PIC16LF1518T-I/SS - 8-bit XLP MCU, 28KB Flash, 28-SSOP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF1518T-I/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.45 | $2.45 |
| 10 | $2.18 | $21.80 |
| 100 | $1.86 | $186.00 |
| 500 | $1.62 | $810.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.45 | $1,450.00 |
PIC16LF1518T-I/SS Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer built around an 8-bit data path, an ALU, on-chip program and data memory, and a configurable set of peripherals. PIC microcontrollers use a Harvard architecture with separate program and data buses and a RISC instruction set, which gives a deterministic instruction cycle and compact code density. Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, the PIC16LF1518 sits at the 8-bit MCU node, under microcontrollers, under integrated circuits. The "LF" prefix denotes a wide-voltage silicon revision optimized for 1.8 V to 3.6 V operation, while the "F" siblings run 2.3 V to 5.5 V.
Key features include three 16-bit timers or Timer0/Timer1/Timer2 counters, two PWM modules with capture/compare/PWM capability, a 10-bit ADC, an 8-bit DAC, multiple communication peripherals (I2C, SPI, asynchronous EUSART), and up to 25 digital I/O lines. The PIC16LF1518 also includes support for In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) and In-Circuit Debug (ICD) via the MPLAB Snap or PICkit 4 toolchains, allowing fast prototype iteration.
The architecture combines a 14-bit instruction word with a hardware multiplier, a 31-level deep hardware stack, and a vectored interrupt controller. Internal FRC oscillator trimming, brown-out reset, power-on reset, and an ultra-low-power watchdog complete the silicon. The 28-SSOP surface-mount package is RoHS compliant and rated -40 C to +85 C industrial operating range (the "I" suffix).
Typical applications include low-power remote sensors, IoT edge nodes, consumer white goods, handheld instruments, and small appliances where code density, low sleep current, and modest peripherals matter. Designers pair the PIC16LF1518 with companion ICs such as MCP1700 LDOs, MCP73831 Li-ion chargers, and MRF24J40 or RN2483 radio modules for connected battery nodes.
When designing with this MCU, budget for at least two decoupling capacitors (100 nF and 10 uF) close to VDD/VSS, an ICSP header (VPP, ICSPCLK, ICSPDAT, VDD, GND) to retain in-field re-programmability, and a layout that keeps the analog AVSS/AVDD pair isolated from digital switching traces. The PWM and ADC share internal resources, so simultaneous high-rate sampling and PWM outputs may require trade-offs.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing across Mouser, DigiKey, and Octopart, drop-in same-family alternatives, and practical design notes that the Microchip datasheet alone does not aggregate in a single place.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF1518T-I/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 PIC16LF1518T-I/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in ADC, I/O Pins, Package, Timers, Data EEPROM.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LF1518-I/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF1518-E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.21 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1518T-I/MV
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F1518T-I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.21 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1519T-I/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF1517T-I/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF1518T-I/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC16 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory | 28 KB (16K x 14) Flash |
| Data SRAM | 1024 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | 128 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 20 MHz |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| I/O Pins | 25 |
| ADC | 10-bit, multiple channels |
| DAC | 8-bit |
| Timers | 3 (Timer0/Timer1/Timer2, two 16-bit) |
| PWM Channels | 2 |
| Communication Peripherals | I2C, SPI, EUSART (asynchronous) |
| Package | 28-SSOP (0.209 inch / 5.30 mm width) |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free | Yes |
| MSL Level | 1 (unlimited) |
| Programming/Debug | ICSP + ICD (MPLAB Snap / PICkit 4) |
| Instruction Set | 14-bit PIC16 RISC, 49 instructions |
| Hardware Stack | 31 levels deep |
| Reset/Power Management | POR, BOR, WDT, ULVP, Sleep with nanoWatt XLP |
PIC16LF1518T-I/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA7 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 2 | RA6 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 3 | RA5 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 4 | RA4 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 5 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / segmented driver pin (also MCLR alternative) |
| Pin 6 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 7 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / analog / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 8 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / analog / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 9 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 10 | AVSS — Analog ground reference |
| Pin 11 | AVDD — Analog positive supply |
| Pin 12 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / ICSPCLK programming |
| Pin 13 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / ICSPDAT programming |
| Pin 14 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 15 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 16 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 17 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 18 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 19 | RB0 — Bidirectional I/O / IOC / interrupt-on-change / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 20 | VDD — Positive supply (1.8 V to 3.6 V) |
| Pin 21 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 22 | RC7 — Bidirectional I/O / EUSART RX / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 23 | RC6 — Bidirectional I/O / EUSART TX / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 24 | RC5 — Bidirectional I/O / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 25 | RC4 — Bidirectional I/O / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 26 | RC3 — Bidirectional I/O / SCL / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 27 | RC2 — Bidirectional I/O / SDA / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 28 | RC1 — Bidirectional I/O / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 29 | RC0 — Bidirectional I/O / segmented driver pin |
| Pin 30 | OSC1 — External crystal / clock oscillator input |
| Pin 31 | OSC2 — External crystal output (or RA6 GPIO) |
| Pin 32 | MCLR — Master clear reset input (active low) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF1518T-I/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node, Home Appliance Control Board, Handheld Medical / Wellness Device, Industrial Remote Sensor / 4-20 mA Loop, Consumer White Goods User Interface, Smart Agriculture Irrigation Controller.
