PIC16F688-E/SL - 8-Bit 20MHz 7KB Flash MCU 14-SOIC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16F688-E/SL ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.85 | $1.85 |
| 10 | $1.67 | $16.70 |
| 100 | $1.42 | $142.00 |
| 500 | $1.21 | $605.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.05 | $1,050.00 |
PIC16F688-E/SL Overview
A flash-based 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates CPU, non-volatile flash program memory, RAM, EEPROM, and peripheral blocks on one silicon die. The PIC16F688 belongs to Microchip's mid-range x14 instruction-set architecture, which uses a 14-bit wide instruction word optimized for code density. Flash memory allows in-circuit reprogramming via ICSP, while EEPROM provides byte-erasable non-volatile storage for user parameters. Such microcontrollers serve as the central control element in low-to-moderate complexity products where 8-bit performance is sufficient and BOM cost is critical.
Key features of the PIC16F688-E/SL include: nanoWatt Technology for multiple power-saving modes (Sleep, Idle, and a low-power Timer1 oscillator), an internal 8 MHz oscillator that can free the two oscillator pins for I/O, 11 GPIO pins with individual direction and weak pull-up control, an on-chip brown-out reset (BOR) and power-on reset (POR), a 10-bit ADC with internal voltage reference, and in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) via two pins. The combination of analog integration, flexible clocking, and nanoWatt power management enables long battery life and reduced external component count.
Technically, the device supports operating voltages from 2.0V to 5.5V, executes most instructions in one instruction cycle (4 clocks), and offers programmable code protection. The 14-SOIC package provides a small footprint for hand-solderable or production SMT assembly, and the extended temperature grade allows deployment in automotive, industrial, and outdoor enclosures. The PIC16F688's peripheral set is documented in the manufacturer datasheet (Microchip document 41203B) and supported by Microchip's MPLAB X IDE, XC8 compiler, and MPLAB Code Configurator.
Typical applications include battery chargers, sensor interface nodes, small appliance controls, LED lighting controllers, automotive body electronics (sub-modules), and consumer device front panels. Its integrated ADC and USART are well matched to sensor readout and point-to-point wired communication.
When designing with the PIC16F688-E/SL, ensure decoupling capacitors of 100 nF are placed close to VDD, follow the datasheet's ICSP pin mapping (RB6/ICSPCLK and RB7/ICSPDAT) for in-system programming, and select the oscillator mode based on power budget and timing precision. The flash endurance is rated at 100K erase/write cycles and EEPROM at 1M cycles, suitable for most field-programmable deployments.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in package alternatives from the same PIC16 family, and practical design considerations not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16F688-E/SL — 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 PIC16F688-E/SL (same form factor and footprint) — differing in ADC, Package, Instruction Cycle, Internal Oscillator, Operating Temperature.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F688-I/SL
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.12 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F688T-E/SL
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.45 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F690-I/SL
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F684-E/SL
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.41 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F677-I/SL
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F688-E/SL Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC16 mid-range (x14) 8-bit |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 7 KB (4K x 14 words) |
| Data SRAM | 256 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle | 1 cycle (4 clock periods) |
| Operating Voltage Range | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
| GPIO Pins | 11 |
| ADC | 10-bit, up to 8 channels |
| Timers | Timer0, Timer1, Timer2 |
| Communication | Enhanced USART |
| Package | 14-SOIC (SL) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (E = Extended) |
| ICSP | Yes (RB6/ICSPCLK, RB7/ICSPDAT) |
| Power-Saving Modes | nanoWatt Technology (Sleep, Idle, Low-Power Timer1) |
| Brown-out Reset / Power-on Reset | Yes |
