PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX - 64MHz 8-bit MCU 32KB Flash 48-VQFN | Microchip
MPN: PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.95 | $2.95 |
| 10 | $2.65 | $26.50 |
| 100 | $2.34 | $234.00 |
| 500 | $2.1 | $1,050.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.92 | $1,920.00 |
PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer containing a CPU, memory (Flash/RAM), and programmable peripherals. Within the broader taxonomy, this PIC18 part sits in the 8-bit MCU category -> microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor. The Q43 family emphasizes Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) that execute hardware functions without CPU intervention, freeing the core for higher-level tasks and reducing firmware complexity for real-time control.
Key features include 64 MHz operation, 32 KB self-programmable Flash, 2 KB SRAM, 256 bytes EEPROM, 36 I/O pins, and a 12-bit ADCC with up to 140 ksps conversion rate. The device also offers XLP (eXtreme Low Power) technology with sub-uA sleep currents suitable for battery-powered applications.
The architecture combines an enhanced mid-range 8-bit CPU with a 32-level hardware stack, deterministic interrupt latency, and direct memory access that offloads data movement from the core. CIPs like the CLC, PWM, and ADCC enable autonomous sensor interfacing and motor control loops, which traditionally required external logic or heavy CPU code.
Typical applications include capacitive touch sensing, LED lighting control, sensor signal conditioning, low-power IoT endpoints, and real-time motor drives. The wide operating voltage (1.8 V to 5.5 V) and small VQFN package suit compact, battery-powered or backplane-mounted designs.
When designing with this part, allocate sufficient PCB copper under the exposed pad for thermal dissipation and verify VQFN-48 reflow profile. Consider using MPLAB X IDE with MCC (MPLAB Code Configurator) to graphically configure CIPs and accelerate firmware bring-up.
This page combines distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design guidance that supplements the Microchip datasheet (DS40002170E) with engineer-facing analysis.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX — 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 PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX (same form factor and footprint) — differing in ADC, Package, Program Memory (Flash), Comparators, DAC.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC18F57Q43T-I/6LX
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.26 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F47Q43-I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F47Q43-I/PT
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F45Q43-I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F46Q43-I/P
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.52 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F55K42-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.05 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC 8-bit |
| Family | PIC18-Q43 |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 64 MHz |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 32 KB |
| Data Memory (SRAM) | 2 KB |
| EEPROM | 256 bytes |
| Package | 48-pin VQFN (6x6 mm) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| I/O Pins | 36 |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8 V to 5.5 V |
| ADC | 12-bit ADCC, up to 140 ksps |
| PWM Channels | 3x 16-bit |
| DMA Channels | 6 |
| Comparators | Yes (with 8-bit DAC) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free | Yes |
PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0 — Port A bit 0 (digital I/O or analog input) |
| Pin 2 | RA1 — Port A bit 1 (digital I/O or analog input) |
| Pin 3 | RA2 — Port A bit 2 (digital I/O or analog input) |
| Pin 4 | RA3 — Port A bit 3 (digital I/O or analog input) |
| Pin 5 | RA4 — Port A bit 4 (digital I/O or analog input) |
| Pin 6 | RA5 — Port A bit 5 (digital I/O or analog input) |
| Pin 7 | RA6 — Port A bit 6 (digital I/O or analog input) |
| Pin 8 | RA7 — Port A bit 7 (digital I/O or analog input) |
| Pin 9 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 10 | RB0 — Port B bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 11 | RB1 — Port B bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 12 | RB2 — Port B bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 13 | RB3 — Port B bit 3 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 14 | RB4 — Port B bit 4 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 15 | RB5 — Port B bit 5 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 16 | RB6 — Port B bit 6 (digital I/O / ICSP clock) |
| Pin 17 | RB7 — Port B bit 7 (digital I/O / ICSP data) |
| Pin 18 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 19 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (1.8 V to 5.5 V) |
