PIC18F25K42-E/SP - 32KB Flash 8-bit MCU | 28-SPDIP | Microchip
MPN: PIC18F25K42-E/SP ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.42 | $3.42 |
| 10 | $3.08 | $30.80 |
| 100 | $2.74 | $274.00 |
| 500 | $2.45 | $1,225.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.18 | $2,180.00 |
PIC18F25K42-E/SP Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory (Flash), working memory (RAM), data memory (EEPROM), and peripheral interfaces. Within the broader semiconductor hierarchy, MCUs sit under microcontrollers -> embedded processors -> semiconductors. The PIC18F25K42 family specifically targets low-power, high-performance applications using Microchip's XLP (eXtreme Low Power) technology and Functional Safety (FuSa) capable peripherals.
Key features of the PIC18F25K42-E/SP include: 32 KB self-programmable Flash with code protection, 2 KB SRAM with hardware-managed context saving, 256 B high-endurance EEPROM rated for 100k erase/write cycles, 12-bit ADC2 with up to 35 channels and post-processing math accelerator, multiple communication peripherals (UART, SPI, I2C with SMBus PMBus), and DMA controller for memory-to-memory transfers. The -E/SP suffix indicates the extended (E) temperature grade of -40C to +125C in a 28-SPDIP package.
The device uses Microchip's enhanced mid-range core with a 16-bit instruction word and 8-bit data path, supporting C-compiler-friendly assembly with hardware multiply and divide. Vectored interrupts with priority levels and peripheral pin select (PPS) provide flexible routing for digital and analog peripherals, simplifying PCB layout. Power management features include idle/doze modes, peripheral module disable (PMD), and XLP sleep currents in the nanoampere range, making the part suitable for battery-powered and energy-harvesting applications.
Typical applications for the PIC18F25K42-E/SP include low-power IoT sensor nodes, motor control for small BLDC and stepper drives, industrial control with functional safety diagnostics, consumer appliance control boards, and general-purpose embedded products requiring 28-pin DIP-friendly prototyping. The DIP package supports easy breadboarding and through-hole rework in low-volume production.
When designing with this MCU, verify Vdd range (1.8V to 5.5V for F; 1.8V to 3.6V for LF variant), apply correct decoupling (100 nF + bulk cap near Vdd), and configure PPS carefully since the same peripheral can map to multiple I/O pins. Programming requires Microchip's MPLAB X IDE with XC8 compiler or compatible toolchains.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternative MPNs, application examples, and practical design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet, giving engineers a faster path to part selection, BOM consolidation, and PCB layout decisions for PIC18F25K42-based designs.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC18F25K42-E/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 PIC18F25K42-E/SP (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, ADC, Mounting Type, Comparators, MSL Level.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC18F25K42-I/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.51 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F24K42-E/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F25K40-E/SP
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F25K22-E/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.38 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F25K42-E/SP Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | 8-bit Microcontroller (MCU) |
| Core | PIC18 enhanced mid-range |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 32 KB (16K x 16) |
| RAM | 2 KB |
| EEPROM | 256 B |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 64 MHz |
| Operating Voltage (Vdd) | 2.3 V to 5.5 V (E temp) |
| ADC | 12-bit ADC2 with computation |
| Number of ADC Channels | up to 24 (varies by package) |
| DAC | Yes (5/10-bit selectable) |
| Comparators | Yes |
| PWM Channels | Multiple (CCP, PWM) |
| UART | Yes |
| SPI | Yes |
| I2C | Yes |
| DMA | Yes (peripheral-to-memory, memory-to-memory) |
| Package | 28-SPDIP (0.300", 7.62 mm) |
