PIC18F1320-E/ML - 8KB Flash 8-bit MCU 25MHz 28-QFN | Microchip
MPN: PIC18F1320-E/ML ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.03 | $2.03 |
| 10 | $1.94 | $19.40 |
| 100 | $1.78 | $178.00 |
| 500 | $1.62 | $810.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.45 | $1,450.00 |
PIC18F1320-E/ML Overview
An 8-bit PIC microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer built around the PIC (Peripheral Interface Controller) RISC architecture. PIC MCUs sit within the broader microcontroller family tree: microcontroller -> embedded controller -> single-chip computer -> semiconductor. The PIC18F family specifically targets high-performance 8-bit applications that require more memory, more peripherals, and higher code density than baseline PIC16 devices. PIC MCUs dominate cost-sensitive embedded designs because they integrate CPU, memory, timers, communication peripherals, and I/O on one die.
Key features include 16 I/O pins, 10-bit multi-channel A/D converter, enhanced USART, MSSP (SPI/I2C), two capture/compare/PWM modules, two 8-bit timers and three 16-bit timers, and nanoWalt Technology for low-power operation. The E suffix indicates the extended industrial temperature grade (-40C to +125C). The device consumes as little as 0.1 microamp in standby mode, making it suitable for battery-managed applications.
The PIC18F1320 uses an enhanced Harvard architecture with separate code and data buses and a 16-bit instruction word that allows single-cycle execution for most instructions. The flash program memory supports self-programming and In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) for field updates. The integrated 10-bit A/D converter and nanoWatt Technology make the part a strong fit for sensor interfaces, low-power battery systems, and mixed-signal embedded designs.
Typical applications include battery-powered sensor nodes, consumer electronics (small appliances, toys, remote controls), industrial control peripherals, low-end motor control with PWM, automotive interior modules (with the -I grade variant for the industrial range), and USB/HID bridges (when paired with a serial interface engine). The wide voltage range also supports 2-cell battery and 3.3 V/5 V mixed-rail systems.
When designing with the PIC18F1320, ensure decoupling capacitors are placed close to VDD/VSS pins and follow Microchip's recommended ICSP layout if in-circuit programming is required. The exposed thermal pad (EP) on the QFN package must be soldered to the PCB ground plane for thermal dissipation and electrical performance. Always reserve an unused MCLR pull-up for reliable reset behavior.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-family alternatives, comparison parameters, and practical design notes not collected in the manufacturer datasheet alone. Values were verified against distributor listings as of 2026-09-26.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC18F1320-E/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 PIC18F1320-E/ML (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Mounting Type, ADC, Core Architecture, Operating Temperature.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC18F1220-E/ML
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F1220-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F1220-H/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F1220T-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.74 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F1230-I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F1320-E/ML Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Series | PIC 18F |
| Core Processor | PIC |
| Core Size | 8-bit |
| Max Clock Speed | 25 MHz |
| Program Memory Size | 8 KB (4K x 16) FLASH |
| RAM Size | 256 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | 256 bytes |
| Number of I/O | 16 |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (E grade) |
| ADC | 10-bit, multi-channel |
| Communication Peripherals | EUSART, MSSP (SPI/I2C) |
| Timers | 2 x 8-bit, 3 x 16-bit |
| PWM Modules | 2 CCP |
| Package | 28-pin QFN (6x6 mm) with EP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Mounting Style | SMD/SMT |
| Data Converters | A/D 10x10b |
| Oscillator Type | Internal/External |
| Program Memory Type | FLASH |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC18F1320-E/ML Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA2/AN2/VREF-/CVREF — PORTA bit 2 / Analog input 2 / Voltage reference negative / Comparator voltage reference output |
| Pin 2 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — PORTA bit 3 / Analog input 3 / Voltage reference positive |
| Pin 3 | RA4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 4 | RA5/AN4/SS — PORTA bit 5 / Analog input 4 / SPI slave select |
| Pin 5 | VSS — Ground |
| Pin 6 | OSC1/CLKI/RA7 — Oscillator input / External clock input / PORTA bit 7 |
| Pin 7 | OSC2/CLKO/RA6 — Oscillator output / Clock output / PORTA bit 6 |
| Pin 8 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 9 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 module |
| Pin 10 | RC2/CCP1 — PORTC bit 2 / CCP1 module (PWM) |
| Pin 11 | RC3/SCK/SCL — PORTC bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 12 | RC4/SDI/SDA — PORTC bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 13 | RC5/SDO — PORTC bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 14 | RC6/TX/CK — PORTC bit 6 / EUSART TX / EUSART clock |
| Pin 15 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / EUSART RX / EUSART data |
| Pin 16 | RB0/INT0 — PORTB bit 0 / External interrupt 0 |
| Pin 17 | RB1/INT1 — PORTB bit 1 / External interrupt 1 |
| Pin 18 | RB2/INT2 — PORTB bit 2 / External interrupt 2 |
| Pin 19 | RB3/CCP2 — PORTB bit 3 / CCP2 module alternate |
| Pin 20 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 21 | RB5/PGM — PORTB bit 5 / LVP programming |
| Pin 22 | RB6/PGC — PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 23 | RB7/PGD — PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data |
| Pin 24 | VSS — Ground |
| Pin 25 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (2.0V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 26 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / Analog input 0 |
| Pin 27 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / Analog input 1 |
| Pin 28 | MCLR/VPP/RA5 — Master clear reset / Programming voltage / PORTA bit 5 alt |
| Pin 29 | EP — Exposed thermal pad - connect to PCB ground plane |
Typical Applications
PIC18F1320-E/ML is suitable for 7 applications: Battery-Powered Sensor Node, Industrial Control Peripheral, Consumer Electronics Remote Control, Low-End Motor Control with PWM, Automotive Interior Module, USB/HID Bridge and Smart Sensor Hub, LED Lighting Controller.
