PIC18F4423-E/ML - 8-bit MCU, 16KB Flash, 40MHz, 44-VQFN | Microchip
MPN: PIC18F4423-E/ML ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4.4431 | $4.44 |
| 10 | $4 | $40.00 |
| 100 | $3.62 | $362.00 |
| 500 | $3.2 | $1,600.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.85 | $2,850.00 |
PIC18F4423-E/ML Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program and data memory, peripherals, and I/O onto one silicon die. Within the broader semiconductor hierarchy, an MCU is a sub-category of microprocessors, sitting alongside DSPs, FPGAs, and microcontrollers in the embedded compute taxonomy. PIC microcontrollers from Microchip use a Harvard RISC architecture with separate program and data buses, executing most instructions in a single cycle. The PIC18 family is Microchip's high-performance 8-bit line, providing C-compiler-friendly architecture, hardware multiply, and rich peripheral integration.
The PIC18F4423 operates from 4.2 V to 5.5 V and includes peripherals such as an enhanced USART, MSSP (SPI/I2C), Capture/Compare/PWM modules, 10-bit ADC with up to 13 channels, and nanoWatt features including idle, sleep, and run-time power modes. Its 16 KB flash supports self-programming and ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming). The 'F' designation means flash-based program memory, allowing field-upgradeable firmware.
Architecturally, the PIC18F4423 uses a 16-bit instruction word with 8-bit data path, and supports a 31-level hardware stack and software-managed memory model. The 10-bit ADC samples at rates suitable for control loops and slow analog sensing; the PWM/CEC pins support motor, lighting, and switching power control.
Typical applications include industrial control, sensor interfaces, low-end motor control, consumer appliances, and human-machine interfaces (HMI). The 40 MHz clock and 36 I/O lines support moderate-density designs requiring multiple analog inputs and serial communication.
For designers, the extended temperature grade ('-E') allows automotive and industrial environments without special screening, while the 44-VQFN package is footprint-compatible with several other PIC18F44xx devices, easing PCB reuse across variants. Note that PIC18F devices with the same pin count but different memory sizes in the same package are usually drop-in compatible with code adjustments only.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC18F4423-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 PIC18F4423-E/ML (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Operating Temperature, Package, Program Memory (Flash), RoHS Status, ADC.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC18F4423-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F43K22-E/ML
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F4420-E/ML
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18LF4423-I/ML
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F43K20-E/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.38 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F4423-E/ML Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC18 (8-bit Harvard RISC) |
| Program Memory Type | Flash |
| Program Memory Size | 16 KB (8K x 16) |
| RAM Size | 768 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 40 MHz |
| Performance | 10 MIPS |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 4.2 V to 5.5 V |
| I/O Pins | 36 |
| ADC | 10-bit, up to 13 channels |
| Package Type | 44-pin VQFN (8x8 mm) with exposed pad |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (extended grade, '-E') |
| Communication Interfaces | UART, SPI, I2C (MSSP), Enhanced USART |
| Timers/PWM | Capture/Compare/PWM modules |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| MSL Level | 3 (168 hours) |
PIC18F4423-E/ML Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0/AN0 — Digital I/O / Analog input channel 0 |
| Pin 2 | RA1/AN1 — Digital I/O / Analog input channel 1 |
| Pin 3 | RA2/AN2/VREF- — Digital I/O / Analog input channel 2 / ADC VREF- |
| Pin 4 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — Digital I/O / Analog input channel 3 / ADC VREF+ |
| Pin 5 | RA4/T0CKI — Digital I/O / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 6 | RA5/AN4/SS — Digital I/O / Analog input / SPI slave select |
| Pin 7 | RE0/RD — Digital I/O / Parallel port read control |
| Pin 8 | RE1/WR — Digital I/O / Parallel port write control |
| Pin 9 | RE2/CS — Digital I/O / Parallel port chip select |
| Pin 10 | VDD — Positive power supply (4.2V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 11 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 12 | OSC1/CLKI — Crystal oscillator input / external clock |
