Byron Jeff wrote:

> There are millions of pages of Microchip PIC discussions/projects that
> use the 16F84[A]. With a preponderance of them, newbies (and the OP
> stated that) are not really aware that they are for the most part
> obsolete. So by asking

I've said this before (a long time ago) ...
For a newbie, wanting to learn PIC16 assembler, there is no part that
comes close to the 16F84[A].  It is ABSOLUTELY the right part for that
first project.  Certainly, it is hard to defend for a second project, but
for the first project it is unequalled.

In developing my Elmer 160 course I of course exchanged many, many emails
with people just starting out.  The whole concept of the microcontroller
is intimidating, and all the other parts have additional complexities
that, while useful for the experienced programmer, are terrifying to the
newbie.  Yes, the enhanced PIC16 parts have nice features, the 18F's even
nicer.  But if you are approaching microcontroller development for the
first time, no 8-bit part presents a lower barrier than the 84.

That being said, in this day and age I would question the choice of any 8
bit part. The OP said he was a newbie, and presumably also a hobbyist.  In
2012 it is hard to defend the 8 bit parts when the 16 bit parts cost
barely any more, are infinitely more capable, far easier to use, and have
much better tool support.  The only downside to the 16 bit parts is that
the sheer weight of the datasheet can be a little intimidating.

Sure, when you are making a million of something the price difference is a
big deal.  But for a one-off, why not spend an extra fifty cents or a buck
and get a much more capable and easier to use device?

As a hobbyist, OP may well want to learn PIC16 assembler, and for someone
dipping his toe into that particular pond, especially if he has a limited
background in microcontrollers, the PIC16F84A is the right tool for the
job.  For other jobs, not so much.

--McD


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