PIC18F8720-E/PT - 128KB Flash 8-bit MCU 25MHz 80-TQFP | Microchip
MPN: PIC18F8720-E/PT ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $14.5 | $14.50 |
| 10 | $13.05 | $130.50 |
| 100 | $11.6 | $1,160.00 |
| 500 | $10.45 | $5,225.00 |
| 1,000 | $9.3 | $9,300.00 |
PIC18F8720-E/PT Overview
An 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a self-contained computing element that integrates a CPU, program memory (Flash/ROM), data memory (RAM), and a rich set of peripherals (I/O, timers, ADC, communication interfaces) on a single silicon die. The PIC18F family sits in the hierarchy: PIC18F -> PIC18 -> 8-bit PIC microcontroller -> microcontroller (MCU) -> embedded processor. PIC18F devices extend the baseline PIC16 architecture with a 16-bit instruction word, hardware multiplier, and linear memory addressing, enabling C-friendly programming while preserving the deterministic PIC interrupt model.
Key features include dual asynchronous serial ports (USART), a master I2C/SPI synchronous serial port, a 10-bit ADC with up to 16 channels, five 8-bit timers plus three 16-bit timers, and a parallel slave port for external memory expansion. The 80-pin TQFP package exposes 68 general-purpose I/O lines plus dedicated peripheral pins. The device operates from 2.0V to 5.5V across the full -40C to +125C industrial range.
The architecture combines a 16-bit instruction set with an 8-bit data path, an 8x8 hardware multiplier, and a four-deep hardware stack extension (31 levels plus shadow registers), making it well-suited to C-compiled firmware. The internal RC oscillator with PLL options reduces external component count, and the ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) interface allows in-field firmware updates without removing the MCU from the board.
Typical applications include industrial control panels, instrumentation with LCD interfaces, TCP/IP-connected embedded devices, metering systems, and any 5V application requiring 128 KB of Flash plus abundant RAM for buffering. The large Flash and RAM also suit USB/TCP-IP stacks that previously required external memory.
Design consideration: Because this is the -E (extended) temperature grade, verify that any alternative selected also covers -40C to +125C if the end equipment must operate in automotive under-hood or outdoor industrial environments. Pin-compatible alternatives within the PIC18F family are listed in the comparison table.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, same-package drop-in alternatives within the PIC18F family, and practical design notes for engineers that are not aggregated in any single datasheet or distributor page.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC18F8720-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 PIC18F8720-E/PT (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Core Architecture, Timers, Program Memory (Flash), Operating Temperature.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC18F8722-E/PT
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F8720-I/PT
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F8622-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F8621-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$12.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F8620-E/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F8520-I/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.1586 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F8720-E/PT Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC 8-bit (PIC18F) |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 128 KB (64K x 16) |
| Data RAM | 3840 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Frequency | 25 MHz |
| Operating Voltage | 2.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +125 C (Extended, -E) |
| Package | 80-pin TQFP (12x12 mm) |
| I/O Pins | 68 |
| ADC | 10-bit, up to 16 channels |
| Timers | 5 x 8-bit, 3 x 16-bit |
| Communication Interfaces | 2x USART (async serial), 1x MSSP (I2C/SPI) |
| Parallel Slave Port | Yes |
| ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) | Yes |
| Internal Oscillator | Yes (with PLL options) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC18F8720-E/PT 80-pin tqfp (12x12 mm) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for PIC18F8720-E/PT (80-pin tqfp (12x12 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 PIC18F8720-E/PT.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
PIC18F8720-E/PT is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Control Panels, Instrumentation and Metering, TCP/IP-Enabled Embedded Devices, Automotive Body and HVAC Modules, LCD/Graphic Display Controllers, Power Management and Smart Battery Chargers.
