PIC12LC508A-04I/P Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PIC12LC508A-04I/P is an 8-bit microcontroller from Microchip Technology's PIC® 12C series, featuring 768B of OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory and operating at 4MHz. This device is classified as obsolete, making substitute parts necessary for new designs and production continuity. The primary alternative is the PIC12F508-I/P, which maintains functional compatibility while offering FLASH memory technology and active product status.

Substiute Parts

PIC12LC508A-04I/P

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 670PIC12LC508A-04I/P Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PIC12F508-I/P

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 25435PIC12F508-I/P Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The PIC12F508-I/P qualifies as a direct substitute for the PIC12LC508A-04I/P based on the following critical parameters:

• Core Processor & Architecture: Both use PIC core architecture
• Core Size: Identical 8-bit processing capability
• Speed: Both operate at 4MHz
• Program Memory Size: Both feature 768B (512 x 12) memory capacity
• RAM Size: Both provide 25 x 8 RAM configuration
• Number of I/O: Both offer 5 I/O pins
• Voltage Supply Range: PIC12F508-I/P supports 2V ~ 5.5V (encompasses the 2.5V ~ 5.5V requirement)
• Operating Temperature: Identical -40°C ~ 85°C range
• Mounting Type & Package: Both use Through Hole mounting in 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm) package
• Peripherals: Both include POR and WDT functionality
• Oscillator Type: Both feature internal oscillator

The primary difference is the program memory technology: OTP versus FLASH. This distinction does not prevent substitution; rather, it enables enhanced functionality through reprogrammability.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PIC12F508-I/P is the appropriate substitute for the obsolete PIC12LC508A-04I/P based on the following factors:

• Product Status: The PIC12LC508A-04I/P is obsolete, while the PIC12F508-I/P maintains active product status, ensuring long-term availability and manufacturer support.
• Regulatory Compliance: Both parts maintain identical RoHS3 compliance, REACH unaffected status, and EAR99 ECCN classification, meeting regulatory requirements without modification.
• Functional Equivalence: All critical electrical and mechanical parameters align, including core architecture, memory capacity, I/O configuration, voltage supply range, operating temperature, and package form factor.
• Enhanced Capability: The FLASH memory technology of the PIC12F508-I/P provides reprogrammability, offering operational advantages over the OTP memory of the original part without introducing compatibility concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PIC12F508-I/P be used as a direct replacement for the PIC12LC508A-04I/P in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical core processor architecture, memory capacity, I/O count, voltage supply range, operating temperature, and 8-DIP package. The electrical and mechanical interfaces are fully compatible.

Q: What is the primary difference between these two parts?

A: The PIC12LC508A-04I/P uses OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory, while the PIC12F508-I/P uses FLASH memory. FLASH memory allows multiple reprogramming cycles, whereas OTP memory can be programmed only once. This difference does not affect pin compatibility or electrical operation.

Q: Are there any voltage supply considerations when substituting?

A: The PIC12F508-I/P supports a wider voltage supply range (2V ~ 5.5V) compared to the PIC12LC508A-04I/P (2.5V ~ 5.5V). This wider range is compatible with applications designed for the original part and does not introduce any restrictions.

Q: Do both parts require the same PCB footprint?

A: Yes. Both parts use the 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm) Through Hole package, requiring identical PCB footprints and socket configurations.

Q: Are regulatory certifications maintained with this substitution?

A: Yes. Both parts maintain RoHS3 compliance, REACH unaffected status, and EAR99 ECCN classification. No regulatory modifications are required.

Q: Why is the PIC12F508-I/P recommended over the original part?

A: The PIC12LC508A-04I/P is classified as obsolete, limiting future availability and manufacturer support. The PIC12F508-I/P maintains active product status while providing identical functionality and enhanced reprogrammability through FLASH memory technology.