PIC16LF628A-I/ML - 8-bit 20MHz 3.5KB Flash MCU 28-QFN | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF628A-I/ML ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4.2 | $4.20 |
| 10 | $3.78 | $37.80 |
| 100 | $3.36 | $336.00 |
| 500 | $2.94 | $1,470.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.52 | $2,520.00 |
PIC16LF628A-I/ML Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory (Flash/ROM), working RAM, non-volatile EEPROM, and a set of peripherals (timers, ADC, USART, comparators) into one package. The PIC16 family is one of Microchip's mid-range MCU architectures, positioned between the baseline PIC10/12/16 and the high-performance PIC18/PIC24/dsPIC families in the broader embedded microcontroller hierarchy (8-bit MCU -> microcontroller -> embedded IC -> semiconductor). The 'LF' variant targets low-voltage and ultra-low-power applications where every microamp of quiescent current matters.
Key features include 128 bytes of data EEPROM, 16 digital I/O pins, two analog comparators, a capture/compare/PWM (CCP) module, a USART with hardware addressing, and a 10-bit ADC on selected ports. Internal 4 MHz and 37 kHz oscillators are provided, and an external oscillator is supported. The 35 instructions set and 14-bit instruction word keep code density high while the Harvard RISC pipeline executes most instructions in one instruction cycle.
Typical applications include remote controls, sensor interface modules, small motor/relay drivers, low-end security keypads, hobby robotics, and battery-powered instrumentation where the wide 2.0-5.5 V supply simplifies single-cell Li-ion or 2x AA design. The 28-QFN (ML) footprint also enables compact PCB layouts in space-constrained consumer and IoT nodes.
When designing with this part, allocate the 16 GPIO wisely - several pins are multiplexed with the ADC, comparators, oscillator and the ICP/CCP/peripheral functions. Place decoupling on VDD/AVDD/VSS/AVSS, follow Microchip's QFN-6x6 land pattern for thermal relief, and use ICD/ICSP headers for in-circuit debug.
This page combines distributor pricing, drop-in 28-QFN alternatives, and design notes to give a faster path to a BOM decision than the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF628A-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 PIC16LF628A-I/ML (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Core Architecture, Internal Oscillator, Operating Temperature, Package, USART.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LF628A-I/MLG
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F628A-I/ML
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF627A-I/ML
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF628AT-I/ML
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$0.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F628A-E/ML
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF628A-I/ML Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC16 8-bit RISC (Harvard) |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) |
| Data EEPROM | 128 bytes |
| Data SRAM | 224 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 16 |
| Comparators | 2 |
| CCP Modules | 1 |
| USART | Yes (with hardware addressing) |
| Internal Oscillator | 4 MHz and 37 kHz |
| Package | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) with exposed pad |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free | Yes |
PIC16LF628A-I/ML Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0/AN0 — Bidirectional I/O; analog channel 0 |
| Pin 2 | RA1/AN1 — Bidirectional I/O; analog channel 1 |
| Pin 3 | RA2/AN2/CVREF — Bidirectional I/O; analog channel 2; comparator voltage reference output |
| Pin 4 | RA3/AN3/C1OUT — Bidirectional I/O; analog channel 3; comparator 1 output |
| Pin 5 | RA4/AN4/T0CKI — Bidirectional I/O; analog channel 4; Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 6 | RA5/AN5/SS/C2OUT — Bidirectional I/O; analog channel 5; SPI slave select; comparator 2 output |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | OSC1/RA7 — Crystal oscillator input or general I/O |
| Pin 9 | OSC2/RA6 — Crystal oscillator output or general I/O |
| Pin 10 | RC0 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 11 | RC1 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 12 | RC2/CCP1 — Bidirectional I/O; CCP1 PWM/capture/compare |
| Pin 13 | RC3 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 14 | RC4 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 15 | RC5 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 16 | RC6/TX/CK — USART async TX or sync clock |
| Pin 17 | RC7/RX/DT — USART async RX or sync data |
| Pin 18 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 19 | VDD — Positive supply |
| Pin 20 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 21 | RB0/INT — Bidirectional I/O; external interrupt |
| Pin 22 | RB1 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 23 | RB2 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 24 | RB3 — Bidirectional I/O |
| Pin 25 | RB4 — Bidirectional I/O; interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 26 | RB5 — Bidirectional I/O; interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 27 | RB6/PGC — Bidirectional I/O; ICD clock |
| Pin 28 | RB7/PGD — Bidirectional I/O; ICD data |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF628A-I/ML is suitable for 6 applications: Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node, Remote Control Transmitter, Industrial Sensor Interface Module, Small Motor / Relay Driver Controller, Security Keypad and Access Control, Hobby Robotics and Education Kits.
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node
The PIC16LF628A-I/ML fits battery-powered IoT sensor nodes because its 2.0 V to 5.5 V supply range lets it run directly from a single CR2032 or 2x AA cell, while nanoWatt sleep modes drop quiescent current under a few microamps. With a 20 MHz PIC16 core, 3.5 KB Flash and 224 bytes of SRAM, the part is large enough to hold a sensor-sampling loop, threshold logic, and USART framing for periodic wake-and-transmit cycles. Typical implementations pair the MCU with a low-power RF or LoRa module, where the MCU sleeps until an interrupt wakes it, reads a sensor, transmits, and returns to sleep. The 28-QFN (6x6 mm) footprint also keeps the PCB tiny, which is critical for wearable or stick-on sensor tags.
