PIC16F1826T-I/SO - 8-bit MCU, 3.5KB Flash, 32MHz, 18-SOIC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16F1826T-I/SO β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.74 | $2.74 |
| 10 | $2.46 | $24.60 |
| 100 | $2.21 | $221.00 |
| 500 | $1.97 | $985.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.76 | $1,760.00 |
PIC16F1826T-I/SO Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer built around an 8-bit data bus, integrating a CPU core, program memory, data memory, and peripheral interfaces. Within the broader semiconductor hierarchy, the PIC16F1826 belongs to: 8-bit MCU -> microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC. The PIC16F family is Microchip's enhanced mid-range architecture, balancing low power consumption (nanoWatt XLP technology), peripheral integration, and deterministic real-time control - generally used for microcontroller selection in cost- and power-sensitive designs.
Key features include Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) such as Configurable Logic Cells (CLC), Numerically Controlled Oscillator (NCO), Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG), and Zero-Cross Detect (ZCD), along with an mTouch capacitive touch sensing peripheral, 12-bit ADC with computation, multiple PWM modules, EUSART, I2C, and SPI interfaces. The device supports 12 I/O pins (per DigiKey listing) and provides multiple timers for flexible control loops.
Architecturally, the PIC16F1826 uses an enhanced mid-range 8-bit RISC core with a 14-bit instruction word, 16-level hardware stack, and a 32 MHz internal oscillator that eliminates the need for an external crystal in many designs. The nanoWatt XLP technology enables sleep currents below 1 uA typical, making it well suited for battery-powered applications where energy harvesting or extended battery life is required.
Typical applications include consumer electronics control panels, IoT sensor nodes, battery-operated handheld devices, LED lighting controllers, and low-cost industrial sensors. The wide 2.5V to 5.5V supply range simplifies interfacing with both 3.3V and 5V peripherals, and the small 18-pin SOIC footprint makes it easy to integrate into compact designs.
When designing with this device, ensure that the ICSP programming pins (PGD/PGC) are accessible on the PCB for in-circuit firmware updates, and add bulk decoupling capacitance within 5 mm of VDD to maintain stable operation during transient load events. The internal oscillator calibration trim values should be retained across firmware revisions to preserve timing accuracy.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in cross-package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone - enabling engineers to evaluate, source, and qualify the PIC16F1826T-I/SO efficiently.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16F1826T-I/SO β 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 PIC16F1826T-I/SO (same form factor and footprint) β differing in ADC, Package, Internal Oscillator, Program Memory (Flash), Core Architecture.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F1826-I/SO
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.32 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16F1827T-I/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F1825T-I/SO
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F1826T-I/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC16 8-bit RISC (enhanced mid-range) |
| Instruction Set | 14-bit instructions |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) |
| Data EEPROM | 256 bytes |
| RAM | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 32 MHz |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) |
| I/O Pins | 12 |
| Package | 18-SOIC (SOIC-18, 7.5 mm body) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel (T suffix) |
| Internal Oscillator | Yes, 32 MHz |
| ADC | 12 channels, 10-bit (with computation) |
| Communications | EUSART, I2C/SPI, mTouch |
| MSL Level | 1 (unlimited floor life) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16F1826T-I/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VDD β Positive supply voltage (2.5V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 2 | RA5 β Digital I/O / analog input / ICSPCLK |
| Pin 3 | RA4 β Digital I/O / analog input / ICSPDAT |
| Pin 4 | RA3/MCLR β Digital input / Master Clear (reset) |
| Pin 5 | RC5 β Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 6 | RC4 β Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 7 | RC3 β Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 8 | RC2 β Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 9 | RC1 β Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 10 | RC0 β Digital I/O / analog input |
| Pin 11 | RA2 β Digital I/O / analog input / CVref+ |
| Pin 12 | RA1 β Digital I/O / analog input / ICSPCLK |
| Pin 13 | RA0 β Digital I/O / analog input / ICSPDAT |
| Pin 14 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 15 | RA7 β Digital I/O / oscillator |
| Pin 16 | RA6 β Digital I/O / oscillator |
| Pin 17 | RB5 β Digital I/O |
| Pin 18 | RB4 β Digital I/O |
Typical Applications
PIC16F1826T-I/SO is suitable for 7 applications: Consumer Remote Control / IR Receiver, IoT Battery-Powered Sensor Node, LED Lighting Controller, Capacitive Touch User Interface, Industrial Sensor / Process Monitor, Automotive Body Electronics (Sub-System), Small Appliance Control Board.
Consumer Remote Control / IR Receiver
The PIC16F1826T-I/SO fits consumer IR remote controls thanks to its 32 MHz internal oscillator, mTouch peripheral, and 12-bit ADC. The 2.5V-5.5V supply range lets it run directly from a single CR2032 coin cell via boost converter or two AAA alkaline cells, while the nanoWatt XLP sleep current below 1 uA typical extends battery life to multiple years. The CWG and NCO peripherals can synthesize carrier waveforms for IR transmission, eliminating external timer ICs. Combined with EUSART for debug or wireless module interfacing, this MCU delivers full remote control functionality in an 18-SOIC footprint that fits any handheld enclosure.
