PIC16LF1574-I/ST - 8-Bit MCU, 7KB, 32MHz, 14-TSSOP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF1574-I/ST β Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.34 | $1.34 |
| 10 | $1.21 | $12.10 |
| 100 | $1.07 | $107.00 |
| 500 | $0.96 | $480.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.85 | $850.00 |
PIC16LF1574-I/ST Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer integrating CPU, RAM, non-volatile program memory, and peripherals. Within the broader taxonomy, an 8-bit MCU is the simplest tier (8-bit MCU -> microcontroller -> embedded IC -> semiconductor), well-suited to deterministic real-time control where cost, latency, and code predictability outweigh raw throughput. The PIC16LF1574-I/ST uses Microchip's enhanced mid-range 8-bit core with a 14-bit instruction word, providing a balance of code density and execution speed for resource-constrained designs.
Key features include four independent 16-bit PWMs with hardware timers for high-resolution applications such as LED lighting, motor control, and digital power conversion. The 10-bit ADC handles analog sensing, while the 5-bit DAC provides reference or bias generation. The CWG module simplifies complementary drive patterns (e.g., for MOSFET half-bridges), and PPS allows flexible peripheral-to-pin assignment. EUSART supports RS-232/RS-485 communication, while the MSSP peripheral enables SPI and I2C protocols. The -LF variant denotes an extended low-voltage operating range (1.8V to 3.6V typical) optimized for battery-powered designs.
The architecture combines an 8-bit data path with a Harvard-style separate instruction bus, achieving single-cycle execution for many instructions. The 14-bit instruction word allows a broad opcode set with built-in hardware multiply assist, and the Flash-based program memory supports in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) for field updates.
Typical applications include high-resolution LED lighting, digital switched-mode power supply control, motor drive, general-purpose sensor/RCIO signal conditioning, and battery-powered IoT nodes. Designers also use it for low-cost RC servo and PWM fan controllers. The combination of CWG and 16-bit PWMs makes it a strong fit for primary-side and secondary-side regulation in compact switchers.
When designing, ensure the supply stays within the LF range (1.8V to 3.6V typical; -40C to +85C for the -I industrial grade variant). Decouple VDD with a 100nF ceramic capacitor close to the pin, and route analog/digital grounds properly to avoid ADC/DAC noise coupling.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives (including same-family variants with different package suffixes), and practical design notes not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF1574-I/ST 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 PIC16LF1574-I/ST (same form factor and footprint) β differing in Package, Operating Temperature, Operating Voltage Range, Program Memory (Flash).
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Request AlternativesPIC16LF1574-I/ST Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC enhanced mid-range 8-bit |
| Program Memory Type | Flash |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB (4K x 14) |
| RAM Size | 512 B |
| Maximum Clock Frequency | 32 MHz |
| Data Bus Width | 8-bit |
| Operating Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 3.6 V (LF) |
| ADC Resolution | 10-bit |
| DAC Resolution | 5-bit |
| Number of PWMs | 4 x 16-bit |
| Number of I/O Pins | 12 (typical for 14-pin TSSOP) |
| Communication Peripherals | EUSART, MSSP (SPI/I2C) |
| Additional Peripherals | CWG, PPS, Comparators |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial, -I grade) |
| Package | 14-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm width, 1.20mm height) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Lead-Free / RoHS | Lead-free, RoHS compliant |
| Temperature Grade | Industrial |
| Terminal Form | Gull Wing |
| Package Code | TSSOP-14 |
PIC16LF1574-I/ST Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VDD β Positive power supply |
| Pin 2 | RA5 β I/O port A bit 5 (PPS-capable) |
| Pin 3 | RA4 β I/O port A bit 4 (PPS-capable) |
| Pin 4 | RA3/MCLR β I/O / Master Clear (reset, active low) |
| Pin 5 | RC5 β I/O port C bit 5 (PPS-capable) |
| Pin 6 | RC4 β I/O port C bit 4 (PPS-capable) |
| Pin 7 | RC3 β I/O port C bit 3 (PPS-capable) |
| Pin 8 | RC2 β I/O port C bit 2 (PPS-capable) |
| Pin 9 | RC1 β I/O port C bit 1 (PPS-capable) |
| Pin 10 | RC0 β I/O port C bit 0 (PPS-capable) |
| Pin 11 | RA2 β I/O port A bit 2 (PPS-capable) |
| Pin 12 | RA1 β I/O port A bit 1 (PPS-capable, ICSPCLK) |
| Pin 13 | RA0 β I/O port A bit 0 (PPS-capable, ICSPDAT) |
| Pin 14 | VSS β Ground reference |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF1574-I/ST is suitable for 6 applications: High-Resolution LED Lighting, Digital Switched-Mode Power Supply Control, Motor Drive and Servo Control, Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes, Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning, General PWM Fan and Pump Control.
High-Resolution LED Lighting
The PIC16LF1574-I/ST's four independent 16-bit PWMs make it ideal for high-resolution LED lighting applications including RGBW strips, architectural fixtures, and horticulture lighting. Each PWM can drive a separate LED channel at 16-bit duty resolution (65536 steps), enabling smooth dimming curves without visible flicker. The 32MHz core processes DMX-512 or DALI protocols at refresh rates exceeding 400Hz. Compared to 10-bit PWM MCUs, the 16-bit resolution provides 64x finer dimming control, critical for cinema and photography lighting. The 1.8V-3.6V operation supports direct battery power from 2x AA cells or single-cell Li-ion packs. PPS allows flexible PWM-to-pin assignment for optimal PCB routing.