Battery-Powered Sensor Node
The PIC18F1320-E/ML's nanoWatt Technology with 0.1 uA standby current makes it ideal for battery-powered sensor nodes in IoT and remote monitoring applications. With 2.0-5.5 V operation, it directly interfaces with 2-cell alkaline, lithium coin cells, or single-cell Li-ion battery packs without boost conversion. The integrated 10-bit A/D converter (with multiple input channels) connects directly to analog sensors such as temperature, humidity, pressure, or battery voltage monitors. The 8 KB Flash holds sensor fusion firmware and wireless protocol stacks (when paired with an external RF module). nanoWatt's six software-controlled modes allow duty-cycled operation - run at 25 MHz for sampling and processing, then enter sleep mode between measurements. The 28-QFN 6x6 mm footprint fits inside sensor housings as small as 12 mm cube. Per Microchip datasheet DS39605C, the device is qualified for battery applications requiring months-to-years of standby operation.
Recommended
Industrial Control Peripheral
In industrial control peripherals (sensor hubs, simple PLC expansion modules, machine interface controllers), the PIC18F1320-E/ML's -40C to +125C extended temperature range and 5.5 V tolerance make it suitable for factory floor environments. The EUSART and MSSP peripherals support RS-485 links (with external transceiver), SPI sensor interfaces, and I2C device buses common in industrial protocols. The two CCP (PWM) modules drive small motors, solenoids, or LED indicators with variable duty cycle. The 16 I/O pins handle digital input monitoring, status LEDs, keypad scanning, and relay drive with external transistors. The Flash supports ICSP, enabling in-field firmware updates via programming header on the production board - critical for industrial deployments where field serviceability extends product lifetime. Microchip datasheet DS39605C specifies the industrial-grade timing, ESD, and latch-up performance needed for industrial compliance.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics Remote Control
The PIC18F1320-E/ML is well suited for consumer remote controls (TV, set-top box, audio equipment, smart home IR/RF remotes). The 8 KB Flash accommodates multi-protocol IR firmware (RC5, NEC, SIRC, custom) plus state-machine logic for device pairing. The 16 I/O pins drive an IR LED via PWM, scan a 4x4 keypad matrix, and interface with an RF transmitter module via SPI. The nanoWatt low-power modes enable 6-12 months of battery life on two AAA cells, since the MCU is in sleep except when keys are pressed. The 25 MHz instruction rate gives sub-100us response latency for IR carrier generation. The compact 28-QFN 6x6 mm package allows slim remote form factors, while the EP pad provides thermal dissipation for continuous keypad backlight driving per Microchip datasheet DS39605C.
Recommended
Low-End Motor Control with PWM
The PIC18F1320-E/ML's two CCP (Capture/Compare/PWM) modules and three 16-bit timers enable low-end motor control applications - small DC fans, pumps, vibrator motors, and stepper motor half-step driving. The 10-bit A/D converter samples back-EMF for closed-loop speed control, while the PWM modules generate variable-frequency, variable-duty drive signals. The 25 MHz core gives sufficient bandwidth for sensorless BLDC commutation at low RPM (<3000 RPM). The wide 2.0-5.5 V supply supports direct 1-cell Li-ion, 2-cell alkaline, and 5 V USB-powered motors. Per Microchip datasheet DS39605C, the PIC18F1320's enhanced PWM features (center-aligned mode, dead-band control) reduce external component count versus discrete PWM IC solutions.
Recommended
Automotive Interior Module
The PIC18F1320-E/ML extended temperature grade (-40C to +125C) supports automotive interior applications such as ambient lighting controllers, seat position switches, climate control keypads, and infotainment interface buttons. The wide 2.0-5.5 V supply tolerates automotive battery transients when properly filtered. For AEC-Q100 qualified automotive designs, the PIC18F1320-E variant is recommended, while the I variant suits non-safety interior modules. The 16 I/O pins handle multiple switch inputs, RGB LED PWM outputs, and CAN/LIN bus communication via external transceivers. Microchip's automotive-grade PIC18F family offers this data flow for at-source automotive design. For full AEC-Q100 compliance, verify with the latest Microchip automotive qualification documents per DS39605C.
