The 18-pin microcontrollers from PIC16F series have always been my favorite processors. They are small in size (so occupies less area on the circuit board), and are very easy to use. Besides they are capable enough to do most projects that don’t require a large amount of computational capability. I have used PIC16F628A and PIC16F1827 in most of my tutorials and projects posted on http://www.Embedded-Lab.com.
I have found them very handy and will be using them more in the future. So I thought of making of a breakout board for 18-pin PIC16F series. I recently used iTeadStudio’s inexpensive PCB service for making PCBs of the board. Here are some pictures that show the circuit diagram and the assembled board.
There are two tact switches on the board: one for reset and other for user input. Similarly, there are two LEDs: one for power-on indicator and the other for user output. The input tact switch and the output LED can be connected to RB0 and RB1 pins respectively through a 2-pin dip switch.
The switch and the LED are useful for a quick test of the board. The microcontroller clock is derived using an external ceramic resonator having 3 pins with built-in load capacitors. PORTA (RA0-RA4) and PORTB (RB0-RB7) pins of the microcontroller are accessible for experimenting through header pins (male, female, or right-angled). A 5-pin header is also available for ICSP programming through a PICkit2 or PICkit3.
For more detail: Breakout board for 18-pin PIC16F series microcontrollers
About The Author
Ibrar Ayyub
I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.
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