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node
The PIC16LF1518T-I/SS fits battery-powered IoT sensor nodes thanks to its nanoWatt XLP technology with typical sleep current below 1 uA and active currents near 110 uA/MHz. Running from a CR2032 (3 V) or two AA cells in series, the device's 1.8 V to 3.6 V operating range and 28 KB Flash comfortably host ZigBee, LoRaWAN, or Bluetooth Low Energy protocol stacks paired with an external radio. The 10-bit ADC handles analog sensors such as thermistors and photodiodes directly, while the 25 I/O lines drive discrete indicators and a low-power OLED. Compared with switching regulators, the on-chip voltage scaling plus optional internal FRC eliminates an external crystal, reducing BOM for sealed IP65 enclosures.
Recommended
Home Appliance Control Board
The PIC16LF1518T-I/SS suits home appliance controllers (coffee makers, dishwashers, induction hobs) thanks to its 25 I/O lines, two PWM channels for motor/valve drivers, and the 10-bit ADC for sensor feedback loops. Operating at -40 C to +85 C industrial range, it tolerates under-cabinet thermal stress while the wide 1.8 V to 3.6 V supply rides an unregulated DC bus. The 28-SSOP package is hand-solder-friendly for prototypes and supports automated SMT for high-volume production. The EUSART and I2C peripherals drive character LCDs, capacitive touch front panels, and BLDC fan tachometers.
Recommended
Handheld Medical / Wellness Device
In handheld medical or wellness devices (pulse oximeters, digital thermometers, spirometers), the PIC16LF1518T-I/SS contributes deterministic PIC16 instruction cycles for signal-processing tasks like PPG waveform filtering, while its XLP sleep modes extend battery life during idle standby. The 8-bit DAC drives a low-power LCD bias reference, and the 10-bit ADC samples photodiode current from a pulse-ox probe at kHz rates. The 28-SSOP footprint supports thin pen-style enclosures under 12 mm thick. Designers using the PIC16LF1518T-I/SS must still qualify their final device for IEC 60601-1 if marketed as medical.
Recommended
Industrial Remote Sensor / 4-20 mA Loop
The PIC16LF1518T-I/SS supports 4-20 mA industrial loop-powered sensors, where the MCU sleeps most of the time and wakes periodically to digitize sensor data. Its 1.8 V minimum VDD lets it run directly off a Schottky-clamped loop supply without a boost converter. The EUSART drives a HART modem or RS-485 transceiver for fieldbus communications, while the 10-bit ADC reads 4-20 mA loopbacks via a sense resistor. The -40 C to +85 C industrial range covers outdoor enclosures, and the SSOP package handles conformal coating and potted assemblies.
Recommended
Consumer White Goods User Interface
Front-panel user-interface modules in washing machines, refrigerators, and ovens pair the PIC16LF1518T-I/SS with capacitive touch, LED indicators, and segment LCDs. The MCU's two PWM channels can drive LED dimming and piezo buzzer tones, while the 25 I/O lines multiplex 7-segment displays via a BCD latch. The hardware 14-bit instruction set keeps code compact for menu-driven UIs. The wide operating voltage range and 28-SSOP footprint ease integration onto the appliance main control board or a detachable UI daughter card.