Recommended
USB/HID Bridge and Smart Sensor Hub
When paired with an external USB transceiver (such as the MCP2200 or MCP2221), the PIC18F1320-E/ML implements a USB-to-UART, USB-to-I2C, or USB-to-SPI bridge for legacy serial devices. The MSSP peripheral supports I2C/SPI masters with the USB IC providing the host interface. The 8 KB Flash holds USB HID class firmware, sensor aggregation logic, and configuration management. The 10-bit A/D converter interfaces with analog sensors that report over USB to a host PC. The EUSART provides a legacy RS-232 debug port alongside the USB interface. Per Microchip datasheet DS39605C, this architecture suits data loggers, configuration tools, and sensor interface dongles in test-and-measurement applications.
Recommended
LED Lighting Controller
The PIC18F1320-E/ML's PWM peripherals and 16 I/O pins drive multi-channel LED lighting fixtures for architectural, signage, and accent lighting. The two CCP modules generate PWM dimming signals on up to four LED channels, while remaining I/O pins handle RGB color mixing via additional PWM outputs. The 10-bit A/D converter samples ambient light sensors for closed-loop brightness control. The EUSART supports DMX-512 or proprietary lighting control protocols via external RS-485 transceivers. nanoWatt Technology enables battery-powered portable lighting with months of standby life. The compact 28-QFN package fits inside LED driver enclosures. Per Microchip datasheet DS39605C, this data flow supports dimmable, addressable LED fixtures with full-color control at price points competitive with discrete LED controllers.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC18F1320-E/ML — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC18F1220-E/ML | PIC18F1220-I/ML | PIC18F1220-H/ML | PIC18F1230-I/P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-pin QFN (6x6) with EP | 28-pin QFN (6x6) with EP - same | 28-pin QFN (6x6) with EP - same | 28-pin QFN (6x6) with EP - same | 28-pin QFN (6x6) with EP - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same | Microchip Technology - same |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 8 KB | 4 KB | 4 KB | 4 KB | 8 KB |
| RAM Size | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes | 256 bytes |
| Max Clock Speed | 25 MHz | 25 MHz | 25 MHz | 25 MHz | 25 MHz |
| Number of I/O | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 |
| Supply Voltage Range | 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 Range | -40C to +125C (E grade) | -40C to +125C (E grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) | -40C to +150C (H grade) | -40C to +85C (I grade) |
| Temperature Grade | Extended Industrial (E) | Extended Industrial (E) | Industrial (I) | High Temperature (H) | Industrial (I) |
Key Differentiators
- Doubled Flash memory versus 1220 variant (vs PIC18F1220-E/ML)
- Extended industrial temperature grade (-40C to +125C) (vs PIC18F1220-I/ML)
- nanoWatt Technology with 0.1 uA standby (vs PIC18F1230-I/P)
Design Notes
Estimated: at 5.0 V supply and 25 MHz CPU clock, the PIC18F1320-E/ML consumes approximately 11 mA active, dropping to 0.1 uA in sleep mode. For battery-powered designs, duty-cycle the MCU aggressively using nanoWatt sleep modes between sensor samples. Use a low-Iq LDO such as MCP1700 (1.6 uA quiescent) for battery regulation. Decouple VDD with 100 nF ceramic plus 10 uF bulk capacitor placed within 5 mm of the VDD pin. The exposed pad (pin 29) provides additional thermal relief and must be soldered to the PCB ground plane for electrical performance.
The 28-pin QFN (6x6 mm) package requires the exposed thermal pad (EP) to be soldered to a PCB ground plane for both thermal dissipation and electrical grounding. Route all VDD traces with at least 8 mil width and place a 100 nF decoupling cap within 3 mm of the VDD pin. For ICSP programming, dedicate pins RB6 (PGC) and RB7 (PGD) and add a 5-pin header or test pads - never reassign these pins for application use. MCLR requires a 10 kohm pull-up resistor to VDD for reliable reset behavior. Avoid routing high-frequency signals (PWM, SPI clock) directly under the QFN package.
Common design pitfalls with the PIC18F1320-E/ML: (1) Floating MCLR pin causes erratic resets - always use the recommended 10 kohm pull-up. (2) Leaving ICSP pins RB6/RB7 as analog inputs prevents in-circuit programming - keep them digital I/O. (3) Forgetting to solder the exposed thermal pad causes overheating at high CPU loads and degrades ESD performance. (4) Not clearing the WDT (watchdog timer) in long-delay firmware loops causes unintended resets. (5) Configuring unused I/O pins as outputs instead of inputs can cause shoot-through current in sleep mode. (6) Missing configuration word settings for the oscillator can prevent startup. Always review configuration bits in the datasheet before first programming.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliance per Microchip product page. AEC-Q100 qualification not explicitly stated for this part number; PIC18F1320 family is not typically AEC-Q100 qualified. For AEC-Q100 qualified automotive 8-bit MCUs in similar packages, consult Microchip's automotive PIC18 portfolio.
