PIC16LF1768-E/ML - 32MHz 8-Bit MCU 7KB Flash 20-QFN | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF1768-E/ML ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.14 | $2.14 |
| 10 | $1.93 | $19.30 |
| 100 | $1.66 | $166.00 |
| 500 | $1.42 | $710.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.21 | $1,210.00 |
PIC16LF1768-E/ML Overview
An 8-bit PIC microcontroller is a RISC-based Harvard-architecture computing core that integrates a CPU, non-volatile Flash program memory, SRAM data memory, and a rich set of analog and digital peripherals onto a single silicon die. The PIC16F176x family sits within Microchip's enhanced mid-range core (14-bit instruction word) hierarchy, targeting cost-sensitive embedded designs that need intelligent analog integration - meaning that conventional analog ICs (op-amps, comparators, DACs, PWMs) are absorbed into the MCU to reduce board area, BOM cost, and power consumption.
Key features include eXtreme Low Power (XLP) sleep currents in the nanoamp range, two 10/16-bit PWMs with independent time bases, and 12-bit ADC with computation (ADC²) for automated averaging and threshold comparison. The internal 32 MHz oscillator eliminates the need for an external crystal in many designs, and the PPS feature allows digital peripheral signals to be remapped to a wide selection of physical pins at runtime. The device supports I²C, SPI, UART, and LIN master/slave connectivity through firmware-selectable peripherals.
Architecturally, the PIC16LF1768 uses a 14-bit instruction word, eight-level hardware stack, and 49 instruction opcode set, providing deterministic execution that simplifies real-time control loops. The integrated analog peripherals share a common analog MUX, allowing simultaneous operation of op-amps, DAC, and ADC for closed-loop signal conditioning tasks such as SMPS digital compensation or sensor linearization.
Typical applications include LED lighting controllers, white-goods and appliance front panels, battery-powered IoT sensor nodes, low-cost BLDC/PMSM motor control signal-chain preconditioning, and industrial process transmitters. The 100 mA I/O current also enables direct LED drive without external MOSFETs in moderate-power indicator circuits.
When designing with this device, ensure that the PPS configuration is finalized before code lock, as remapping constraints differ from legacy fixed-pin PIC16 devices. The internal 32 MHz oscillator accuracy of ±1% over temperature is typically sufficient for UART communication at standard baud rates, but a crystal may be required for time-critical protocols.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes - including real-world caveats around PPS, analog MUX sharing, and XLP sleep-current measurement - that are not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF1768-E/ML — 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 PIC16LF1768-E/ML (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core, Package.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LF1765-E/ML
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F1768-E/ML
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF1768-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.32 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1768-E/ML Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC 8-bit enhanced mid-range |
| Instruction Word Width | 14-bit |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 7 KB (4K x 14) |
| RAM | 512 bytes |
| Max CPU Speed | 32 MHz |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8V to 3.6V |
| Package | 20-pin QFN (4x4 mm) with exposed pad |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (E grade) |
| ADC | 10-bit |
| DAC | 10-bit |
| Op-Amps | 2x internal |
| Configurable Logic Cells (CLC) | 3x |
| Configurable Operational Gain Block (COG) | 2x |
| Zero-Cross Detect (ZCD) | Yes |
| Programmable Ramp Generator (PRG) | 2x |
| PWM | 2x 10/16-bit |
| Communication | I²C, SPI, UART, LIN |
| High-Current I/O | 100 mA sink/source per pin |
| Peripheral Pin Select (PPS) | Yes |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16LF1768-E/ML Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA5 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS |
| Pin 2 | RA4 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS |
| Pin 3 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, MCLR alternative |
| Pin 4 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS |
| Pin 5 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, analog input |
| Pin 6 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, analog input |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, ICSP programming |
| Pin 9 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, ICSP programming |
| Pin 10 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, analog input |
| Pin 11 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, analog input |
| Pin 12 | RC2 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS |
| Pin 13 | RC3 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, analog input |
| Pin 14 | RC4 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, analog input |
| Pin 15 | RC5 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, analog input |
| Pin 16 | RC6 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, TX for UART |
| Pin 17 | RC7 — Bidirectional I/O with PPS, RX for UART |
| Pin 18 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (1.8V-3.6V) |
| Pin 19 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | EP — Exposed thermal pad - connect to VSS |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF1768-E/ML is suitable for 7 applications: LED Lighting Controllers, Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes, White Goods and Appliance Front Panels, Industrial Process Transmitters, BLDC/PMSM Motor Control Signal Chain, SMPS Digital Loop Compensation, LIN Slave Nodes in Automotive Body Electronics.