Industrial Control Panels
The PIC18F8720-E/PT suits industrial control panels where 68 I/O lines drive keypads, LED/LCD indicators, relay drivers, and discrete sensors while the 128 KB Flash holds a full menu-driven HMI state machine. Its -40C to +125C extended temperature range tolerates cabinet temperatures near motors or heaters, and the 10-bit ADC reads analog sensors with 16-channel scan for multi-zone temperature or pressure monitoring. Two USARTs bridge a local HMI display and a remote PLC link simultaneously, while the MSSP (I2C/SPI) drives a companion EEPROM or RTC. Unlike smaller PIC18F parts, the 3840-byte RAM avoids external memory for large UI buffer arrays. Verified data: 80-pin TQFP, 25 MHz, 128 KB Flash per Microchip datasheet 39646b.
Recommended
Instrumentation and Metering
The PIC18F8720-E/PT is positioned by Microchip for instrumentation and metering applications that need large RAM buffer memory and Flash program memory. The 3840 bytes of RAM fits multi-channel waveform capture buffers or rolling-energy-log memory, while the 128 KB Flash stores calibration tables, firmware, and a real-time operating loop. The 10-bit ADC with up to 16 input channels samples voltage, current, and temperature sensors simultaneously, and the dual USART links a local display driver and a remote SCADA or Modbus gateway. The parallel slave port allows a companion FPGA or DSP to push processed data into the MCU without bus contention. Source: Microchip PIC18F8720 product page https://www.microchip.com/en-us/product/PIC18F8720.
Recommended
TCP/IP-Enabled Embedded Devices
The PIC18F8720-E/PT targets TCP/IP-connected embedded devices where the 128 KB Flash holds a lightweight TCP/IP stack such as Microchip's MLA or a third-party uIP derivative, plus application firmware. The 3840 bytes of RAM is sufficient for socket buffers, while the MSSP (SPI) drives an external Ethernet controller or Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module such as the MRF24WG0MA or RN171. The dual USART lets designers run a debug console on one port and the network interface on the other. The -40C to +125C operating range supports outdoor gateways, while the 80-pin TQFP leaves enough I/O for status LEDs and user buttons. Source: Microchip PIC18F8720 product page.
Recommended
Automotive Body and HVAC Modules
The PIC18F8720-E/PT's extended -40C to +125C operating range fits automotive body controllers and HVAC modules that must run reliably in cabin and engine-bay thermal cycles. The 68 I/O pins drive multiple motor drivers (blower, mode doors, blend doors), switches, and LEDs, while the 10-bit ADC reads thermistors, position pots, and current shunts. The two USARTs interface to a CAN-transceiver companion (such as MCP2551) or to LIN bus drivers for body-electronics subnetworks. Designers preferring native CAN should upgrade to PIC18F8722-E/PT (same footprint, firmware-compatible). For non-automotive applications the -I grade suffices. Source: Microchip PIC18F8720 datasheet 39646b.
Recommended
LCD/Graphic Display Controllers
The PIC18F8720-E/PT works as a host MCU for character LCDs or small graphic LCDs (128x64, 240x128) in vending machines, kiosks, and POS terminals. Its 128 KB Flash stores multilingual font tables, and the 3840 bytes of RAM holds double-buffered frame buffers. The parallel slave port offloads display refresh to a dedicated LCD controller, freeing the CPU for transaction logic. The MSSP (SPI) drives a resistive-touch controller, while a USART links a host POS terminal. The 80-pin TQFP exposes enough dedicated I/O for backlight PWM and key-scan matrices. Source: Microchip PIC18F8720 datasheet 39646b.
