PIC16LF18326-E/P - 8-bit XLP MCU, 32MHz, 28KB Flash | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF18326-E/P ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.74 | $1.74 |
| 10 | $1.56 | $15.60 |
| 100 | $1.39 | $139.00 |
| 500 | $1.18 | $590.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.02 | $1,020.00 |
PIC16LF18326-E/P Overview
What is an 8-bit PIC microcontroller? An 8-bit PIC microcontroller is a small, low-cost RISC-based computer on a single integrated circuit that uses an 8-bit data path, 14-bit instruction word, and integrates Flash program memory, SRAM, EEPROM, and a rich set of peripherals (ADC, timers, communications, PWM). The PIC16F family sits in Microchip's mid-range portfolio, between the baseline 8-bit PIC10/12/16 families and the 16-bit dsPIC/PIC24 devices, and is widely used in general-purpose and ultra-low-power embedded applications.
Key features of the PIC16LF18326 include a 10-bit ADC, Peripheral Pin Select (PPS) for flexible digital peripheral routing, Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) such as Configurable Logic Cells (CLC), Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG), Numerically Controlled Oscillator (NCO) and Zero-Cross Detect (ZCD), plus communications via EUSART, SPI and I2C. The XLP technology delivers sleep currents in the nanoampere range, making the part suitable for battery- and energy-harvesting applications.
Architecturally, the device uses an enhanced mid-range 16F core with a 14-bit instruction set, hardware multiplier, and interrupt controller. The 32 MHz internal oscillator eliminates the need for an external crystal in many designs, reducing BOM cost and PCB area. PPS remapping decouples peripheral functions from physical pin locations, allowing the same firmware to be reused across 14-pin and 20-pin members of the PIC16F183xx family.
Typical applications include IoT sensor nodes, battery-powered consumer electronics, home appliances, LED lighting controllers, low-power remote controls, and small motor-control loops (using CWG/NCO). The 14-pin PDIP package simplifies prototyping on breadboards and through-hole PCBs.
When designing with this part, verify the brown-out reset and watchdog timer settings match your power-up behavior, and choose the LF (low-voltage) variant for VDD down to 1.8V operation.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in package-compatible alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF18326-E/P — 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 PIC16LF18326-E/P (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, ADC, Mounting Type, Program Memory (Flash), Operating Temperature.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LF18326-E/JQ
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.99 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF18325-E/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF18324-E/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.21 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF18323-E/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF1826-E/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F18326-E/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$0.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF18326-E/P Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC16F enhanced mid-range 8-bit RISC |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 28 KB (16K x 14 words) |
| EEPROM | 256 bytes |
| Max CPU Clock | 32 MHz |
| Instruction Set Width | 14-bit |
| ADC | 10-bit |
| Operating Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 3.6 V (LF variant) |
| Communications | EUSART, SPI, I2C |
| Core Independent Peripherals | CLC, CWG, NCO, ZCD, CCP, PWM |
| Peripheral Pin Select | Yes (PPS) |
| Package | 14-pin PDIP (through-hole) |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +125 C (E = Extended) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| MSL Level | 1 (unlimited) |
| Lead-Free | Yes |
PIC16LF18326-E/P Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0 — Analog/digital I/O; ICSPCLK |
| Pin 2 | RA1 — Analog/digital I/O; ICSPS |
| Pin 3 | RA2 — Analog/digital I/O; ZCD output |
| Pin 4 | RA3 — Digital I/O; MCLR/VPP |
| Pin 5 | RA4 — Analog/digital I/O; T0CKI |
| Pin 6 | RA5 — Analog/digital I/O |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | RC0 — Analog/digital I/O; PPS remappable |
| Pin 9 | RC1 — Analog/digital I/O; PPS remappable |
| Pin 10 | RC2 — Analog/digital I/O; PPS remappable |
| Pin 11 | RC3 — Analog/digital I/O; PPS remappable; SCL |
| Pin 12 | RC4 — Analog/digital I/O; PPS remappable; SDA |
| Pin 13 | RC5 — Analog/digital I/O; PPS remappable |
| Pin 14 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (1.8 V to 3.6 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF18326-E/P is suitable for 7 applications: Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node, Home Appliance Control Board, LED Lighting Controller, Low-Power Remote Control, Industrial Sensor Transmitter (4-20 mA), Portable Medical/Health Monitoring Device, Small Motor / Fan Control.
