old pic chips

[Art]

Nice gesture there Richard. I think most of these (or substitutes)
should be available as free samples from Microchip.
I've personally never been turned down.

For 12C509/A wite a flashing LED and clock it with the internal RC clock,
Then power it with a bench supply, stand back a little,
and gradually increase the voltage while limiting the current.
I'm sure you would be suprised!

Hmm... I wonder if a 16F84 / 16C84 could be an obscure collector's item one day...