PIC16F18426-I/ST - 8-bit 32MHz 28KB Flash XLP MCU | Microchip
MPN: PIC16F18426-I/ST ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.72 | $1.72 |
| 10 | $1.55 | $15.50 |
| 100 | $1.38 | $138.00 |
| 500 | $1.21 | $605.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.05 | $1,050.00 |
PIC16F18426-I/ST Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, non-volatile program memory, working RAM, and a rich mix of analog and digital peripherals. The PIC16F18426 sits within the broader taxonomy of: microcontroller -> embedded MCU -> 8-bit MCU -> PIC16 family -> PIC16F184xx sub-family -> semiconductor. Its XLP designation indicates specialized low-power modes such as sleep currents below 1 uA, making it suitable for battery-powered applications.
Key features include a 12-bit ADC with Computation (ADCC), a 5-bit DAC, two PWMs, a comparator, a Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG), an EUSART, plus SPI and I2C communication interfaces. The 32 MHz internal oscillator, 256 bytes of data EEPROM, and 12-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter deliver high-resolution signal acquisition in a compact TSSOP-14 footprint that fits tight PCB layouts.
The device combines a RISC-based 8-bit PIC core with the CIP (Core Independent Peripheral) architecture. CIPs operate without CPU intervention, freeing the core for application logic while maintaining deterministic timing for waveform generation, signal conditioning, and communication tasks. The CWG and configurable logic cells (CLC) add flexibility for motor and lighting control.
Typical applications include low-power IoT sensor nodes, consumer remote controls, HVAC thermostats, battery management sensor interfaces, automotive body electronics, and small appliances. The combination of 12-bit ADCC and XLP modes makes it well-suited for sensor aggregation in energy-harvesting systems.
When designing with this MCU, ensure decoupling capacitors of 100 nF and 10 uF are placed near the VDD pin. The MCLR pin must be pulled high through a resistor for normal operation, or tied to VDD when not used. Programming is performed through the ICSP interface via PGC and PGD pins.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-package drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the standalone manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a single reference for component selection.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16F18426-I/ST — 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 PIC16F18426-I/ST (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Operating Temperature, Package, Program Memory (Flash), ADC, Comparators.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F18425-I/ST
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$0.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F18424-I/ST
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$0.79 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F18325-I/ST
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.16 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F1825-I/ST
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.32 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F18426-E/ST
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F18425-E/ST
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$1.28 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F18426-I/ST Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC |
| Family | PIC16(L)F184xx |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 28 KB (16K x 14 words) |
| SRAM | 2 KB |
| EEPROM | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 32 MHz |
| Operating Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 5.5 V |
| ADC | 12-bit ADCC |
| DAC | 5-bit DAC |
| PWM Modules | 2 |
| Comparators | Yes |
| Communication | EUSART, SPI, I2C |
| Special Features | CWG, Functional Safety (FuSa), XLP |
| Package | 14-pin TSSOP |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16F18426-I/ST Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O / MCLR input |
| Pin 2 | RA4 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 3 | RA5 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 4 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 5 | RC0 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 6 | RC1 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 7 | RC2 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 8 | RC3 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 9 | RC4 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 10 | RC5 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 11 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 12 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 13 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 14 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O |
Typical Applications
PIC16F18426-I/ST is suitable for 6 applications: Low-Power IoT Sensor Nodes, Consumer Remote Controls, HVAC Thermostats, Battery Management Sensor Interfaces, Automotive Body Electronics, Small Appliance Control.
Low-Power IoT Sensor Nodes
The PIC16F18426-I/ST is well-suited for battery-powered IoT sensor nodes requiring extended operational life. Its XLP technology delivers sleep currents below 1 uA, allowing years of operation on a single coin cell. The 12-bit ADCC enables precise sensor data acquisition for temperature, humidity, or pressure monitoring, while the EUSART, SPI, and I2C interfaces support connectivity to wireless modules like the Microchip RN4870 BLE module. The 28 KB Flash accommodates OTA-ready firmware plus wireless protocol stacks, and the 14-pin TSSOP package fits within compact sensor housing. Estimated battery life: with 1% duty cycle and 1 uA sleep current, a CR2032 cell can power the node for over 5 years.
Recommended
Consumer Remote Controls
The PIC16F18426-I/ST fits consumer remote control designs where compact size, low power, and reliable IR communication are essential. Its 32 MHz core and 28 KB Flash easily handle IR protocol encoding for RC5, SIRC, or NEC standards. The CWG (Complementary Waveform Generator) simplifies 38 kHz carrier generation for IR transmission, while the 12-bit ADCC supports battery voltage monitoring. The 14-pin TSSOP package fits within slim remote enclosures, and XLP sleep modes extend battery life. Companion products include IR LEDs for transmission and standard CR2032 cells for power.
