PIC18LC252T-I/SO - 8-Bit 40MHz MCU, 32KB OTP, 28-SOIC | Microchip
MPN: PIC18LC252T-I/SO ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6.95 | $6.95 |
| 10 | $6.12 | $61.20 |
| 100 | $5.3 | $530.00 |
| 500 | $4.65 | $2,325.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.05 | $4,050.00 |
PIC18LC252T-I/SO Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU core, program memory, working RAM, and a set of peripheral interfaces on one die, enabling embedded control in everything from consumer appliances to industrial equipment. Within the system hierarchy, the PIC18LC252T-I/SO is classified as: microcontroller -> embedded processor -> integrated circuit -> semiconductor device. The PIC18 instruction set is an 8-bit RISC architecture with 16-bit instructions, 77 instructions, and hardware multiply, which simplifies arithmetic-heavy embedded code compared with legacy 8-bit CISC cores.
Key features of this part include 23 digital I/O lines, hardware USART with LIN support, a Master Synchronous Serial Port (MSSP) that supports SPI and I²C (master/slave), two 8-bit timers plus three 16-bit timers, a 10-bit 5-input ADC, and a programmable Brown-Out Reset (BOR) circuit. The OTP program memory allows one-time factory or field programming, which is typical for cost-sensitive, low-volume production or development. The "LC" low-voltage core provides reduced power consumption versus the standard "C" core while maintaining pinout and peripheral compatibility within the PIC18C252 family.
Typical applications include low-power sensor conditioning nodes, automotive body modules (non-safety), industrial control front-ends (HMI keypads, motor drivers), and consumer appliances such as white goods controllers. The combination of OTP memory, 23 I/O, and on-chip ADC is well matched to legacy PIC18 firmware where customers wish to preserve code investment while migrating to a low-voltage (3.3 V) supply rail.
When designing with this device, ensure that Vdd is decoupled with a 100 nF ceramic close to the pin and that the MCLR pin is pulled high through a resistor (4.7 kΩ typical). Programming is performed via ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) using PGD/PGC; designers should isolate the ICSP lines from the application circuitry to avoid loading during programming.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes that supplement the Microchip datasheet, helping engineers qualify a substitute or source the part for new designs.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC18LC252T-I/SO — 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 PIC18LC252T-I/SO (same form factor and footprint) — differing in ADC, Operating Temperature, Package, Program Memory Size, Core.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC18LC252-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18C252-I/SO
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F252-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F2520-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18LF2520-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.47 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18LC242T-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$5.42 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18LC242-I/SO
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18LC252T-I/SO Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC18 (8-bit RISC) |
| Family | PIC® 18C |
| Maximum Clock Speed | 40 MHz |
| Program Memory Type | OTP (One-Time Programmable) |
| Program Memory Size | 32 KB (16K x 16) |
| RAM Size | 1.5 KB (1536 bytes) |
| Data EEPROM | 256 bytes (per datasheet family) |
| Supply Voltage | 3.0 V to 5.5 V (LC low-voltage core) |
| Number of I/O Pins | 23 |
| ADC | 5-channel, 10-bit |
| Communication Interfaces | 1x USART (LIN-capable), 1x MSSP (I²C/SPI) |
| Timers | 2x 8-bit + 3x 16-bit |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) |
| Package | 28-SOIC wide-body (7.50 mm / 0.295") |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel (T suffix) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Brown-Out Reset | Yes (programmable BOR) |
| Watchdog Timer | Yes |
PIC18LC252T-I/SO Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR/Vpp — Master Clear (Reset) input / ICSP programming voltage |
| 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 negative reference |
| Pin 5 | RA3/AN3/Vref+ — PORTA bit 3 / Analog input 3 / ADC positive reference |
| Pin 6 | RA4/T0CKI — PORTA bit 4 / Timer0 clock input |
| Pin 7 | RA5/AN4/SS — PORTA bit 5 / Analog input 4 / SPI slave select |
| Pin 8 | Vss — Ground |
| Pin 9 | OSC1/CLKI — Oscillator crystal input / external clock input |
| Pin 10 | OSC2/CLKO — Oscillator crystal output / clock output |
