PIC16F1618-E/ML - 8-bit MCU, 7KB Flash, 32MHz | Microchip
MPN: PIC16F1618-E/ML ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.85 | $1.85 |
| 10 | $1.66 | $16.60 |
| 100 | $1.48 | $148.00 |
| 500 | $1.32 | $660.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.18 | $1,180.00 |
| 3,000 | $1.05 | $3,150.00 |
PIC16F1618-E/ML Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that combines a CPU, non-volatile program memory, volatile data RAM, and a peripheral set optimized for embedded control tasks. MCUs sit at the bottom of the computing hierarchy below microprocessors and are classified by bus width (8-bit, 16-bit, 32-bit), Flash program memory size, and integrated peripherals. PIC® microcontrollers use a Harvard RISC architecture with separate program and data buses, which is a design choice that simplifies instruction decoding and yields deterministic interrupt latency.
Key features include seven 10-bit ADC channels, an internal 32 MHz oscillator, four Configurable Logic Cells for combinational and sequential logic, an 8-bit DAC, two PWM/SMT modules, and the proprietary XLP (eXtreme Low Power) technology that drops quiescent current to roughly 50 nA in sleep mode with peripherals running. The 24-bit SMT and CWG combine to support non-brushless DC motor control, fan speed regulation, and AC zero-cross sensing without an external ASIC.
Typical applications include small brushed DC motor control, LED lighting drivers with zero-cross dimming, fan speed controllers, and general-purpose sensor signal conditioning. The combination of SMT, CWG, and CLC lets the PIC16F1618 replace two or three discrete timer ICs and a small logic array in cost-sensitive consumer appliances. The 20-pin VQFN footprint and Microchip's MPLAB X IDE / XC8 toolchain compatibility make prototyping straightforward, and the exposed pad aids thermal dissipation at full 32 MHz operation.
When designing with this MCU, reserve the exposed pad as a continuous ground plane connection - the VQFN thermal pad is the primary heat path. Select the appropriate oscillator configuration (HFINTOSC, LFINTOSC, external) before writing code, because clock switching at runtime is gated by the Configuration Words. For new designs, validate that any drop-in alternative sits in the same 20-pin QFN footprint before committing PCB layout.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from the same PIC16F161X family, application guidance, and design notes that complement - but do not replace - the manufacturer datasheet. The VQFN package is also referred to as HVQCCN or 20-VFQFN-EP in manufacturer and distributor documentation.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16F1618-E/ML — 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 PIC16F1618-E/ML (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, ADC, Core Architecture, DAC, Program Memory (Flash).
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F1618-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F1615-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.84 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F1614-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.91 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F1768-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F15345-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.32 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F1574-I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.91 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F1618-E/ML Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC (Harvard) |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 7 KB (4K x 14 words) |
| Data RAM | 512 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 32 MHz |
| Operating Voltage Range | 2.3 V to 5.5 V |
| ADC | 10-bit, up to 7 channels |
| DAC | 8-bit, 1 channel |
| Configurable Logic Cells (CLC) | 4 |
| Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG) | 1 |
| Signal Measurement Timer (SMT) | 24-bit |
| Zero-Cross Detection | Yes |
| CCP/PWM | Yes |
| I/O Pins | 18 |
| Package | 20-pin QFN-EP (4x4 mm, ML) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (E = Extended) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16F1618-E/ML Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0 — Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 2 | RA1 — Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 3 | RA2 — Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 4 | RA3 — Digital I/O / analog input / VREF+ |
| Pin 5 | RA4 — Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 6 | RA5 — Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | RA7 — Digital I/O / oscillator |
| Pin 9 | RA6 — Digital I/O / oscillator |
| Pin 10 | RC0 — Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 11 | RC1 — Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 12 | RC2 — Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 13 | RC3 — Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 14 | RC4 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 15 | RC5 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 16 | RC6 — Digital I/O / TX/CK |
| Pin 17 | RC7 — Digital I/O / RX/DT |
| Pin 18 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 19 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 20 | RB7 — Digital I/O / programming clock (PGC) |
| Pin 21 | EP — Exposed thermal pad - connect to VSS |
Typical Applications
PIC16F1618-E/ML is suitable for 7 applications: Small Brushed DC Motor Control, AC Zero-Cross Dimming for LED Lighting, Fan Speed Controller, Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning, Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Edge Nodes, Automotive Auxiliary Lighting and Switch Panels, General Purpose 8-bit Embedded Controller.
