Microchip PIC16F1516T-I/SS 8-Bit Microcontroller Datasheet and Application Overview
The Microchip PIC16F1516T-I/SS is a versatile 8-bit microcontroller from the enhanced mid-range PIC16F151x family, designed to deliver a powerful blend of performance, peripheral integration, and cost-effectiveness. Housed in a compact 28-pin SSOP package, this device is engineered for a wide array of embedded control applications, from industrial and automotive systems to consumer electronics and Internet of Things (IoT) nodes.
At its core, the microcontroller features a high-performance RISC CPU with a 49-instruction set and a 16-level deep hardware stack. Operating at a maximum frequency of 32 MHz, it achieves a performance of 8 MIPS. A key architectural advantage is its independent memory-mapped architecture for data and program memory, which allows for efficient C compiler optimization and streamlined programming.
The device is equipped with a rich set of integrated peripherals that significantly reduce external component count and total system cost. Notable features include:
Enhanced PWM (ePWM) Modules: Crucial for advanced motor control and power conversion applications, offering precise timing and flexible output modes.
12-Bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC): With up to 14 channels, this high-resolution ADC provides accurate sensing and measurement of analog signals.

Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG): This peripheral works in tandem with the PWM outputs to directly control half-bridge and full-bridge drivers, adding dead-band control and auto-shutdown functionality for safe motor operation.
Hardware Capacitive Voltage Divider (CVD): Supports advanced touch sensing with built-in hardware for noise immunity, enabling the implementation of robust capacitive touch interfaces.
Multiple Communication Interfaces: It includes EUSART (for UART, LIN), SPI, and I2C modules, ensuring easy connectivity with other system components like sensors, displays, and memory.
The Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) are a standout feature. These peripherals, such as the Configurable Logic Cell (CLC), can operate without constant CPU intervention. This allows the creation of custom hardware-based logic functions, offloading the main processor to focus on other tasks, thereby improving overall system efficiency and responsiveness.
Development is supported by Microchip's comprehensive MPLAB X IDE and the MPLAB Code Configurator (MCC), a graphical programming tool that dramatically simplifies and accelerates firmware development. This tool enables developers to visually select and configure peripherals, generating initialization code and drivers, which reduces development time and potential for error.
ICGOOODFIND: The PIC16F1516T-I/SS stands out as an exceptional solution for designers seeking a high-integration, cost-optimized 8-bit MCU. Its powerful combination of Core Independent Peripherals, advanced analog capabilities, and dedicated control-focused hardware like the ePWM and CWG makes it particularly suited for sophisticated control applications, including motor control, power supplies, and user interface control.
Keywords: 8-bit Microcontroller, Core Independent Peripherals (CIP), Enhanced PWM (ePWM), Capacitive Voltage Divider (CVD), Configurable Logic Cell (CLC).
