PIC16LF723-I/SP - 8-Bit 20MHz 7KB Flash MCU 28-SPDIP | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF723-I/SP ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.55 | $2.55 |
| 10 | $2.18 | $21.80 |
| 100 | $1.84 | $184.00 |
| 500 | $1.62 | $810.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.45 | $1,450.00 |
PIC16LF723-I/SP Overview
What is a PIC16 Microcontroller? The PIC16 family is a line of 8-bit RISC microcontrollers from Microchip Technology built around a modified Harvard architecture with separate program and data buses, 35 single-word instructions, and a small, deterministic instruction set ideal for embedded control. These MCUs sit at the entry level of Microchip's PIC portfolio, between the PIC10/12/16 baseline devices and PIC18 mid-range parts, and are commonly used in consumer, industrial, and IoT applications where cost, low power, and ease of programming matter more than raw computational throughput.
Key features of the PIC16LF723-I/SP include 11 channels of 8-bit Analog-to-Digital Conversion (ADC), two PWM modules with Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) capability, and three serial communication peripherals: I2C/SPI (master/slave SSP) and an enhanced USART. On-chip peripherals also include a programmable Brown-Out Reset (BOR), a Watchdog Timer with its own on-chip RC, two 8-bit timers and one 16-bit timer, and 36 bytes of general-purpose EEPROM. The 28-pin SPDIP package exposes up to 25 general-purpose I/O pins depending on peripheral use.
The PIC16LF723-I/SP architecture uses a Harvard-style RISC core with a hardware multiplier, 14-bit wide program memory and 8-bit data path, optimized for low-power operation in the 1.8-3.6V range. Compared to the legacy PIC16F72, the LF723 adds nanoWatt XLP sleep modes, an enhanced USART, and a larger ADC channel count while keeping the same 28-pin footprint for drop-in upgrades.
Typical applications include battery-powered sensor nodes, low-cost motor control, smoke and gas detectors, remote controls, smart meters, and small home appliances. The wide operating voltage window and low sleep current make it well suited for always-on, energy-constrained designs. When designing with this part, pay attention to the in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) pins and reserve adequate decoupling near VDD/VSS pairs; the LF variant is required for sub-2V operation, otherwise the standard PIC16F723 may be a lower-cost alternative.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF723-I/SP — 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 PIC16LF723-I/SP (same form factor and footprint) — differing in ADC, Core, Operating Temperature, PWM / CCP, Timers.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LF723A-I/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.7 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF722-I/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF722A-I/SP
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16LF727-I/SP
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC16F723-I/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF723-I/SP Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Family | PIC16F |
| Core | 8-bit PIC16 RISC |
| Program Memory | 7 KB (4K x 14 words) Flash |
| RAM | 192 bytes |
| Max CPU Frequency | 20 MHz |
| Instruction Cycle Time | 200 ns |
| Supply Voltage (Vdd) | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| I/O Pins | Up to 25 |
| ADC | 11 channels x 8-bit |
| PWM / CCP | 2 CCP modules |
| Timers | 2 x 8-bit + 1 x 16-bit |
| Communication | I2C, SPI, Enhanced USART |
| Package | 28-pin SPDIP (SP) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16LF723-I/SP Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — Bidirectional I/O / ADC input / voltage reference |
| Pin 2 | RA4/AN4 — Bidirectional I/O / ADC input |
| Pin 3 | RA5/AN5 — Bidirectional I/O / ADC input |
| Pin 4 | RA6/OSC2/CLKOUT — I/O / oscillator output / clock output |
| Pin 5 | RA7/OSC1/CLKIN — I/O / oscillator input / external clock input |
| Pin 6 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — I/O / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RC1/T1OSI — I/O / Timer1 oscillator input |
| Pin 8 | RC2/CCP1 — I/O / CCP1 PWM output |
| Pin 9 | RC3/SCK/SCL — I/O / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 10 | RC4/SDI/SDA — I/O / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 11 | RC5/SDO — I/O / SPI data out |
| Pin 12 | RC6/TX/CK — I/O / EUSART transmit / clock |
| Pin 13 | RC7/RX/DT — I/O / EUSART receive / data |
| Pin 14 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 15 | VDD — Positive supply (1.8V-3.6V) |
| Pin 16 | RB7/PGD — I/O / ICSP data |
| Pin 17 | RB6/PGC — I/O / ICSP clock |
| Pin 18 | RB5/AN13 — I/O / ADC input |
| Pin 19 | RB4/AN11 — I/O / ADC input |
| Pin 20 | RB3/AN9/CCP2 — I/O / ADC input / CCP2 PWM |
| Pin 21 | RB2/AN8 — I/O / ADC input |
| Pin 22 | RB1/AN10 — I/O / ADC input |
| Pin 23 | RB0/AN12/INT — I/O / ADC input / external interrupt |
| Pin 24 | RA0/AN0 — I/O / ADC input |
| Pin 25 | RA1/AN1 — I/O / ADC input |
| Pin 26 | RA2/AN2/VREF- — I/O / ADC input / voltage reference |
| Pin 27 | MCLR/VPP/RA5 — Master clear (reset) / programming voltage |
| Pin 28 | VSS — Ground reference (secondary) |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF723-I/SP is suitable for 6 applications: Battery-Powered Sensor Nodes, Low-Cost Motor Control (DC and Stepper), Smoke and Gas Detectors, Remote Controls and IR Keyfobs, Smart Meters and Energy Monitoring, Small Home Appliances (Coffee Makers, Humidifiers).
