PIC16F1578T-I/GZ - 8-bit MCU, 7KB Flash, 4x16-bit PWM, 20-UQFN | Microchip
MPN: PIC16F1578T-I/GZ ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.05 | $1.05 |
| 10 | $0.92 | $9.20 |
| 100 | $0.78 | $78.00 |
| 500 | $0.69 | $345.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.61 | $610.00 |
| 3,000 | $0.55 | $1,650.00 |
PIC16F1578T-I/GZ Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, memory (Flash/RAM), and peripherals on one die. Within the semiconductor taxonomy, the PIC16F1578 sits in the hierarchy of microcontroller -> 8-bit MCU -> PIC16 family -> enhanced mid-range core. PIC16 MCUs use a modified Harvard RISC architecture with a 14-bit instruction word optimized for deterministic real-time control. Compared with 32-bit Cortex-M parts, 8-bit PIC16 devices offer smaller code footprints, lower cost per I/O, and simpler toolchains (MPLAB X + XC8) for cost-sensitive embedded designs.
Key features include four 16-bit PWMs with independent timers for high-resolution duty cycle control (critical for LED dimming, digital SMPS reference loops, and brushless DC commutation), a 10-bit ADC with up to 12 channels for analog sensing, configurable logic cells (CLC) and numerically controlled oscillator (NCO) peripherals for waveform synthesis, and an integrated 32 MHz high-speed oscillator that eliminates the need for an external crystal in many designs. The wide 2.3V to 5.5V operating range supports both 3.3V and 5V rails common in industrial and consumer systems.
Architecturally, the PIC16F1578 uses the enhanced mid-range core with 49 instructions, hardware multiplier, and a 16-level hardware stack. The four 16-bit PWM modules each have independent period, duty cycle, and phase-shift registers, enabling complementary drive signals with programmable dead-band for half-bridge and full-bridge converters - features typically requiring a 32-bit MCU or external PWM controller. Core independent peripherals (CIPs) such as CLC, NCO, and the angular timer offload timing-critical tasks from the CPU.
Typical applications include high-resolution LED lighting drivers (RGBW dimming down to 0.1% steps), sensorless BLDC fan and pump controllers, digital switch-mode power supply (SMPS) reference loops, Class-D audio amplifiers with closed-loop feedback, and small appliance motor control. The combination of four PWMs and CIPs makes it well suited to systems where a 32-bit MCU would be over-spec.
When designing with this device, reserve one PWM channel for ADC-triggered sampling to minimize conversion jitter, and use the CLC to combine PWM edges with comparator outputs for hardware-based overcurrent protection. Program Flash in-circuit via ICSP to simplify field firmware updates.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes that complement (but do not replace) the Microchip datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16F1578T-I/GZ — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with PIC16F1578T-I/GZ (same form factor and footprint) — differing in ADC, Package, Operating Temperature Range, Program Memory (Flash), Core Architecture.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F1578-I/GZ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F1509T-I/GZ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$0.97 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F1507-E/GZ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$0.58 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F1575T-I/JQ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$1.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F15345T-I/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ 参数待验证✓ In Stock
$1.04 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F1578T-I/GZ Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC16 enhanced mid-range 8-bit |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 7 KB (4K x 14 words) |
| Data SRAM | 512 B |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 32 MHz |
| Operating Voltage Range | 2.3 V to 5.5 V |
| 16-bit PWM Channels | 4 (independent timers) |
| ADC | 10-bit, up to 12 channels |
| Internal Oscillator | 32 MHz HF oscillator |
| Core Independent Peripherals | CLC, NCO, Angular Timer, PWM |
| Package | 20-pin UQFN (4x4 mm) |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| MSL Level | 1 |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16F1578T-I/GZ Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA5 — Bidirectional I/O / ICSP programming clock (ICSPCLK) |
| Pin 2 | RA4 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 3 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O / MCLR (reset input) |
| Pin 4 | RC5 — Bidirectional I/O / PWM output |
| Pin 5 | RC4 — Bidirectional I/O / PWM output |
| Pin 6 | RC3 — Bidirectional I/O / PWM output |
| Pin 7 | RC2 — Bidirectional I/O / PWM output |
| Pin 8 | RC1 — Bidirectional I/O / PWM output |
| Pin 9 | RC0 — Bidirectional I/O / PWM output |
| Pin 10 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 11 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 12 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input / ICSP data (ICSPDAT) |
| Pin 13 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply (2.3 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 15 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 16 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 17 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 18 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 19 | VSS — Ground (also exposed pad) |
| Pin 20 | VSS — Ground (exposed thermal pad) |
Typical Applications
PIC16F1578T-I/GZ is suitable for 6 applications: High-Resolution LED Lighting Drivers, Sensorless BLDC Fan and Pump Control, Digital Switch-Mode Power Supply (SMPS) Reference Loops, Class-D Audio Amplifier with Closed-Loop Feedback, Small Appliance Control Boards, IoT Sensor Node Actuator Driver.
