PIC16LF1459-E/SS - 14KB Flash 8-bit MCU, 48MHz, USB, XLP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF1459-E/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.85 | $2.85 |
| 10 | $2.55 | $25.50 |
| 100 | $2.18 | $218.00 |
| 500 | $1.94 | $970.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.72 | $1,720.00 |
| 2,500 | $1.55 | $3,875.00 |
PIC16LF1459-E/SS Overview
An 8-bit PIC microcontroller is a Harvard-architecture RISC processor optimized for low-power embedded control. The PIC16 family sits in the middle of Microchip's product hierarchy (PIC10/12/16/18/24/dsPIC33), offering more peripherals and memory than baseline PIC12 parts while retaining the XLP (eXtreme Low Power) sleep-current advantage over higher-end dsPIC33 devices. The LF prefix denotes a 1.8V-3.6V wide-voltage core, enabling direct battery operation from a single Li-ion or two alkaline cells.
Key specifications include 1.8V to 3.6V VDD operation, 49 nA typical sleep current with full RAM retention, USB 2.0 full-speed (12 Mbps) device support without an external transceiver, and a 10-bit ADC reaching up to 100 ksps across 9 source channels. The SSOP-20 footprint at 0.65 mm pitch keeps the part footprint-compatible with PIC16LF1454/1455/1458 family siblings, easing PCB reuse across product variants.
Architecturally, the device pairs a hardware multiplier with a single-cycle 8x8 MAC and an in-circuit debug interface, while the internal 48 MHz HFINTOSC eliminates external crystals in cost-sensitive USB nodes. The CIP (Core Independent Peripheral) set - including the CWG, NCO, and PWM - allows event-driven responses without CPU intervention, lowering average current in sensor and human-interface designs.
Typical applications include USB HID peripherals, e-cigarettes and vape controls, wireless sensor dongles, IoT bridges, and consumer touch interfaces. The wide-voltage range and 14 KB of Flash comfortably fit CDC + vendor-class composite USB stacks plus application logic on a single die.
When designing with this part, remember that the internal USB voltage regulator requires a 200-ohm resistor on VUSB3V3 and a decoupling capacitor to ground; omitting either breaks USB enumeration. Decouple VDD with at least 100 nF close to the pin to keep ADC noise low.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative MPNs, and design guidance beyond the manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers compare sources and apply the part correctly in USB and battery-powered designs.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF1459-E/SS — 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 PIC16LF1459-E/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Operating Temperature, Package, ADC, I/O Pins, Mounting Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F1459-E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.78 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1459T-I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1459-I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1458-E/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF1455-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F14K50-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF1459-E/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 8-bit Microcontroller (MCU) |
| Core Architecture | PIC16 enhanced mid-range (Harvard RISC) |
| Program Memory | 14 KB Flash (8K x 14 words) |
| RAM | 1024 bytes |
| EEPROM | 0 bytes (emulated via Flash) |
| Max CPU Frequency | 48 MHz |
| Instruction Throughput | 12 MIPS |
| Operating Voltage (VDD) | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| I/O Pins | 18 |
| ADC | 10-bit, 9 channels, up to 100 ksps |
| DAC | 5-bit, 1 channel |
| Timers | 4 (Timer0, Timer1, Timer2, Timer4/6 depending on config) |
| PWM Modules | 2 (10-bit Enhanced PWM) |
| Comparators | 2 |
| USB | USB 2.0 Full-Speed (12 Mbps) Device with internal 3.3V regulator |
| USART | 1 (EUSART) |
| I2C / SPI | 1 I2C, 1 SPI (MSSP) |
| Package | 20-pin SSOP (0.65 mm pitch) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C (E temp grade) |
| Low-Power Sleep Current | 49 nA typical (RTCC + RAM retention) |
| MSL Level | 1 (unlimited floor life at <=30 C / 85 RH) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Programming Interface | ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) / 2-wire debug |
PIC16LF1459-E/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (1.8V-3.6V) |
| Pin 2 | RA5 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 3 | RA4 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 4 | RA3/MCLR — Bidirectional I/O or Master Clear (reset, active low) |
| Pin 5 | RC5 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input / USB D+ |
| Pin 6 | RC4 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input / USB D- |
| Pin 7 | RC3 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 8 | RC2 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 9 | RC1 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 10 | RC0 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 11 | VUSB3V3 — Internal USB 3.3V regulator output (200-ohm series resistor to VDD) |
| Pin 12 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 13 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O / ICSP programming clock |
| Pin 14 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O / ICSP programming data |
| Pin 15 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 16 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
| Pin 17 | RC7 — Bidirectional I/O / RX/TX for EUSART |
| Pin 18 | RC6 — Bidirectional I/O / TX/RX for EUSART |
| Pin 19 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input / DAC output |
| Pin 20 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O / analog input |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF1459-E/SS is suitable for 6 applications: USB HID Peripheral (Keyboard / Mouse / Gamepad), USB CDC Virtual COM Port Dongle, E-Cigarette / Vape Mod Controller, Wireless Sensor Dongle / IoT Bridge, Consumer Touch Interface / Capacitive Slider, Industrial Sensor Transmitter (USB Config Port).
