are needed. The integrated ADC reads the panel NTC thermistor for safety over-temperature shutdown.
Recommended
Low-End Security Keypads
The PIC12LC672T-04/SM integrates the secure-entry keypad controller for door locks, alarm panels, and access-control readers. Its 3.5 KB OTP stores user PIN logic, lockout timers, and EEPROM emulation routines, while the 8-bit ADC monitors a tamper-detection loop or backup-battery voltage. The 2.5V minimum supply enables backup operation from two CR2032 cells during mains power loss. The Watchdog Timer recovers the MCU from electrical glitches or RF injection attempts, and the CMOS static design supports sleep-mode current under 1 uA for years of battery standby. Compared to dedicated keypad ASICs, this part allows custom PIN logic without an NRE charge.
Recommended
Industrial 24V-to-3.3V Step-Down Sensor I/O
The PIC12LC672T-04/SM is ideal as the local I/O processor on industrial 24V sensor modules, where a high-voltage step-down regulator provides a 5V or 3.3V rail. Its 2.5V-5.5V supply tolerance simplifies integration with both 5V and 3.3V sub-rails in the same module. The 4 MHz PIC RISC core handles Modbus RTU slave framing or simple discrete I/O aggregation, while the 8-bit ADC reads 4-20 mA loop signals through a sense resistor. The integrated Watchdog Timer is critical for industrial environments where EMI bursts can corrupt program flow. Operating from 0C to 70C, the part fits indoor control cabinets; for outdoor -40C to 85C operation, select the PIC12LC672T-04I/SM industrial-grade drop-in alternative.
Recommended
Embedded Timers and PWM Signal Conditioning
The PIC12LC672T-04/SM fits compact timing applications such as conveyor-belt sequencers, traffic-light controllers, or HVAC damper actuators where multiple timed events must occur in sequence. Its TMR0 8-bit timer with programmable prescaler generates accurate delays up to several seconds without CPU polling, and the Watchdog Timer provides automatic recovery from firmware lockups. The 2.5V-5.5V supply range accepts the 24V industrial rail after step-down, while 3.5 KB OTP stores the timing schedule and ramp profiles. Although the part lacks a hardware PWM peripheral, software PWM at modest frequencies (a few hundred Hz) is feasible for servo or solenoid control.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC12LC672T-04/SM — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC12LC672-04I/SM | PIC12LC672-04/SM | PIC12C672T-04I/SM | PIC12C672-04E/SM | PIC12C672-04/SM | PIC12C672T-04E/SM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 8-SOIJ (SM) | 8-SOIJ (SM) - same | 8-SOIJ (SM) - same | 8-SOIJ (SM) - same | 8-SOIJ (SM) - same | 8-SOIJ (SM) - same | 8-SOIJ (SM) - same |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V (LC variant) | 2.5 V to 5.5 V (LC) | 2.5 V to 5.5 V (LC) | 3.0 V to 5.5 V (C variant, +0.5V min) | 3.0 V to 5.5 V (C variant) | 3.0 V to 5.5 V (C variant) | 3.0 V to 5.5 V (C variant) |
| Clock Speed | 4 MHz (1 MIPS) | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz | 4 MHz |
| Program Memory | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP | 3.5 KB OTP |
| Temperature Range | 0 C to +70 C (commercial) | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | 0 C to +70 C (commercial) | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) | -40 C to +125 C (extended) | 0 C to +70 C (commercial) | -40 C to +125 C (extended) |
| ADC | 8-bit, 4-channel | 8-bit, 4-channel | 8-bit, 4-channel | 8-bit, 4-channel | 8-bit, 4-channel | 8-bit, 4-channel | 8-bit, 4-channel |
| I/O Pins | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Approx. Unit Price (qty 100) | $2.78 | $2.95 | $2.70 | $2.65 | $2.85 | $2.55 | $2.75 |
Key Differentiators
- Lowest minimum supply voltage in the PIC12C67x family (vs PIC12C672T-04I/SM)
- Integrated 8-bit ADC with 4 channels (vs External ADC + discrete MCU)
- Mature ACTIVE production status (vs Newer PIC16F or PIC18F alternatives)
Design Notes
Decouple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of pin 8, with a low-ESR 10 uF bulk capacitor on the same rail. The PIC12LC672T-04/SM draws a peak supply current of approximately 2 mA active at 4 MHz; sleeping current is under 1 uA. Unused I/O pins must be configured as outputs (set low) to minimize quiescent current - floating inputs can each leak several microamps. For battery designs, gate the regulator with the MCLR line so the MCU can fully power down between tasks.
The 8-SOIJ package has J-leads underneath the body; ensure PCB pad design uses non-solder-mask-defined (NSMD) pads with 0.6 mm pitch to match the leadframe. Place the IC away from board edges to avoid stress on the J-leads during depanelization. If the design requires ICSP (in-circuit serial programming), bring the GP1/GP0/GP3/VPP/VDD/VSS signals to a 5-pin header strip and isolate MCLR with a series resistor-capacitor network (typical 10 kohm + 100 nF).
OTP memory can be programmed only once - firmware must be fully debugged on a Flash-equivalent (e.g., PIC12F675) before mask-programming production parts. Verify the MCLR pin (GP3) is pulled high through a 10 kohm resistor and never left floating, or the device may intermittently reset. The ADC requires the GP0-GP2 pins be configured as analog inputs (clearing the corresponding CMCON and ANSEL bits in software); leaving them as digital inputs will prevent conversion. The internal 4 MHz oscillator is factory-trimmed to within +/- 2% and does not require external calibration for UART-free applications.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance per Microchip product family declaration. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - choose PIC18 or dsPIC for automotive. Halogen-free status to be verified with latest Microchip material declaration.