Recommended
Digital Switched-Mode Power Supply Control
The PIC16LF1574-I/ST's combination of four 16-bit PWMs, CWG (Complementary Waveform Generator), and high-speed ADC makes it well-suited for primary-side and secondary-side regulation in compact SMPS designs. The CWG module generates complementary drive signals with programmable dead-band for half-bridge topologies. The 32MHz core supports peak current mode control loops at switching frequencies suitable for sub-100W converters. The 5-bit DAC provides reference voltage generation for control loops. Compared to analog-only controllers, this digital approach enables adaptive overcurrent protection, soft-start profiling, and efficiency optimization via firmware updates.
Recommended
Motor Drive and Servo Control
The PIC16LF1574-I/ST is ideal for low-cost BLDC, stepper, and RC servo control applications requiring 16-bit PWM resolution. The four PWMs can drive a three-phase BLDC bridge with one channel spare for braking or auxiliary functions. The CWG module generates complementary drive with dead-band insertion, preventing shoot-through in half-bridge stages. The 32MHz instruction rate supports FOC (field-oriented control) loops at modest RPM ranges. The 10-bit ADC handles back-EMF sensing and current feedback via integrated comparators. Compared to dedicated motor control ICs, this approach offers firmware-customizable control algorithms at lower BOM cost.
Recommended
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes
The PIC16LF1574-I/ST's 1.8V to 3.6V low-voltage LF operation and modest 32MHz clock make it ideal for battery-powered wireless sensor nodes in IoT deployments. Operating from a single CR2032 coin cell or 2x AA alkaline cells, the MCU can sleep at sub-microamp currents and wake on interrupts for periodic sensor reads. The MSSP peripheral interfaces with sensors over I2C/SPI, while the 10-bit ADC handles analog sensors like temperature, gas, and current. The 7KB Flash supports application logic, sensor drivers, and basic protocol stacks. Compared to higher-end Cortex-M MCUs, this 8-bit device offers significant power savings for duty-cycled applications.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16LF1574-I/ST suits industrial 4-20mA loop transmitters, RTD signal conditioning, and bridge sensor readout with its integrated 10-bit ADC, 5-bit DAC, and analog comparators. The CWG and PWMs can generate excitation signals for resistive sensors. The 1.8V-3.6V range supports low-power 2-wire field instruments. The -I industrial temperature grade (-40C to +85C) ensures operation in harsh environments. Compared to dedicated sensor interface ICs, this approach provides on-chip calibration, linearization, and HART or IO-Link protocol stacks via the EUSART peripheral, reducing overall BOM cost and PCB area.
Recommended
General PWM Fan and Pump Control
The PIC16LF1574-I/ST provides cost-effective variable-speed fan and pump control via its 16-bit PWMs. A single PWM output drives the fan's tachometer input or pump speed control line, while the ADC monitors RPM feedback or flow rates. The 5-bit DAC can provide a 0-3.3V analog control signal for legacy 0-10V fan drivers. The EUSART handles RS-485 communication for industrial fan tray monitoring. Compared to dedicated fan controllers, this approach allows custom speed curves, fault detection algorithms, and network connectivity at lower unit cost. The industrial temperature grade supports chassis-cooling and HVAC applications.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF1574-I/ST β comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LF1574-I/JQ |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | TSSOP-14 (ST) | UQFN-16 (JQ) - DIFFERENT footprint |
| Flash Memory | 7 KB | 7 KB (same die) |
| RAM | 512 B | 512 B |
| Max Clock Frequency | 32 MHz | 32 MHz |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| PWM Channels | 4 x 16-bit | 4 x 16-bit |
| ADC | 10-bit | 10-bit |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C |
| Pin Count | 14 | 16 (UQFN package) |
Key Differentiators
- Four 16-bit PWMs with CWG complementary drive (vs PIC16F1503-I/MV)
- Low-voltage LF operation for battery-powered designs (vs PIC16F1574-I/ST)
- Integrated 10-bit ADC and 5-bit DAC on-chip (vs PIC16LF1454-I/SL)
Design Notes
Decouple the VDD rail at the PIC11LF1574-I/ST with a 100nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5mm of the VDD pin, plus a bulk capacitor (1uF to 10uF) on the same node. The LF variant operates from 1.8V to 3.6V; operating above 3.6V may damage the part. For battery-powered designs using 2x AA cells, include a low-loss LDO or direct connection with bulk capacitance to handle motor inrush transients.
Configure the PPS (Peripheral Pin Select) module before enabling peripherals, since default pin mappings may not match your PCB layout. Lock the PPS registers in production firmware to prevent accidental reconfiguration. Also ensure unused I/O pins are configured as outputs or inputs with internal pull-ups to minimize sleep current. The MCLR pin (pin 4) requires either an external pull-up or internal configuration; floating MCLR causes unpredictable resets.
Separate analog and digital ground planes when using the ADC, connecting them at a single point near the VSS pin. Keep the analog reference (VDD or external) routed away from switching nodes and PWM outputs to minimize ADC noise coupling. For CWG-driven half-bridge applications, route the high-side and low-side gate drive traces symmetrically with adequate creepage and clearance. The TSSOP-14 thermal pad is not connected to VSS, so no additional thermal management is required for typical 8-bit MCU loads.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant and lead-free per Microchip product page and distributor listings. Industrial temperature grade -40C to +85C. Not AEC-Q100 qualified; for automotive applications contact Microchip about AEC-Q100 qualified variants.
