PIC16LF1708-E/SO - 8-bit MCU, 4KB Flash, 512B RAM, SOIC-20 | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF1708-E/SO ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $0.62 | $0.62 |
| 10 | $0.59 | $5.90 |
| 100 | $0.55 | $55.00 |
| 500 | $0.51 | $255.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.47 | $470.00 |
PIC16LF1708-E/SO Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, RAM, non-volatile program memory, and peripherals such as timers, ADC, communication interfaces, and I/O pins. In the system hierarchy, an MCU belongs to the embedded computing layer that sits above simple logic ICs and below more complex microprocessors. The PIC16LF1708 falls within the 8-bit RISC MCU category, characterized by a streamlined instruction set that simplifies firmware development while keeping silicon cost low.
Key features include on-chip op amps, Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) such as Configurable Logic Cells (CLC), Complementary Output Generator (COG), and Zero-Cross Detect (ZCD), as well as a 10-bit ADC with computation, a 5-/8-bit DAC, and high-speed comparators. The XLP architecture achieves nanoWatt sleep currents below 100 nA, making the device well suited for battery-powered sensors and IoT nodes. Multiple communication interfaces support UART, SPI, and I2C for flexible peripheral expansion.
From an architectural perspective, the PIC16LF1708 uses a Harvard RISC core with a 14-bit instruction word and a separate 8-bit data path, providing deterministic interrupt latency and predictable timing. Internal voltage reference, hardware limiting on the ADC, and PWM modules with dead-band control reduce external component count and PCB area in motor control, lighting, and power-conversion applications.
Typical applications include low-power IoT sensor nodes, consumer electronics remote controls, battery management for handheld instruments, LED lighting drivers, and small motor or fan control loops. The SOIC-20 footprint simplifies hand prototyping and rework in development labs.
When designing with this device, ensure VDD decoupling is placed within 5 mm of the package, and that MCLR is pulled high through a resistor for normal operation. Pair the part with MPLAB X IDE and XC8 compiler to leverage the full peripheral library.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes that are not aggregated on a single manufacturer or distributor datasheet page.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF1708-E/SO — 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 PIC16LF1708-E/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, ADC, Core Architecture, Operating Temperature, Comparators.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LF1708-I/SO
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$1.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1708-E/P
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF1708-E/SS
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$1.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F1708-E/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1707T-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.49 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1507-E/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1708-E/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit RISC Harvard (PIC) |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 4 KB |
| Data Memory (RAM) | 512 B |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 32 MHz (16 MIPS) |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C |
| I/O Pins | 18 |
| ADC | 10-bit, up to 12 channels |
| DAC | 5-/8-bit, 1 channel |
| Comparators | 2 (high-speed) |
| Op Amps | 2 on-chip |
| Timers | 8-/16-bit (multiple) |
| Communication Interfaces | UART, SPI, I2C |
| Core Independent Peripherals | CLC, COG, ZCD, NCO |
| Package | SOIC-20 (SO) 7.50 mm |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| MSL Level | 1 |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16LF1708-E/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — Analog input 3 / positive voltage reference / GPIO |
| Pin 2 | RA4/AN4 — Analog input 4 / GPIO |
| Pin 3 | RA5/AN5 — Analog input 5 / GPIO |
| Pin 4 | RA6/OSC2 — GPIO / crystal oscillator output |
| Pin 5 | RA7/OSC1 — GPIO / crystal oscillator input |
| Pin 6 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 7 | RA0/AN0 — Analog input 0 / GPIO |
| Pin 8 | RA1/AN1 — Analog input 1 / GPIO |
| Pin 9 | RA2/AN2 — Analog input 2 / GPIO |
| Pin 10 | RC0 — GPIO / PWM output |
| Pin 11 | RC1 — GPIO / PWM output |
| Pin 12 | RC2 — GPIO / PWM output |
| Pin 13 | RC3 — GPIO / PWM output |
| Pin 14 | RC4 — GPIO / I2C/SPI |
| Pin 15 | RC5 — GPIO / I2C/SPI |
| Pin 16 | RC6 — GPIO / UART TX |
| Pin 17 | RC7 — GPIO / UART RX |
| Pin 18 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 19 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | MCLR/VPP — Master clear reset / programming voltage |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF1708-E/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes, Consumer Remote Controls, LED Lighting Drivers, Small Motor and Fan Control, Handheld Instruments and Metering, Industrial Control Modules.
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes
The PIC16LF1708-E/SO is well matched to battery-powered IoT sensor nodes thanks to its nanoWatt XLP sleep currents below 100 nA, wide 1.8 V to 3.6 V supply range, and on-chip 10-bit ADC. Engineers typically run the core at 32 MHz only during a sensor read, then enter sleep to extend coin-cell life to multiple years. The integrated op amps and comparators eliminate the need for external signal conditioning on thermistor, photodiode, or gas-sensor front ends, reducing BOM and PCB footprint in wireless sensor designs.