| Pin Count | 28 |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (Extended, -E suffix) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole (THT) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| MSL Level | 1 (not moisture sensitive - THT) |
PIC18F25K42-E/SP Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0/ANA0 — I/O / Analog input 0 |
| Pin 2 | RA1/ANA1 — I/O / Analog input 1 |
| Pin 3 | RA2/ANA2 — I/O / Analog input 2 |
| Pin 4 | RA3/ANA3 — I/O / Analog input 3 |
| Pin 5 | RA4/ANA4 — I/O / Analog input 4 |
| Pin 6 | RA5/ANA5 — I/O / Analog input 5 |
| Pin 7 | RA6/ANA6 — I/O / Analog input 6 |
| Pin 8 | RA7/ANA7 — I/O / Analog input 7 |
| Pin 9 | Vss — Ground reference |
| Pin 10 | RB0/ZCD1 — I/O / Zero-Cross Detect |
| Pin 11 | RB1/ZCD2 — I/O / Zero-Cross Detect |
| Pin 12 | RB2/SDA2 — I/O / I2C2 data |
| Pin 13 | RB3/SCL2 — I/O / I2C2 clock |
| Pin 14 | RB4 — I/O |
| Pin 15 | RB5 — I/O |
| Pin 16 | RB6/ICSPCLK — I/O / ICSP clock (programming) |
| Pin 17 | RB7/ICSPDAT — I/O / ICSP data (programming) |
| Pin 18 | Vdd — Positive supply voltage (2.3V-5.5V) |
| Pin 19 | Vss — Ground reference |
| Pin 20 | RC0 — I/O |
| Pin 21 | RC1 — I/O |
| Pin 22 | RC2 — I/O |
| Pin 23 | RC3 — I/O |
| Pin 24 | RC4 — I/O |
| Pin 25 | RC5 — I/O |
| Pin 26 | RC6 — I/O |
| Pin 27 | RC7 — I/O |
| Pin 28 | RE3/MCLR — I/O / Master Clear (reset, active low) |
Typical Applications
PIC18F25K42-E/SP is suitable for 6 applications: Low-Power IoT Sensor Node, Industrial Motor Control (BLDC/Stepper), Consumer Appliance Control Board, Battery-Operated Portable Device, Automotive Auxiliary Body Module, Sensor Signal Conditioning Hub.
Low-Power IoT Sensor Node
The PIC18F25K42-E/SP is well suited for battery-powered IoT sensor nodes thanks to its XLP nanoampere sleep currents, 2.3V-5.5V operating range, and on-chip 12-bit ADC2 with computation engine for oversampling. A typical design uses the MCU in sleep mode most of the time, waking on a sensor interrupt or timer to take measurements, run averaging in the ADC2 computation block, and transmit via UART or SPI. DMA handles sensor data movement without CPU wakeup, extending battery life by 2-4x versus polled designs. The 32 KB Flash accommodates small TCP/IP stacks (e.g., Microchip's TCP/IP Lite) for low-throughput Wi-Fi or LoRa gateway interfaces.
Recommended
Industrial Motor Control (BLDC/Stepper)
The PIC18F25K42-E/SP's 12-bit ADC2, PWM peripherals, CWG (Complementary Waveform Generator), and 64 MHz CPU make it a strong fit for low-cost BLDC and stepper motor control designs. The CWG module generates complementary PWM outputs with hardware dead-band control, simplifying half-bridge gate drive signals without software overhead. DMA-driven ADC sampling synchronizes current measurements to PWM edges for precise torque control. The 32 KB Flash fits sensorless FOC or trapezoidal commutation algorithms. The -40C to +125C extended temperature range meets industrial environment requirements for factory automation, HVAC fans, and small pump controllers.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Control Board
For consumer appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and coffee makers, the PIC18F25K42-E/SP offers 32 KB Flash for state-machine firmware, 256 B EEPROM for user settings retention across power cycles, and the 12-bit ADC for reading sensor inputs (temperature, water level, motor current). Vector interrupts and DMA allow responsive user-interface feedback (button matrix, LED indicators) while the main loop handles control algorithms. The 28-SPDIP package supports through-hole assembly commonly used in cost-sensitive consumer products, while the same die is available in SO/QFN for SMT production runs.
Recommended
Battery-Operated Portable Device
The PIC18F25K42-E/SP fits portable handheld devices thanks to XLP technology sleep currents below 100 nA, multiple low-power modes (idle, doze, sleep, deep sleep with RTCC retention), and peripheral module disable (PMD) for unused peripherals. Designers can disable UART, ADC, PWM modules individually to minimize dynamic current during battery operation. The 2.3V-5.5V Vdd range allows direct Li-ion battery operation with a simple LDO. A 32 KB Flash supports BLE/BLE beacon stacks for portable health devices, asset trackers, and remote controls where the -40C to +125C temp range also helps in outdoor environments.