High-Resolution LED Lighting Drivers
The PIC16F1578T-I/GZ is well matched to multi-zone LED lighting where dimming resolution determines visible quality. Its four independent 16-bit PWM channels deliver 65536-step duty resolution, enabling smooth RGBW fades down to 0.1% increments without perceptible flicker. The integrated 32 MHz oscillator and 10-bit ADC (up to 12 channels) allow closed-loop thermal and current monitoring without external components, while the 2.3-5.5 V supply range supports both 3.3 V logic-level LED strings and 5 V analog dimming interfaces. In a typical 4-channel RGBW fixture, each PWM drives a MOSFET gate through a small gate driver; the CLC peripheral can combine PWM edges with comparator outputs to implement hardware overcurrent protection, offloading the CPU.
Recommended
Sensorless BLDC Fan and Pump Control
Small brushless DC motors in fans, pumps, and appliances benefit from the PIC16F1578T-I/GZ's three complementary PWM pairs plus a fourth independent channel. The 16-bit PWM resolution provides smooth commutation timing with programmable dead-band to prevent shoot-through on the half-bridge. The 10-bit ADC samples back-EMF on the non-energized phase, allowing sensorless commutation algorithms like the Microchip AN1079 reference firmware to run on the enhanced mid-range core. The 7 KB Flash budget fits state-machine BLDC code with margin for adaptive speed control loops. The 20-UQFN (4x4) package fits inside the hub of 80 mm and 120 mm fans where board space is at a premium.
Recommended
Digital Switch-Mode Power Supply (SMPS) Reference Loops
Isolated and non-isolated DC-DC converters require a high-resolution PWM reference and fast analog feedback. The PIC16F1578T-I/GZ provides up to four 16-bit PWMs that can synthesize phase-shifted full-bridge drive waveforms, while the CLC and NCO peripherals combine comparator events to create hardware-based cycle-by-cycle current limiting. The 10-bit ADC samples Vout and Iprimary at sub-microsecond intervals when triggered from a PWM edge, eliminating CPU jitter. The 2.3-5.5 V supply range allows the MCU to be powered from an internal auxiliary winding, simplifying isolated supply designs. For 200 kHz to 1 MHz switching frequencies, the 32 MHz CPU provides sufficient instruction throughput for digital compensator math.
Recommended
Class-D Audio Amplifier with Closed-Loop Feedback
Class-D amplifiers rely on PWM modulation to drive the output stage and require high PWM resolution to keep quantization noise above the audible band. The PIC16F1578T-I/GZ's four 16-bit PWMs support a 2-channel BTL Class-D topology (two PWMs per channel with complementary outputs and dead-band). The 10-bit ADC samples the output filter node for closed-loop feedback, while the NCO peripheral can generate auxiliary tone detection signals for protection. The 7 KB Flash budget accommodates a state-machine audio pipeline plus basic protection firmware. At 32 MHz the MCU runs the modulator comfortably without DSP hardware, keeping the BOM cost under $1 per channel.
Recommended
Small Appliance Control Boards
Coffee machines, blenders, and kitchen hoods require a small, reliable MCU with PWM for element control, ADC for temperature sensing, and enough Flash for an HMI state machine. The PIC16F1578T-I/GZ fits well: the 16-bit PWMs drive heating elements or induction coils with smooth power profiling, the 10-bit ADC reads NTC thermistors for closed-loop temperature regulation, and the 7 KB Flash holds menu logic plus safety interlocks. The 20-UQFN (4x4) package fits onto compact mainboards where SOIC parts would be too tall. The wide 2.3-5.5 V supply accommodates rectified mains drops during heavy loads.
