PIC16LF648AT-I/SO - 8-Bit MCU, 7KB Flash, 20MHz, 18-SOIC | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF648AT-I/SO ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.81 | $3.81 |
| 10 | $3.42 | $34.20 |
| 100 | $2.97 | $297.00 |
| 500 | $2.55 | $1,275.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.18 | $2,180.00 |
PIC16LF648AT-I/SO Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, program memory (Flash or ROM), data memory (RAM), and peripheral blocks (timers, ADC, communication interfaces) onto one silicon die. The PIC16F family uses a modified Harvard RISC architecture with separate program and data buses, enabling single-cycle instruction execution except for branch instructions. Within the broader embedded taxonomy, this device sits at the intersection of microcontroller -> 8-bit MCU -> PIC16 family -> PIC16F6xx sub-family, and is targeted at applications needing moderate complexity with low power consumption.
Key features include nanoWatt XLP (eXtra Low Power) technology for deep sleep current in the microamp range, an integrated 10-bit ADC, two analog comparators, a USART module, and a Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) module. The wide 2.0V to 5.5V supply range enables direct operation from a single Li-ion cell or two AA batteries without an additional regulator. With 256 bytes of RAM and 7KB of Flash, the PIC16LF648A is positioned between the smaller PIC16F627A and the PIC16F88 in the family hierarchy.
The architecture relies on a 14-bit instruction word with a hardware stack depth of 8 levels, suitable for moderately nested interrupt and call structures. Watchdog timer, brown-out reset, and in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) support reduce external component requirements and simplify firmware updates in the field. Compared to 32-bit Cortex-M0 alternatives, the PIC16LF648AT offers lower BOM cost and ultra-low sleep current at the price of throughput and ecosystem tooling.
Typical applications include battery-powered sensor nodes, simple motor and solenoid control loops, consumer appliance front panels, automotive interior LED drivers, and low-cost industrial timers. The 18-SOIC package supports hand-soldering and breadboard prototyping, making the part a popular choice in educational and hobby markets.
When designing with this device, place a 100nF decoupling capacitor within 5mm of VDD and consider the ICSP clock/data pin assignments early in PCB layout to avoid rework. Configure unused I/O pins as outputs low to minimize sleep current.
This page consolidates distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives in the 18-SOIC footprint, and engineering design notes that supplement the manufacturer datasheet with sourcing and selection guidance.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF648AT-I/SO — 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 PIC16LF648AT-I/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Communication, Operating Temperature, Package, Timers, Core Architecture.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LF648A-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.3 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF648A-I/SOG
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF628AT-I/SO
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$1.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF648AT-I/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.39 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF648AT-E/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF648AT-I/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 8-bit PIC RISC (modified Harvard) |
| Program Memory Type | Flash |
| Program Memory Size | 7 KB (4K x 14 words) |
| RAM Size | 256 bytes |
| EEPROM Data Memory | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 20 MHz |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 16 |
| ADC | 10-bit, 8 channels |
| Comparators | 2 |
| Timers | 3 (TMR0, TMR1, TMR2) |
| CCP/PWM Modules | 1 (Enhanced CCP) |
| Communication | AUSART (Enhanced USART) |
| Package | 18-SOIC (0.295 inch / 7.50 mm width) |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) |
| Low-Power Technology | nanoWatt XLP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16LF648AT-I/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP — Master Clear (Reset) input / ICSP programming voltage |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / Analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / Analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2/CVREF — PORTA bit 2 / Analog input 2 / Comparator voltage reference |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/C1OUT — PORTA bit 3 / Analog input 3 / Comparator 1 output |
| Pin 6 | RA4/AN4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Analog input 4 / Timer 0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN5/SS/C2OUT — PORTA bit 5 / Analog input 5 / SPI slave select / Comparator 2 output |
| Pin 8 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKIN/RA7 — Crystal oscillator input / External clock input / PORTA bit 7 |
| Pin 10 | OSC2/CLKOUT/RA6 — Crystal oscillator output / Clock output / PORTA bit 6 |
| Pin 11 | RC0 — PORTC bit 0 |
| Pin 12 | RC1 — PORTC bit 1 |
| Pin 13 | RC2/CCP1 — PORTC bit 2 / Enhanced Capture/Compare/PWM 1 |
| Pin 14 | RC3 — PORTC bit 3 |
| Pin 15 | RC4 — PORTC bit 4 |
| Pin 16 | RC5 — PORTC bit 5 |
| Pin 17 | RC6 — PORTC bit 6 (also shares functions) |
| Pin 18 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.0 V to 5.5 V) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF648AT-I/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Battery-Powered Sensor Node, Consumer Appliance Front Panel Controller, Automotive Interior LED Driver, Low-Cost Industrial Timer / Counter, Educational Microcontroller Platform, HVAC Damper and Valve Actuator.