Small Brushed DC Motor Control
The PIC16F1618-E/ML is well-suited for small brushed DC motor control in appliances, toys, and HVAC actuators. The integrated Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG) and 24-bit Signal Measurement Timer (SMT) enable hardware-driven PWM and tachometer feedback without external timer ICs, reducing BOM cost by one to two chips. With 32 MHz CPU performance and 10-bit ADC, the MCU can sample back-EMF at up to 100 kHz for closed-loop speed regulation. The 20-pin QFN footprint suits compact PCB designs where the exposed pad provides thermal dissipation for the MCU at continuous switching loads. Compared with a discrete analog controller, this integrated approach enables software-tunable acceleration profiles and fault detection.
Recommended
AC Zero-Cross Dimming for LED Lighting
The PIC16F1618-E/ML's integrated Zero-Cross Detection peripheral and CLC logic make it ideal for AC line zero-cross dimming of LED bulbs and fixtures. Zero-cross sensing eliminates the inrush and EMI associated with random-phase TRIAC triggering, improving lamp lifetime and reducing conducted noise on the AC line. The 32 MHz CPU executes the dimming algorithm and 10-bit ADC monitors LED current for closed-loop brightness control. The XLP low-power technology <50 nA sleep current lets the design meet ENERGY STAR standby budgets. Operating voltage 2.3-5.5 V allows direct connection to a small capacitive dropper supply after rectification, eliminating a switching converter and its EMI.
Recommended
Fan Speed Controller
Fan speed controllers for CPU coolers, HVAC blowers, and appliance fans benefit from the PIC16F1618-E/ML's 24-bit SMT and PWM/CCP modules. The SMT measures fan tachometer pulses with sub-microsecond resolution, supporting accurate closed-loop RPM regulation across the full duty range. The CWG and 8-bit DAC enable analog fan-voltage control or PWM drive at 25 kHz to avoid audible noise. With 7 KB Flash, designers can implement PID, fault detection (stall, over-current), and UART/diagnostic interfaces without external memory. The 20-pin QFN-EP package provides the thermal performance needed for continuous 32 MHz operation near heat sources like a MOSFET bridge.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16F1618-E/ML excels at industrial 4-20 mA loop sensor conditioning and bridge sensor signal processing. Its 10-bit ADC with computation (ADC2) performs hardware averaging and threshold comparison, offloading the CPU and reducing interrupt rate. The integrated op-amp and DAC allow ratiometric bridge excitation and digital trim, eliminating external analog components. The CLC can implement hardware comparators or PWM modulators for sensor fusion without CPU intervention. The extended -40C to +125C temperature grade and 5.5 V tolerance suit factory-floor environments where supply transients are common.
Recommended
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Edge Nodes
PIC16F1618-E/ML fits battery-powered IoT edge nodes where its XLP technology drives sleep current below 50 nA, enabling multi-year coin-cell lifetime. The 32 MHz HFINTOSC and configurable logic allow the MCU to wake, sample a sensor via the 10-bit ADC, run CLC-based signal processing, transmit, and return to sleep within milliseconds. The Configurable Logic Cells implement peripheral interconnects that run while the core sleeps, further reducing average power. The compact 4x4 mm QFN footprint suits ultra-small sensor PCBs. Operating from 2.3-5.5 V lets the design pair with Li-Ion, 2xAA, or coin-cell primaries without a boost converter.