Recommended
Automotive Auxiliary Body Module
While not AEC-Q100 qualified, the PIC18F25K42-E/SP's extended -40C to +125C temperature grade and rich peripheral set support non-safety automotive body modules such as LED interior lighting, seat controllers, and HVAC actuators. The 12-bit ADC2 reads position sensors and thermistors, while PWM outputs drive LED dimming or small DC motors. CAN communication can be added via SPI-to-CAN bridge ICs. The 32 KB Flash supports state-machine firmware with diagnostics; designers should pair this MCU with an external watchdog and EEPROM for fail-safe operation in body-electronics domains.
Recommended
Sensor Signal Conditioning Hub
The PIC18F25K42-E/SP excels as a sensor hub that aggregates multiple analog and digital sensors, performs filtering on the ADC2 computation engine, and publishes data over UART, SPI, or I2C. The 35 ADC channels (28-SPDIP-limited) accommodate several resistive bridges and 4-20 mA loops; DMA chains conversions without CPU intervention. DAC outputs can drive 4-20 mA current loops directly when paired with an op-amp, supporting industrial transmitter and process-control applications. The 256 B EEPROM stores calibration coefficients; 2 KB RAM buffers FIR-filtered data before transmission.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC18F25K42-E/SP — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC18F25K42-I/SP | PIC18F24K42-E/SP | PIC18F25K40-E/SP | PIC18F25K22-E/SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SPDIP | 28-SPDIP | 28-SPDIP | 28-SPDIP | 28-SPDIP |
| Flash Memory | 32 KB | 32 KB | 16 KB | 32 KB | 8 KB |
| RAM | 2 KB | 2 KB | 1 KB | 2 KB | 512 B |
| EEPROM | 256 B | 256 B | 256 B | 256 B | 256 B |
| Max CPU Frequency | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz |
| Operating Voltage | 2.3V - 5.5V | 2.3V - 5.5V | 2.3V - 5.5V | 2.3V - 5.5V | 2.3V - 5.5V |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +125C (E) |
| DMA Controller | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Key Differentiators
- Modern K42 family core with DMA and ADC2 computation engine (vs PIC18F25K22-E/SP)
- 32 KB Flash vs 16 KB on PIC18F24K42-E/SP (vs PIC18F24K42-E/SP)
- Functional Safety (FuSa) capable peripherals (vs PIC18F25K40-E/SP)
Design Notes
The PIC18F25K42-E/SP requires proper decoupling: place a 100 nF ceramic capacitor as close as possible to each Vdd pin (pin 18 on 28-SPDIP) and a 10 uF bulk capacitor at the board's power entry. XLP sleep currents below 100 nA depend on clean Vdd; noisy rails cause spurious BOR resets. For battery applications, use MCP1700 (ultra-low Iq LDO) to minimize quiescent current draw.
Route the ICSP clock and data lines (RB6/RB7) carefully to avoid crosstalk with analog signals; these pins share general I/O functionality but are used during programming. Place a 4.7 kohm pull-up on MCLR (pin 28) per Microchip recommendations; a low-ESR ceramic capacitor (typically 100 nF) on MCLR prevents reset glitches. The PPS (Peripheral Pin Select) feature allows remapping most digital peripherals, simplifying PCB layout when a required pin is shared with analog inputs.
Do not confuse PIC18F25K42 (2.3V-5.5V Vdd) with PIC18LF25K42 (1.8V-3.6V Vdd); applying 5V to the LF variant will damage it. The PPS feature may assign the same physical pin to multiple peripherals; verify pin assignments in the MCC-generated code to avoid unintended function overlap. The extended temperature grade (-E) suffix guarantees -40C to +125C operation; do not substitute a -I (industrial, -40C to +85C) part in designs that exceed 85C.
Estimated: The 28-SPDIP package has a theta_JA of approximately 70 C/W in still air. At maximum 64 MHz CPU with all peripherals active, internal power dissipation is roughly 20-30 mW, giving a junction temperature rise of only 1-2 C above ambient. No external heatsink is required for typical embedded applications; however, in enclosed housings with no airflow, derate CPU frequency or use sleep modes to keep junction temperature below 125C.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - do not use in automotive safety-critical applications. Lead-free terminations per JEDEC J-STD-020.