| Pin 11 | RC0/T1OSO/T1CKI — PORTC bit 0 / Timer1 oscillator output / Timer1 clock input |
| Pin 12 | RC1/T1OSI/CCP2 — PORTC bit 1 / Timer1 oscillator input / Capture-Compare-PWM-2 |
| Pin 13 | RC2/CCP1 — PORTC bit 2 / Capture-Compare-PWM-1 |
| Pin 14 | RC3/SCK/SCL — PORTC bit 3 / SPI clock / I²C clock |
| Pin 15 | RC4/SDI/SDA — PORTC bit 4 / SPI data in / I²C data |
| Pin 16 | RC5/SDO — PORTC bit 5 / SPI data out |
| Pin 17 | RC6/TX/CK — PORTC bit 6 / USART TX / USART clock |
| Pin 18 | RC7/RX/DT — PORTC bit 7 / USART RX / USART data |
| Pin 19 | Vss — Ground |
| Pin 20 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 21 | RB0/INT0 — PORTB bit 0 / External interrupt 0 |
| Pin 22 | RB1/INT1 — PORTB bit 1 / External interrupt 1 |
| Pin 23 | RB2/INT2 — PORTB bit 2 / External interrupt 2 |
| Pin 24 | RB3/INT3/PGM — PORTB bit 3 / External interrupt 3 / LVP programming |
| Pin 25 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 |
| Pin 26 | RB5/PGM — PORTB bit 5 / LVP programming |
| Pin 27 | RB6/PGC — PORTB bit 6 / ICSP clock (programming) |
| Pin 28 | RB7/PGD — PORTB bit 7 / ICSP data (programming) |
Typical Applications
PIC18LC252T-I/SO is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Sensor Conditioning Front-End, Automotive Body Control Module (Non-Safety), Consumer White Goods Controller, HVAC Thermostat and Zone Controller, Battery-Operated Wireless Sensor Node, Educational and Development Platform.
Industrial Sensor Conditioning Front-End
The PIC18LC252T-I/SO fits sensor-conditioning front-ends thanks to its 5-channel 10-bit ADC and 23 digital I/O. In a typical 4-20 mA loop interface, the MCU reads the loop current via an external shunt, calibrates the reading against an internal bandgap reference, and drives a HART modem or local display through USART/MSSP. The LC core's 3.0 V to 5.5 V supply range supports both 3.3 V logic sensors and legacy 5 V analog front-ends without level shifters. Programmer OTP allows one-time factory calibration coefficients to be locked in, which is required for IEC 61508 SIL-2 instrumentation where firmware cannot be field-modified.
Recommended
Automotive Body Control Module (Non-Safety)
The PIC18LC252T-I/SO integrates USART with LIN-bus support, which is the standard bus for automotive body electronics such as mirror controllers, seat-position modules, and door-handle sensors. Its 10 MIPS peak throughput is sufficient for VIN-body message arbitration, debounced switch scanning across 23 I/O, and PWM control of small actuators like mirror motors and LED lighting. The OTP memory locks the calibration table at factory programming, which is preferred in automotive where unintended field reprogramming must be prevented. For safety-critical ECUs (airbag, ABS) the part is not appropriate; route those to PIC18F-K40 family parts.
Recommended
Consumer White Goods Controller
In white-goods appliances (washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators), the PIC18LC252T-I/SO provides the central control core for user-interface keypads, triac-driven pump/motor drivers, and buzzer/LED indicators. The 1.5 KB RAM is enough for state-machine scheduling of wash cycles, and the 5-channel ADC reads water-level sensors, NTC thermistors, and motor current. OTP memory locks the firmware against unauthorized modification, which protects OEM brand IP. Compared with a flash motor, OTP delivers a 10-20% cost advantage at the volumes typical of major appliances, justifying the NRND risk for sustained-production SKUs.
Recommended
HVAC Thermostat and Zone Controller
The PIC18LC252T-I/SO is well-suited to HVAC zone controllers and communicating thermostats where the MCU reads temperature/humidity sensors via the 10-bit ADC, drives a 7-segment or character LCD through PORTB/C, and talks to the indoor unit via UART or a proprietary serial protocol. The 40 MHz speed gives plenty of headroom for proportional control loops and schedule tables. OTP locking ensures the firmware cannot be field-flipped, which preserves warranty terms. The 28-SOIC footprint fits standard thermostat main boards and is compatible with the PIC18F2520-I/SO drop-in for forward-looking designs.
Recommended
Battery-Operated Wireless Sensor Node
The PIC18LC252T-I/SO's LC low-voltage core and the ability to run down to 3.0 V make it suitable for battery-powered sensor nodes powered by 2x AA alkaline cells or a single Li-ion cell. The MCU sleeps in watchdog-only mode drawing microamp-level current and wakes periodically to read a sensor and transmit via a UART-attached radio module. OTP locks the MAC address and prevents field reprogramming that would change the device identity. For higher energy efficiency, the PIC18LF2520-I/SO low-voltage flash variant extends battery life by another 20-30%.
