PIC18LF23K22-I/ML - 8KB Flash 8-bit MCU | Microchip QFN-28
MPN: PIC18LF23K22-I/ML ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3.17 | $3.17 |
| 10 | $2.94 | $29.40 |
| 100 | $2.65 | $265.00 |
| 500 | $2.41 | $1,205.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.18 | $2,180.00 |
PIC18LF23K22-I/ML Overview
A PIC (Peripheral Interface Controller) microcontroller is a compact programmable processor that integrates CPU, memory, and peripherals on a single chip. The PIC18F/LF family represents Microchip's 8-bit high-performance tier, bridging traditional 8-bit simplicity with modern peripheral integration. Within this family, the 'LF' prefix designates low-voltage variants optimized for battery-powered applications, while the 'K22' subfamily introduces nanoWatt XLP technology, making them ideal for energy harvesting and IoT endpoints where quiescent current in nanoampere ranges extends battery life to years.
Key features include nanoWatt XLP ultra-low-power technology with typical sleep currents in the nanoampere range, an integrated 16-channel 10-bit ADC, multiple PWM modules, and enhanced USART with LIN support. The PIC18LF23K22 also incorporates a charge time measurement unit (CTMU) for capacitive touch sensing and a hardware real-time clock calendar (RTCC) with on-chip 32 kHz oscillator support. Programmable undervoltage detection and a configurable windowed watchdog timer add system robustness for industrial and automotive-grade applications.
Architecturally, the PIC18LF23K22 employs a RISC-based Harvard architecture with separate instruction and data buses, enabling single-cycle instruction execution. The CPU runs up to 16 MIPS from a 64 MHz oscillator, with on-chip PLL synthesis. The device integrates a 16 MHz internal oscillator plus a 31 kHz low-power oscillator for fail-safe clocking during sleep. The ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) interface allows field firmware updates without removing the MCU from the PCB.
Typical applications include portable medical devices, wireless sensor nodes, smart meters, remote controls, battery-backed industrial sensors, low-power IoT edge nodes, consumer electronics with capacitive touch interfaces, and automotive body electronics. The wide 1.8V to 3.6V operating range makes it particularly suitable for two- or three-alkaline-cell applications where direct Li-ion compatibility simplifies power design.
When designing with this MCU, observe the absolute maximum VDD of 4.0V and consider the device's internal oscillator accuracy versus crystal requirements. For lowest sleep current, disable unused peripherals via firmware and use the low-power RTCC oscillator rather than the main system clock during standby.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-package alternatives, and practical design notes to support component selection, supply-chain decisions, and schematic capture.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC18LF23K22-I/ML — 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 PIC18LF23K22-I/ML (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, ADC, Operating Temperature, Core Architecture, Program Memory (Flash).
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC18LF24K22-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.98 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18LF25K22-I/ML
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18LF26K22-I/ML
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F23K22-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.78 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18LF23K22-E/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18LF23K22-I/ML Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Architecture | 8-bit PIC RISC Harvard |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 8 KB (4K x 16) |
| Data SRAM | 768 bytes |
| Data EEPROM | 256 bytes |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 64 MHz (16 MIPS) |
| Supply Voltage (VDD) | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| I/O Pins | 25 |
| ADC | 10-bit, up to 11 channels |
| Package | QFN-28 (ML) 6x6 mm |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| MSL Level | 3 |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free / Halogen-Free | Yes |
| Low-Power Technology | nanoWatt XLP |
PIC18LF23K22-I/ML Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA3/AN3 — Digital I/O / analog input channel 3 |
| Pin 2 | RA4/AN4 — Digital I/O / analog input channel 4 |
| Pin 3 | RA5/AN5 — Digital I/O / analog input channel 5 |
| Pin 4 | RA6/OSC2 — Digital I/O / oscillator output |
