Microchip PIC18F2450-I/SP: An 8-Bit Microcontroller for Embedded USB Applications
The integration of Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectivity into embedded systems has become a cornerstone of modern electronic design, enabling seamless communication with a vast array of devices. At the heart of many such implementations lies the Microchip PIC18F2450-I/SP, a robust and highly capable 8-bit microcontroller engineered specifically to simplify and empower embedded USB applications.
Built upon Microchip's enhanced PIC18 architecture, this microcontroller operates at up to 48 MHz, delivering a performance of 12 MIPS (Millions of Instructions Per Second). This processing power is crucial for handling the structured protocols of USB communication without compromising the device's primary control functions. Its most defining feature is the integrated full-speed (12 Mbps) USB 2.0 compliant serial interface engine. This hardware module manages the low-level USB protocol, significantly reducing the firmware overhead and complexity typically associated with software-based USB implementations. It supports both control and interrupt data transfers, making it exceptionally well-suited for human interface devices (HIDs) like keyboards, mice, and game controllers, as well as custom vendor-specific equipment.

Beyond its USB capabilities, the PIC18F2450-I/SP is a complete system on a chip. It features 24 Kbytes of self-programmable Flash memory and 2 Kbytes of RAM, providing ample space for application code and data handling. Its peripheral set is rich and versatile, including a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC), multiple timers, and synchronous/asynchronous serial ports (USART, SPI, I²C). This allows designers to interface with sensors, actuators, displays, and other components, creating a comprehensive embedded solution.
The device is offered in a 28-pin SPDIP (Skinny Plastic Dual In-line Package), which is ideal for prototyping, hobbyist projects, and systems where through-hole mounting is preferred for durability and ease of assembly. Its industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) ensures reliable operation in demanding environments.
In summary, the PIC18F2450-I/SP stands out as a dedicated solution for developers looking to add reliable USB connectivity to their products. By combining a powerful core with dedicated USB hardware and a rich set of integrated peripherals, it accelerates development cycles and reduces time-to-market for a wide spectrum of embedded designs.
ICGOODFIND: The PIC18F2450-I/SP is a proven and capable 8-bit MCU that excels in embedded USB applications, offering a balanced blend of dedicated connectivity hardware, sufficient processing power, and on-chip peripherals, all in a convenient through-hole package.
Keywords: USB Microcontroller, Embedded Systems, PIC18 Architecture, Full-Speed USB, HID (Human Interface Device)
