PIC18F448-I/L - 8-bit PIC MCU, 16KB Flash, CAN, 40MHz | Microchip
MPN: PIC18F448-I/L ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $21.07 | $21.07 |
| 10 | $18.95 | $189.50 |
| 100 | $16.2 | $1,620.00 |
| 500 | $13.8 | $6,900.00 |
| 1,000 | $11.5 | $11,500.00 |
PIC18F448-I/L Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller is a single-chip computer built around an 8-bit data bus that executes one byte per instruction cycle, paired with a richer peripheral set than smaller 4-bit or 8-bit predecessors. The PIC18F family sits at the top of Microchip's legacy 8-bit portfolio, belonging to the broader category of microcontrollers -> microcontrollers (MCUs) -> microcontrollers and microprocessors -> semiconductors. Enhanced Flash variants add self-programmability, larger SRAM, and on-chip peripherals like CAN, USB, and 10-bit ADC, distinguishing them from baseline PIC16F parts.
Key features of the PIC18F448-I/L include the integrated ECAN module (CAN 2.0B Active) for automotive and industrial networking, a 10-bit ADC up to 8 channels, capture/compare/PWM (CCP) modules for motor and lighting control, an internal RC oscillator with PLL support, and Microchip's nanoWatt power-managed sleep modes. These features make it well-suited for embedded nodes that require deterministic CAN communication alongside standard serial interfaces.
Architecture-wise, the part uses a Harvard-based RISC core with 16-bit instructions and 8-bit data path, providing 75+ instructions, an 8x8 hardware multiplier, and a 32-level hardware stack. The integrated CAN module reduces BOM cost and PCB area versus external CAN controllers, which historically required a separate SPI/I2C-attached IC.
Typical applications include automotive body control modules, industrial CAN sensor hubs, HVAC fan controllers, and standalone CAN bridge/gateway nodes in factory automation. The 40-pin I/O count and CAN peripheral also suit building automation fan-out devices and small appliances requiring fieldbus networking.
A key design consideration is migrating from this part to the pin-compatible PIC18F458 (double the Flash, 32KB vs 16KB) for firmware headroom without PCB rework. Lifetime-buy planning is recommended - this part is marked OBSOLETE in distributor catalogs as of 2026-09-27 and inventory should be validated at order entry.
This page synthesizes distributor stock, parametric alternatives in the PIC18Fxx8 family, and engineering notes compiled from Microchip datasheets and reference designs - content not found on any single distributor page.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC18F448-I/L — 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 PIC18F448-I/L (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Mounting Type, I/O Pins, Timers, Program Memory.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC18F458-I/L
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.79 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F4480-I/PT
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$4.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F448-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$7.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F448-I/L Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit RISC (Harvard) |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 16 KB (8K x 16) |
| Data Memory (SRAM) | 768 bytes |
| EEPROM | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 40 MHz |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial, -I) |
| I/O Pins | 34 (of 44-pin package) |
| Package | 44-pin PLCC (L) |
| CAN Module | ECAN (CAN 2.0B Active) |
| ADC | 10-bit, up to 8 channels |
| Serial Interfaces | CAN, I2C, SPI, UART/USART |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount (PLCC socket-compatible) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant (per distributor) |
PIC18F448-I/L Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/VPP/RE3 — Master Clear (active-low reset) / ICSP programming voltage / PORT E bit 3 |
| Pin 2 | RA0/AN0 — PORTA bit 0 / Analog input 0 |
| Pin 3 | RA1/AN1 — PORTA bit 1 / Analog input 1 |
| Pin 4 | RA2/AN2/VREF- — PORTA bit 2 / Analog input 2 / ADC VREF- |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/VREF+ — PORTA bit 3 / Analog input 3 / ADC VREF+ |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4 — PORTA bit 5 / Analog input 4 |
