Overview
The PIC10F200 is a versatile and ultra-compact 8-bit microcontroller from Microchip Technology. It is specifically designed for applications requiring minimal resources, offering a reliable and cost-effective solution for small-scale control tasks. This microcontroller is ideal for engineers and hobbyists working on embedded systems where simplicity and efficiency are paramount.
Despite its compact size, the PIC10F200 delivers essential features, including a reliable internal oscillator, basic I/O capabilities, and low-power operation, making it suitable for battery-powered devices and energy-conscious projects.
Specifications
The following specifications highlight the key features of the PIC10F200 microcontroller:
- CPU Architecture: 8-bit PIC architecture
- Operating Voltage: 2.0V to 5.5V
- Clock Speed: 4 MHz internal oscillator
- Flash Memory: 256 bytes
- RAM: 16 bytes
- GPIO: 4 I/O pins (customizable)
- Timers: Single 8-bit Timer0
- Special Features: Watchdog Timer, Sleep Mode
- Package: Compact 6-pin SOT-23 or DIP package
Features
The PIC10F200 offers essential features tailored for basic control applications:
- Internal Oscillator: Operates at a default frequency of 4 MHz, eliminating the need for external clock components.
- Watchdog Timer (WDT): Enhances system reliability by resetting the microcontroller in the event of software malfunctions or hang-ups.
- Low-Power Sleep Mode: Conserves energy, making the PIC10F200 ideal for battery-powered or energy-sensitive applications.
- Compact Design: The small 6-pin package is suitable for space-constrained projects.
- Easy Programming: Supports In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP), enabling updates without removing the microcontroller from the circuit.
These features make the PIC10F200 a preferred choice for applications requiring simplicity, low cost, and reliability.
Applications
Thanks to its minimalistic design and efficient features, the PIC10F200 microcontroller is widely used in a variety of low-cost and low-complexity projects:
- LED Control: Ideal for driving LEDs in lighting effects, indicators, and simple display systems.
- Button and Switch Debouncing: Provides clean, noise-free signals from mechanical buttons or switches.
- Timing Applications: Functions as a simple timer for small devices or time-based tasks.
- Signal Processing: Handles basic signal generation or simple data processing tasks.
- Battery-Powered Devices: Powers compact and portable gadgets where energy efficiency is essential.
Its affordability and simplicity make it popular in educational settings, DIY projects, and prototypes for small-scale products.
Programming
Programming the PIC10F200 microcontroller is straightforward and supported by Microchip’s robust development ecosystem. Here’s how you can get started:
Development Tools
- MPLAB X IDE: A full-featured integrated development environment for writing, testing, and debugging your code.
- MPLAB XC8 Compiler: A C compiler optimized for PIC microcontrollers.
- MPLAB Code Configurator (MCC): A code generation tool to simplify peripheral initialization and configuration.
Programming Tools
- PICkit 3: A popular and affordable programmer/debugger for ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming).
- PICkit 5: An upgraded version of PICkit with enhanced debugging features and faster performance.
- Other third-party programmers compatible with PIC ICSP technology.
Programming Workflow
Follow these steps to program the PIC10F200:
- Download and install MPLAB X IDE and the XC8 compiler.
- Connect the PIC10F200 microcontroller to your development board or circuit using an ICSP programmer.
- Create a new project in MPLAB X IDE, configure your microcontroller, and write your code.
- Compile the code and program the device using the PICkit or other compatible programmer.
- Test and debug your project using the debugging tools available in MPLAB X IDE.
Microchip’s tools and resources make programming the PIC10F200 accessible to beginners and experts alike.