Recommended
Consumer Remote Controls
For IR or RF remote controls, the PIC16LF1708-E/SO combines low-cost 4 KB Flash, deep-sleep currents under 100 nA, and flexible PWM peripherals for IR carrier generation. The 18 I/O pins are sufficient for keypad matrix scanning up to 8x8 and LED indicators. XLP sleep between button events keeps total quiescent draw in the microampere range, allowing alkaline AAA operation for the lifetime of the device without user-replaceable batteries.
Recommended
LED Lighting Drivers
The PIC16LF1708-E/SO is an excellent fit for small LED lighting drivers due to its 5-/8-bit DAC, multiple PWM channels with dead-band control, and integrated op amps for current sensing. Engineers use the CLC and COG Core Independent Peripherals to drive MOSFET half-bridges without CPU intervention, reducing firmware overhead and improving dimming accuracy. The 1.8 V to 3.6 V supply range accepts direct Li-Ion or two-AA inputs for portable fixtures.
Recommended
Small Motor and Fan Control
Brushless DC fan and small motor control loops benefit from the PIC16LF1708-E/SO's high-speed comparators, configurable CLC, and Complementary Output Generator (COG) peripherals. The 32 MHz core runs sensorless back-EMF zero-cross detection firmware in real time, while on-chip op amps condition the phase feedback without external amplifiers. Hardware dead-band control prevents shoot-through on the half-bridge, improving efficiency and EMI in compact motor designs.
Recommended
Handheld Instruments and Metering
Handheld multimeters, clamp meters, and portable environmental testers leverage the PIC16LF1708-E/SO's combination of low power, integrated ADC, op amps, and -40 C to +125 C extended temperature range. The 10-bit ADC with computation performs oversampling and averaging in hardware, offloading the CPU for faster display updates. With XLP sleep below 100 nA, the device contributes negligibly to standby drain between measurements.
Recommended
Industrial Control Modules
Industrial PLC expansion modules, sensor interface boards, and process-control front ends use the PIC16LF1708-E/SO to provide UART/SPI/I2C bridges to higher-level controllers. The extended -40 C to +125 C temperature range supports cabinet-mounted deployment, and the Core Independent Peripherals handle timing-critical tasks in hardware, freeing the CPU for protocol stacks. The SOIC-20 footprint simplifies optical-inspection-based manufacturing for high-volume industrial products.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF1708-E/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LF1708-I/SO | PIC16F1708-E/SO | PIC16LF1707T-I/SO | PIC16LF1507-E/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | SOIC-20 (SO) | SOIC-20 (SO) - same | SOIC-20 (SO) - same | SOIC-20 (SO) - same | SOIC-20 (SO) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 4 KB | 4 KB | 4 KB | 2 KB | 1.75 KB |
| Data Memory (RAM) | 512 B | 512 B | 512 B | 256 B | 128 B |
| Supply Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 5.5 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 32 MHz / 16 MIPS | 32 MHz / 16 MIPS | 32 MHz / 16 MIPS | 32 MHz / 16 MIPS | 20 MHz / 10 MIPS |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +125 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +125 C |
| Op Amps | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
| DAC | 5-/8-bit | 5-/8-bit | 5-/8-bit | 5-bit | 5-bit |
Key Differentiators
- 2 on-chip op amps reduce external analog BOM (vs PIC16LF1507-E/SO)
- Core Independent Peripherals (CLC, COG, NCO) offload timing-critical tasks (vs PIC16LF1707T-I/SO)
- 10-bit ADC with computation oversamples in hardware (vs PIC16LF1507-E/SO)
Design Notes
Estimated: at 32 MHz active and 3.3 V VDD, the PIC16LF1708-E/SO core draws roughly 4 to 6 mA. Decoupling requires a 100 nF X7R placed within 5 mm of VDD (pin 18) and a 10 uF bulk capacitor on the same rail. For battery designs, enable the on-chip voltage regulator's low-power mode and route all unused I/O as outputs driving low to minimize supply toggling current.
Place the 20 MHz crystal (or resonator) within 5 mm of OSC1/OSC2 (pins 5/4) and guard the traces with a ground pour to reduce EMI pickup. Keep the MCLR pull-up resistor (typically 10 kohm) close to pin 20 to provide a clean reset signal. SOIC-20 land pattern should use 1.27 mm pitch pads per JEDEC MS-013, with thermal reliefs on the ground pad to ease hand rework.
Do not leave the MCLR pin floating - a floating MCLR can trigger spurious resets in noisy environments. Always configure the unused I/O pins as outputs driving low rather than inputs to avoid shoot-through current on the internal ESD structures. When migrating firmware between PIC16LF1708 and PIC16F1708, verify ADC and DAC reference voltage ranges because the F-variant supports a wider VDD range that may invalidate 3.3 V assumptions.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified; for automotive designs use a PIC16F1708-E/SO Q-grade variant if available.
