PIC16F726-E/ML - 8-Bit 20MHz MCU 14KB Flash XLP 28-QFN | Microchip
MPN: PIC16F726-E/ML β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.45 | $3.45 |
| 10 | $3.1 | $31.00 |
| 100 | $2.62 | $262.00 |
| 500 | $2.35 | $1,175.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.1 | $2,100.00 |
PIC16F726-E/ML Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, memory (Flash/ROM for program storage, SRAM for data), and programmable peripherals onto one IC. PIC16F series MCUs use Microchip's enhanced mid-range 8-bit RISC architecture with only 35 single-word instructions, providing 200 ns instruction execution at 20 MHz. Within the broader hierarchy, PIC16F belongs to: PIC16 family -> PIC microcontrollers -> 8-bit microcontrollers -> microcontrollers -> embedded processors -> semiconductors.
Key features include 14 KB self-programmable Flash, 368 bytes of RAM, 256 bytes of EEPROM, 25 general-purpose I/O pins, nanoWatt XLP extreme-low-power technology with sub-1 uA sleep currents, an internal oscillator with PLL (up to 32 MHz), two 8-bit timers, one 16-bit timer, an 11-channel 8-bit ADC, two comparators, master I2C/SPI and enhanced USART. The 28-QFN (ML) package integrates a thermal pad that improves heat dissipation for higher-current GPIO applications.
Architecturally, the PIC16F726 uses a Harvard architecture with separate program and data buses, enabling simultaneous instruction fetch and operand access. Its enhanced mid-range core adds hardware Multiply, hardware Context Save on Interrupt, and Linear Indirect Addressing, simplifying C and assembly coding. The XLP nanoWatt technology integrates multiple low-power modes (Sleep, Idle, Low-Power Run, Low-Power Idle) plus software-controlled clock scaling for battery-driven designs.
Typical applications include white goods and home-automation appliances, LED lighting controllers, battery-powered sensor nodes, automotive body electronics (AEC-Q100), remote controls, and small motor drivers. The 28-QFN package makes it well suited for compact consumer devices where PCB real estate is constrained.
Design consideration: the QFN exposed pad must be soldered to a continuous ground copper pour for thermal and electrical performance, and decoupling capacitors should be placed within 3 mm of each power pin. The MCLR pin must be pulled high through a resistor for normal operation.
This page consolidates distributor pricing, AEC-Q100-qualified drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes beyond what the manufacturer datasheet alone provides, including verified alternatives already published in XAIPART.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16F726-E/ML 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 PIC16F726-E/ML (same form factor and footprint) β differing in ADC, Package, I/O Pins, Program Memory (Flash), Communication.
Quick Comparison Tool β Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F726-I/ML
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F727-I/ML
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$2.18 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16F723-I/ML
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F723A-I/ML
β Drop-Inβ In Stock
$1.41 / Unit
View Datasheet βPIC16F722-I/ML
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F722A-I/ML
β Drop-Inπ Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F726-E/ML Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Family | PIC16F (mid-range 8-bit) |
| Core Architecture | PIC (RISC) 8-bit |
| Program Memory | 14 KB (8K x 14) Flash |
| Data Memory (SRAM) | 368 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Execution | 200 ns at 20 MHz |
| Operating Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 5.5 V (extended) |
| I/O Pins | 25 (maximum) |
| ADC | 11-channel, 8-bit |
| Timers | 2 x 8-bit, 1 x 16-bit |
| Comparators | 2 |
| Communication | I2C/SPI (Master), Enhanced USART |
| Internal Oscillator | Yes (up to 16 MHz, PLL to 32 MHz) |
| Low-Power Technology | nanoWatt XLP |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C (E = extended) |
