d.i.y. Handheld Multichannel Analyzer (MCA) based on 16F877 PIC Microcontroller and LCD

Summary of d.i.y. Handheld Multichannel Analyzer (MCA) based on 16F877 PIC Microcontroller and LCD


The article describes a DIY handheld Multichannel Analyzer (MCA) project using a PIC16F877 microcontroller. It features histogramming with 95 channels stored in the microcontroller's variable RAM. The histogram runs until a channel reaches 240 counts, corresponding to an 8-bit max count scaled to the 30-pixel LCD height. The firmware displays a bar spectrum for each channel on the LCD. Additional resources include construction instructions and a schematic for the MCA's front-end.

Parts used in the DIY Handheld Multichannel Analyzer (MCA):

  • PIC16F877 Microcontroller
  • LCD Display (30-pixel height)
  • Variable RAM within the PIC16F877
  • Front-end analog circuitry (details in schematic PDF)

Some time ago I was developing a medical instrument which required histogramming, which got me in the mood to retake my own PIC MCA project(http://home.comcast.net/~prutchi/index_files/scint.htm ).

d.i.y. Handheld Multichannel Analyzer (MCA) based on 16F877 PIC Microcontroller and LCD

I used the variable RAM in the microcontroller (16F877), so I limited the number of channels to 95 and let the histogram run until some channel reaches 240 counts (the highest 8-bit number that yields an integer when divided by 8 which is also divisible by the 30 pixel height of the LCD).

d.i.y. Handheld Multichannel Analyzer (MCA) based on 16F877 PIC Microcontroller and LCD

The firmware then displays the spectrum as a bar with a maximum height of 30 pixels for each one of the 95 channels.

Click here for complete how-to construction instructions in pdf format.

Click here for a pdf of the schematic diagram for the front-end of the MCA

 

For more detail: d.i.y. Handheld Multichannel Analyzer (MCA) based on 16F877 PIC Microcontroller and LCD


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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