| Pin 13 | OSC2/CLKO — Crystal oscillator output |
| Pin 14 | RC0/T1OSO — Digital I/O / Timer1 oscillator output |
| Pin 15 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — Digital I/O / Timer1 oscillator input / Capture/Compare/PWM 2 |
| Pin 16 | RC2/CCP1 — Digital I/O / Capture/Compare/PWM 1 |
| Pin 17 | RC3/SCK/SCL — Digital I/O / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 18 | RD0/PSP0 — Digital I/O / Parallel slave port bit 0 |
| Pin 19 | RD1/PSP1 — Digital I/O / Parallel slave port bit 1 |
| Pin 20 | RD2/PSP2 — Digital I/O / Parallel slave port bit 2 |
| Pin 21 | RD3/PSP3 — Digital I/O / Parallel slave port bit 3 |
| Pin 22 | RC4/SDI/SDA — Digital I/O / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 23 | RC5/SDO — Digital I/O / SPI data out |
| Pin 24 | RC6/TX/CK — Digital I/O / USART TX / clock |
| Pin 25 | RC7/RX/DT — Digital I/O / USART RX / data |
| Pin 26 | RD4/PSP4 — Digital I/O / Parallel slave port bit 4 |
| Pin 27 | RD5/PSP5 — Digital I/O / Parallel slave port bit 5 |
| Pin 28 | RD6/PSP6 — Digital I/O / Parallel slave port bit 6 |
| Pin 29 | RD7/PSP7 — Digital I/O / Parallel slave port bit 7 |
| Pin 30 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 31 | VDD — Positive power supply (4.2V to 5.5V) |
| Pin 32 | RB0/INT0 — Digital I/O / External interrupt 0 |
| Pin 33 | RB1/INT1 — Digital I/O / External interrupt 1 |
| Pin 34 | RB2/INT2 — Digital I/O / External interrupt 2 |
| Pin 35 | RB3/INT3/CCP2 — Digital I/O / External interrupt 3 / CCP2 alternate |
| Pin 36 | RB4 — Digital I/O / interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 37 | RB5 — Digital I/O / interrupt-on-change |
| Pin 38 | RB6/PGC — Digital I/O / ICSP clock |
| Pin 39 | RB7/PGD — Digital I/O / ICSP data |
| Pin 40 | MCLR/VPP — Master clear reset / programming voltage |
| Pin 41 | RA6 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 42 | RA7 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 43 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 44 | VDD — Positive power supply (4.2V to 5.5V) |
Typical Applications
PIC18F4423-E/ML is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Sensor Interface, Low-End Motor Control, Consumer Appliance Control, Automotive Body Electronics (Non-AEC-Q100), Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Controller, Smart Energy / Metering.
Industrial Sensor Interface
The PIC18F4423-E/ML's 13-channel 10-bit ADC and 36 I/O lines let it interface to multiple analog sensors (temperature, pressure, flow) and digital actuators in industrial control panels. Its extended -40C to +125C temperature grade supports factory-floor environments, while the 40 MHz core handles PID control loops at sub-millisecond intervals. The UART/SPI/I2C peripherals connect to HMIs, displays, and supervisory PLCs without external transceivers.
Recommended
Low-End Motor Control
The PIC18F4423-E/ML's Capture/Compare/PWM modules and 10-bit ADC make it suitable for BLDC, stepper, and DC motor control at moderate speeds. The 40 MHz CPU executes FOC or trapezoidal commutation routines with adequate headroom, while the 16 KB flash holds lookup tables and PID parameters. Industrial grade temperature rating supports motor housings exposed to high ambient heat.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance Control
The PIC18F4423-E/ML's 36 I/O and nanoWatt power management suit white-goods controllers (washing machines, dishwashers, ovens) where multiple relays, keypads, and display drivers interface to a single MCU. The 10-bit ADC reads temperature probes, while PWM outputs control valve actuators. Extended temperature operation tolerates steam and heat near oven enclosures.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics (Non-AEC-Q100)
The PIC18F4423-E/ML with extended temperature grade is used in non-safety automotive body electronics such as seat controllers, mirror adjusters, and interior lighting. Its PWM outputs drive LED backlights and motor actuators, while the ADC reads potentiometers and current shunts. Note: For AEC-Q100-qualified automotive designs, the equivalent automotive-grade PIC18F variant must be selected.
Recommended
Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Controller
The PIC18F4423-E/ML drives character LCD or simple graphic OLED displays through SPI, scans keypads via I/O expansion, and reads rotary encoders through timer-capture inputs. Its 40 MHz core refreshes displays at 60 Hz without flicker, while the 768-byte RAM holds UI strings and screen buffers. The 16 KB flash accommodates multi-language menus and state machines.