Battery-Powered Sensor Nodes
The PIC16LF723-I/SP is a strong fit for battery-powered wireless sensor nodes where sub-1 uA sleep current and 1.8V operation are mandatory. Its nanoWatt XLP architecture delivers years of battery life from a single coin cell, while the 11-channel 8-bit ADC reads multiple sensors (temperature, humidity, light, battery voltage) without external MUX. Engineers typically pair it with sub-GHz transceivers such as the MRF89XA using the integrated SPI, and use the EUSART for debug logging. The 7KB Flash supports over-the-air firmware updates via ICSP, and the 28-SPDIP through-hole package simplifies hand-soldered prototypes. Compared to a 32-bit Cortex-M0 alternative, the PIC16LF723 consumes a fraction of the sleep current, making it ideal for sleep-dominated duty cycles of <1%.
Recommended
Low-Cost Motor Control (DC and Stepper)
The PIC16LF723-I/SP suits small DC brushed and unipolar stepper motor control thanks to its two CCP/PWM modules with up to 10-bit resolution and 20MHz timer clock. A single 28-SPDIP device can drive two H-bridges or one stepper with microstepping via software PWM. The 11-channel ADC reads back current-sense amplifiers and potentiometer position feedback in real time. With 200ns instruction cycle, control loops close in well under 50 us, fast enough for RC-servo-rate updates. The wide 1.8V-3.6V supply lets designers run the MCU directly from a 2xAA pack or single Li-ion cell, simplifying BOM cost. Add external MOSFET drivers (e.g. MCP1416) for higher-current loads.
Recommended
Smoke and Gas Detectors
The PIC16LF723-I/SP is well suited for photoelectric smoke detectors and low-power gas detectors. Its 1.8V-3.6V operation supports direct drive from a 9V battery plus LDO, while nanoWatt XLP sleep current below 1 uA extends detector life to 10+ years on a single battery. The 11-channel 8-bit ADC samples both photoelectric chamber current and electrochemical gas-sensor output, with internal reference for ratiometric measurements. The integrated EUSART supports a debug/calibration UART port for manufacturing test, and the 2 CCP modules drive buzzer and LED indicators. UL 217 alarm standards require reliable low-power operation, which the LF723 family was designed for, and the 28-SPDIP package withstands hand-soldering and rework.
Recommended
Remote Controls and IR Keyfobs
The PIC16LF723-I/SP is ideal for IR remote controls and BLE/Sub-GHz keyfobs where every microamp counts. Its nanoWatt XLP sleep mode draws under 50 nA typical, enabling years of standby life from a CR2032 coin cell. The integrated EUSART or MSSP can bit-bang IR protocols (RC5, NEC, SIRC) or drive a Sub-GHz OOK/FSK transmitter for two-way keyfob designs. The 7KB Flash supports multi-protocol firmware with on-the-fly protocol switching, and 192B RAM is sufficient for short IR command frames. With 25 GPIO available, designers can implement up to 8x4 keypad matrices plus LED indicators in a single 28-SPDIP. Industrial-grade -40C to +85C operation handles automotive and outdoor environments.