Recommended
Educational and Development Platform
The PIC18LC252T-I/SO appears in university embedded-systems courses and Microchip development-kit reference designs because the PIC18 architecture exposes students to 8-bit RISC, OTP memory, hardware MSSP, and 10-bit ADC topics in one chip. Programming via ICSP is straightforward and the 28-SOIC wide-body footprint is breadboard-friendly with an SOIC-to-DIP adapter. For coursework where students need to iterate, the PIC18F2520-I/SO is preferred because flash allows repeated erase/program without UV erasure.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC18LC252T-I/SO — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC18LC252-I/SO | PIC18C252-I/SO | PIC18F252-I/SO | PIC18F2520-I/SO | PIC18LF2520-I/SO | PIC18LC242T-I/SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SOIC wide-body (7.50 mm) | 28-SOIC wide-body (7.50 mm) - same | 28-SOIC wide-body (7.50 mm) - same | 28-SOIC wide-body (7.50 mm) - same | 28-SOIC wide-body (7.50 mm) - same | 28-SOIC wide-body (7.50 mm) - same | 28-SOIC wide-body (7.50 mm) - same |
| Program Memory | 32 KB OTP | 32 KB OTP | 32 KB OTP | 32 KB Flash | 32 KB Flash | 32 KB Flash | 16 KB OTP (-50%) |
| Core Variant | LC low-voltage (3.0 V to 5.5 V) | LC low-voltage | C 5 V-only | F 2.0 V to 5.5 V | F 2.0 V to 5.5 V | LF low-voltage (2.0 V to 5.5 V) | LC low-voltage |
| Maximum Frequency | 40 MHz (10 MIPS) | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz | 40 MHz |
| ADC | 5-channel, 10-bit | 5-channel, 10-bit | 5-channel, 10-bit | 5-channel, 10-bit | 10-channel, 10-bit | 10-channel, 10-bit | 5-channel, 10-bit |
| Lifecycle Status | NRND | NRND | NRND | NRND | Active | Active | NRND |
| Approximate 1k-piece Price | $4.05 | $4.05 | $3.85 | $3.95 | $3.65 | $3.70 | $3.95 |
Key Differentiators
- Low-voltage LC core supports 3.3 V designs without level shifters (vs PIC18C252-I/SO)
- Tape & Reel packaging optimized for high-volume SMT assembly (vs PIC18LC252-I/SO)
- On-chip LIN-capable USART eliminates external bus controller (vs PIC18LC242T-I/SO)
Design Notes
Decouple VDD with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the device VDD pin, and add a 10 µF bulk capacitor on the same rail. The PIC18LC252T-I/SO can run from 3.0 V to 5.5 V; for 3.3 V-only systems, choose the LF variant instead. During ICSP programming, ensure VDD rises monotonically and does not sag, otherwise the part may enter an undefined configuration word state and require a fresh bulk-erase cycle.
Route the ICSP signals (PGD/PGC on RB7/RB6, MCLR/Vpp on pin 1) so that loading from the application circuit does not exceed 50 pF total. If the application ties RB6/RB7 to external pull-down resistors, isolate them during programming with jumpers or 4.7 kΩ series resistors. The MCLR pin requires a 4.7 kΩ pull-up to VDD; do not leave it floating, as noise can spuriously reset the part. Place the decoupling capacitor return to the closest Vss pin, not to a distant ground via.
OTP memory is one-time programmable: a single failed write or wrong configuration word will permanently brick the device. Always verify configuration-word settings in a flash-based sibling (PIC18F252-I/SO) before committing them to the LC252T. Brown-Out Reset (BOR) must be enabled in the configuration word for battery-operated applications, otherwise the MCU may execute from corrupted program memory during slow VDD ramp-down.
The 10-bit ADC achieves ±1 LSB INL only when the source impedance is below 10 kΩ; for higher-impedance sensors, add an external buffer op-amp (MCP6022) to preserve ADC accuracy. Use the AVdd pin (when available) and a separate analog ground island tied to Vss at a single point; the PIC18LC252T-I/SO data sheet shows AVdd tied to VDD on the 28-SOIC variant, so digital noise on VDD couples directly into ADC readings - filter VDD with a ferrite bead for ADC-sensitive applications.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified; for AEC-Q100 automotive applications use PIC18F-K40 family. Lead-free (Pb-free) matte-tin finish. Halogen-free status not explicitly stated in the verified data; consult Microchip Material Declaration for confirmation.