Recommended
IoT Battery-Powered Sensor Node
For IoT sensor nodes, the PIC16F1826T-I/SO delivers the right blend of low power, peripherals, and integration. The nanoWatt XLP technology enables sub-uA sleep currents, allowing the device to wake periodically, take ADC readings, transmit via EUSART/SPI to a wireless module, and return to sleep - typical average currents in the 5-10 uA range at 1% duty cycle. The 12-bit ADC with computation performs on-chip averaging and threshold detection, offloading the CPU. Operating from 2.5V-5.5V, it can run directly from a 3.3V LDO fed by a lithium primary cell. With 3.5 KB flash, firmware can include calibration, security, and application logic.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controller
The PIC16F1826T-I/SO is well-suited to drive LED lighting chains and decorative strips, thanks to its multiple PWM outputs and CWG (Complementary Waveform Generator). The 32 MHz core provides fine PWM resolution at high switching frequencies, minimizing flicker. The CWG can produce complementary outputs for half-bridge LED driver stages with programmable dead-band, while the 12-bit ADC monitors current feedback for closed-loop brightness regulation. The internal 32 MHz oscillator eliminates the need for an external crystal, reducing BOM cost. Operating from 2.5V-5.5V, the MCU can be powered from the same 5V or 12V rail as the LED string via a small LDO.
Recommended
Capacitive Touch User Interface
The PIC16F1826T-I/SO includes Microchip's mTouch capacitive touch sensing peripheral, enabling up to 12 touch buttons or sliders with no external touch IC. The integrated CLC (Configurable Logic Cell) lets designers build custom logic - like combinational button-locks or wake-on-touch patterns - without CPU intervention, dramatically reducing power consumption. The 12-bit ADC with computation supports additional analog inputs for sliders or proximity sensing. Operating from 2.5V-5.5V, it interfaces directly with 3.3V or 5V display modules and LEDs, and the 18-SOIC footprint simplifies hand-soldered prototyping for low-volume products.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor / Process Monitor
For industrial 4-20 mA loop sensors or process monitors, the PIC16F1826T-I/SO offers the deterministic response of an 8-bit core plus the noise immunity of a wide 2.5V-5.5V supply. The 12-bit ADC with hardware computation handles thermocouple, RTD, or 4-20 mA current loop measurements with on-chip averaging. The EUSART and I2C/SPI interfaces connect to digital displays, EEPROM for logging, or industrial bus modules. The -40C to +85C industrial temperature range covers factory floor conditions. With 3.5 KB flash and 256 B EEPROM, calibration tables and linearization coefficients can be stored locally, enabling field-calibrated accuracy over the device's lifetime.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Sub-System)
Within automotive body and interior sub-systems - such as seat controllers, mirror adjusters, ambient lighting, or accessory control modules - the PIC16F1826T-I/SO provides the low-power performance required for battery-powered parked vehicles. The CWG drives MOSFET half-bridges for motors and LEDs, the 12-bit ADC reads position sensors and currents, and the nanoWatt XLP sleep mode keeps quiescent draw below automotive quiescent-current budgets. Designers should pair this MCU with an external watchdog supervisor and proper load-dump protection; for AEC-Q100 qualified automotive applications the PIC16F1826T-I/SO family requires automotive-grade screening.
Recommended
Small Appliance Control Board
Small kitchen and home appliances - coffee makers, blenders, air purifiers, fan controllers - benefit from the PIC16F1826T-I/SO's combination of low cost, integrated peripherals, and compact 18-SOIC footprint. The CWG drives triac or FET power stages, the PWM modules control motor speed or heater elements, and the 12-bit ADC reads temperature sensors, level switches, or current feedback. With 3.5 KB flash, state machines, user menus, and safety timers all fit in a single chip. The internal 32 MHz oscillator removes the cost of an external resonator, and the -40C to +85C range handles typical kitchen and garage environments without thermal derating.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16F1826T-I/SO β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F1826-I/SO | PIC16F1827T-I/SO | PIC16F1825T-I/SO | PIC16F1826T-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 18-SOIC | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 20-SSOP - different |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Flash Memory | 3.5 KB | 3.5 KB | 7 KB | 14 KB | 3.5 KB |
| RAM | 256 B | 256 B | 512 B | 1024 B | 256 B |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz |
| Supply Voltage | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.5 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 14 |
| Packaging Format | Tape & Reel | Tube | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C |
Key Differentiators
- Pin-compatible flash-memory upgrade path to 7 KB (vs PIC16F1827T-I/SO)
- Industrial temperature grade at lowest cost in 18-SOIC (vs PIC16F1826-I/P (PDIP))
- mTouch capacitive sensing + CLC + NCO on-chip (vs PIC16F1825T-I/SO)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 1) and a bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic capacitor near the IC. The PIC16F1826T-I/SO operates from 2.5V to 5.5V; for battery-powered designs, use a low-quiescent LDO such as Microchip MCP1700 to maintain nanoWatt XLP sleep currents below 1 uA typical. Avoid sharing the digital supply with high-current loads; use a separate rail or ferrite bead to isolate MCU VDD from noise sources.
Route the ICSP programming pins (ICSPDAT/ICSPCLK on RA0/RA1 or RA4/RA5) directly to a 6-pin header compatible with Microchip PICkit 5 in-circuit debugger. Keep the trace lengths short and isolated from switching power or motor traces. Ensure the MCLR pin (RA3) has a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD and a 100 nF capacitor to ground for hardware reset; do not leave MCLR floating.
Do not exceed 5.5V on VDD or apply voltage to any I/O pin while VDD is below 2.0V - this can cause latch-up. The internal oscillator calibration value stored in the last Flash word must be preserved during firmware programming; if the application writes its own values to that address, the HFINTOSC frequency will drift. Always read the factory calibration from address 0x8000 and restore it after a full chip erase.
When using the 12-bit ADC for precision measurements, add a small RC filter (1 kohm + 100 nF) on the analog input pin and use the ADCRC oscillator for ADC clock to avoid coupling from the system clock. Avoid routing high-frequency digital signals adjacent to analog traces, and place a ground guard ring around sensitive analog inputs to minimize cross-talk in mixed-signal layouts.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free compliant per Microchip product page; not AEC-Q100 qualified (industrial grade only); conflict-minerals declaration available on Microchip.com.