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node
The PIC16LF18326-E/P is well suited for battery-powered IoT sensor nodes where sleep current dominates the energy budget. The device's XLP technology delivers nanoampere-level sleep currents with full RAM retention, allowing a coin-cell-powered sensor node to operate for years on a single CR2032. The 10-bit ADC reads temperature, light, or analog sensors directly, while the EUSART/SPI/I2C interfaces connect to radios or external sensors. PPS remapping lets the designer place sensor pins and radio pins on the most convenient physical I/Os without rewiring the firmware. The 32 MHz internal oscillator removes the need for an external crystal, reducing BOM cost and standby leakage. The 14-pin PDIP package is ideal for breadboard prototypes that will later migrate to an SOIC or QFN variant.
Recommended
Home Appliance Control Board
For home appliances such as coffee makers, small kitchen fans, or air purifiers, the PIC16LF18326-E/P provides a balance of analog sensing, digital control, and user-interface drive capability. The 10-bit ADC reads potentiometers, thermistors, and NTC sensors for temperature/humidity feedback, while the CWG and PWM peripherals drive TRIACs or MOSFETs for motor or heater control without CPU overhead. The CLC cells implement custom glue logic for safety interlocks (door switch, over-temperature), reducing BOM by eliminating discrete logic ICs. EUSART and I2C allow easy connection to a BLE or Wi-Fi module for smart-appliance connectivity. The 1.8-3.6 V LF range matches 3.3 V system rails typical in modern appliance designs.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controller
The PIC16LF18326-E/P is a strong fit for decorative LED lighting, architectural lighting, and RGBW color-mixing controllers. Its CWG generates complementary PWM waveforms with programmable dead-time, ideal for driving half-bridge MOSFETs in high-brightness LED strings. The 32 MHz CPU clock provides fine PWM resolution at high PWM frequencies (>20 kHz), eliminating audible noise from the magnetic components. The NCO can synthesize precise frequency references for tone-mixing or DALI-like digital protocols. The LF voltage range suits 3.3 V LED driver stages, and PPS allows flexible PCB routing of multiple PWM channels in the 14-pin package.
Recommended
Low-Power Remote Control
For infrared or sub-GHz remote controls, the PIC16LF18326-E/P's XLP sleep current extends battery life beyond 5 years on a single coin cell. The CLC and NCO peripherals can synthesize IR carrier frequencies (36-40 kHz) or sub-GHz modulation waveforms without waking the CPU, reducing active-mode duty cycle and average current. The 10-bit ADC reads potentiometers for volume or dimmer sliders, while EUSART or SPI interfaces optional expansion (e.g., accelerometer for gesture control). The 14-pin PDIP package is breadboard-friendly for prototyping handheld designs.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Transmitter (4-20 mA)
In 4-20 mA industrial sensor transmitters, the PIC16LF18326-E/P digitizes sensor signals with its 10-bit ADC and generates the loop current using PWM-driven current sources. The 32 MHz CPU and CWG enable high-resolution PWM for accurate loop-current control, while the LF voltage range simplifies powering from the loop itself (after rectification). The CLC cells implement safety and diagnostics logic (open-loop detect, fault output) without burdening the CPU. PPS remapping lets engineers route analog inputs away from PWM outputs to minimize crosstalk. The -40 to +125 C extended temperature grade (E suffix) supports industrial environment specifications.
Recommended
Portable Medical/Health Monitoring Device
For portable medical and health monitoring devices (pulse oximeters, digital thermometers, glucose meters), the PIC16LF18326-E/P provides the low power, deterministic performance, and certified-grade reliability that medical applications require. XLP sleep currents below 100 nA enable multi-year battery life on coin cells. The 10-bit ADC reads pulse-oximeter photodiode or thermistor signals, while the CLC handles safety logic. Microchip's IEC 60730 Class B library is available for this device, supporting functional-safety requirements for home medical devices. The -40 to +125 C extended temperature range supports demanding storage and operating conditions.