| Internal Oscillator | 8 MHz (selectable) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16F688-E/SL Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VDD — Positive power supply (2.0V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 2 | RA5/T1CKI/OSC1/CLKIN — GPIO RA5 / Timer1 clock input / oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 3 | RA4/AN3/T1G/OSC2/CLKOUT — GPIO RA4 / ADC input CH3 / Timer1 gate / oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 4 | RA3/MCLR/VPP — GPIO RA3 / Master Clear reset input (active low) / programming voltage input |
| Pin 5 | RC5/CCP1/P1A — GPIO RC5 / Capture-Compare-PWM 1 / PWM output P1A |
| Pin 6 | RC4/C2OUT — GPIO RC4 / Comparator 2 output |
| Pin 7 | RC3/AN7 — GPIO RC3 / ADC input CH7 |
| Pin 8 | RC2/AN6 — GPIO RC2 / ADC input CH6 |
| Pin 9 | RC1/AN5 — GPIO RC1 / ADC input CH5 |
| Pin 10 | RC0/AN4 — GPIO RC0 / ADC input CH4 |
| Pin 11 | RA2/AN2 — GPIO RA2 / ADC input CH2 |
| Pin 12 | RA1/AN1/ICSPCLK — GPIO RA1 / ADC input CH1 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 13 | RA0/AN0/ICSPDAT — GPIO RA0 / ADC input CH0 / ICSP data |
| Pin 14 | VSS — Ground reference |
Typical Applications
PIC16F688-E/SL is suitable for 6 applications: Battery-Operated Sensor Node, Small Appliance Control, LED Lighting Controller, Automotive Body Electronics Sub-Module, Industrial Sensor Interface, Consumer Device Front Panel.
Battery-Operated Sensor Node
The PIC16F688-E/SL is well suited for battery-powered sensor nodes because its nanoWatt power management (Sleep, Idle, and low-power Timer1 oscillator) reduces quiescent current to microampere levels during standby, while 256 bytes of EEPROM provides non-volatile storage for calibration constants. The 10-bit ADC with up to 8 channels supports direct interface to temperature, humidity, or voltage sensors without an external analog front end. The Enhanced USART enables point-to-point wired or simple modem communication. Compared to using a more powerful 32-bit MCU, the PIC16F688 saves BOM cost and PCB area while delivering enough headroom for typical low-rate sensor sampling.
Recommended
Small Appliance Control
In coffee makers, blenders, kitchen timers, and similar small appliances, the PIC16F688-E/SL provides a compact 8-bit control core with integrated 10-bit ADC for sensing temperature or motor current, plus Enhanced USART for diagnostic or external display communication. The 11 GPIO pins are sufficient to drive relays, LEDs, and keypad input. The 20 MHz clock and 5 MIPS performance easily handle PID loops and human-interface debouncing. The 14-SOIC package is hand-solderable for prototype runs while remaining compatible with SMT production lines, and the -40C to +125C extended temperature range supports placement near heat sources.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controller
The PIC16F688-E/SL serves as a cost-effective LED lighting controller by using the 10-bit ADC to read ambient light sensors or potentiometers for dimming control, while the Enhanced USART can accept DMX-style commands or proprietary protocol lighting instructions. The 256-byte EEPROM stores fade curves and color presets that survive power cycles. With its 2.0V to 5.5V operating range, the MCU can be powered from the same 3.3V or 5V rail used to drive constant-current LED drivers. The nanoWatt Sleep mode keeps standby power below regulatory limits for energy-efficient lighting products.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics Sub-Module
Within automotive body electronics such as seat controllers, mirror adjusters, interior lighting, or HVAC blend door actuators, the PIC16F688-E/SL's -40C to +125C extended temperature grade (E suffix) and 2.0-5.5V operation match the harsh automotive environment. The Enhanced USART connects to a central body control module, and the 10-bit ADC reads position sensors and switches. While not AEC-Q100 qualified at the part level for this specific MPN, the family is widely used in non-safety sub-modules. The 14-SOIC package is robust to conformal coating and vibration typical of under-dash mounting.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interface
Industrial sensor interfaces for pressure, level, flow, or proximity measurement benefit from the PIC16F688-E/SL's 10-bit ADC, 256-byte EEPROM for calibration data, and USART for 4-20 mA loop or RS-485 output conversion. The 20 MHz core executes linearization math, scaling, and digital filtering within the millisecond response time required for process control. The -40C to +125C extended temperature range supports installation in unconditioned factory cabinets or outdoor enclosures. The 14-SOIC package eases field-service replacement without specialized tooling.