Recommended
Power Management and Smart Battery Chargers
The PIC18F8720-E/PT serves as the control MCU in multi-cell smart battery chargers, UPS controllers, and solar charge regulators. The 10-bit ADC continuously samples cell voltage, charge current, and temperature, while the 128 KB Flash hosts charging-algorithm lookup tables (Li-ion, LiFePO4, NiMH). The two USARTs link to a host BMS and a local display, and the MSSP (I2C) talks to the SMBus battery-pack fuel gauge. The -E extended temperature range tolerates cabinet heating during high-current charging. For higher-voltage isolation, the parallel slave port couples to a gate-driver FPGA. Source: Microchip PIC18F8720 product page.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC18F8720-E/PT — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC18F8722-E/PT | PIC18F8720-I/PT | PIC18F8622-I/PT | PIC18F8621-I/PT | PIC18F8620-E/PT | PIC18F8520-I/PT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 80-pin TQFP (12x12 mm) | 80-pin TQFP (12x12 mm) | 80-pin TQFP (12x12 mm) | 80-pin TQFP (12x12 mm) | 80-pin TQFP (12x12 mm) | 80-pin TQFP (12x12 mm) | 80-pin TQFP (12x12 mm) |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 128 KB | 128 KB | 128 KB | 64 KB | 64 KB | 64 KB | 32 KB |
| Data RAM | 3840 bytes | 3936 bytes | 3840 bytes | 3862 bytes | 3840 bytes | 3840 bytes | 3840 bytes |
| Max CPU Frequency | 25 MHz | 40 MHz | 25 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| I/O Pins | 68 | 68 | 68 | 68 | 68 | 68 | 68 |
| CAN Module | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No |
Key Differentiators
- Highest Flash density in the 80-pin PIC18F family (vs PIC18F8622-I/PT)
- Extended -40C to +125C operating range (vs PIC18F8720-I/PT)
- Backward-compatible upgrade path to CAN-enabled PIC18F8722-E/PT (vs PIC18F8720-I/PT)
- Parallel Slave Port for external memory or DSP expansion (vs PIC18F8520-I/PT)
Design Notes
The PIC18F8720-E/PT operates from 2.0V to 5.5V across the full -40C to +125C range. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to each VDD/VSS pin pair, and a single 10 uF bulk capacitor near the package to handle Flash-write current spikes during ICSP. Estimated: at 25 MHz CPU and 5V supply, the active current is approximately 25 mA and the Flash-write current can briefly reach 30 mA. Always check the latest datasheet 39646b for DC characteristics before finalizing the power budget. The AVDD/AVSS analog supply pins (31/30 on the 80-TQFP) should be decoupled separately from digital rails to keep ADC noise below 1 LSB.
The 80-pin TQFP uses a 0.5 mm lead pitch and 12x12 mm body, which is a well-proven surface-mount package but still requires careful PCB layout. Reserve at least 4 layer stack-ups with a continuous ground plane beneath the device for thermal dissipation and signal-integrity. Route the analog inputs (AN0-AN15) away from digital switching lines and keep ADC traces short. The parallel slave port pins (PORTD plus control signals on PORTE) should be length-matched if used in external-memory expansion modes. Reference the Microchip PIC18F8720 datasheet 39646b package drawing for land-pattern dimensions and solder-mask recommendations.
Common pitfalls when designing with the PIC18F8720-E/PT include: (1) confusing -E (extended -40C to +125C) with -I (industrial -40C to +85C) - re-verify the suffix when qualifying the BOM; (2) leaving the ICSP pins (RB6/RB7) unconnected in production designs - Microchip strongly recommends dedicated test pads for in-field firmware updates; (3) attempting to run at 40 MHz without selecting the PIC18F8722-E/PT or PIC18F86K22-E/PT - the PIC18F8720 silicon tops out at 25 MHz; (4) ignoring the configuration bits which control oscillator mode, watchdog, brown-out, and code protection - set them explicitly in source code rather than relying on factory defaults.
The MSSP module can operate as either I2C or SPI. In I2C mode, both SDA and SCL must be pulled up to VDD with 4.7 kohm resistors for standard-mode (100 kHz) or 2.2 kohm for fast-mode (400 kHz). Long I2C buses (>20 cm on a single board) benefit from series resistors near the MCU to dampen ringing. In SPI mode, the SCL pin becomes SCK and the SDA pin becomes SDI/SDO - the alternate-function pin mapping in the datasheet must be respected, otherwise the SPI peripheral will not drive the intended pin.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free status confirmed by Microchip product page. AEC-Q100 qualification is not claimed for the standard PIC18F8720-E/PT; automotive designs typically select the PIC18F8722-E/PT or a PIC18 K-series variant that lists AEC-Q100. Conflict-minerals compliance follows Microchip's published CMRT.