Recommended
HVAC Thermostats
The PIC16F18426-I/ST is appropriate for HVAC thermostat control requiring precise temperature measurement and relay switching. Its 12-bit ADCC delivers 0.0625 C resolution when paired with NTC thermistors, and the 2 PWM channels can drive proportional valve actuators or TRIAC-controlled fans. The 28 KB Flash accommodates scheduling algorithms, PID control loops, and user interface state machines. The wide 1.8V to 5.5V operating range allows direct battery backup or USB-powered designs. Industrial temperature rating (-40C to +85C) suits attic-mounted thermostat installations.
Recommended
Battery Management Sensor Interfaces
The PIC16F18426-I/ST serves well in battery management sensor interfaces, particularly for lithium-ion packs requiring cell voltage monitoring and balancing control. Its 12-bit ADCC supports precise per-cell voltage measurement at up to 12 channels through external multiplexer control. The 5-bit DAC generates reference voltages for comparator-based overvoltage detection, while the EUSART interfaces to battery management controllers via isolated communication. The XLP sleep modes reduce quiescent current during storage, extending shelf life for backup battery modules.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
The PIC16F18426-I/ST can serve in non-safety-critical automotive body electronics such as ambient lighting controllers, mirror adjusters, or seat position sensors. Its EUSART and SPI interfaces communicate with vehicle CAN/LIN gateways via external transceivers like the MCP2515. The 12-bit ADCC reads potentiometer inputs for seat position, while the CWG generates PWM signals for LED dimming. Although the industrial-temperature variant is not AEC-Q100 qualified, the device handles typical automotive cabin environments. Engineers requiring automotive-grade certification should verify with Microchip or select a Q-graded variant.
Recommended
Small Appliance Control
The PIC16F18426-I/ST is applicable for small appliance controllers including coffee makers, blenders, and rice cookers requiring user interface, timer control, and motor or heater regulation. Its 28 KB Flash supports menu state machines and user-customizable cooking profiles, while the 2 PWM channels drive heater elements or universal motors via TRIAC control. The 5-bit DAC generates reference voltages for sensor thresholds, and the I2C interface drives character LCD displays for user feedback. XLP sleep modes reduce standby power below EPA energy efficiency standards.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16F18426-I/ST — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F18425-I/ST | PIC16F18424-I/ST | PIC16F18325-I/ST | PIC16F1825-I/ST | PIC16F18426-E/ST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 14-pin TSSOP | 14-pin TSSOP - same | 14-pin TSSOP - same | 14-pin TSSOP - same | 14-pin TSSOP - same | 14-pin TSSOP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 28 KB | 14 KB | 4 KB | 14 KB | 14 KB | 28 KB |
| SRAM | 2 KB | 1 KB | 512 B | 1 KB | 1 KB | 2 KB |
| EEPROM | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes |
| ADC Resolution | 12-bit ADCC | 12-bit ADCC | 12-bit ADCC | 10-bit ADC | 10-bit ADC | 12-bit ADCC |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +125C |
| Functional Safety (FuSa) | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Key Differentiators
- Largest Flash memory in PIC16F184xx 14-pin TSSOP family (vs PIC16F18425-I/ST)
- 12-bit ADCC vs 10-bit ADC in older generations (vs PIC16F18325-I/ST)
- Functional Safety (FuSa) support (vs PIC16F1825-I/ST)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 11), with a bulk 10 uF capacitor nearby. For battery-powered designs using XLP sleep modes, add a 10 uF reserve capacitor on VDD to handle peak current when waking from sleep. The internal regulator requires a minimum 1.8V supply; operation below 2.0V reduces maximum CPU speed to 16 MHz per the datasheet.
The 14-pin TSSOP package has a 0.65 mm pin pitch, requiring careful PCB layout. Use 0.3 mm-wide traces with 0.2 mm spacing and ensure the GND pin (pin 4) has a low-impedance connection to the ground plane. For ICSP programming, expose the PGC, PGD, and MCLR pins to test points or a programming header. Keep analog signal traces away from high-frequency digital lines to minimize ADC noise coupling.
Do not leave the MCLR pin floating - tie it to VDD through a 10 kohm resistor, or directly to VDD if unused. The 12-bit ADCC requires proper acquisition time configuration; insufficient acquisition time results in inaccurate readings. When migrating from PIC16F1825 to PIC16F18426, verify the peripheral register mapping has changed - refer to the PIC16F184xx migration document. The ICSP pins (PGC/PGD) cannot be repurposed as general I/O without disabling in-circuit programming.
The 14-pin TSSOP package has a typical theta_JA of approximately 100 C/W. At maximum operating current of 10 mA and 5V supply, power dissipation is around 50 mW, resulting in a 5 C temperature rise above ambient - well within safe limits. Estimated: theta_JA=100 C/W, Pd=50 mW, Tj rise=5 C. For high-temperature environments near 85 C, ensure adequate airflow or heat sinking through copper pours.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - the standard industrial variant is not automotive-grade; check with Microchip for automotive-qualified alternatives.
