PIC18LF24K42-E/SP - 16KB Flash XLP 8-bit MCU 28-SPDIP | Microchip
MPN: PIC18LF24K42-E/SP ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.45 | $2.45 |
| 10 | $2.18 | $21.80 |
| 100 | $1.85 | $185.00 |
| 500 | $1.62 | $810.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.38 | $1,380.00 |
PIC18LF24K42-E/SP Overview
A microcontroller (MCU) is a single-chip computer that integrates a CPU, memory (Flash/RAM/EEPROM), and programmable peripherals such as ADC, PWM, timers, and communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C). The PIC18 architecture is a modified Harvard 8-bit RISC design; "XLP" specifically refers to Microchip's low-power IP for sleep-mode nanoWatt currents. Within the broader taxonomy, this device sits at: microcontroller -> 8-bit MCU -> PIC18 family -> PIC18LFxxK42 sub-family.
Key features include a 12-bit ADC with up to 24 channels, a 5-bit DAC, two comparators, vector interrupts, DMA, configurable logic cells (CLC), multiple PWM channels, and Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs). The integrated peripherals enable sensor conditioning, motor control, and LED driving without CPU intervention, supporting deterministic real-time response.
The device's XLP architecture with idle/doze/sleep modes, combined with 64 MHz CIPs, makes it well suited to battery-powered and energy-harvesting IoT nodes. The 28-SPDIP package supports hand-soldered prototypes and through-hole industrial designs where vibration tolerance and easy rework matter.
Typical applications include IoT sensor nodes, low-power wireless-connected embedded controllers, consumer appliance user interfaces, and portable medical or instrumentation devices. When designing, ensure decoupling per the 28-pin SPDIP layout guidelines and verify VDDCORE core-voltage bypass capacitor placement. This page synthesizes verified pricing, drop-in alternative MPNs, and engineering design notes beyond the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC18LF24K42-E/SP — 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 PIC18LF24K42-E/SP (same form factor and footprint) — differing in ADC, Package, MSL Level, DAC, Operating Temperature.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC18LF24K42-I/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18LF24K42-E/SP301
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC18F24K42-I/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18F24K42-E/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.62 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18LF24K40-I/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$1.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC18LF24K42-E/SP Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core | PIC18 8-bit RISC |
| Family | PIC18LFxxK42 (XLP) |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 16 KB (8K x 16) |
| Data SRAM | 1 KB |
| Data EEPROM | 256 B |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 64 MHz |
| Operating Voltage (VDD) | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| ADC | 12-bit, up to 24 channels |
| DAC | 5-bit, 1 channel |
| Comparators | 2 |
| PWM Channels | Multiple (per datasheet) |
| DMA | Yes |
| Vector Interrupts | Yes |
| Package | 28-SPDIP (0.300 inch, 7.62 mm) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (Extended) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
| Pin Count | 28 |
| MSL Level | 1 (per package) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free | Yes |
PIC18LF24K42-E/SP Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR — Master Clear (Reset) input, active low |
| Pin 2 | RA0 — PORTA bit 0 / analog-capable I/O |
| Pin 3 | RA1 — PORTA bit 1 / analog-capable I/O |
| Pin 4 | RA2 — PORTA bit 2 / analog-capable I/O |
| Pin 5 | RA3 — PORTA bit 3 / analog-capable I/O |
| Pin 6 | RA4 — PORTA bit 4 / analog-capable I/O |
| Pin 7 | RA5 — PORTA bit 5 / analog-capable I/O |
| Pin 8 | RA6 — PORTA bit 6 / analog-capable I/O |
| Pin 9 | RA7 — PORTA bit 7 / analog-capable I/O / DAC |
| Pin 10 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 11 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (1.8V-3.6V) |
| Pin 12 | RB0 — PORTB bit 0 / interrupt-on-change capable |
| Pin 13 | RB1 — PORTB bit 1 / interrupt-on-change capable |
| Pin 14 | RB2 — PORTB bit 2 / interrupt-on-change capable |
| Pin 15 | RB3 — PORTB bit 3 / interrupt-on-change capable |
| Pin 16 | RB4 — PORTB bit 4 / interrupt-on-change capable |
| Pin 17 | RB5 — PORTB bit 5 / interrupt-on-change capable |
| Pin 18 | RB6 — PORTB bit 6 / interrupt-on-change / ICSP programming |
| Pin 19 | RB7 — PORTB bit 7 / interrupt-on-change / ICSP programming |
| Pin 20 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 21 | VDD — Positive supply voltage (1.8V-3.6V) |
| Pin 22 | RC0 — PORTC bit 0 / analog-capable I/O |
| Pin 23 | RC1 — PORTC bit 1 / analog-capable I/O |
| Pin 24 | RC2 — PORTC bit 2 / analog-capable I/O |
| Pin 25 | RC3 — PORTC bit 3 / analog-capable I/O / SCL |
| Pin 26 | RC4 — PORTC bit 4 / analog-capable I/O / SDA |
| Pin 27 | RC5 — PORTC bit 5 / analog-capable I/O |
| Pin 28 | RC6 — PORTC bit 6 / analog-capable I/O / TX |
Typical Applications
PIC18LF24K42-E/SP is suitable for 7 applications: Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node, Consumer Appliance User Interface Controller, Portable Medical & Wellness Device, Industrial Sensor & 4-20 mA Transmitter, Automotive Body & Comfort Module (Sub-system), Smart Home Wireless-Connected Endpoint, Educational & Maker Prototyping Platform.
