PIC18F6720-E/PT - 64KB Flash, 80-Pin MCU | Microchip
MPN: PIC18F6720-E/PT ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $9.42 | $9.42 |
| 10 | $8.39 | $83.90 |
| 100 | $7.45 | $745.00 |
| 500 | $6.58 | $3,290.00 |
| 1,000 | $5.88 | $5,880.00 |
PIC18F6720-E/PT Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates an 8-bit CPU core, program memory, data RAM, and peripherals onto one silicon die. The PIC18 family belongs to the broader 8-bit MCU taxonomy, sitting under the larger microcontroller category and ultimately under embedded processors/ICs in the semiconductor hierarchy. PIC18 devices are widely used because of their deterministic instruction execution, low power consumption, self-programmability, and C-compiler friendly architecture that simplifies firmware development for cost-sensitive embedded designs.
Key differentiating features of the PIC18F6720-E/PT include its 40 MHz maximum operating frequency, wide 4.2V to 5.5V supply range, four timer modules plus a 16-bit timer, five capture/compare/PWM (CCP) channels, and external memory addressing up to 2 MB. The device also supports In-Circuit Serial Programming (ICSP) via the integrated ICD, dual analog comparators with programmable reference, and parallel slave port for external bus interfacing. The 'E' suffix denotes the extended industrial temperature range (-40C to +125C).
Architecturally, the PIC18F6720 uses an enhanced Harvard bus with separate program and data paths, an 8-bit ALU, and a hardware multiplier for 8x8 signed/unsigned operations in a single cycle. The 1024-byte EEPROM and 128 KB Flash support self-programming under firmware control, enabling bootloader-based field updates. The 12-channel 10-bit ADC delivers up to 30 ksps conversion rate, sufficient for sensor monitoring and motor control loops.
Typical applications include industrial automation controllers, automotive body and HVAC subsystems, smart energy metering, building automation, white goods with HMI displays, and embedded operator-interface terminals. The 54 I/O pins make it well-suited for keypad scan, LCD drive, and multi-signal acquisition designs.
Designers should pay particular attention to the decoupling capacitor network around VDD/AVDD/VSS/AVSS and to the ICSP clock/data pin assignments that must be reserved for in-system programming. For migration paths, engineers should evaluate the PIC18F66K90-I/PT family, which provides lower power consumption and newer peripherals in the same 64-pin TQFP footprint.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, parametric comparisons, and practical design notes that supplement the Microchip datasheet with engineer-friendly context.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC18F6720-E/PT — 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 PIC18F6720-E/PT (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Core Architecture, Operating Temperature, Timers, ADC.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC18F6720-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$21.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F6680-I/PT
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F6628-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F66K22-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.96 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F66K90-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.15 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F6627-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.42 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F6622-E/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.71 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F6620T-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.18 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F6720-E/PT Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC18 8-bit enhanced Harvard |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 128 KB (64K x 16) |
| RAM Size | 3936 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | 1024 bytes |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 40 MHz |
| MIPS Performance | 10 MIPS |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.2 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (E grade) |
| Digital I/O Pins | 54 |
| ADC | 12 channels, 10-bit |
| Comparators | 2 |
| CCP/PWM Channels | 5 |
| Timers | 4 + 16-bit |
| Serial Interfaces | SPI / I2C (MSSP), USART, PSP |
| Package | TQFP-64 (PT), 10x10 mm |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free | Yes |
PIC18F6720-E/PT tqfp-64 (pt), 10x10 mm Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for PIC18F6720-E/PT (tqfp-64 (pt), 10x10 mm package). This digital IC includes GPIO, communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C), and power pins. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for alternate pin functions and configuration options. Essential for embedded system design and PCB layout.
No detailed pinout data available for PIC18F6720-E/PT.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
PIC18F6720-E/PT is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Automation Controller, Automotive Body and HVAC Control, Smart Energy Meter, White Goods and HMI Controller, Building Automation and Access Control, Embedded Operator Interface Terminal.
Industrial Automation Controller
The PIC18F6720-E/PT is well suited for industrial automation controllers because it offers 128 KB Flash for ladder-logic or PID loops, 3936 bytes RAM for buffer management, and 54 I/O pins to interface with sensors, contactors, and HMIs. The 12-channel 10-bit ADC samples analog signals from temperature, pressure, and current transducers at up to 30 ksps, while the 5 CCP/PWM channels drive motor drivers or solenoid banks. With extended -40C to +125C operation, the device tolerates factory floor thermal stress. The 5V supply tolerance simplifies integration with industrial 24V->5V buck rails.
Recommended
Automotive Body and HVAC Control
In automotive body and HVAC modules, the PIC18F6720-E/PT provides sufficient compute and I/O to drive LIN-connected mirror modules, seat controllers, and HVAC damper actuators. The wide 4.2V to 5.5V supply survives 12V battery cranking transients when properly filtered, while the extended temperature grade handles under-hood and cabin extremes. The 5 PWM channels with hardware CCP enable precise BLDC motor speed loops in fans and blowers, while the 10-bit ADC reads cabin temperature sensors. The 1024-byte EEPROM stores trim and diagnostic data without external storage ICs.