| Pin 5 | RA7/OSC1 — Digital I/O / oscillator input |
| Pin 6 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (1.8V-3.6V) |
| Pin 7 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 8 | RB0/AN12 — Digital I/O / analog input channel 12 |
| Pin 9 | RB1/AN10 — Digital I/O / analog input channel 10 |
| Pin 10 | RB2/AN8 — Digital I/O / analog input channel 8 |
| Pin 11 | RB3/AN9 — Digital I/O / analog input channel 9 |
| Pin 12 | RB4/AN11 — Digital I/O / analog input channel 11 |
| Pin 13 | RB5/CCP5 — Digital I/O / CCP5 PWM output |
| Pin 14 | RB6/PGC — Digital I/O / ICSP clock |
| Pin 15 | RB7/PGD — Digital I/O / ICSP data |
| Pin 16 | MCLR — Master clear reset (active low) |
| Pin 17 | RC0/SOSCO — Digital I/O / RTCC oscillator output |
| Pin 18 | RC1/SOSCI — Digital I/O / RTCC oscillator input |
| Pin 19 | RC2/CCP1 — Digital I/O / CCP1 PWM output |
| Pin 20 | RC3/SCL1 — Digital I/O / I2C clock |
| Pin 21 | RC4/SDA1 — Digital I/O / I2C data |
| Pin 22 | RC5/SDO1 — Digital I/O / SPI data out |
| Pin 23 | RC6/TX1 — Digital I/O / EUSART TX |
| Pin 24 | RC7/RX1 — Digital I/O / EUSART RX |
| Pin 25 | RD0 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 26 | RD1 — Digital I/O |
| Pin 27 | RE3 — Digital I/O (MCLR alternate) |
| Pin 28 | EP — Exposed thermal pad - connect to VSS |
Typical Applications
PIC18LF23K22-I/ML is suitable for 7 applications: Wireless Sensor Nodes (IoT), Smart Meter and Energy Monitoring, Industrial Sensor and Control Modules, Capacitive Touch User Interfaces, Portable Medical and Health Devices, Automotive Body and Convenience Electronics, Remote Control and Consumer Electronics.
Wireless Sensor Nodes (IoT)
The PIC18LF23K22-I/ML fits wireless sensor nodes through nanoWatt XLP sleep currents below 1 uA and 1.8V minimum VDD that operates from two-cell alkaline or single-cell Li-thionyl chloride packs for multi-year battery life. Its 64 MHz CPU handles radio driver stacks and on-board sensor fusion; the 10-bit ADC with up to 11 channels digitizes temperature, humidity, and analog sensors directly. The 8 KB Flash accommodates simple protocol stacks such as Modbus RTU or proprietary RF drivers. Designers should disable unused peripherals in firmware and use the 31 kHz RTCC oscillator as the wake-up source for deepest sleep.
Recommended
Smart Meter and Energy Monitoring
The PIC18LF23K22-I/ML suits smart electricity, water, and gas meters with its 10-bit ADC for measuring current shunts and voltage dividers at the meter's analog front end. Its EUSART with LIN support communicates with peripheral meter modules; the AEUART enables simultaneous wired and optical-port communications. The hardware RTCC with on-chip 32 kHz oscillator performs time-of-use billing without external crystals, and the 1.8V-3.6V range supports direct battery backup. Industrial -40C to +85C operation tolerates outdoor meter cabinets.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor and Control Modules
The PIC18LF23K22-I/ML suits industrial 4-20 mA loop-powered sensor modules with its 1.8V minimum supply enabling direct loop excitation without boost converters. The 25 I/O pins drive display segments, status LEDs, and HART modems. Hardware PWM supports proportional control loops; the configurable windowed watchdog timer and programmable undervoltage detection ensure deterministic recovery in unattended installations. Industrial temperature range and integrated CTMU enable capacitive-touch front panels without external sensing ICs.
Recommended
Capacitive Touch User Interfaces
The PIC18LF23K22-I/ML fits capacitive touch buttons, sliders, and wheels via its on-chip CTMU (Charge Time Measurement Unit) which measures capacitance changes with sub-pF resolution - eliminating dedicated touch ICs. Designers route PCB pads directly to ADC-capable pins and use the 10-bit ADC for proximity sensing. The 8 KB Flash accommodates up to a dozen channels with gesture recognition. Hardware PWM drives LED backlighting, while the XLP sleep mode keeps quiescent current below 5 uA between touches.
Recommended
Portable Medical and Health Devices
The PIC18LF23K22-I/ML serves portable medical devices such as pulse oximeters, blood-pressure monitors, and glucose meters where its 1.8V minimum VDD runs from two AA cells and the nanoWatt XLP sleep modes extend shelf life. The 11-channel ADC captures photodiode signals from SpO2 sensors; the EUSART interfaces with Bluetooth or BLE modules. The hardware RTCC provides timestamps for health logs, and the integrated capacitive touch sensing enables waterproof front panels. Industrial-grade EMI/ESD performance meets IEC 60601-1 adjacent requirements.