USB HID Peripheral (Keyboard / Mouse / Gamepad)
The PIC16LF1459-E/SS is purpose-built for USB HID peripherals: its integrated USB 2.0 Full-Speed transceiver and internal 3.3V regulator eliminate external components, while 14 KB Flash fits the standard Microchip USB HID stack plus vendor-specific reporting. The 18 I/O pins support up to 16-key matrix scanning or 8-axis analog inputs, and 49 nA sleep current enables battery-powered mice that run for months on AA cells. Estimated active current at 48 MHz with USB active is around 4-6 mA at 3.3V.
Recommended
USB CDC Virtual COM Port Dongle
Use the PIC16LF1459-E/SS to bridge a UART sensor or legacy microcontroller to USB via the CDC class, presenting as a virtual COM port on the host. The 48 MHz CPU executes the CDC stack with throughput up to 921600 baud, and the 10-bit ADC can be exposed as a vendor-class data channel. The internal 48 MHz oscillator removes BOM cost; pair with a USB-C connector and ESD protection array. Designers should plan for endpoint buffer sizing in the 1024-byte RAM budget.
Recommended
E-Cigarette / Vape Mod Controller
The PIC16LF1459-E/SS is widely used in regulated vape mods: its 10-bit ADC reads battery voltage and atomizer resistance, the 5-bit DAC drives the MOSFET gate through an op-amp, and the PWM modules control the boost converter or directly modulate the heater. The 49 nA sleep current extends battery life in standby, while the SSOP-20 footprint fits the compact 18650/21700 form factor. The E temperature grade supports -40 to +125 C operation during high-power firing.
Recommended
Wireless Sensor Dongle / IoT Bridge
Pair the PIC16LF1459-E/SS with a 2.4 GHz transceiver (such as an MRF24J40 or a third-party SPI radio) to create a USB bridge for IEEE 802.15.4 or proprietary sensor networks. The SPI peripheral reaches 8 MHz at 48 MHz CPU clock, sufficient for typical 250 kbps sensor data, and the I2C master can read environmental sensors while USB enumerates as a vendor device. The wide-voltage range allows the dongle to power from a single CR2032 coin cell with a boost regulator.