Battery-Powered Sensor Node
The PIC16LF648AT-I/SO is well-suited for wireless sensor nodes powered by a single Li-ion or 2x AA cell. With its nanoWatt XLP sleep current below 1 uA and 2.0 V to 5.5 V supply range, the part can run for years on small primary cells while periodically waking to sample a sensor and transmit via the integrated USART. The 10-bit ADC and 2 analog comparators support direct connection of thermistors, photodiodes, and PIR sensors without external signal conditioning. The 7 KB Flash accommodates modest protocol stacks such as proprietary RF or sub-GHz MAC layers.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Front Panel Controller
Household appliances such as washing machines, microwaves, and coffee makers benefit from the PIC16LF648AT-I/SO's 16 I/O pins which can directly drive 7-segment displays, keypads, and indicator LEDs without an external I/O expander. The Enhanced CCP module delivers PWM control for variable-speed pumps or fans, while the 2 built-in comparators enable zero-crossing detection for triac-based heater control. Industrial-grade -40 to +85 C operation withstands the heat of kitchen and laundry environments. Low unit cost and proven long-term availability from Microchip make it a safe choice for high-volume consumer products.
Recommended
Automotive Interior LED Driver
While the LF industrial-grade version is rated to +85 C, the extended-temperature PIC16F648A-E/SO sibling powers automotive interior lighting such as ambient strips, dome lights, and instrument cluster backlights. The Enhanced CCP/PWM module generates the PWM frequencies required for smooth LED dimming without flicker, and the high-current drive capability on PORTB simplifies direct MOSFET gate driving. ICSP allows firmware updates through the wiring harness connector without opening the housing. The 18-SOIC package supports reflow assembly in surface-mount LED module production.
Recommended
Low-Cost Industrial Timer / Counter
Industrial control panels often require compact timers, counters, and sequencers that fit on a 35mm DIN rail. The PIC16LF648AT-I/SO with its 3 hardware timers (TMR0, TMR1, TMR2), 256 bytes RAM, and 7 KB Flash handles multi-stage timing profiles with EEPROM-backed setpoint storage. The internal 4 MHz RC oscillator eliminates an external crystal for non-precision timing, and the wide supply range tolerates industrial 24 V bus rails stepped down with a simple LDO. Robust ESD and EMI performance ensures reliable operation in motor cabinets and switchgear environments.
Recommended
Educational Microcontroller Platform
Universities, coding bootcamps, and maker communities favor the PIC16LF648AT-I/SO because of its hobbyist-friendly 18-SOIC package that fits standard breadboards via breakout adapters and its rich support in MPLAB X IDE plus free XC8 C compiler. Students learn 8-bit RISC architecture fundamentals - accumulator design, register banks, and bit-banging protocols - without the abstraction layers of 32-bit frameworks. The PICkit 4 debugger at under $80 makes hands-on lab work accessible. Project examples include line-following robots, digital calipers, and IR remote decoders.
Recommended
HVAC Damper and Valve Actuator
Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems require motorized damper and valve actuators with precise position control. The PIC16LF648AT-I/SO drives a small DC or stepper motor via its Enhanced CCP PWM outputs while reading position feedback through the 10-bit ADC. The 2 internal comparators implement hardware over-current protection by sensing shunt voltage directly, avoiding dedicated comparator ICs. Wide 2.0 V to 5.5 V supply lets the board run directly from a 24 VAC transformer rectified to ~30 VDC and stepped down with a switching regulator.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF648AT-I/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LF648A-I/SO | PIC16LF648A-I/SOG | PIC16LF628AT-I/SO | PIC16LF648AT-I/SS | PIC16LF648AT-E/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 18-SOIC | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same | 18-SOIC - same (verify SS variant pinout) | 18-SOIC - same |
| Program Flash | 7 KB | 7 KB | 7 KB | 3.5 KB (-50%) | 7 KB | 7 KB |
| RAM | 256 B | 256 B | 256 B | 224 B | 256 B | 256 B |
| Max CPU Clock | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| Supply Voltage | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C (Industrial) | -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 (Extended) |
| ADC Channels | 8 x 10-bit | 8 x 10-bit | 8 x 10-bit | 8 x 10-bit | 8 x 10-bit | 8 x 10-bit |
Key Differentiators
- Same silicon as PIC16LF648A-I/SO with tape-and-reel packaging variant (vs PIC16LF648A-I/SO)
- Extended temperature range for harsh environments (vs PIC16LF648AT-E/SO)
- Halved Flash vs PIC16LF628AT-I/SO (vs PIC16LF628AT-I/SO)
Design Notes
Estimated: at 5 V supply and 20 MHz CPU clock with all peripherals active, the PIC16LF648AT-I/SO draws approximately 5-7 mA typical, dropping to <1 uA in nanoWatt XLP sleep mode. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin and a 10 uF bulk capacitor at the regulator output. For battery-powered designs, gate the analog supply with a high-impedance resistor divider shutdown scheme to minimize quiescent loss during deep sleep.
Route the ICSP clock/data lines (MCLR/RA0/RA1) to a programming header that is accessible without removing the chip from the board. Keep the crystal traces short (under 10 mm) and surround them with a ground pour to reduce EMI coupling into the analog ADC channels. The 18-SOIC package allows 8 mil traces and 8 mil spaces under the SOIC body - use a 4-layer stackup with a dedicated ground plane for best noise immunity.
Do not float the MCLR pin - it must be tied to VDD via a 10 kohm pull-up resistor, otherwise spurious resets occur. Always configure unused I/O pins as outputs low (not high-impedance inputs) to avoid shoot-through current in the input buffer. Brown-out reset must be enabled with a threshold appropriate for your supply rail; otherwise, erratic operation can occur during slow power-up ramps.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product environmental compliance data. Industrial-grade only (-40 to +85 C); not AEC-Q100 qualified - select PIC16F648A-E/SO extended-temperature variant for automotive applications.