LED Lighting Controllers
The PIC16LF1768-E/ML fits LED lighting controllers because its 2x COG (Configurable Operational Gain) blocks and 3x CLC cells enable hardware-based dimming control without CPU intervention, while the 2x 10/16-bit PWMs support multi-channel color mixing. The 100 mA high-current I/O directly drives LED strings up to moderate power without external MOSFETs. Running at 32 MHz with 1.8-3.6V operation, the device pairs with a single Li-ion cell for portable lighting. Its PPS allows flexible PCB routing of PWM outputs to optimize trace layout. Per Microchip application notes, the CLCs can implement slope compensation and overcurrent protection in constant-current LED drivers.
Recommended
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes
The PIC16LF1768-E/ML suits battery-powered IoT sensor nodes due to its eXtreme Low Power (XLP) technology with nanoamp-range sleep currents and 1.8-3.6V operation directly from a Li-ion or 2xAA cell. The integrated 2x op-amps condition low-level sensor signals (thermocouples, photodiodes) without external analog ICs, while the 10-bit ADC with computation (ADC²) handles automated threshold and averaging in hardware to minimize wake time. The 32 MHz performance allows sensor data processing within tight active-mode energy budgets. The PIC core's deterministic instruction execution simplifies real-time duty cycling for periodic sensor reads.
Recommended
White Goods and Appliance Front Panels
The PIC16LF1768-E/ML integrates functions for appliance front panels: the 2x op-amps handle capacitive touch or rotary encoder signal conditioning, the 10-bit DAC generates reference voltages for comparator-based user feedback, and 3x CLCs implement safety interlocks without software polling. The 100 mA I/O drives relays, buzzers, or LED indicators directly. With -40C to +125C operating range (E grade), the device tolerates harsh kitchen and laundry environments. PPS allows PCB routing optimization around mechanical constraints. The 7 KB Flash accommodates menu logic, error codes, and communication stacks.
Recommended
Industrial Process Transmitters
The PIC16LF1768-E/ML serves 4-20 mA loop-powered process transmitters where its 1.8V minimum supply supports startup from low loop currents and the integrated 2x op-amps condition bridge sensor signals (load cells, pressure transducers) directly. The 10-bit DAC generates the 4-20 mA loop output via an external pass transistor, while zero-cross detect (ZCD) and programmable ramp generators (PRG) handle AC line synchronization for SCR-controlled actuators. Extended -40C to +125C temperature operation meets industrial process environments. PPS enables flexible signal routing in compact DIN-rail form factors.
Recommended
BLDC/PMSM Motor Control Signal Chain
The PIC16LF1768-E/ML is well-suited for motor control signal-chain preconditioning tasks, where its 2x COG blocks and 3x CLCs implement hardware PWM blanking, adaptive dead-time insertion, and overcurrent protection without CPU load. The 2x 10/16-bit PWMs drive gate-driver ICs for BLDC or PMSM motors, while integrated op-amps condition back-EMF sensing signals. The 32 MHz MIPS performance and deterministic interrupt latency enable precise commutation timing. The PPS feature allows PWM outputs and analog inputs to be remapped to optimize PCB layout for noise-sensitive analog signal paths.
Recommended
SMPS Digital Loop Compensation
The PIC16LF1768-E/ML enables digital compensation in switch-mode power supplies where its 2x op-amps, 10-bit DAC, and 10-bit ADC form a closed-loop analog control stage. Programmable ramp generators (PRG) provide slope compensation for peak current-mode control, while zero-cross detect (ZCD) synchronizes PWM to AC line for PFC applications. The CLCs implement hardware-based protection logic (overcurrent, overvoltage) with sub-microsecond response. PPS allows the analog MUX inputs to be routed to optimal package pins for clean signal acquisition, critical for switching-noise environments.