| Pin 20 | RC0 — Port C bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 21 | RC1 — Port C bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 22 | RC2 — Port C bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 23 | RC3 — Port C bit 3 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 24 | RC4 — Port C bit 4 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 25 | RC5 — Port C bit 5 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 26 | RC6 — Port C bit 6 (digital I/O / TX) |
| Pin 27 | RC7 — Port C bit 7 (digital I/O / RX) |
| Pin 28 | RD0 — Port D bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 29 | RD1 — Port D bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 30 | RD2 — Port D bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 31 | RD3 — Port D bit 3 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 32 | RD4 — Port D bit 4 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 33 | RD5 — Port D bit 5 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 34 | RD6 — Port D bit 6 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 35 | RD7 — Port D bit 7 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 36 | RE0 — Port E bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 37 | RE1 — Port E bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 38 | RE2 — Port E bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 39 | RE3 — Port E bit 3 (digital I/O / MCLR alternative) |
| Pin 40 | AVSS — Analog ground reference |
| Pin 41 | AVDD — Analog positive supply |
| Pin 42 | RF0 — Port F bit 0 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 43 | RF1 — Port F bit 1 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 44 | RF2 — Port F bit 2 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 45 | RF3 — Port F bit 3 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 46 | RF4 — Port F bit 4 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 47 | RF5 — Port F bit 5 (digital I/O) |
| Pin 48 | MCLR — Master Clear (reset input, active low) |
Typical Applications
PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX is suitable for 7 applications: Capacitive Touch Sensing, LED Lighting Control, Sensor Signal Conditioning, Low-Power IoT Endpoints, Real-Time Motor Control, Automotive Body Electronics, Industrial Control & Automation.
Capacitive Touch Sensing
The PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX drives robust capacitive touch interfaces via its 12-bit ADCC with built-in CVD (Capacitive Voltage Divider) hardware acceleration. The ADCC automates charge measurement sequences across multiple sensor channels, enabling touch buttons, sliders, and proximity sensors without CPU intervention. Its 64 MHz throughput and DMA support keep latency under 10 ms for typical 8-channel touch panels, and the 36 I/O lines accommodate matrix arrangements without external multiplexers. The XLP low-power mode also suits wake-on-touch IoT designs.
Recommended
LED Lighting Control
The PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX is well suited to multi-channel LED drivers and animation controllers with its three 16-bit PWM modules plus complementary high-speed PWMs and CLCs for synchronizing color mixing. The ADCC monitors LED current via sense resistors, while DMA offloads PWM updates from the CPU. Operating from 1.8 V to 5.5 V, it drives both 3.3 V logic-level and 5 V high-current LED strings. The 32 KB Flash accommodates elaborate color-blending and DMX/RGBW protocols for architectural and entertainment lighting.
Recommended
Sensor Signal Conditioning
The PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX integrates sensor interface functions through its 12-bit ADCC (up to 140 ksps), on-chip comparators with 8-bit DAC, configurable logic cells, and DMA that streamline multi-sensor data acquisition. The CIP combination implements zero-cross detection, peak tracking, and averaging entirely in hardware, leaving the CPU free for protocol stacks. This suits industrial sensors (temperature, pressure, flow) where deterministic response and EMC robustness matter, and the 36 I/O handles multi-channel transducer arrays.
Recommended
Low-Power IoT Endpoints
The PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX leverages XLP technology to achieve sub-uA sleep currents, ideal for battery-powered IoT nodes that wake periodically to measure, transmit, and return to sleep. The 1.8 V minimum operating voltage lets it run directly from two alkaline cells or a single CR2032 with regulator, while DMA and CIPs handle wake-up sequences without CPU execution until needed. With 32 KB Flash, it fits LoRaWAN, Bluetooth Low Energy beaconing, and Sub-GHz stacks; the VQFN-48 footprint enables wearable and small-form-factor packaging.
Recommended
Real-Time Motor Control
The PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX drives brushless DC, stepper, and switched reluctance motors via its three 16-bit PWMs with complementary outputs, dead-band control, and fault input. The ADCC samples motor phase currents at high rates for FOC commutation, and the CLCs implement hardware commutation timing independent of CPU latency. With 64 MHz operation, control loops execute every 15 us or less, fitting pumps, fans, small drones, and appliance motors where deterministic response is required.
