PIC Microcontroller
From Mech
Jump to navigationJump to searchThe printable version is no longer supported and may have rendering errors. Please update your browser bookmarks and please use the default browser print function instead.
Introduction
PIC microcontrollers are produced by the company Microchip Technology Inc. They produce a full line of chips ranging from 6 to 80 pins with a range of memory capacities, speeds, interfaces and peripherals. They are useful for small mechatronics projects because of their small size, low cost, and I/O capabilities.
Chips
Here is some documentation on PICs available in the lab.
- PIC16F684 - The PIC16F684 is a 14-pin/8-bit flash memory-based PIC. It features 4-channel PWM, 12 pins of programmable I/O, a 20MHz clock, uses less than 1 mW of power and costs about $3 each. It was purchased for the lab to function as a dedicated mid-level motor controller chip. (Digikey Part #: PIC16F684-I/P-ND)
Below is a list of other chips that could be considered in addition to the PICs available in the lab.
- PIC18F2431 - High Performance PWM and A/D 28-pin chip (Digikey # PIC18F2431-I/SP-ND $9.70)
- 40 MHz SDIP
- 6 channels of PWM
- - for negative voltage inputs
- 2 Phase/1 Index Encoder Input w/ Position/Velocity measurement
- Special Hall Sensor interface
- works with PICkit 2 (Digikey # DV164120-ND $50)
- Compatible with PIC16 code
Programming
Kits
Microchip makes various kits for progrmaming PIC chips. Using Microchip's MPLAB software, you can write, simulate and program your code.
- PICkit 1 - One of the simplest and easiest is the PICkit. It uses a USB interface to connect the PIC to a PC. It is a low-cost solution at approximately $40/kit. (Digikey Part #: DV164101-ND or DV164120-ND)
- PICkit 2 - supports more advanced PICs. Also USB, slightly more expensive at $50.
Coding
Here are some good links for programming:
- Nebojsa Matic, "PIC Programming," http://www.mikroelektronika.co.yu/english/product/books/PICbook/0_Uvod.htm
Here is a table of instructions: