PIC16LF1788-I/ML - 8-bit MCU, 28KB Flash, 32MHz, 28-QFN | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF1788-I/ML ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.95 | $3.95 |
| 10 | $3.56 | $35.60 |
| 100 | $3.18 | $318.00 |
| 500 | $2.84 | $1,420.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.55 | $2,550.00 |
| 3,000 | $2.22 | $6,660.00 |
PIC16LF1788-I/ML Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, non-volatile program memory, volatile data memory and programmable I/O peripherals. Within the broader taxonomy, the PIC16LF1788 is a 16-bit instruction word / 8-bit data path RISC MCU, falling under the wider 8-bit MCU category and ultimately the integrated circuit / semiconductor family. The LF prefix designates the low-voltage (1.8 V to 3.6 V) variant of the PIC16F1788 die, while the I/ML suffix denotes the industrial (-40°C to +85°C) temperature range and the 28-pin QFN surface-mount package.
Key specifications include 32 MHz maximum CPU clock (200 ns instruction cycle), 14-bit instruction word with 16K word Flash (28 KB), 2 KB SRAM, 256 bytes EEPROM, a 12-bit ADC with up to 32 channels and 3 internal op-amps configurable for analog signal conditioning. The XLP™ (eXtreme Low Power) feature set delivers nanoWatt sleep currents in the order of tens of nA, making the device attractive for battery-powered and energy-harvesting applications. PSMC peripherals support programmable switching power topologies without external PWM controllers.
The architecture is an enhanced mid-range PIC16 core with hardware multiply, shadow-register context saving, and prioritised interrupt handling. Analog peripherals are tied together through the on-chip 12-bit ADC and shared op-amps, enabling closed-loop analog control loops without external components. Compared to purely digital MCUs, the integrated op-amps and DACs reduce BOM cost and PCB area for mixed-signal designs.
Typical applications include industrial sensor signal conditioning, LED lighting drivers, low-power IoT nodes, motor and SMPS control loops, battery management, and consumer white-goods HMI controllers where the integrated analog peripherals replace discrete op-amps. The wide operating voltage range and rich peripheral mix suit portable instrumentation, smoke detectors and smart sensors.
Design consideration: route the QFN exposed pad to a contiguous ground copper pour to keep thermal resistance θJA low; the device dissipates only modest power thanks to XLP™ sleep modes, but analog accuracy depends on clean grounding and a low-noise LDO on the AVDD pin. Plan Flash endurance (typically 10 k cycles) and EEPROM endurance (100 k cycles) into any firmware-update strategy.
This page synthesises distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives within the PIC16LF178x family, and practical design notes that are not duplicated on the manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers an at-a-glance procurement and design aid for the PIC16LF1788-I/ML.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF1788-I/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 PIC16LF1788-I/ML (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory (Flash), Operating Temperature, ADC, I/O Pins.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LF1787-I/ML
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$2.63 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1787T-I/MV
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View Datasheet →PIC16LF1786-I/SP
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$2.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1784-I/ML
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$2.15 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1783-I/ML
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View Datasheet →PIC16LF1782-I/ML
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$1.24 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1769-I/ML
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$1.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1768-I/ML
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$1.32 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1788-I/ML Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC16 enhanced mid-range 8-bit RISC |
| Instruction Set | 14-bit wide, 16K instruction words |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 28 KB (16K x 14) |
| Data Memory (SRAM) | 2 KB |
| EEPROM | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 32 MHz (200 ns instruction cycle) |
| Operating Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 3.6 V (LF variant) |
| ADC | 12-bit, up to 32 channels |
| DAC | 5-bit and 8-bit on-chip |
| Op-Amps | 3 internal op-amps |
| Comparators | Fast comparators on-chip |
| PSMC | Programmable Switch-Mode Controller peripherals |
| Capture/Compare/PWM | Dual CCP modules |
| Communication Peripherals | EUSART, I2C, SPI |
| Package | 28-pin QFN (6 x 6 mm) with exposed pad |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (industrial) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| MSL Level | 1 (unlimited floor life at <=30C/85% RH) per JEDEC J-STD-020 |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| I/O Pins | Up to 36 (package-dependent) |
PIC16LF1788-I/ML Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 2 | RA1 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 3 | RA2 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 4 | RA3 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 5 | RA4 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 6 | RA5 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 7 | RA6 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 8 | RA7 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 9 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 10 | RB0 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input, op-amp output |
| Pin 11 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input, op-amp output |
| Pin 12 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input, op-amp output |
| Pin 13 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 14 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 15 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 16 | RB6 — Bidirectional I/O, ICSPCLK |
| Pin 17 | RB7 — Bidirectional I/O, ICSPDAT |
| Pin 18 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 19 | VDD — Positive supply (1.8 V to 3.6 V) |
| Pin 20 | RC0 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 21 | RC1 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 22 | RC2 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 23 | RC3 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 24 | RC4 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 25 | RC5 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input |
| Pin 26 | RC6 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input, TX |
| Pin 27 | RC7 — Bidirectional I/O, analog input, RX |
| Pin 28 | VDD — Positive supply (1.8 V to 3.6 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF1788-I/ML is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning, Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes, LED Lighting and Dimming Control, Portable Medical and Health Devices, Switch-Mode Power Supply (SMPS) Control, Automotive Body and Comfort Modules.
Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC16LF1788-I/ML fits industrial sensor signal conditioning because its 12-bit ADC, three internal op-amps and dual 5/8-bit DAC enable closed-loop analog front ends without external analog ICs. At 32 MHz CPU clock the device can oversample and digitally filter strain-gauge, RTD or thermocouple inputs at high update rates, while the 1.8-3.6 V LF supply pairs with 4-20 mA loop-powered transmitters or 2x AA industrial nodes. The 28-QFN 6x6 mm footprint is footprint-compatible with PIC16LF1787/86/84/83/82 family parts, easing migration. Place a low-noise LDO on AVDD to preserve ADC linearity, and route the QFN exposed pad to a continuous ground pour for thermal stability and low analog noise.
Recommended
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes
For battery-powered IoT sensor nodes, the PIC16LF1788-I/ML is a strong match because its XLP™ nanoWatt sleep modes drop current consumption into the tens of nA range, extending coin-cell life to multiple years. The LF supply range (1.8 V to 3.6 V) aligns with single-cell Li-primary or 2x alkaline chemistries, while the EUSART + I2C + SPI peripherals connect directly to radios like LoRa, BLE or sub-GHz transceivers. With 28 KB Flash, the device can host lightweight wireless stacks or custom mesh protocols. The 28-QFN package fits small sensor housings and supports reflow profiles compatible with standard JEDEC J-STD-020 MSL-1 floor life.
Recommended
LED Lighting and Dimming Control
The PIC16LF1788-I/ML suits LED lighting drivers because its dual CCP modules generate precise PWM channels for multi-channel dimming, while the 5-bit and 8-bit DACs set constant-current analog references. The on-chip PSMC peripherals can also drive buck or boost topologies for high-brightness LED strings, eliminating an external PWM controller. With 32 MHz CPU headroom, the device executes correlated color temperature (CCT) and color-rendering algorithms in real time. The LF supply works directly from rectified 3.3 V or 5 V rails through a small LDO, and the 28-QFN package keeps the BOM compact for retrofit lamp designs.
Recommended
Portable Medical and Health Devices
In portable medical devices, the PIC16LF1788-I/ML provides the analog integration needed for accurate biosignal acquisition: a 12-bit ADC paired with on-chip op-amps and fast comparators measures pulse oximetry, ECG or body-impedance signals without a separate analog front end. The LF supply (1.8-3.6 V) is well-matched to lithium coin cells, and XLP™ sleep modes let the MCU wake periodically on a comparator interrupt, keeping average current low. The 28-QFN footprint eases integration into wearable form factors. Combined with a low-noise LDO and ISO 13485-aligned firmware practices, the device supports Class I/II portable medical electronics.
Recommended
Switch-Mode Power Supply (SMPS) Control
For SMPS control, the PIC16LF1788-I/ML integrates PSMC peripherals that implement programmable current-mode or voltage-mode control loops, replacing a dedicated PWM controller. The 32 MHz CPU plus 14-bit instructions enable high-resolution duty-cycle updates for tight regulation in 100 kHz to 1 MHz converters, while the on-chip 12-bit ADC samples output voltage and current for closed-loop feedback. The dual CCP modules provide additional PWM channels for synchronous rectification or interleaved phases. The LF variant suits battery-input converters up to 3.6 V; for higher rails, pair with a gate driver and use the standard PIC16F1788 family variant.