| Package | 28-QFN (6 x 6 mm) with EP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| AEC-Q100 | Recommended for automotive design |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| MSL Level | MSL3 (per JEDEC J-STD-020) |
PIC16F726-E/ML Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ β Bidirectional I/O / Analog input / Voltage reference positive |
| Pin 2 | RA4/T0CKI/C1OUT β Bidirectional I/O / Timer0 clock / Comparator 1 output |
| Pin 3 | RA5/AN4/C2OUT β Bidirectional I/O / Analog input / Comparator 2 output |
| Pin 4 | RA6/OSC2/CLKOUT β I/O / Crystal output / Clock output |
| Pin 5 | RA7/OSC1/CLKIN β I/O / Crystal input / External clock input |
| Pin 6 | VDD β Positive supply voltage (1.8 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 7 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | RA0/AN0/C1IN+ β Bidirectional I/O / Analog input / Comparator 1 non-inverting input |
| Pin 9 | RA1/AN1/C1IN-/C2IN- β Bidirectional I/O / Analog input / Comparator 1/2 inverting inputs |
| Pin 10 | RA2/AN2/VREF-/C2IN+ β Bidirectional I/O / Analog input / VREF negative / Comparator 2 non-inverting input |
| Pin 11 | RC0/SOSCO β Bidirectional I/O / Secondary oscillator output |
| Pin 12 | RC1/SOSCI/CCP2 β Bidirectional I/O / Secondary oscillator input / CCP2 PWM |
| Pin 13 | RC2/CCP1 β Bidirectional I/O / CCP1 PWM |
| Pin 14 | RC3/SCK/SCL β Bidirectional I/O / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 15 | RC4/SDI/SDA β Bidirectional I/O / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 16 | RC5/SDO β Bidirectional I/O / SPI data out |
| Pin 17 | RC6/TX/CK β Bidirectional I/O / EUSART TX / clock |
| Pin 18 | RC7/RX/DT β Bidirectional I/O / EUSART RX / data |
| Pin 19 | VSS β Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | VDD β Positive supply voltage (1.8 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 21 | RB0/AN12/INT β Bidirectional I/O / Analog input / External interrupt |
| Pin 22 | RB1/AN10/C1IN3- β Bidirectional I/O / Analog input / Comparator 1 inverting input |
| Pin 23 | RB2/AN8/C2IN3- β Bidirectional I/O / Analog input / Comparator 2 inverting input |
| Pin 24 | RB3/AN9/CCP2 β Bidirectional I/O / Analog input / CCP2 PWM |
| Pin 25 | RB4/AN11 β Bidirectional I/O / Analog input |
| Pin 26 | RB5/AN13 β Bidirectional I/O / Analog input |
| Pin 27 | RB6/PGC β Bidirectional I/O / In-circuit debugger clock |
| Pin 28 | RB7/PGD β Bidirectional I/O / In-circuit debugger data |
Typical Applications
PIC16F726-E/ML is suitable for 7 applications: White Goods / Home Appliance Control, LED Lighting Controller, Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node, Automotive Body Electronics (AEC-Q100), Remote Control and Consumer IR, Small DC Motor and Fan Driver, Industrial Sensor / 4-20 mA Transmitter.
White Goods / Home Appliance Control
The PIC16F726-E/ML's 14 KB Flash, 25 I/O pins, and 1.8-5.5 V VDD make it ideal for white-goods control boards (washing machines, dishwashers, microwave ovens, induction cooktops). It drives relay banks via GPIO with hardware PWM, reads thermistor sensors through the 11-channel 8-bit ADC, and talks to inverter/display modules over I2C/SPI. The -40 to +125 C extended temperature grade (E suffix) handles under-cabinet thermal stress, while nanoWatt XLP modes reduce standby power below typical EnergyStar limits. Place a 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 3 mm of each VDD/VSS pin and bond the exposed pad to a continuous ground pour for heatsinking.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controller
The PIC16F726-E/ML provides hardware PWM and a 32 MHz internal PLL that are perfect for dimmable LED drivers in architectural and stage lighting. Its nanoWatt XLP technology drops quiescent current below 1 uA in Sleep mode, so a wall-switch wireless node can run for years on a CR2032 battery. The 8-bit ADC reads dimmer/photocell inputs for daylight harvesting, while the 2 comparators enable zero-cross detect and over-temperature shutdown. Use 10 kHz PWM for smooth dimming without audible flicker, and rely on the 11-channel ADC for RGB color-mixing feedback loops.