Recommended
Automotive Auxiliary Lighting and Switch Panels
For non-safety automotive interior lighting, switch panels, and RGB ambient lighting controllers, the PIC16F1618-E/ML with extended -40C to +125C grade provides thermal margin for cabin environments. The CWG and SMT combine to drive MOSFET H-bridges or PWM dim channels with fault detection and current monitoring. The CLC can decode rotary encoder inputs for dashboard controls without CPU intervention, freeing cycles for protocol handling like LIN slave. With 7 KB Flash, designers can implement bootloaders, calibration data, and CAN/LIN-like protocol stacks. Microchip's automotive-grade part variants (suffix /VAO) of this family extend AEC-Q100 support where required.
Recommended
General Purpose 8-bit Embedded Controller
As a general-purpose 8-bit controller, the PIC16F1618-E/ML offers 7 KB Flash, 512 bytes RAM, and 32 MHz CPU performance for appliances, consumer devices, and low-cost industrial controllers. The 18 I/O pins support UART, SPI, I2C master/slave, and up to seven 10-bit ADC channels for multi-channel sensor interfaces. The Configurable Logic Cells let designers replace small discrete glue logic (74HC-series gates, comparators, timers) with on-chip hardware, simplifying the BOM. Microchip's MPLAB X IDE and XC8 compiler offer a mature, free toolchain with broad community support.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16F1618-E/ML — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F1618-I/ML | PIC16F1615-I/ML | PIC16F1768-I/ML | PIC16F15345-I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 20-pin QFN-EP (4x4 mm) | 20-pin QFN-EP (4x4 mm) - same | 20-pin QFN-EP (4x4 mm) - same | 20-pin QFN-EP (4x4 mm) - same | 20-pin SOIC / QFN - same footprint option |
| Program Memory | 7 KB Flash | 7 KB Flash | 7 KB Flash (same family) | 8 KB Flash (slightly larger) | 14 KB Flash (much larger) |
| Data RAM | 512 bytes | 512 bytes | 512 bytes | 1024 bytes | 1024 bytes |
| Maximum Frequency | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz |
| ADC Channels | 7 channels, 10-bit | 7 channels | 7 channels | 12 channels | 14 channels |
| Temperature Grade | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Qty-1 Unit Price (USD) | $1.85 | ~$1.70 | ~$1.60 | ~$2.00 | ~$1.95 |
Key Differentiators
- Integrated zero-cross detection and CWG motor-control peripherals (vs PIC16F1618-I/ML)
- Larger Flash and RAM in same QFN-EP footprint (vs PIC16F15345-I/SO)
- Same-family upgrade with more peripherals (vs PIC16F1768-I/ML)
Design Notes
Estimated: The PIC16F1618-E/ML QFN-EP package dissipates up to approximately 200 mW at full 32 MHz operation across 2.3-5.5 V. The exposed thermal pad (pin 21) must be soldered to a continuous ground copper plane at least 10 mm x 10 mm on the PCB top layer, with thermal vias to inner ground planes. Skipping the EP soldering reduces thermal performance and may cause thermal shutdown under heavy ADC and PWM load.
Decouple VDD (pin 19) with a 100 nF X7R ceramic capacitor placed within 3 mm of the pin, plus a bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic capacitor at the board supply input. For noise-sensitive analog measurements, add a small ferrite bead between the MCU VDD and the analog supply rail feeding the ADC reference. Place the bulk capacitor near the device to suppress switching transients from the CWG/PWM outputs.
Do not leave the ICSP/PGD and PGC pins (RB6/RB7) floating during normal operation - configure them as digital inputs with weak pull-ups in firmware to prevent spurious interrupts during reset. Configuration Words must be set explicitly before first use; relying on factory defaults leaves the watchdog timer enabled and can lock the design if firmware does not service it within the WDT window. Validate the chosen oscillator mode (HFINTOSC, XT, HS) matches the crystal specification.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. AEC-Q100 variants available with /VAO suffix for automotive. Halogen-free status not explicitly stated in the verified data.