Recommended
Automotive Body and Comfort Modules
Although not AEC-Q100 qualified, the PIC16LF1788-I/ML fits non-safety automotive body and comfort applications such as ambient lighting, seat-control keypads and HVAC flaps. Its dual CCP generates PWM for LED strings and small DC motors, while the 12-bit ADC reads potentiometer positions for HVAC blending doors. The EUSART, I2C and SPI peripherals talk to body-domain controllers via LIN or CAN transceivers. The 28-QFN package fits behind dashboard switches, and the -40 C to +85 C industrial temperature range covers cabin environments. For AEC-Q100 requirements, escalate to the automotive-qualified PIC16F1788 family variant.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF1788-I/ML — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LF1787-I/ML | PIC16LF1784-I/ML | PIC16LF1769-I/ML |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-QFN (6x6) | 28-QFN (6x6) - same | 28-QFN (6x6) - same | 28-QFN (6x6) - same |
| Flash Program Memory | 28 KB | 14 KB (-50%) | 7 KB (-75%) | 8 KB (-71%) |
| SRAM | 2 KB | 1 KB (-50%) | 512 B (-75%) | 1 KB (-50%) |
| EEPROM | 256 B | 256 B (same) | 256 B (same) | 256 B (same) |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V (same) | 1.8 V to 3.6 V (same) | 1.8 V to 3.6 V (same) |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 32 MHz | 32 MHz (same) | 32 MHz (same) | 32 MHz (same) |
| Internal Op-Amps | 3 | 3 (same) | 2 (-33%) | 2 (-33%) |
| ADC | 12-bit, 32 ch | 12-bit, 24 ch (-25%) | 12-bit, 14 ch (-56%) | 10-bit, 24 ch |
Key Differentiators
- Highest Flash density in the 28-QFN LF family (vs PIC16LF1787-I/ML)
- Triple on-chip op-amps and dual 5/8-bit DACs (vs PIC16LF1784-I/ML)
- PSMC peripherals for switch-mode control (vs PIC16LF1769-I/ML)
Design Notes
Decouple VDD and AVDD separately with at least 100 nF and 10 uF ceramic capacitors placed within 5 mm of the QFN pins, and tie them together through a ferrite bead or small resistor to filter switching noise from the digital rail. The 12-bit ADC accuracy depends on a clean AVDD; if the input source is a switching converter, add a dedicated LDO such as the MCP1700 to feed AVDD. Estimated: at 32 MHz CPU with all peripherals active, the MCU core current draw is in the order of single-digit mA, so the 10 uF bulk is sufficient for transient suppression.
The 28-QFN package has a center exposed thermal pad that must be soldered to a contiguous copper pour on the PCB and stitched with multiple vias to the internal ground plane. This keeps junction temperature low and improves analog performance by reducing ground bounce. Place the ICSP header (RB6 ICSPCLK, RB7 ICSPDAT, VPP/MCLR) so it is accessible without removing other components; the standard RJ-11 6-pin Microchip ICD layout works directly with the PIC16LF1788-I/ML footprint.
Do not assume Flash endurance is unlimited; Microchip specifies 10k erase/write cycles per Flash row. For firmware-update designs, use EEPROM or external SPI Flash for user-data storage. Also note that the LF variant cannot be clocked above 32 MHz and will fail programming if VDD falls below 1.8 V during in-circuit serial programming (ICSP). Ensure the ICD programmer supplies a clean 3.3 V and a strong MCLR pull-up during programming to avoid verification errors.
When routing analog inputs near PWM outputs, keep traces short and surround analog traces with a ground pour to reduce digital coupling. The on-chip op-amps and comparators have finite bandwidth; for gain-bandwidth products above ~1 MHz, use an external op-amp such as the MCP6002. Tie unused analog inputs to AVDD through a resistor to reduce input-leakage drift that can degrade ADC accuracy at high temperatures.
Compliance Information
RoHS-compliant 28-QFN package per Microchip product page; not AEC-Q100 qualified - escalate to PIC16F1788 family variant for automotive applications requiring AEC-Q100