Recommended
Small Motor / Fan Control
For BLDC or brushed DC fan/motor control in consumer and small industrial equipment, the PIC16LF18326-E/P combines a 32 MHz core, CWG with dead-time, and fast ADC for sensorless or hall-sensor BLDC commutation. The CWG generates complementary 6-step or sinusoidal PWM with hardware dead-time insertion, offloading the CPU from time-critical switching. The ZCD detects AC mains zero-cross for TRIAC-based fan dimmers. CLC implements fault interlocks (over-current, over-temperature) in hardware for faster protection than software loops. The 14-pin PDIP package is convenient for early-stage motor-control firmware development.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF18326-E/P — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LF18326-E/JQ | PIC16LF18325-E/P | PIC16LF18324-E/P | PIC16LF1826-E/P | PIC16F18326-E/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | PDIP-14 (P) | SOIC-14 (JQ) | PDIP-14 (P) - same | PDIP-14 (P) - same | PDIP-14 (P) - same | PDIP-14 (P) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Flash Memory | 28 KB (16K x 14) | 28 KB | 14 KB (-50%) | 7 KB (-75%) | 3.5 KB (-87%) | 28 KB (same) |
| EEPROM | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes |
| Max CPU Clock | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz | 32 MHz |
| ADC Resolution | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 5.5 V (F variant) |
| Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) | CLC, CWG, NCO, ZCD, CCP, PWM | Same full set | Same full set | Same full set | Limited (no NCO/CWG) | Same full set |
| Peripheral Pin Select (PPS) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (limited mapping) | Yes |
| Unit Price (qty 1) | $1.74 | $1.70 | $1.62 | $1.55 | $1.48 | $1.65 |
Key Differentiators
- Full CIP set (CLC, CWG, NCO, ZCD) in 14-pin PDIP (vs PIC16LF1826-E/P)
- 2x and 4x more Flash than smaller family siblings (vs PIC16LF18325-E/P / PIC16LF18324-E/P)
- Same die across voltage variants (vs PIC16F18326-E/P)
- Breadboard-friendly PDIP-14 with full PPS (vs PIC16LF18326-E/JQ (SOIC-14))
Design Notes
The PIC16LF18326-E/P LF variant is rated 1.8 V to 3.6 V VDD. Estimated: at 3.3 V VDD with all peripherals off in Sleep, the device draws <100 nA typical (datasheet Section 36, DC Characteristics). Use a low-Iq LDO such as MCP1825 (1.6 uA Iq) or a buck regulator with <1 uA Iq for battery applications to preserve the XLP advantage. The non-LF PIC16F18326-E/P variant supports 5.5 V and is interchangeable only if VDD is in the 1.8-3.6 V band.
Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as physically possible to the VDD pin (pin 14) with a short, wide trace to the VSS pin (pin 7). For ADC accuracy, place a 10 uF bulk capacitor near the VDD pin if the supply impedance is above 1 ohm. The MCLR/VPP pin (pin 4) requires a 10-50 kohm pull-up to VDD for normal operation; if in-circuit programming is used, isolate the MCLR line with a series resistor per Microchip ICD programming recommendations.
Do not assume the LF and F variants are interchangeable in 5 V systems: the PIC16LF18326-E/P will be damaged at VDD above 3.6 V. Always check the Configuration Word settings for the Watchdog Timer (WDTE) and Brown-out Reset (BOR) before bringing up firmware - default factory settings may not match the application's fault-recovery needs. When migrating between 14-pin and 20-pin package variants of the same family, verify that PPS remapping assignments remain valid for the smaller pin count.
When using the internal 32 MHz HFINTOSC for UART communication, tune the OSCTUNE register to bring the baud-rate error below 2%. For high-speed SPI above 8 MHz, route the SCK and MOSI lines as short, impedance-controlled traces and add a 33 ohm series resistor near the driver for source-matching. Avoid routing ADC analog inputs next to PWM outputs; PPS remapping can help separate analog and digital functions.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Lead-free PDIP-14 package. Not AEC-Q100 qualified (industrial grade); for automotive applications use the PIC16LF18326-E/P with industrial temperature grade only.
