PIC16LF1829-E/SS - 8-bit PIC MCU, 14KB Flash, 32MHz, 20-SSOP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF1829-E/SS ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.17 | $2.17 |
| 10 | $2.05 | $20.50 |
| 100 | $1.92 | $192.00 |
| 500 | $1.74 | $870.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.58 | $1,580.00 |
PIC16LF1829-E/SS Overview
A PIC microcontroller is a compact 8-bit RISC processor with on-chip Flash, RAM, EEPROM, and peripherals aimed at embedded control. PIC16 parts sit in the mid-range PIC16 enhanced mid-range core family (PIC16 -> 8-bit PIC -> PIC microcontroller -> embedded MCU -> semiconductor). The LF1829 adds Microchip's eXtreme Low Power (XLP™) technology and mTouch™ capacitive-sensing hardware, making it suitable for battery-powered touch-interface products.
Key features include 32MHz maximum CPU clock (8MHz internal, 4x PLL option), 1KB RAM, 256B EEPROM, 18 I/O pins, 12-channel 10-bit ADC, 2 comparators, 4 PWM modules with complementary outputs, and the mTouch™ hardware peripheral for capacitive buttons and sliders. The part also provides EUSART, MSSP (I2C/SPI), and multiple timer modules. Core-independent peripherals (CIPs) like the configurable logic cell (CLC) and signal measurement timer (SMT) allow tasks to run without waking the CPU.
The PIC16LF1829 uses a 14-bit instruction word Harvard architecture with a 32-level hardware stack and 49 instructions. The XLP™ implementation typically achieves sub-1µA sleep current and active currents in the tens-of-µA/MHz range, supporting years of operation on coin cells. In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP™) and low-voltage programming are supported for in-field firmware updates.
Typical applications include capacitive touch user interfaces, IoT sensor nodes, battery-powered consumer products, low-cost motor and lighting controllers, and industrial HMI front panels. The 20-SSOP footprint matches the rest of the PIC16F182x family, enabling PCB reuse across F/LF variants and pin-compatible family members like PIC16F1829 and PIC16LF1828.
When designing with the PIC16LF1829, observe the 3.6V absolute maximum on VDD - the LF variant does NOT support 5V operation. Use the internal 32kHz LF oscillator for sleep current benchmarks, and consult the device's "DC and AC Characteristics" graphs in the manufacturer datasheet for actual I/O drive strength versus VDD.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives drawn from the PIC16F/LF182x family, and practical design notes not consolidated in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF1829-E/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 PIC16LF1829-E/SS (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, I/O Pins, Core Architecture, Timers, ADC.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16F1829-E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.54 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1829-E/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.74 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1828-E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.28 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1579-E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.08 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1786-E/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1829-E/SS Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC16 enhanced mid-range 8-bit RISC |
| Instruction Set Width | 14-bit |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 32 MHz |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 14 KB (8K x 14 words) |
| Data RAM | 1 KB |
| Data EEPROM | 256 B |
| Operating Voltage Range (VDD) | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| I/O Pins | 18 |
| ADC | 10-bit, 12-channel |
| Comparators | 2 |
| PWM Modules | 4 (with complementary outputs) |
| Communication | 1x EUSART, 1x MSSP (I2C/SPI) |
| Capacitive Touch | mTouch™ peripheral (Charge Time Measurement Unit) |
| Core-Independent Peripherals | CLC, SMT, NCO, Configurable Logic Cell |
| Low-Power Technology | XLP™ (eXtreme Low Power) |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C (extended, "E" suffix) |
| Package | 20-pin SSOP (0.209 in / 5.30 mm body width) |
| Programming | ICSP™ (high-voltage and low-voltage) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| MSL Level | 1 (unlimited floor life at <=30 C / 85% RH) |
PIC16LF1829-E/SS Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA3/AN3/C1IN+/T7CKI — Bidirectional I/O; analog input AN3; comparator C1 non-inverting input |