Recommended
Smart Energy Meter
The PIC18F6720-E/PT is a strong fit for single-phase smart energy meters where it computes RMS power from voltage and current channels, manages tariff schedules, and drives an LCD or LED display. Its 12-channel ADC simplifies analog front-end interface for current transformers and voltage dividers, while its 128 KB Flash holds metering firmware, IEC 62056-21 protocols, and DLMS/COSEM stacks. The 5 CCP/PWM channels drive piezo buzzers and LED bar-graph indicators, and the EEPROM retains logged kWh across power cycles. The 54 I/Os interface with optocouplers for tamper detection.
Recommended
White Goods and HMI Controller
In washing machines, dishwashers, and induction cooktops, the PIC18F6720-E/PT manages the user interface (keypad scan, rotary encoders, LCD/segment displays) while running the appliance control loop. Its 54 I/Os directly key-scan 7x8 matrices and drive segment multiplex without external logic, while its CCP/PWM channels modulate heating elements, pumps, and TRIAC triggers. The extended temperature rating ensures reliable operation near heating elements and motor drives. Code updates via ICSP enable factory-flash and field-service programming without removal.
Recommended
Building Automation and Access Control
Building automation and access control systems benefit from the PIC18F6720-E/PT's combination of Flash size, I/O density, and serial interfaces. It can read multiple Wiegand-output card readers via interrupt-driven I/O, manage door strikes via PWM or GPIO, and interface via RS-485 to a building-management network. The MSSP peripheral configures as SPI or I2C for RFID reader modules and keypad encoders. EEPROM stores whitelist/credential data, and the extended temperature range supports outdoor and rooftop equipment cabinets.
Recommended
Embedded Operator Interface Terminal
For operator-interface terminals in industrial machinery and medical carts, the PIC18F6720-E/PT drives character LCDs and keypads while running menu logic and alarm handling. The 12-channel ADC reads battery voltage, supply current, and analog joystick inputs, while the hardware USART links to BLE modules or RS-232 diagnostic ports. The 128 KB Flash supports multi-language UI resources. With industrial temperature grade and a robust PIC18 architecture, it serves as a reliable HMI engine in harsh environments.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC18F6720-E/PT — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC18F6720-I/PT | PIC18F6680-I/PT | PIC18F6628-I/PT | PIC18F66K22-I/PT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | TQFP-64 (PT) 10x10 mm | TQFP-64 (PT) - same | TQFP-64 (PT) - same | TQFP-64 (PT) - same | TQFP-64 (PT) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Core / Architecture | PIC18 8-bit, 10 MIPS | PIC18 8-bit, 10 MIPS | PIC18 8-bit, 10 MIPS | PIC18 8-bit, 10 MIPS | PIC18 K-series 8-bit, 16 MIPS |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 64 MHz |
| Flash Memory | 128 KB | 128 KB | 64 KB | 64 KB | 64 KB |
| RAM Size | 3936 bytes | 3936 bytes | 3328 bytes | 3936 bytes | 3896 bytes |
| EEPROM Size | 1024 bytes | 1024 bytes | 1024 bytes | 1024 bytes | 1024 bytes |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.2 V to 5.5 V | 4.2 V to 5.5 V | 4.2 V to 5.5 V | 4.2 V to 5.5 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +85C (I) |
| Approx. Unit Price (1 qty) | $9.42 | ~$9.42 | ~$8.40 | ~$7.30 | ~$3.50 |
Key Differentiators
- Largest Flash footprint in the PIC18F6720-family TQFP-64 socket (vs PIC18F6680-I/PT)
- Extended industrial temperature grade vs standard 'I' grade (vs PIC18F6720-I/PT)
- 5V supply tolerance vs 3.3V K-series (vs PIC18F66K22-I/PT)
Design Notes
Place 100 nF decoupling capacitors as close as possible to every VDD/VDD2 supply pin and a single 10 uF bulk tantalum or ceramic capacitor at the supply-rail entry point. For ADC accuracy, isolate AVdd with a ferrite bead from VDD and add a dedicated 10 uF + 100 nF pair on AVdd to reject digital switching noise. The PIC18F6720 draws up to 25 mA active at 40 MHz, so the LDO or switching regulator must sustain at least 50 mA with headroom for inrush during Flash writes.
Reserve ICSP pins (PGC/PGD on RB6/RB7 for most PIC18F devices, or per-pin check on TQFP-64 package datasheet) for in-circuit serial programming - never let circuitry lock these pins as outputs or fail to release them on reset. The MCLR pin must have a 10-50 kohm pull-up to VDD and a 100 nF cap to ground for proper reset; do not skip this network or the device will fail to start reliably. Trace analog inputs away from switching signals and route clock lines on inner layers with continuous ground return.
Configuration bits must be programmed before or during programming - leave the device in a valid configuration state, including oscillator selection, watchdog enable, and code protection bits. Configuring an incorrect oscillator mode (e.g., requesting HS mode on a board designed for internal RC) will prevent code execution. Always verify CONFIG settings in MPLAB X IDE before commit. Also be cautious with parallel slave port usage - PORTD shared pins require alternate-function configuration to avoid bus contention with digital I/O.
Compliance Information
RoHS/REACH compliance per Microchip product documentation. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - the PIC18F6720 device is industrial-grade; for AEC-Q100-qualified alternatives in automotive, see PIC18F66K80 family. Halogen-free per Microchip environmental compliance data.