Recommended
Automotive Body Electronics
The PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX operates from -40C to +125C extended temperatures and is well suited for body controllers, lighting modules, and HVAC interfaces. Its 16-bit PWMs drive motors and LEDs, the 12-bit ADCC reads multiple sensor inputs simultaneously, and the CAN-ready peripherals interface with vehicle networks. CIPs reduce firmware overhead, while the 32 KB Flash handles LIN/CAN stack, diagnostic routines, and OBD-II compliance. The VQFN-48 footprint fits space-constrained under-dash modules.
Recommended
Industrial Control & Automation
The PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX provides deterministic real-time control for industrial PLCs, HMI panels, and small drives via its combination of high-speed PWMs, ADCC, and CIP-based control loops. The hardware CLCs implement state machines for safety interlocks and timing supervision, while DMA keeps data movement off the CPU. Industrial-grade temperature range and wide operating voltage tolerate factory-floor transients. The 32 KB Flash fits Modbus, IO-Link, and EtherCAT slave stacks for sensor-actuator nodes.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC18F57Q43T-I/6LX | PIC18F47Q43-I/P | PIC18F47Q43-I/PT | PIC18F45Q43-I/P | PIC18F46Q43-I/P | PIC18F55K42-I/PT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 48-pin VQFN (6x6 mm) | 48-pin VQFN (6x6 mm) - same | 40-pin PDIP - different | 44-pin TQFP - different | 40-pin PDIP - different | 40-pin PDIP - different | 48-pin TQFP - different |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Flash Memory | 32 KB | 64 KB | 32 KB | 32 KB | 32 KB | 32 KB | 32 KB |
| RAM | 2 KB | 2 KB | 2 KB | 2 KB | 2 KB | 2 KB | 2 KB |
| I/O Pins | 36 | 36 | 33 | 36 | 33 | 33 | 36 |
| ADC | 12-bit ADCC | 12-bit ADCC | 12-bit ADCC | 12-bit ADCC | 12-bit ADCC | 12-bit ADCC | 10-bit ADC |
| PWM Channels | 3x 16-bit | 3x 16-bit | 3x 16-bit | 3x 16-bit | 3x 16-bit | 3x 16-bit | 8-bit PWM |
| CPU Speed | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz |
Key Differentiators
- Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) including CLCs and 16-bit PWMs (vs PIC18F55K42-I/PT)
- Smallest 48-pin package option (6x6 mm VQFN) (vs PIC18F55K42-I/PT)
- Upward Flash compatibility within Q43 family (vs PIC18F47Q43-I/P)
Design Notes
The PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX uses a VQFN-48 package with an exposed thermal pad on the underside. Solder the EP to a sufficiently large PCB copper pad connected to VSS (ground) to provide thermal dissipation and a low-impedance ground return. A minimum 0.5 mm clearance between adjacent traces and a continuous ground pour under the device are recommended. Keep analog input traces short and shield from digital switching lines to preserve ADCC accuracy.
Estimated: With 64 MHz operation at 5 V VDD, the PIC18F55Q43-I/6LX core consumes approximately 15 mA (per datasheet typical curves). Add 1 uF + 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitors close to VDD and AVSS/AVDD pins to suppress switching noise. Place the smaller 100 nF cap within 2 mm of the supply pin. For low-noise ADC performance, isolate AVDD from digital VDD with a ferrite bead or filter resistor.
Route the ICSP pins (RB6/RB7) to dedicated test pads accessible without disturbing the PCB layout. The MCLR pin requires a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD and a 100 nF capacitor to ground for reliable reset, per Microchip recommendations. If using the high-speed oscillator, place the crystal or external clock source within 5 mm of the OSC pins with grounded guard traces to minimize EMI susceptibility.
Do not leave the MCLR pin floating; it requires an external pull-up. Configure unused I/O pins as outputs low to minimize sleep current. Verify the ADCC reference voltage selection (VDD, external, or internal) matches your accuracy requirement; using VDD as reference couples noise to ADC readings. When migrating code from PIC18F55K42 to PIC18F55Q43, note that Q43 peripherals have different register maps and peripheral libraries must be regenerated in MPLAB X IDE.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Microchip product page. Industrial temperature grade (-40C to +85C); AEC-Q100 automotive qualification not available for the standard -I/6LX variant. Lead-free reflow profile per JEDEC J-STD-020.