| Pin 2 | RA4/AN4/T0CKI — Bidirectional I/O; analog input AN4; Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 3 | RA5/MCLR/VPP — Bidirectional I/O; Master Clear (reset) input; ICSP programming voltage |
| Pin 4 | RA6 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 5 | RA7 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 6 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 7 | RA0/AN0/C2IN+/C1IN- — Bidirectional I/O; analog input AN0; comparator inputs |
| Pin 8 | RA1/AN1/C2IN-/VCAP — Bidirectional I/O; analog input AN1; comparator input; core regulator stabilization cap |
| Pin 9 | RA2/AN2/DACOUT1 — Bidirectional I/O; analog input AN2; DAC1 output |
| Pin 10 | RC0/SOSCO — Bidirectional I/O; secondary oscillator output |
| Pin 11 | RC1/SOSCI — Bidirectional I/O; secondary oscillator input |
| Pin 12 | RC2 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 13 | RC3/SCL/SCK — Bidirectional I/O; MSSP I2C clock or SPI clock |
| Pin 14 | RC4/SDA/SDI — Bidirectional I/O; MSSP I2C data or SPI data in |
| Pin 15 | RC5/SDO — Bidirectional I/O; SPI data out |
| Pin 16 | RC6/TX/CK — Bidirectional I/O; EUSART TX or clock |
| Pin 17 | RC7/RX/DT — Bidirectional I/O; EUSART RX or data |
| Pin 18 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 19 | VDD — Positive supply (1.8 V to 3.6 V) |
| Pin 20 | VDD — Positive supply (1.8 V to 3.6 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF1829-E/SS is suitable for 6 applications: Capacitive Touch User Interface, Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node, LED Lighting and Dimming Controller, Industrial HMI Front Panel, Small Brushless DC Fan Motor Controller, Low-Cost Consumer Remote Control.
Capacitive Touch User Interface
The PIC16LF1829-E/SS is designed for capacitive touch button and slider front panels because its integrated mTouch™ peripheral uses a Charge Time Measurement Unit (CTMU) to measure touch capacitance without external RC components. The XLP™ technology keeps sleep current below 1 µA, allowing the MCU to wake only on a touch event - critical for coin-cell powered remote controls, white-goods control panels, and wearable devices that must last years on a single battery. Its 32 MHz CPU runs touch scan algorithms quickly to keep average current low, while 14 KB of Flash accommodates button remapping and gesture firmware.
Recommended
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node
With XLP™ sub-µA sleep current and 1.8 V-3.6 V VDD range, the PIC16LF1829-E/SS fits directly onto a 3.3 V coin-cell or Li-ion battery without an external LDO. Its 12-channel 10-bit ADC reads temperature, humidity, and battery voltage; the EUSART or MSSP I2C/SPI port connects to a radio module; and core-independent peripherals like the SMT and CLC can wake the CPU on sensor edges without polling. The 1 KB RAM and 14 KB Flash store sensor fusion code and over-the-air update buffers. Designers target 5-10 year battery life by combining deep sleep with periodic sensor bursts.
Recommended
LED Lighting and Dimming Controller
The PIC16LF1829-E/SS drives multi-channel LED strings via its four PWM modules with complementary outputs, supporting smooth dimming with no flicker. Its 32 MHz core generates PWM frequencies above 20 kHz (above the audible band) to eliminate coil whine. The 10-bit ADC reads ambient light sensors and potentiometer inputs for closed-loop dimming, while the CLC peripheral combines PWM edges and trigger signals without CPU involvement. With 1.8 V-3.6 V operation, the MCU sits on a single 3.3 V rail and talks to mains-side hardware through optocouplers.
Recommended
Industrial HMI Front Panel
Industrial HMI panels require robust microcontrollers with extended temperature, multiple PWM/beeper outputs, and reliable communication. The PIC16LF1829-E/SS operates from -40C to +125C (extended grade "E" suffix) and provides 18 I/O for keypad scanning, 7-segment or LCD drives, and rotary encoder inputs. Its mTouch™ peripheral supports touch keys behind glass or plastic overlays - ideal for sealed industrial front panels. The EUSART bridges to RS-485 transceivers for Modbus RTU field networks.
Recommended
Small Brushless DC Fan Motor Controller
The PIC16LF1829-E/SS drives small 3-phase BLDC fans with closed-loop speed control using its 4 PWMs and 10-bit ADC to read back-EMF or current sense. At 32 MHz, the MCU computes commutation and PID control loops in real time while maintaining efficiency above 80%. Its CLC peripheral generates commutation timing patterns from Hall-sensor inputs without CPU intervention, reducing active current consumption. The 1.8 V-3.6 V VDD lets the MCU share a 3.3 V digital rail with upstream logic.
