The Embedded Workhorse
In equestrian, the workhorse is that reliable stable that churns away at getting the work done. The form of the stable has evolved from 4BIT to 8BIT devices and then leapt to 32BIT devices. While the 16BITs are in the mix, the 32BIT devices have since taken deep root.
We have often posted articles on the current standing of a particularly long standing device derivative, and its a foundational one. 8 BIT devices succeeded the 4BIT genre, and when you think about the possibilities of working with a 4 BIT device, does it surprise you that they still make them.
What is the value proposition in using an 8BIT device? In the table below, take a moment to consider the options on hand.
Value Proposition | Benefit |
|---|---|
Low Cost | Devices can cost well under US$1 in volume. |
Low Power | Excellent for battery-powered products. |
Simplicity | Easier hardware and firmware design. |
Fast Start-up | Power-up in microseconds. |
High Reliability | Mature architecture with decades of proven use. |
Long Product Life | Many devices remain in production for 10โ20 years. |
Minimal Memory Requirements | Typical applications fit comfortably in 2โ32 KB Flash. |
Excellent Peripheral Set | ADC, PWM, timers, UART, SPI, IยฒC, comparators, CLC, CWG, etc. |
Industrial Temperature Ratings | Many devices available from -40ยฐC to +125ยฐC. |
Overall value proposition
To make that call, you need a basis for comparison. Consider the basis below, when comparing 8 BIT and 32 BIT devices. Granted this comparison does not take the specific application into consideration, it does however provide a comparison baseline for applications.
๏ปฟ
Requirement | 8-bit PIC | 32-bit MCU |
|---|---|---|
Cost | โ โ โ โ โ | โ โ โ |
Power consumption | โ โ โ โ โ | โ โ โ โ |
Simplicity | โ โ โ โ โ | โ โ โ |
Processing power | โ โ | โ โ โ โ โ |
Memory capacity | โ โ | โ โ โ โ โ |
Real-time control | โ โ โ โ โ | โ โ โ โ |
Battery applications | โ โ โ โ โ | โ โ โ โ |
Graphics/UI | โ | โ โ โ โ โ |
Connectivity | โ โ โ | โ โ โ โ โ |
๏ปฟ
The strength of an 8-bit PIC is delivering exactly the amount of computing power needed for control-oriented applications without paying for unused performance. For products that read sensors, control actuators, communicate over UART/IยฒC/SPI, and operate reliably for years at minimal cost and power, an 8-bit PIC often provides the best balance of cost, simplicity, and longevity.