What this 8-bit PIC brings to a BOM line
The Microchip PIC16F690-I/ML is an 8-bit PIC® 16F microcontroller that runs at 20 MHz, packing 7 KB of Flash program memory (4K x 14 words), 256 bytes of RAM, and 256 bytes of EEPROM for nonvolatile parameter storage.
Memory sizing for firmware and data
The 7 KB Flash is enough for moderate firmware — think PID loops, state machines, or Modbus slave stacks — but you'll want to budget tightly if you're adding a bootloader or OTA staging. The 256-byte RAM handles a few data buffers and register variables; heavy look-up tables or large packet queues will push you to external serial RAM or a larger sibling. The 256-byte EEPROM is handy for calibration constants and configuration bytes that survive a reset without wearing the Flash.
Supply range and power rail flexibility
Rated from 2 V to 5.5 V, this MCU runs directly off two alkaline cells, a Li-ion battery (with a regulator), or a 3.3 V / 5 V logic rail. No external LDO needed if your system voltage is within that window — one less part on the BOM.
Package and hand-soldering reality
It remains a standard catalog part, available through the usual distribution channels.