Recommended
Consumer Touch Interface / Capacitive Slider
The PIC16LF1459-E/SS drives mTouch capacitive sensing buttons and sliders through the built-in ADC and a software-based CVD scan, eliminating dedicated touch ICs in low-channel-count human-interface designs. The 9-channel ADC supports up to 9 electrodes, with firmware averaging for noise immunity against USB and switching noise. The internal USB allows the touch surface to act as a USB HID interface for laptops and tablets, simplifying product integration.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Transmitter (USB Config Port)
Industrial loop-powered or battery-backed sensor transmitters use the PIC16LF1459-E/SS as the configuration and diagnostic interface: USB CDC exposes a CLI for calibration and firmware update, while the primary sensor loop runs independently through one of the comparators or PWM outputs. The 1.8V minimum supply enables direct operation from a single LiSOCl2 cell in remote telemetry units. The extended temperature grade supports -40 to +125 C environments typical of process plants.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF1459-E/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F1459-E/SS | PIC16LF1459T-I/SS | PIC16LF1459-I/SS | PIC16LF1458-E/SS | PIC18F14K50-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 20-pin SSOP | 20-pin SSOP (same) | 20-pin SSOP (same) | 20-pin SSOP (same) | 20-pin SSOP (same) | 20-pin SSOP (same) |
| Operating Voltage (VDD) | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 2.3 V to 5.5 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 5.5 V |
| Core / Architecture | PIC16 enhanced mid-range 8-bit | PIC16 enhanced mid-range 8-bit | PIC16 enhanced mid-range 8-bit | PIC16 enhanced mid-range 8-bit | PIC16 enhanced mid-range 8-bit | PIC18 high-performance 8-bit |
| Max CPU Frequency | 48 MHz (12 MIPS) | 48 MHz (12 MIPS) | 48 MHz (12 MIPS) | 48 MHz (12 MIPS) | 48 MHz (12 MIPS) | 48 MHz (12 MIPS, PIC18 instruction set) |
| Program Flash | 14 KB | 14 KB | 14 KB | 14 KB | 7 KB | 16 KB |
| RAM | 1024 B | 1024 B | 1024 B | 1024 B | 512 B | 768 B |
| USB 2.0 FS | Yes (internal 3.3V LDO) | Yes (internal 3.3V LDO) | Yes (internal 3.3V LDO) | Yes (internal 3.3V LDO) | Yes (internal 3.3V LDO) | Yes (internal 3.3V LDO) |
| ADC (10-bit channels) | 9 channels | 9 channels | 9 channels | 9 channels | 5 channels | 9 channels |
| I/O Pins | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 18 |
| Sleep Current (typ.) | 49 nA | 49 nA | 49 nA | 49 nA | 49 nA | 100 nA |
| Temperature Grade | E (-40 to +125 C) | E (-40 to +125 C) | I (-40 to +85 C) | I (-40 to +85 C) | E (-40 to +125 C) | I (-40 to +85 C) |
Key Differentiators
- Lowest minimum VDD in the PIC16F1459 family (vs PIC16F1459-E/SS)
- 2x Flash vs PIC16LF1458-E/SS (vs PIC16LF1458-E/SS)
- Extended temperature grade for industrial use (vs PIC16LF1459-I/SS)
Design Notes
USB enumeration requires the internal 3.3V regulator to power the USB transceiver. Place a 200-ohm resistor between VUSB3V3 (pin 11) and VDD, with a 470 nF decoupling capacitor from VUSB3V3 to ground. Estimated: at 3.3V VDD with full USB traffic, VUSB3V3 regulates to approximately 3.3V and supplies up to 5 mA to the USB block. Skipping the series resistor can lock up the part in programming mode and prevent USB enumeration.
Keep the USB D+/D- traces (RC4/RC5) as a 90-ohm differential pair, length-matched to within 150 mils. Place the 100 nF VDD decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin (pin 1), and a 10 uF bulk capacitor adjacent to the regulator output. The exposed pad is not present on this SSOP package, so thermal dissipation is body-only; the chip can dissipate ~200 mW in 25 C free air without copper pour assistance.
Do not connect MCLR (pin 4) directly to VDD without a pull-up; the PIC16LF1459 needs a 10 kOhm pull-up to VDD, otherwise the part will reset intermittently. When using ICSP programming, add a diode-OR or series resistor on MCLR so that the debugger and application circuit do not fight each other. Programming voltage on MCLR must reach 8.5V for high-voltage programming, but 3.3V is sufficient for low-voltage ICSP.
Estimate: at 48 MHz with full USB traffic, the internal HFINTOSC pulls roughly 2 mA of additional current beyond the CPU core, so an isolating ferrite bead between VDD and the analog VDD rail is recommended when using the ADC on the same chip. Route the analog signals (RA0-RA5) away from the USB differential pair and the PWM outputs (RC1/RC2) to avoid digital noise coupling into ADC measurements.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - automotive designers should select AEC-Q100-qualified PIC variants. Halogen-free per Microchip environmental compliance documentation.