Recommended
Low-Cost Consumer Remote Control
Infrared remote controls for TVs, set-top boxes, and AC units rely on very low standby current (often <1 µA) to survive years on AAA cells. The PIC16LF1829-E/SS achieves this via XLP™ sleep, plus its 32 MHz internal oscillator drives 38 kHz carrier generation for IR modulation directly from a PWM output, eliminating external timer ICs. Its 14 KB Flash holds IR protocol libraries (RC5, NEC, SIRC) and keyscan tables; 18 I/O scan 4x4 key matrices without external decoders. The 20-SSOP fits inside slim handheld enclosures.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF1829-E/SS — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16F1829-E/SS | PIC16LF1829-E/SO | PIC16LF1828-E/SS | PIC16LF1579-E/SS | PIC16LF1786-E/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 20-SSOP | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SOIC - wider body, same pinout | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same | 20-SSOP - same |
| Operating Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 5.5 V (wider) | 1.8 V to 3.6 V (same) | 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 Speed | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz |
| mTouch™ Capacitive Sensing | Yes (CTMU) | Yes (CTMU) | Yes (CTMU) | Yes (CTMU) | No (no CTMU) | No (no CTMU) |
| ADC Resolution | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 12-bit (better) |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C (E grade) | -40 C to +125 C (E grade) | -40 C to +125 C (E grade) | -40 C to +125 C (E grade) | -40 C to +125 C (E grade) | -40 C to +125 C (E grade) |
Key Differentiators
- Integrated mTouch™ CTMU peripheral (vs PIC16LF1579-E/SS)
- 14 KB Flash / 1 KB RAM density (vs PIC16LF1828-E/SS)
- Wide 1.8 V-3.6 V supply range (vs PIC16F1829-E/SS)
- Core-independent peripherals (CIPs) (vs PIC16LF1579-E/SS)
Design Notes
Estimated: For a coin-cell 3.0 V application, the PIC16LF1829-E/SS in sleep mode typically draws <1 µA (per Microchip XLP™ datasheet benchmarks). When waking every 100 ms for a 32 MHz ADC read, total average current at VDD=3.0 V is roughly 100 µA × 32 MHz × 1 mA/MHz ≈ 3.2 mA × 0.1 ms / 100 ms = 3.2 µA, leaving margin for sensor and regulator quiescent current. Use the LFINTOSC at 32 kHz for lowest sleep consumption; reserve HFINTOSC+PLL for active ADC conversion.
Place the VDD decoupling capacitor (typically 100 nF ceramic, X7R) within 2 mm of pins 19 and 20, and a bulk 1 µF-10 µF tantalum or ceramic on the VDD trace. Pin 1 (RA1/VCAP) requires a 1 µF-10 µF ceramic capacitor to VSS for the internal 3.2 V core regulator stability - omitting this capacitor prevents startup. Maintain a continuous ground plane under the 20-SSOP and avoid routing high-speed signals (EUSART, MSSP) under the part.
Do not exceed 3.6 V on VDD - the LF variant does not support 5 V operation. Confirm the part is PIC16LF1829 (LF) and not PIC16F1829 (F) when 3.3 V-only rails are required. The ICSP programming pins PGC/PGD must be accessible on the PCB for in-circuit programming; reserve test points even on production boards for field firmware updates. When using mTouch™, route the sensor traces as short and symmetric as possible and add a guard ring around each pad.
For SSOP-20 packages, follow IPC-7351 land pattern with 0.025-inch (0.65 mm) pitch. Use 0.4 mm-wide traces between pads with solder mask slivers; mask-defined pads (0.95 mm width) improve solder joint reliability for hand-rework and prototyping. Keep analog sensor traces (ADC inputs, mTouch™ channels) away from PWM and PWM-complementary outputs to reduce digital-to-analog crosstalk. Series resistors on PWM outputs (22-100 Ω) reduce slew rate and EMI in motor-drive applications.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance confirmed by Microchip product page. Lead-free matte-tin finish. AEC-Q100 not applicable - this is an industrial-grade MCU; automotive customers should select AEC-Q100-qualified Microchip parts separately.