Recommended
Smart Meters and Energy Monitoring
The PIC16LF723-I/SP fits single-phase smart electricity meters and sub-metering modules. Its 11-channel 8-bit ADC reads current-transformer outputs, voltage-divider mains sensing, and temperature compensation sensors with sufficient accuracy for Class 1 meters when paired with calibration. The integrated EUSART supports PLC (power-line communication) modems or RS-485 to a concentrator, while MSSP drives an LCD or segmented display. Sub-1 uA sleep current extends battery backup life during power outages. With 7KB Flash and 192B RAM, designers can implement IEC 62053-21 metering algorithms, TOU tariffs, and tamper detection. The 28-SPDIP package is field-serviceable for utility technicians.
Recommended
Small Home Appliances (Coffee Makers, Humidifiers)
The PIC16LF723-I/SP powers small home appliances like coffee makers, humidifiers, air purifiers, and toaster ovens where HMI, motor control, and sensor feedback converge. The 2 CCP/PWM modules drive heater elements and pumps, the 11-channel ADC reads temperature, water level, and humidity sensors, and the integrated I2C drives an OLED or character LCD. The 25 GPIO handle capacitive-touch keypad matrices via software CTMU or external FDC1004. Industrial-grade temperature range supports kitchen environments. With 7KB Flash, designers embed PID control loops, recipes, and safety interlock logic. The 28-SPDIP package is friendly to high-volume through-hole assembly lines.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF723-I/SP — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LF723A-I/SP | PIC16LF722-I/SP | PIC16LF727-I/SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SPDIP (SP) | 28-SPDIP (SP) - same | 28-SPDIP (SP) - same | 28-SPDIP (SP) - same |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 7 KB | 7 KB | 3.5 KB (-50%) | 14 KB (+100%) |
| RAM | 192 bytes | 192 bytes | 128 bytes | 256 bytes |
| 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 |
| Max CPU Frequency | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz | 20 MHz |
| ADC Channels | 11 x 8-bit | 11 x 8-bit | 9 x 8-bit | 14 x 8-bit |
| I/O Pins | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Key Differentiators
- Updated silicon revision 'A' variant available with same pinout (vs PIC16LF723A-I/SP)
- Larger 7KB Flash versus lower-cost 3.5KB variants (vs PIC16LF722-I/SP)
- 1.8V minimum supply voltage for coin-cell designs (vs PIC16F723-I/SP)
Design Notes
Estimated: at VDD=3.3V, 20MHz operation, the PIC16LF723-I/SP typically draws about 6 mA active and <1 uA in sleep with Watchdog disabled. For battery-powered designs, add a 100 nF decoupling capacitor close to VDD pin 15, plus a 10 uF bulk capacitor on the supply rail. The MCLR/VPP pin must have a pull-up resistor (typically 10 kOhm) to VDD for proper reset; do not leave it floating. Use Sleep mode aggressively - waking every 16 ms to read a sensor can extend coin-cell life to 5+ years.
Route the ICSP pins (RB6/PGC, RB7/PGD) to a 6-pin header with 0.1 inch pitch for in-circuit programming and debug access. Keep high-speed switching traces (PWM, oscillator) away from analog inputs (RA0-RA7, RB0-RB5) to minimize crosstalk. Place the crystal or resonator as close to OSC1/OSC2 (RA7/RA6) as possible, with guard ground around it. For the 28-SPDIP through-hole package, ensure adequate clearance between pins for wave-soldering (0.1 inch pitch) and leave room for a ground copper pour on both sides of the board.
Common pitfalls when designing with PIC16LF723-I/SP: (1) do not drive RA4 (open-drain output) directly with a pull-up above 5V - the LF variant has 3.6V absolute max on most pins; (2) configure unused I/O as outputs and tie to VSS to minimize current consumption in sleep; (3) do not enable the ADC without a stable VREF+ - allow 10 us settling time after switching the reference; (4) when using the MSSP as I2C master, ensure SDA/SCL pull-ups are sized correctly for the bus capacitance (typically 4.7 kOhm at 100 kHz with <100 pF bus). Verify configuration bits (CONFIG register) for oscillator, watchdog, and brown-out reset before programming.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free confirmed per Microchip product page and distributor listings. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - this is a consumer/industrial grade MCU. For automotive applications use PIC16F723A-E/SP (extended temperature).