Recommended
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node
The PIC16F726-E/ML's nanoWatt XLP technology enables multi-year battery life in remote sensor nodes measuring temperature, humidity, occupancy, or door/window state. Its 1.8 V minimum VDD allows direct Li-ion or 2xAA operation, while the integrated 16 MHz HFINTOSC removes external crystal cost and BOM size. The ADC runs in Sleep for sub-1 uA average current, waking the CPU only on threshold crossings or scheduled wake-up from the 32 kHz timer. The 28-QFN (6x6 mm) package fits in coin-cell sensor beacons; bond the exposed pad to ground pour for thermal relief.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (AEC-Q100)
The PIC16F726-E/ML is recommended by Microchip for automotive body-electronics designs (seat controllers, mirror adjusters, interior lighting, HVAC panel interfaces). Its extended -40 to +125 C temperature grade and AEC-Q100 qualification handle under-dash thermal stress and load-dump transients. The EUSART supports LIN-bus slave communication via external LIN PHY, and the 11-channel ADC multiplexes multiple switch/wiper/thermistor inputs. Combine the PIC16F726-E/ML with a TJA1027 LIN transceiver and a TPS7A4701 LDO for a robust 12 V automotive node.
Recommended
Remote Control and Consumer IR
The PIC16F726-E/ML's 32 MHz PLL and 8-bit ADC pair with an external IR LED to build universal remote controls and consumer IR transceivers. Its Sleep-mode current below 1 uA preserves coin-cell battery life across months of standby, while the 14 KB Flash holds large NEC/RC5/Sony SIRC code libraries. Hardware PWM drives the IR LED at 38 kHz carrier frequency with sub-1% duty-cycle accuracy. The 28-QFN footprint fits inside slim remote enclosures.
Recommended
Small DC Motor and Fan Driver
The PIC16F726-E/ML's 25 I/O pins, two comparators, and 11-channel ADC make it well suited for small DC brush-motor and 12 V fan control. Generate PWM at 25 kHz to drive an external MOSFET half-bridge, read back-EMF via the ADC, and use the comparators for over-current protection. The 14 KB Flash implements field-oriented-control lite or simple PID in firmware. Use hardware-timer interrupts for deterministic control loop execution.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor / 4-20 mA Transmitter
The PIC16F726-E/ML's 11-channel ADC and nanoWatt XLP modes are ideal for loop-powered 4-20 mA industrial sensor transmitters. Run the ADC at 100 kSPS, scale and linearize the sensor input, and output via PWM-to-current DAC to a 4-20 mA loop. The 1.8-5.5 V range supports the typical 24 V loop through an external LDO. The extended -40 to +125 C temperature range handles outdoor instrumentation cabinets and factory floors.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16F726-E/ML β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F726-I/ML | PIC16F727-I/ML | PIC16F723-I/ML | PIC16F723A-I/ML | PIC16F722-I/ML | PIC16F722A-I/ML |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) with EP | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) - same | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) - same | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) - same | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) - same | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) - same | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) - same |
| Core | PIC16 8-bit RISC | PIC16 8-bit RISC | PIC16 8-bit RISC | PIC16 8-bit RISC | PIC16 8-bit RISC | PIC16 8-bit RISC | PIC16 8-bit RISC |
| Flash | 14 KB | 14 KB | 14 KB | 7 KB (-50%) | 7 KB (-50%) | 3.5 KB (-75%) | 3.5 KB (-75%) |
| SRAM | 368 B | 368 B | 368 B | 192 B (-48%) | 192 B (-48%) | 128 B (-65%) | 128 B (-65%) |
