PIC16LF818-I/ML - 8-Bit 10MHz MCU 1.75KB Flash QFN-28 | Microchip
MPN: PIC16LF818-I/ML ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.72 | $3.72 |
| 10 | $3.35 | $33.50 |
| 100 | $2.98 | $298.00 |
| 500 | $2.62 | $1,310.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.28 | $2,280.00 |
PIC16LF818-I/ML Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, non-volatile program memory, working RAM, and a set of peripheral interfaces (timers, ADC, communication ports) onto one die. In the product hierarchy, PIC16LF818 belongs to the 8-bit MCU -> microcontroller -> embedded controller -> semiconductor family. It uses Microchip's enhanced Mid-Range 14-bit instruction set, which balances code density (single-word instructions) with deterministic timing.
Key features include on-chip 10-bit ADC with multiple channels, Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) module, two 8-bit timers plus one 16-bit timer, synchronous and asynchronous serial interfaces (SSP, USART), and nanoWatt power management for sleep-mode currents down to the nanoampere range. The device supports in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) via two pins, allowing firmware update after PCB assembly.
The PIC16LF818 uses a Harvard RISC architecture with separate program and data buses, enabling single-cycle instruction execution except for program branches. Its nanoWatt technology offers multiple low-power modes (Run, Idle, Sleep) and dynamic switching between the primary oscillator and low-power internal 31 kHz oscillator, which is critical for battery-powered sensor nodes. The LF suffix specifically denotes the 1.8 V to 3.6 V low-voltage variant, distinguishing it from the 2.0 V to 5.5 V PIC16F818.
Typical applications include industrial sensor interfaces, battery-powered instrumentation, low-cost motor control via PWM, white-goods user interface panels, and remote-control transmitters. The combination of small QFN footprint, EEPROM data storage, and ADC makes it well suited to compact analog-front-end designs.
When designing with this device, ensure the ICSP clock and data lines are brought out to a programming header or test pad so firmware can be updated post-assembly, and budget for a 1 uF bulk decoupling capacitor near VDD with a 0.1 uF ceramic bypass adjacent to each supply pin.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, pin-compatible same-family variants, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a faster sourcing and evaluation path for the PIC16LF818-I/ML.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC16LF818-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 PIC16LF818-I/ML (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, ADC, Core Architecture, Operating Temperature, Internal Oscillator.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC16LF818T-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.92 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF819-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.94 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF819T-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.44 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F818-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16F819-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF88-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.41 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC16LF818-I/ML Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC16 8-bit RISC (Mid-Range 14-bit instruction set) |
| Program Memory | 1.75 KB Flash (1K x 14 words) |
| Data RAM | 128 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | 128 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 10 MHz (LF variant) |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| I/O Pins | 16 programmable |
| ADC | 10-bit, multiple channels |
| Timers | Two 8-bit + one 16-bit |
| PWM / CCP | 1 CCP module (Capture/Compare/PWM) |
| Serial Interfaces | SSP (I2C/SPI), USART (addressable) |
| Package | QFN-28 (6x6 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial, -I) |
| ICSP Programming | Yes (in-circuit serial programming) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC16LF818-I/ML Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR — Master Clear (reset) input, active low |
| Pin 2 | RA0 — Digital I/O / AN0 analog input |
| Pin 3 | RA1 — Digital I/O / AN1 analog input |
| Pin 4 | RA2 — Digital I/O / AN2 / VREF- |
| Pin 5 | RA3 — Digital I/O / AN3 / VREF+ |
| Pin 6 | RA4 — Digital I/O / AN4 / T0CKI |
| Pin 7 | RA5 — Digital I/O / AN5 / SS |
| Pin 8 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 9 | OSC1 — Crystal oscillator input or external clock |
| Pin 10 | OSC2 — Crystal oscillator output |
| Pin 11 | RC0 — Digital I/O / T1OSO / T1CKI |
| Pin 12 | RC1 — Digital I/O / T1OSI / CCP2 |
| Pin 13 | RC2 — Digital I/O / CCP1 |
| Pin 14 | RC3 — Digital I/O / SCL / SCK |
| Pin 15 | RC4 — Digital I/O / SDA / SDI |
| Pin 16 | RC5 — Digital I/O / SDO |
| Pin 17 | RC6 — Digital I/O / TX / CK |
| Pin 18 | RC7 — Digital I/O / RX / DT |
| Pin 19 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (1.8 V to 3.6 V) |
| Pin 21 | RB0 — Digital I/O / INT external interrupt |
| Pin 22 | RB1 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 23 | RB2 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 24 | RB3 — Digital I/O / PGM low-voltage programming |
| Pin 25 | RB4 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 26 | RB5 — Digital I/O / PGD programming data |
| Pin 27 | RB6 — Digital I/O / PGC programming clock |
| Pin 28 | RB7 — Digital I/O |
Typical Applications
PIC16LF818-I/ML is suitable for 7 applications: Battery-Powered Sensor Node, Industrial Sensor Interface, Low-Cost Motor Control, White-Goods User Interface, Remote Control Transmitter, Portable Medical Monitor, Automotive Body Electronics.
Battery-Powered Sensor Node
The PIC16LF818-I/ML's 1.8 V to 3.6 V supply range and nanoWatt sleep currents make it well suited to battery-powered wireless sensor nodes. With only 128 bytes RAM, the LF818 handles slow sampling of temperature or humidity sensors and forwards results via its internal USART. The 10-bit ADC with multiple channels supports direct connection to thermistors or 4-20 mA loop interfaces. Sleep current below 1 uA enables multi-year battery life on 2x AA cells.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interface
The PIC16LF818-I/ML's industrial -40C to +85C rating and 10-bit ADC suit factory-floor sensor-conditioning designs. It can read bridge sensors, RTDs, and 4-20 mA current loops while exposing PWM outputs for proportional control valves. The 128-byte EEPROM stores calibration constants persistently, and the 16 I/O pins handle multiplexed input channels. Its RISC core executes deterministic control loops in tens of microseconds for closed-loop PID response.
Recommended
Low-Cost Motor Control
The PIC16LF818-I/ML's CCP module generates PWM for brushed DC or small BLDC motor control in appliance and toy applications. With 10 MHz instruction rate, the device can update PWM duty cycle at 20 kHz with adequate time for back-EMF sampling. The 16 I/O pins handle H-bridge gate drivers, Hall-effect sensor inputs, and tachometer feedback. Industrial temperature rating permits under-hood automotive and white-goods deployment.
Recommended
White-Goods User Interface
The PIC16LF818-I/ML is well matched to washing-machine and dishwasher user interface panels where its QFN-28 footprint fits behind capacitive touch buttons and seven-segment LED displays. The device's internal EEPROM stores user preferences and fault codes across power cycles. USART connectivity supports diagnostic links to the main appliance controller. Industrial temperature rating handles the under-counter thermal environment of laundry appliances.
Recommended
Remote Control Transmitter
The PIC16LF818-I/ML powers sub-1 GHz remote-control transmitters for garage door openers, ceiling fans, and RF remote key fobs. Its nanoWatt sleep mode extends coin-cell battery life across years of standby. The internal PWM generates carrier-frequency modulation for OOK/FSK encoding. With 16 I/O pins, the device scans multi-button keypads and drives status LEDs without external logic. Compact QFN-28 footprint suits miniaturized key fob enclosures.
Recommended
Portable Medical Monitor
The PIC16LF818-I/ML fits portable medical monitoring peripherals such as pulse oximeters and single-parameter patient monitors where low power and compact form factor are priorities. Its 10-bit ADC digitizes pulse-oximeter photodiode signals, while the 16 I/O pins drive display LEDs and user buttons. Industrial temperature rating handles the warm-up cycles of repeated clinical use. Note that IEC 60601-1 medical safety certification rests with the system integrator, not the MCU alone.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
Although the PIC16LF818-I/ML is industrial-grade rather than AEC-Q100 qualified, it can still be deployed in non-safety automotive body electronics such as ambient lighting controllers, seat-position switches, and accessory lighting. Its PWM capability drives LED strings for interior accent lighting, and the 128-byte EEPROM stores trim positions across battery disconnects. For under-hood or safety-critical modules, designers should upgrade to AEC-Q100-qualified PIC16F equivalents.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC16LF818-I/ML — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC16LF818T-I/ML | PIC16LF819-I/ML | PIC16F818-I/ML | PIC16LF88-I/ML |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | QFN-28 (6x6 mm) | QFN-28 (6x6 mm) - same | QFN-28 (6x6 mm) - same | QFN-28 (6x6 mm) - same | QFN-28 (6x6 mm) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Supply Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V - same | 1.8 V to 3.6 V - same | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V - same |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 10 MHz | 10 MHz - same | 10 MHz - same | 20 MHz | 10 MHz |
| Flash Program Memory | 1.75 KB | 1.75 KB - same | 1.75 KB - same | 1.75 KB - same | 7 KB |
| Data RAM | 128 bytes | 128 bytes - same | 256 bytes | 128 bytes - same | 256 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | 128 bytes | 128 bytes - same | 256 bytes | 128 bytes - same | 256 bytes |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C - same | -40C to +85C - same | -40C to +85C - same | -40C to +85C - same |
Key Differentiators
- Lowest voltage variant of PIC16F818 family (vs PIC16F818-I/ML)
- Dual memory upgrade path within same footprint (vs PIC16LF819-I/ML)
- Industrial temperature rating at QFN-28 footprint (vs PIC16LF818-I/SP (SPDIP variant))
Design Notes
The PIC16LF818-I/ML supports nanoWatt sleep mode with typical current below 1 uA at 1.8 V, but the brown-out reset threshold should be configured above the battery end-of-discharge voltage to prevent code corruption. When running from 2x AA cells, set BOR to 1.8 V or higher to ensure deterministic reset behavior. A 1 uF bulk decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VDD pin plus a 0.1 uF ceramic adjacent to the supply pad reduces switching noise coupling into the ADC reference.
The QFN-28 package exposes a central thermal pad that should be soldered to a ground copper pour of at least 10 mm x 10 mm for mechanical reliability and thermal dissipation. ICSP programming pins PGD (RB7/RA0 depending on configuration) and PGC must be brought out to a 2x3 header or test pad pattern - do not wire these pins only to internal nets, as field firmware updates become impossible. Keep oscillator traces short and surrounded by ground pour to avoid noise injection into the ADC.
Estimated: Do not exceed 3.6 V on VDD - the LF variant has no 5 V tolerance on any pin. When porting code from PIC16F818 to PIC16LF818, verify that all timer prescaler and ADC acquisition time calculations remain valid at the lower Fosc. The internal 31 kHz LF oscillator drifts over temperature; use the primary 4 MHz or higher crystal for UART baud-rate accuracy above 9600 baud. Always configure unused I/O pins as outputs with logic-low to minimize current consumption in sleep mode.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Industrial temperature grade -I (not -E extended or -H high). Not AEC-Q100 qualified - this part targets industrial and consumer, not automotive under-hood.