| Pin 8 | RE0/RD — PORTE bit 0 / Parallel-port read control |
| Pin 9 | RE1/WR — PORTE bit 1 / Parallel-port write control |
| Pin 10 | RE2/CS — PORTE bit 2 / Parallel-port chip select |
| Pin 11 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 12 | VSS — Ground |
| Pin 13 | OSC1/CLKI/RA7 — Oscillator crystal input / external clock / PORTA bit 7 |
| Pin 14 | OSC2/CLKO/RA6 — Oscillator crystal output / clock output / PORTA bit 6 |
| Pin 15 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 16 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / CCP2 output |
| Pin 17 | RC2/CCP1 — PORTC bit 2 / CCP1 output |
| Pin 18 | RC3/SCK/SCL — PORTC bit 3 / SPI clock / I2C clock |
| Pin 19 | RD0/PSP0/C1IN+ — PORTD bit 0 / Parallel Slave Port bit / Comparator 1 in+ |
| Pin 20 | RD1/PSP1/C1IN- — PORTD bit 1 / PSP bit / Comparator 1 in- |
| Pin 21 | RD2/PSP2/C2IN+ — PORTD bit 2 / PSP bit / Comparator 2 in+ |
| Pin 22 | RD3/PSP3/C2IN- — PORTD bit 3 / PSP bit / Comparator 2 in- |
| Pin 23 | RC4/SDI/SDA — PORTC bit 4 / SPI data in / I2C data |
| Pin 24 | RC5/SDO — PORTC bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 25 | RC6/TX/CK — PORTC bit 6 / UART TX / USART clock |
| Pin 26 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / UART RX / USART data |
| Pin 27 | RD4/PSP4 — PORTD bit 4 / Parallel Slave Port bit |
| Pin 28 | RD5/PSP5 — PORTD bit 5 / Parallel Slave Port bit |
| Pin 29 | RD6/PSP6 — PORTD bit 6 / Parallel Slave Port bit |
| Pin 30 | RD7/PSP7 — PORTD bit 7 / Parallel Slave Port bit |
| Pin 31 | VSS — Ground |
| Pin 32 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 33 | RB0/INT0 — PORTB bit 0 / External interrupt 0 |
| Pin 34 | RB1/INT1 — PORTB bit 1 / External interrupt 1 |
| Pin 35 | RB2/INT2/CANTX — PORTB bit 2 / External interrupt 2 / CAN bus transmit |
| Pin 36 | RB3/INT3/CANRX — PORTB bit 3 / External interrupt 3 / CAN bus receive |
| Pin 37 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 (interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 38 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 (interrupt-on-change) |
| Pin 39 | RB6/PGC — PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock |
| Pin 40 | RB7/PGD — PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data |
| Pin 41 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 42 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 43 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 44 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
PIC18F448-I/L is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive CAN Body Control Modules, Industrial CAN Sensor Hubs, HVAC Fan and Blower Controllers, CAN Bridge and Gateway Nodes, Standalone Appliance Controllers, Lighting and LED Dimming Nodes.
Automotive CAN Body Control Modules
The PIC18F448-I/L's integrated ECAN 2.0B module and 40 MHz core make it well-suited for automotive body and chassis nodes such as door, mirror, or seat controllers. On the CAN bus it offers 11-bit and 29-bit identifier support plus acceptance filters, eliminating the need for an external CAN transceiver-side controller. With 16KB Flash and 768 bytes SRAM it fits the typical 4-8 KB code footprint of body-control firmware; the 44-pin PLCC exposes 34 digital I/O for switches, motors, and LEDs. Industrial temperature grade (-40C to +85C) covers cabin and under-hood placement.
Recommended
Industrial CAN Sensor Hubs
The PIC18F448-I/L's 10-bit ADC and CAN interface let it act as a sensor aggregation node for industrial CANopen and DeviceNet systems. The 40 MHz core samples multiple analog channels, applies linearization in software, and broadcasts the result as CAN messages at 250 or 500 kbps. With 16KB Flash it absorbs the typical CANopen stack and OEM application code; -40C to +85C operation supports factory and outdoor cabinet environments. The PLCC-44 socket also simplifies field replacement in legacy installations.
Recommended
HVAC Fan and Blower Controllers
The PIC18F448-I/L's CCP/ECCP modules drive PWM outputs for HVAC blower and fan motor control, while the ADC reads thermistor or 0-10V input signals. At 40 MHz the core executes PI control loops with sub-millisecond update rates for smooth variable-speed fan response. The integrated ECAN allows the unit to communicate set-points and status with a building automation controller. Industrial -I temperature grade handles unconditioned mechanical-room environments.