Recommended
Consumer Device Front Panel
The PIC16F688-E/SL is a typical MCU for consumer device front panels, scanning keypads, driving 7-segment or character LCDs, controlling LED indicators, and managing standby power via Sleep mode. The 11 GPIO pins directly interface with up to 64-key matrix keyboards using charlieplexing, and the Enhanced USART links the front panel to a host main board. Compared to a 32-bit MCU, the PIC16F688 reduces cost while providing ample performance for HMI scanning loops. The 14-SOIC package keeps the front-panel PCB small and inexpensive.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16F688-E/SL — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F688-I/SL | PIC16F688T-E/SL | PIC16F690-I/SL | PIC16F684-E/SL | PIC16F677-I/SL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 14-SOIC (SL) | 14-SOIC (SL) - same | 14-SOIC (SL) - same | 14-SOIC (SL) - same | 14-SOIC (SL) - same | 14-SOIC (SL) - same |
| Flash Program Memory | 7 KB | 7 KB | 7 KB | 7 KB | 3.5 KB | 7 KB |
| SRAM | 256 B | 256 B | 256 B | 256 B | 128 B | 256 B |
| EEPROM | 256 B | 256 B | 256 B | 256 B | 256 B | 256 B |
| Max CPU Frequency | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| GPIO Pins | 11 | 11 | 11 | 18 | 8 | 18 |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (E = Extended) | -40C to +85C (I = Industrial) | -40C to +125C (E = Extended) | -40C to +85C (I = Industrial) | -40C to +125C (E = Extended) | -40C to +85C (I = Industrial) |
Key Differentiators
- Extended -40C to +125C temperature grade (vs PIC16F688-I/SL)
- Industrial best-in-class 11 GPIO plus USART in 14-pin SOIC (vs PIC16F684-E/SL)
- More compact flash/RAM footprint than PIC16F690 (vs PIC16F690-I/SL)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to the VDD pin (pin 1) of the PIC16F688-E/SL, with a short trace and via to a solid ground plane. For designs with switching loads (relays, LEDs) on the same supply, add a 10 uF bulk capacitor near the MCU. The nanoWatt Sleep mode reduces current to sub-microampere levels when the core is halted; ensure wake-up sources (interrupt-on-change, Timer1, WDT) are configured correctly to exit Sleep reliably. Brown-out reset (BOR) should be enabled for any mains- or battery-powered deployment to avoid undefined behavior during voltage dips.
The 14-SOIC (SL) package is compatible with standard SMT reflow profiles (peak 260C per JEDEC J-STD-020). Pin 1 identification follows the standard SOIC convention - the dot/notch indicator on the package. Keep the ICSP clock and data lines (RA1/ICSPCLK and RA0/ICSPDAT) free of series resistors above 100 ohm and avoid long traces to preserve reliable in-circuit programming. The MCLR/VPP pin requires an external pull-up resistor (typically 10 kohm) and may benefit from a small capacitor to ground (1-10 nF) for noise immunity in noisy industrial environments.
Do not exceed 5.5V on VDD or apply voltages to any I/O pin while VDD is off - the PIC16F688-E/SL lacks internal power-line ESD clamps strong enough to survive miswiring events. When using the internal oscillator, calibrate the frequency via the OSCTUNE register if UART communication requires precise baud rates; for high-speed UART above 9600 baud at 20 MHz, the asynchronous bit-error rate may require a crystal. Configuration bits (fuses) must be set correctly to select the oscillator mode, disable code protection unless required, and enable brown-out reset. According to the manufacturer datasheet, code-protected devices cannot be read back via ICSP, so always retain a known-good flash image before enabling protection.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Lead-free finish. PIC16F688 family is not AEC-Q100 qualified at the part level for this MPN; for AEC-Q100 applications choose PIC16F690-E/SL or contact Microchip for automotive-grade variants.