Recommended
Remote Control Transmitter
The PIC16LF628A-I/ML is a strong fit for handheld remote controls thanks to its 20 MHz core that can generate accurate IR carrier frequencies via the CCP module, plus 16 GPIO for keyboard scanning. Its low-voltage 2.0-5.5 V operation lets the design run from two AAA cells without boost regulators, while the internal 4 MHz oscillator removes the need for external timing components. The 128-byte EEPROM stores user settings such as channel or device ID between battery swaps. Compact 28-QFN packaging suits the slim PCB of a TV, fan, or lighting remote where every millimeter of thickness matters.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interface Module
In industrial sensor interface modules the PIC16LF628A-I/ML acts as a signal-conditioning front-end that reads analog sensors, applies scaling, and outputs a clean 4-20 mA or 0-10 V signal. Its two analog comparators handle threshold detection without external op-amps, while the USART communicates with a host PLC or display. The industrial -40 C to +85 C operating range matches factory floor environments, and the 128-byte EEPROM retains calibration data through power cycles. The 28-QFN footprint simplifies integration onto the small sensor PCBs typical of pressure, level and flow transmitters.
Recommended
Small Motor / Relay Driver Controller
The PIC16LF628A-I/ML drives small DC motors, solenoids and relay arrays through its CCP module for PWM and 16 GPIO for direction and feedback signals. Its 20 MHz instruction rate delivers precise PWM duty control, while internal 4 MHz / 37 kHz oscillators allow the firmware to switch to a slower clock for low-noise standby. With 3.5 KB Flash, control loop, fault detection and a simple comms stack all fit comfortably. The 28-QFN package sits well on a 24 V or 12 V brushed-motor PCB alongside gate drivers and protection FETs in appliance or robotics subsystems.
Recommended
Security Keypad and Access Control
The PIC16LF628A-I/ML is well suited to security keypads and access-control modules that scan a 3x4 or 4x4 matrix keypad, validate PIN codes, and drive a relay or magnetic lock. Its 16 GPIO handle the matrix scan directly without external logic, and 128 bytes of EEPROM store credentials and tamper flags. The wide 2.0-5.5 V supply allows the design to run from backup batteries during mains outages. The 28-QFN (ML) package fits behind the keypad PCB where vertical space is at a premium, and the USART links the keypad to a host controller or Wiegand reader.
Recommended
Hobby Robotics and Education Kits
The PIC16LF628A-I/ML is a popular choice in hobby robotics and education kits because its PIC16 mid-range instruction set is approachable for students and supported by MPLAB X IDE, XC8 and a large library of community examples. At 20 MHz it can drive servos, read sensors and handle simple comms, while the 3.5 KB Flash is generous enough for line-follower, sumo, or pick-and-place demos. The 2.0-5.5 V supply lets students power the robot from a 2x AA pack, and the compact 28-QFN package fits onto compact robot controller boards. Universities also use it to teach assembly programming and timer/peripheral fundamentals.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF628A-I/ML — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LF628A-I/MLG | PIC16F628A-I/ML | PIC16LF627A-I/ML | PIC16LF628AT-I/ML | PIC16F628A-E/ML |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) - same | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) - same | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) - same | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) - same | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) - same |
| Flash Program Memory | 3.5 KB (2K x 14) | 3.5 KB | 3.5 KB | 1.75 KB | 3.5 KB | 3.5 KB |
| SRAM / Data EEPROM | 224 B / 128 B | 224 B / 128 B | 224 B / 128 B | 224 B / 128 B | 224 B / 128 B | 224 B / 128 B |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +85 C | -40 C to +125 C |
| I/O Pins | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 |
Key Differentiators
- Wide 2.0-5.5 V supply without regulator (vs PIC16F628A-I/ML)
- Larger Flash than PIC16LF627A (vs PIC16LF627A-I/ML)
- Industrial -40 to +85 C vs extended grade (vs PIC16F628A-E/ML)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as practical to each VDD/AVDD pin and a 10 uF bulk capacitor at the supply entry point. The PIC16LF628A-I/ML 'LF' variant is specified for 2.0 V to 5.5 V, so if a design ever substitutes the non-LF PIC16F628A, the brown-out threshold and minimum startup voltage change; re-validate the power tree before swapping.
The 28-QFN (6x6 mm) package uses a central exposed pad (EP) that must be soldered to a PCB land of at least equal size to meet the datasheet thermal resistance. Using thermal vias under the EP to an inner copper plane drops theta_JA significantly and prevents thermal shutdown in motor-control or relay-drive applications where GPIO toggles repeatedly sink current.
Follow Microchip's QFN-6x6 land-pattern recommendations: 0.5 mm pitch pads, 0.3 mm solder mask openings, and a generous EP pad. The exposed pad is electrically tied to VSS on most PIC16LF628A designs, so tie it to the ground plane through multiple vias to keep ground impedance low for ADC and comparator accuracy.
If you drive the external oscillator (OSC1/OSC2), keep traces short and surround them with a ground guard ring to avoid coupling into analog inputs AN0-AN5. For USART routing above 115.2 kbps, length-match the TX/RX pair to avoid skew, and add a small series resistor at the MCU pin to dampen reflections when the cable is long.
Do not assume that PIC16F628A and PIC16LF628A firmware are interchangeable at low voltage - the LF part uses different configuration bits for brown-out and oscillator modes. Also, the CCP1 pin (RC2) shares with GPIO, so when PWM is enabled the corresponding TRIS bit must be cleared; failing to do so is the most common 'no output' failure on this family.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliance per Microchip product page; AEC-Q100 not applicable for general-purpose MCU; halogen-free status not in provided verified data