Recommended
CAN Bridge and Gateway Nodes
For connecting legacy CAN subnets to a backplane bus, the PIC18F448-I/L acts as a low-cost dual-CAN bridge using one external MCP2515/MCP2551 plus its internal ECAN. The 16KB Flash stores bridge/routing logic and CANopen-style gateway tables while the 768-byte SRAM buffers messages between buses. 34 digital I/O plus SPI and I2C spare buses support local I/O expansion for diagnostic-status LEDs and configuration EEPROM via I2C.
Recommended
Standalone Appliance Controllers
Small appliances such as commercial coffee machines and vending dispensers benefit from the PIC18F448-I/L's mixed analog and digital I/O plus CAN connectivity for fleet telemetry. The 10-bit ADC reads temperature, pressure, and level sensors; the ECCP drives solenoid valves via PWM; the UART connects to a payment or display module. The 44-pin PLCC socket and well-documented ICSP programming streamline manufacture and field firmware updates via Microchip's bootloader ecosystem.
Recommended
Lighting and LED Dimming Nodes
Architectural lighting systems use the PIC18F448-I/L to drive multiple LED strings via CCP/PWM channels while reporting status over CAN or DMX. The 40 MHz core supports high-resolution dimming with 8-10 bit PWM steps; 16KB Flash absorbs DMX-to-CAN bridging logic and color-mixing algorithms. With 34 I/O the part addresses 4-6 LED channels plus user controls; -40C to +85C operation handles sealed fixture temperatures.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC18F448-I/L — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC18F458-I/L | PIC18F4480-I/PT | PIC18F448-I/PT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | PLCC-44 (L) | PLCC-44 (L) - same | TQFP-44 (PT) - same pinout different footprint | TQFP-44 (PT) - same die, different footprint |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 16 KB | 32 KB (+100%) | 16 KB (same) | 16 KB (same) |
| Data Memory (SRAM) | 768 bytes | 1536 bytes (+100%) | 768 bytes (same) | 768 bytes (same) |
| CPU Clock | 40 MHz | 40 MHz (same) | 40 MHz (same) | 40 MHz (same) |
| CAN Module | ECAN 2.0B Active | ECAN 2.0B Active | ECAN 2.0B Active | ECAN 2.0B Active |
| I/O Pins | 34 | 34 | 34 | 34 |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
Key Differentiators
- Doubling Flash and RAM headroom in the same PLCC-44 footprint (vs PIC18F458-I/L)
- Free migration path to lower-cost TQFP variant for new designs (vs PIC18F448-I/PT)
- Smaller die variant with identical peripherals and CAN (vs PIC18F4480-I/PT)
Design Notes
The PIC18F448-I/L operates from 4.2V to 5.5V on the VDD pins (11 and 32); both VDD/VSS pairs must be decoupled with 100 nF ceramic capacitors placed within 5 mm of each pin, plus a single bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic close to the regulator. Brown-out reset is enabled via configuration bits to ensure a clean startup during power-rail ramp.
For ECAN bus signal integrity, the CAN TX/RX traces (RB2/RB3) should be routed with characteristic impedance of 60 ohm matching the MCP2551, kept short, and isolated from noisy switching traces. Place the optional common-mode choke near the transceiver DB9 connector. The 44-pin PLCC socket allows field replacement - keep clearance around the IC and socket for IC extraction tools.
Do not confuse the -L (PLCC-44) and -PT (TQFP-44) variants when ordering spares - both exist for the PIC18F448 die and are NOT drop-in due to package differences. Also note this part is OBSOLETE as of 2026-09-27 per distributor listings; users should evaluate migration to PIC18F458-I/PT, PIC18FXXK80, or dsPIC33F families for new designs where long-term Microchip support matters.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free status confirmed per distributor listings (Mouser, DigiKey). AEC-Q100 not specifically qualified - the -I (industrial) variant is for -40C to +85C, not automotive-grade. For automotive CAN nodes use AEC-Q100-qualified Microchip PIC18FXXK80 family.