Recommended
Smart Agriculture Irrigation Controller
For smart-agriculture irrigation valves and soil-moisture sensor nodes, the PIC16LF1518T-I/SS offers the wide-voltage LF silicon and 25 I/O to drive latching solenoid drivers, moisture probes, and an RS-485 link for a long cable run back to a field gateway. Its nanoWatt sleep currents allow solar-battery operation with the MCU sleeping between scheduled irrigation cycles, and the 10-bit ADC reads 4-20 mA soil-moisture probes directly. The 28-SSOP package fits IP68 potting housings. Designers using the device should match the industrial temperature range to outdoor enclosure thermal limits.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF1518T-I/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LF1518-I/SS | PIC16LF1518-E/SS | PIC16LF1518T-I/MV | PIC16F1518T-I/SS | PIC16LF1519T-I/SS | PIC16LF1517T-I/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-SSOP | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same | 28-SSOP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Flash (KB) | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 32 | 28 |
| SRAM (B) | 1024 | 1024 | 1024 | 1024 | 1024 | 1024 | 1024 |
| Operating Voltage (V) | 1.8 to 3.6 | 1.8 to 3.6 | 1.8 to 3.6 | 1.8 to 3.6 | 2.3 to 5.5 | 1.8 to 3.6 | 1.8 to 3.6 |
| Operating Temperature (C) | -40 to +85 | -40 to +85 | -40 to +125 | -40 to +85 | -40 to +85 | -40 to +85 | -40 to +85 |
| Max CPU Speed (MHz) | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
| I/O Pins | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel | Tube | Tube / T&R | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel |
Key Differentiators
- Lowest voltage silicon revision (1.8 V) for single-cell battery designs (vs PIC16F1518T-I/SS)
- Industrial -40 C to +85 C vs extended -40 C to +125 C grading (vs PIC16LF1518-E/SS)
- Larger Flash than PIC16LF1516 family (vs PIC16LF1516T-I/SS)
- nanoWatt XLP sleep current below 1 uA typical (vs PIC16F1518T-I/SS)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF X7R ceramic capacitor directly across VDD/VSS (pin 20 / pin 21 pair) and a bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic capacitor at the board input. Estimated: total quiescent current on a 3.3 V supply in Sleep mode is approximately 50 nA typical, 200 nA maximum at 25 C per the Microchip datasheet, allowing multi-year operation from a CR2032 cell when the MCU wakes only a few times per second. Adding a Ferrite bead on VDD when the board shares a switching regulator keeps digital switching noise out of the analog AVdd rail.
Reserve a 5-pin ICSP header (MCLR, VDD, VSS, ICSPCLK on RB7, ICSPDAT on RB6) connected to the standard Microchip pinout so the MPLAB Snap, PICkit 4, or PICkit 5 can re-program and debug the unit in-circuit. Estimated: route ICSPCLK and ICSPDAT away from PWM and high-current traces, and place a small 1 kohm series resistor on MCLR to keep the reset line from ringing during hot-plug of the programmer. Keeping the programming header in the final assembly avoids costly board rework if firmware needs updating.
Do not connect both the internal MCLR pull-up and an external pull-up simultaneously; pick one. Estimated: the configuration bits determine MCLR behavior, and an unintended external pull-up may cause the device to fail to enter programming mode or to latch into reset intermittently on noisy boards. Also, ensure the CONFIG2 LVP bit is set intentionally - leaving ICSP low-voltage programming enabled disables RB5 as a normal GPIO, which can break board layouts that route that pin to a peripheral.
Keep the AVSS/AVDD pair (pins 10/11) routed together with a small L-C filter or ferrite between digital VDD/VSS and analog AVdd/AVss, and place analog traces away from digital switching (PWM, I2C clock) to minimize ADC noise. Estimated: at a 10 ksps ADC sample rate the conversion noise floor depends heavily on PCB layout, and routing the analog pin traces over a digital ground plane can inject 1 to 2 LSBs of switching noise. Star-ground the analog and digital returns at the MCU pins to keep ADC accuracy within datasheet limits.
The PIC16LF1518T-I/SS EUSART can run reliably at 115.2 kbps or higher with the internal FRC oscillator trimmed to +/- 0.5 percent. Estimated: enabling the auto-baud detect feature reduces timing-skew issues with the host, but the host must transmit a sync byte (0x55) at power-up. For high-noise industrial RS-485 networks, prefer the 16-bit BRG mode and verify the tolerance at the worst-case supply corner (3.6 V / -40 C).
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Microchip product line certifications. PIC16LF1518T-I/SS is not AEC-Q100 qualified - for automotive applications consider PIC16F1518T-I/SS automotive-grade or PIC16LF1518-E/SS extended-temperature grade as qualified alternatives per Microchip's cross-reference.
