Microchip PIC18F87J60-I/PT: A Comprehensive Technical Overview

The Microchip PIC18F87J60-I/PT represents a significant integration of a high-performance microcontroller with a robust Ethernet controller, making it a cornerstone solution for embedded networking applications. As a member of the enhanced PIC18 family, this device combines the processing power of an 8-bit architecture with a full-featured 10BASE-T Ethernet MAC and PHY, enabling seamless connectivity in a compact, 80-pin TQFP package.

At its core, the microcontroller is built upon an enhanced PIC18 CPU with a 16-bit wide instruction set and an 8-bit data path. It operates at speeds up to 41.67 MHz, delivering a performance of 10 MIPS. This processing capability is well-suited for handling the TCP/IP protocol stack and application code simultaneously. A key feature is the integrated Ethernet controller, which includes a dedicated Serial Network Interface (SNI) for efficient data transfer to and from the internal 8-Kbyte buffer, offloading the CPU from extensive memory management tasks.

The device boasts a substantial 128 Kbytes of self-programmable Flash memory and 3,808 bytes of RAM, providing ample space for complex firmware and data buffering required in networked systems. Its peripheral set is exceptionally rich, including a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with up to 13 channels, multiple timers, CCP and ECCP modules for PWM control, and support for various serial communication protocols like SPI, I²C, and a USART. This extensive integration reduces external component count, simplifying design and lowering overall system cost.

For robust network connectivity, the integrated IEEE 802.3 compliant Ethernet PHY supports automatic polarity detection and correction. The controller efficiently handles Ethernet frame transmission and reception, supporting full-duplex and half-duplex modes.

Development is streamlined through Microchip's comprehensive software suite, including the MPLAB® X IDE and the free TCP/IP stack, which is optimized for the internal controller, accelerating time-to-market for IoT, industrial control, and sensing applications.

ICGOOODFIND: The PIC18F87J60-I/PT is a highly integrated, single-chip solution that masterfully combines a powerful 8-bit microcontroller with a complete Ethernet interface. Its extensive memory, rich peripheral set, and dedicated networking hardware make it an exceptional choice for developers building connected embedded systems without the complexity of an external network controller.

Keywords: Ethernet Controller, Integrated MAC/PHY, 8-bit Microcontroller, Embedded Networking, TCP/IP Stack.