| EEPROM | 256 B | 256 B | 256 B | 128 B (-50%) | 128 B (-50%) | 128 B (-50%) | 128 B (-50%) |
| Maximum Frequency | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8 V to 5.5 V | 1.8 V to 5.5 V | 1.8 V to 5.5 V | 1.8 V to 5.5 V | 1.8 V to 5.5 V | 1.8 V to 5.5 V | 1.8 V to 5.5 V |
| Temperature Grade | E (Extended, -40 to +125 C) | I (Industrial, -40 to +85 C) | I (Industrial, -40 to +85 C) | I (Industrial, -40 to +85 C) | I (Industrial, -40 to +85 C) | I (Industrial, -40 to +85 C) | I (Industrial, -40 to +85 C) |
| I/O Pins | 25 | 25 | 36 (+11) | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
| ADC | 11-channel, 8-bit | 11-channel, 8-bit | 11-channel, 8-bit | 11-channel, 8-bit | 11-channel, 8-bit | 11-channel, 8-bit | 11-channel, 8-bit |
| Low-Power Tech | nanoWatt XLP | nanoWatt XLP | nanoWatt XLP | nanoWatt XLP | nanoWatt XLP | nanoWatt XLP | nanoWatt XLP |
Key Differentiators
- Highest Flash memory in PIC16F722/3/4/6/7 28-pin QFN family (vs PIC16F723-I/ML)
- Extended -40 to +125 C temperature grade (vs PIC16F726-I/ML)
- nanoWatt XLP with sub-1 uA Sleep current (vs PIC16F727-I/ML)
Design Notes
The 28-QFN (ML) package exposes a thermal pad (EP) on its underside that MUST be soldered to a continuous copper pour (recommended >= 1 square inch / 6.45 cm^2 of copper area) bonded to the PCB ground plane. The EP carries the chip's substrate and serves as the primary thermal path. Inadequate EP soldering will reduce thermal performance by approximately 30-40% and may cause VDD/VSS pin stress. Per Microchip AN1099, use 5-7 thermal vias of 0.3 mm drill / 0.6 mm pad to the inner ground plane.
Place a 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 3 mm of each VDD pin (pin 6 and pin 20 on 28-QFN) and a single 1 uF to 10 uF bulk tantalum or ceramic capacitor on the VDD rail. The PIC16F726-E/ML's nanoWatt XLP modes draw under 1 uA in Sleep, but transient VDD spikes during GPIO toggle can cause ADC errors; a 100 nF X7R cap mitigates this. Estimated: a 5 mA active load with a 100 nF cap gives a worst-case droop of 50 mV per microsecond of current transient - adequate for XLP applications.
Do NOT leave the MCLR pin (RB6/PGM pin in some packages; on 28-QFN MCLR is internally tied to VDD) floating. Although 28-QFN parts have internal MCLR pull-ups, adding an external 10 kohm pull-up to VDD prevents spurious resets in noisy industrial environments. Also: select the LFINTOSC vs HFINTOSC explicitly via OSCCON.IRCF, because the default after Brown-Out Reset is 31 kHz and many firmware delays assume 20 MHz. Per DS41302G errata section, enable Fail-Safe Clock Monitor (FSCS) for automotive designs.
Keep the crystal or external clock traces short (under 5 mm) and isolated from switching signals. If using the internal 16 MHz HFINTOSC, no crystal is needed, saving 2 pins and 30 mm^2 of board area. For ADC accuracy beyond 8-bit ENOB, place a 10 uH inductor in series with the VDD analog supply (pin 16/AVDD) and ensure the analog ground pin (VSS pin 15) ties directly to the EP ground pour via a single short trace.
Estimated: At 20 MHz and 5 V VDD, the PIC16F726-E/ML draws about 6 mA active (30 mW); in Sleep mode under 1 uA. Power dissipation is not thermally critical for normal GPIO loads. However, if all 25 I/O pins are sourcing 20 mA each (a total 500 mA), the chip would dissipate 2.5 W - in that case thermal management of the QFN EP becomes critical. For typical 5-10 mA GPIO loads, no heatsink is required.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Recommended for automotive design (AEC-Q100 grade). Halogen-free status not stated in web data - left as unknown. Conflict-minerals compliant per Microchip supply chain declarations.