Recommended
IoT Sensor Node Actuator Driver
Battery-powered IoT nodes often need local actuation: solenoid valves, relay drivers, or small motor positioners. The PIC16F1578T-I/GZ provides four 16-bit PWMs to drive multiple actuators with precise timing, while the CLC can wake the CPU from sleep on a comparator edge to save power. The 10-bit ADC monitors battery voltage and sensor inputs, and the 512 B SRAM supports small protocol buffers. The 2.3 V minimum supply lets the MCU run directly from a single 18650 Li-ion cell. The 20-UQFN (4x4 mm) package is small enough to fit inside sensor housings. Combined with a low-power sub-GHz radio module, this PIC16 forms a competent edge-actuation node.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16F1578T-I/GZ — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F1578-I/GZ | PIC16F1509T-I/GZ | PIC16F1507-E/GZ | PIC16F1575T-I/JQ | PIC16F15345T-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 20-UQFN (4x4 mm) | 20-UQFN (4x4 mm) - same | 20-UQFN (4x4 mm) - same | 20-UQFN (4x4 mm) - same | 20-UQFN (4x4 mm) - same | 20-UQFN (4x4 mm) - same |
| Flash Memory | 7 KB | 7 KB (same) | 8 KB | 3.5 KB | 4 KB | 14 KB |
| SRAM | 512 B | 512 B (same) | 512 B | 128 B | 256 B | 1 KB |
| 16-bit PWM Channels | 4 | 4 (same) | 4 (10-bit resolution) | 4 (10-bit resolution) | 4 (same) | 0 (10-bit PWM only) |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 32 MHz | 32 MHz (same) | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz |
| Operating Voltage | 2.3 V to 5.5 V | 2.3 V to 5.5 V (same) | 1.8 V to 5.5 V (wider) | 1.8 V to 5.5 V | 2.3 V to 5.5 V | 2.3 V to 5.5 V |
| ADC | 10-bit, 12 channels | 10-bit, 12 ch (same) | 10-bit, 12 ch | 10-bit, 8 ch | 10-bit, 12 ch | 10-bit, 11 ch |
| Approximate Unit Price (qty 1) | $1.05 | $1.05 (same) | $1.10 | $0.85 | $0.95 | $1.25 |
Key Differentiators
- Four independent 16-bit PWM channels with phase shift (vs PIC16F1509T-I/GZ)
- 7 KB Flash vs 3.5 KB Flash for richer firmware (vs PIC16F1507-E/GZ)
- Larger SRAM headroom for protocol buffers (vs PIC16F1575T-I/JQ)
Design Notes
Estimated: At 32 MHz CPU and 5.5 V supply, the PIC16F1578T-I/GZ core current draw is approximately 4 mA (0.022 W), which is well within the UQFN-20 thermal envelope. The exposed pad (pin 20) MUST be soldered to a copper pour of at least 25 mm^2 to meet the datasheet's theta_JA rating of approximately 40 C/W. For continuous 32 MHz operation at 5 V in an enclosed fixture, monitor MCU temperature; if it exceeds 70 C, reduce CPU frequency to 16 MHz or duty-cycle the application loop.
Route ICSP lines (ICSPCLK on RA5, ICSPDAT on RA1) with short, parallel traces and keep them away from PWM outputs and switching nodes. Place a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor within 3 mm of the VDD pin (pin 14), and a bulk 1 uF ceramic on the same node. The 20-UQFN (4x4) package has 0.5 mm pitch pads that require NSMD pads with soldermask-defined openings to prevent tombstoning during reflow.
The 'T' suffix in PIC16F1578T-I/GZ denotes Tape & Reel packaging; for prototype work request -I/GZ (tray) to avoid minimum-order-quantity charges. The 16-bit PWMs default to off after reset - software must clear PWMxCON register bits before driving outputs. CLC and NCO peripheral pin assignments are NOT pin-compatible across the entire PIC16F15xx family; always reconfigure the Peripheral Pin Select (PPS) registers when porting firmware between PIC16F1509 and PIC16F1578 even though both share the same UQFN-20 footprint.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - select PIC16F1578-E/GZ variants or PIC16F188xx family for automotive. Halogen-free per Microchip environmental certification.