Recommended
Automotive Body and Convenience Electronics
The PIC18LF23K22-I/ML can be deployed in non-safety automotive body applications such as seat controllers, mirror adjusters, interior lighting, and accessory modules. Its LIN-compliant EUSART connects to vehicle body networks; PWM modules drive LED dimming and small motor control. The 25 I/O pins handle multiplexed switch inputs and relay drivers. While the industrial-temperature part is rated -40C to +85C, automotive deployments requiring -40C to +125C should select PIC18LF23K22-E/ML (extended temp) or PIC18F counterpart parts with AEC-Q100 qualification.
Recommended
Remote Control and Consumer Electronics
The PIC18LF23K22-I/ML fits handheld remote controls, toys, and small consumer appliances with its low cost, compact QFN-28 footprint, and battery-friendly nanoWatt XLP technology. The integrated CTMU enables touch keys without additional hardware, while the 25 I/O pins drive IR LEDs, RGB indicators, and buzzer outputs. The 64 MHz CPU handles compressed audio prompts or simple RF protocols like BLE or sub-GHz proprietary stacks. The 1.8V minimum VDD works with single-cell Li-ion or two-cell alkaline.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC18LF23K22-I/ML — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC18LF24K22-I/ML | PIC18LF25K22-I/ML | PIC18LF26K22-I/ML | PIC18F23K22-I/ML | PIC18LF23K22-E/ML |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | QFN-28 (ML) 6x6 mm | QFN-28 (ML) - same | QFN-28 (ML) - same | QFN-28 (ML) - same | QFN-28 (ML) - same | QFN-28 (ML) - same |
| Flash Memory | 8 KB | 16 KB (+100%) | 32 KB (+300%) | 64 KB (+700%) | 8 KB (same) | 8 KB (same) |
| SRAM | 768 B | 768 B (same) | 1.5 KB (+95%) | 3.9 KB (+420%) | 768 B (same) | 768 B (same) |
| EEPROM | 256 B | 256 B (same) | 256 B (same) | 1 KB (+300%) | 256 B (same) | 256 B (same) |
| CPU Speed | 64 MHz / 16 MIPS | 64 MHz / 16 MIPS (same) | 64 MHz / 16 MIPS (same) | 64 MHz / 16 MIPS (same) | 64 MHz / 16 MIPS (same) | 64 MHz / 16 MIPS (same) |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8V to 3.6V | 1.8V to 3.6V (same) | 1.8V to 3.6V (same) | 1.8V to 3.6V (same) | 1.8V to 5.5V (wider) | 1.8V to 3.6V (same) |
| Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (same) | -40C to +85C (same) | -40C to +85C (same) | -40C to +85C (same) | -40C to +125C (Extended) |
| Unit Price (1pc, as of 2026-09-28) | $3.17 | Higher (16 KB Flash) | Higher (32 KB Flash) | Highest (64 KB Flash) | Similar (wider VDD) | Higher (extended temp) |
Key Differentiators
- Smallest Flash in K22 family, lowest cost (vs PIC18LF24K22-I/ML)
- Low-voltage LF vs wider F-range F (vs PIC18F23K22-I/ML)
- Industrial vs extended temp (vs PIC18LF23K22-E/ML)
Design Notes
The PIC18LF23K22-I/ML operates from 1.8V to 3.6V; do not exceed the 4.0V absolute maximum. Add a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to each VDD pin, plus a bulk 10 uF tantalum or ceramic near the IC. For lowest sleep current, switch all unused peripherals off via firmware (PMD registers) before entering Sleep mode and configure the 31 kHz RTCC oscillator as the wake-up source rather than the main 16 MHz oscillator.
The QFN-28 (ML) package has an exposed thermal pad (EP) that must be soldered to a VSS copper pour for mechanical reliability and thermal dissipation. Place at least four thermal vias under the EP to the inner VSS plane. Keep the ICSP programming pins (PGC/PGD) accessible via test points or a programming header for in-circuit firmware updates.
Configuration words must be programmed correctly for the oscillator selection and watchdog timer - a wrong config can brick the device. The MCLR pin requires a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD; leaving it floating causes spurious resets. For capacitive touch via CTMU, calibrate the time base per PCB layout using a known capacitance; do not reuse constants across PCB revisions without re-calibration.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free per Microchip product page. Industrial temperature grade; not AEC-Q100 qualified - select extended temp variants or other family members for automotive.