Recommended
LIN Slave Nodes in Automotive Body Electronics
The PIC16LF1768-E/ML serves as a LIN slave node in automotive body electronics (window lifters, mirror adjusters, seat controllers) due to its integrated LIN-compatible UART, 100 mA high-current I/O for direct relay drive, and -40C to +125C operating range. The 2x COG blocks provide hardware timing for debounced switch inputs, while PPS allows LIN and PWM signals to be routed for optimal PCB layout. With 1.8-3.6V operation, the device pairs with 12V automotive battery rails via a simple LDO. The 7 KB Flash accommodates LIN protocol stack and diagnostic handlers.
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Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF1768-E/ML — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LF1765-E/ML | PIC16F1768-E/ML | PIC16LF1768-I/ML |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 20-pin QFN (4x4 mm) | 20-pin QFN (4x4 mm) - same | 20-pin QFN (4x4 mm) - same | 20-pin QFN (4x4 mm) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 7 KB | 14 KB | 7 KB | 7 KB |
| RAM | 512 B | 1 KB | 512 B | 512 B |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8V to 3.6V | 1.8V to 3.6V | 2.3V to 5.5V | 1.8V to 3.6V |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (E grade) | -40C to +125C (E grade) | -40C to +125C (E grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) |
| Max CPU Speed | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz |
| Op-Amps | 2x | 2x | 2x | 2x |
| PWM | 2x 10/16-bit | 2x 10/16-bit | 2x 10/16-bit | 2x 10/16-bit |
| PPS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Key Differentiators
- Higher Flash density in same footprint (vs PIC16LF1765-E/ML)
- Lower voltage range for battery applications (vs PIC16F1768-E/ML)
- Extended temperature grade for harsh environments (vs PIC16LF1768-I/ML)
Design Notes
The 20-pin QFN package has an exposed thermal pad (EP) on pin 20 that MUST be soldered to a VSS-connected copper pad on the PCB. Per Microchip's packaging guidelines, this pad should use an array of thermal vias to the inner ground plane to reduce thermal resistance. The pad must not be left floating - floating EP causes the device to exceed datasheet thermal specifications and may prevent proper operation. Minimum via count is 4 vias in a 1.2 mm pitch grid.
The internal op-amps, DAC, and ADC share a common analog MUX on the PIC16LF1768. Per the Microchip datasheet, simultaneous use of multiple analog peripherals can introduce channel-to-channel crosstalk and reduce ADC effective resolution. For precision applications, configure the analog peripherals sequentially rather than concurrently, or use dedicated external analog ICs. The ADC's 10-bit resolution may also limit signal-chain dynamic range; consider the PIC16LF1765 or dsPIC variants for higher-precision applications.
Estimated: Sleep current for XLP PIC16LF1768 is approximately 30-50 nA at 1.8V with WDT disabled, per Microchip's XLP technology documentation. Active current at 32 MHz is approximately 4 mA at 3.3V. For battery-powered designs, leverage the PIC's Doze mode and peripheral disable registers to minimize active-mode energy. The internal 32 MHz oscillator draws ~1 mA - if sustained high throughput is needed, consider using a faster 8 MHz oscillator with PLL.
Peripheral Pin Select (PPS) allows remapping of digital peripheral functions to most general-purpose I/O pins, but analog peripherals have fixed pin assignments. When laying out mixed-signal PCBs, place analog input pins (RA0, RA1, RB4, RB5, RC3-RC5) adjacent to the ground plane and away from switching PWM outputs to minimize coupled noise. The 100 mA high-current I/O pins can inject significant ground bounce; use star-ground routing or split analog/digital ground planes joined at a single point near the MCU.
Configuration Word bits must be set correctly for the chosen oscillator mode. Per the datasheet, selecting an external crystal without connecting one causes the oscillator to fail and the device to appear dead. Similarly, the MCLR pin function must be enabled via the CONFIG register if external reset is needed. PPS unlock sequence (UNLCK1/UNLCK2 registers) must be performed before remapping digital peripherals - omitting this locks the device from changes.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page and distributor listings. E grade indicates extended temperature -40C to +125C, not AEC-Q100 automotive qualification. AEC-Q100 qualified variants are available in the PIC16F1768 family - contact Microchip for automotive-grade options.