Recommended
Smart Energy / Metering
The PIC18F4423-E/ML's 10-bit ADC samples current and voltage from shunt resistors and potential dividers for basic single-phase energy metering. Its UART connects to GSM/GPRS or LoRa modules for AMI backhaul, while EEPROM stores calibration constants and tariff tables. Extended temperature rating allows outdoor meter enclosures under direct sunlight.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC18F4423-E/ML — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC18F4423-I/ML | PIC18F43K22-E/ML | PIC18F4420-E/ML | PIC18LF4423-I/ML | PIC18F43K20-E/ML |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 44-VQFN (8x8 mm) | 44-VQFN (8x8 mm) - same | 44-VQFN (8x8 mm) - same | 44-VQFN (8x8 mm) - same | 44-VQFN (8x8 mm) - same | 44-VQFN (8x8 mm) - same |
| Flash Memory | 16 KB | 16 KB | 16 KB | 16 KB | 16 KB | 8 KB (-50%) |
| RAM Size | 768 bytes | 768 bytes | 1.5 KB | 768 bytes | 768 bytes | 512 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 64 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 64 MHz |
| Supply Voltage | 4.2 V to 5.5 V | 4.2 V to 5.5 V | 2.3 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 5.5 V | 2.0 V to 3.6 V | 2.3 V to 5.5 V |
| Temperature Grade | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +125C (E) |
| ADC Resolution | 10-bit | 10-bit | 12-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit | 10-bit |
| Low-Power Mode | nanoWatt | nanoWatt | XLP (<50 nA sleep) | Standard | nanoWatt | XLP (<50 nA sleep) |
Key Differentiators
- Extended industrial temperature grade (-40C to +125C) (vs PIC18F4423-I/ML)
- nanoWatt power management features (vs PIC18F4420-E/ML)
- Pin-compatible upgrade path to XLP family (vs PIC18F43K22-E/ML)
Design Notes
Decouple VDD/VSS pairs with 100 nF ceramic capacitors placed within 3 mm of each VDD pin (the PIC18F4423-E/ML has three VDD pins on pins 10, 31, and 44). Add a bulk 10 uF tantalum or aluminum-polymer capacitor on the main supply rail. For noise-sensitive analog designs, separate analog VDD (AVDD) and digital VDD (DVDD) planes with ferrite beads, and use star-ground routing for the ADC reference pins (RA2/VREF- and RA3/VREF+).
The 44-VQFN package requires a 0.5 mm pitch land pattern with a central thermal pad. The exposed pad (EP) must be soldered to a copper pour on the PCB for thermal dissipation and ground integrity. Connect the EP to the ground plane with at least 9 thermal vias (0.3 mm drill) to reduce thermal resistance. Per IPC-7351, follow Microchip's recommended land pattern document for proper solder joint reliability.
Do not connect the MCLR pin (pin 40) directly to VDD. Use a 10 kohm pull-up resistor and a 100 nF capacitor to ground for proper reset behavior. For ICSP programming, leave RB6/PGC and RB7/PGD accessible. Avoid using PORTC<3:0> as inputs during reset - they default to analog mode and may cause excessive current draw if left floating. Configure unused I/O pins as outputs driving low to minimize quiescent current.
Estimated: at maximum operating frequency (40 MHz) and 5.5 V supply, the PIC18F4423-E/ML core current is approximately 16 mA, plus peripheral current (ADC, timers). With the 44-VQFN thermal pad connected to 1 square inch of copper pour, theta_JA is approximately 35 C/W, allowing 0.7 W dissipation at 25 C ambient. At 125 C ambient, derate by 70% to maintain reliability. Use the exposed pad to maximize heat dissipation.
Route the crystal traces (OSC1, OSC2) short and direct, with guard traces to ground on both sides. Keep ADC analog signals (AN0-AN13) away from switching digital lines; if cross-over is unavoidable, use perpendicular routing. Place the voltage reference bypass capacitor (100 nF) within 5 mm of the VREF+/VREF- pins. Follow Microchip AN1254 (ADC design) for optimal 10-bit ADC performance.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Microchip product declarations and LCSC/Heisener distributor listings. Not AEC-Q100 qualified; use PIC18F automotive-grade variants for full automotive compliance. Lead-free terminations, MSL-3 (168 hours) per JEDEC J-STD-020.