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Node
The PIC18LF24K42-E/SP is purpose-built for battery-powered IoT sensor nodes thanks to its 1.8 V-3.6 V VDD range, XLP nanoWatt sleep currents, and integrated 12-bit ADC (up to 24 channels). Placed in a 2xAAA or coin-cell power domain, it can wake on comparator edges, perform 12-bit ADC reads via DMA without CPU load, transmit over UART/SPI/I2C to a companion radio, and return to deep sleep - extending node lifetime from months to multiple years. The 64 MHz core ensures CIP-driven sensor processing completes before the radio wakes the host.
Recommended
Consumer Appliance User Interface Controller
The PIC18LF24K42-E/SP suits low-cost consumer appliance user-interface controllers where its 28-SPDIP through-hole package simplifies hand rework and field service. Its 64 MHz core and CIPs handle capacitive touch scanning (via CLC), PWM backlight control, and UART communication to the main appliance MCU without software overhead. The 1.8 V-3.6 V range allows direct 3.3 V operation from a small LDO, and the 1 KB SRAM is sufficient for UI state machines and message buffers.
Recommended
Portable Medical & Wellness Device
The PIC18LF24K42-E/SP is appropriate for portable medical and wellness devices where low power, deterministic response, and IEC 60730 class B software-safety support are required. The integrated 12-bit ADC, two comparators, and 5-bit DAC enable accurate sensor measurements of pulse, SpO2, temperature, or galvanic skin response. XLP sleep currents extend battery life beyond one year on coin-cell, and the 28-SPDIP package supports through-hole designs favored in medical-grade assembly lines.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor & 4-20 mA Transmitter
The PIC18LF24K42-E/SP drives industrial 4-20 mA loop-powered sensor heads because its 1.8 V minimum VDD allows the MCU and its 12-bit ADC to run from a low-drop regulator fed by the loop. The 64 MHz core plus CLC/DMA implement HART or proprietary modulation in hardware via CIPs, offloading the CPU. The 28-SPDIP package withstands industrial vibration better than SMD-only equivalents, supporting field installations where mechanical robustness is required.
Recommended
Automotive Body & Comfort Module (Sub-system)
The PIC18LF24K42-E/SP fits automotive body and comfort sub-systems (interior lighting, seat controllers, mirror modules) when paired with external CAN-FD transceivers and automotive-grade protection. Its -40C to +125C extended temperature grade suits under-dash and door-module environments. Note: for AEC-Q100-qualified automotive designs, select the PIC18F24K42-E/SP Q-graded variant instead. The 28-SPDIP package supports easy prototype bring-up in automotive lab benches.
Recommended
Smart Home Wireless-Connected Endpoint
The PIC18LF24K42-E/SP anchors smart-home wireless endpoints (Zigbee/Thread/BLE sensor nodes, smart plugs, occupancy sensors) where the MCU handles local actuation while a radio module handles connectivity. Its DMA, CLC, and 64 MHz core process sensor data and control PWM-driven LED indicators in real time. The LF 1.8 V-3.6 V range matches typical 3.3 V regulated radio rails, simplifying power architecture; the 28-SPDIP package is ideal for low-volume prototype builds.
Recommended
Educational & Maker Prototyping Platform
The PIC18LF24K42-E/SP in 28-SPDIP is an excellent educational and maker platform because the through-hole package accepts solderless breadboards and hand-soldered perfboard builds. Its peripheral richness (12-bit ADC, 5-bit DAC, comparators, CLC, DMA) exposes students to advanced CIP concepts without the complexity of higher-end ARM cores. MPLAB X with XC8 and the free MCC code generator give newcomers a low-friction entry into embedded firmware development.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC18LF24K42-E/SP — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC18LF24K42-I/SP | PIC18LF24K42-E/SP301 | PIC18F24K42-I/SP | PIC18F24K42-E/SP | PIC18LF24K40-I/SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-SPDIP (0.300 inch, 7.62 mm) | 28-SPDIP - same | 28-SPDIP - same | 28-SPDIP - same | 28-SPDIP - same | 28-SPDIP - same |
| Core / Architecture | 8-bit PIC18 RISC | 8-bit PIC18 RISC - same | 8-bit PIC18 RISC - same | 8-bit PIC18 RISC - same | 8-bit PIC18 RISC - same | 8-bit PIC18 RISC - same |
| Operating Voltage | 1.8 V - 3.6 V (LF) | 1.8 V - 3.6 V | 1.8 V - 3.6 V | 2.3 V - 5.5 V (F) | 2.3 V - 5.5 V (F) | 1.8 V - 3.6 V |
| Flash / SRAM / EEPROM | 16 KB / 1 KB / 256 B | 16 KB / 1 KB / 256 B | 16 KB / 1 KB / 256 B | 16 KB / 1 KB / 256 B | 16 KB / 1 KB / 256 B | 16 KB / 1 KB / 256 B |
| Max CPU Speed | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz | 64 MHz |
| ADC / DAC | 12-bit ADC (up to 24 ch) / 5-bit DAC | 12-bit ADC / 5-bit DAC | 12-bit ADC / 5-bit DAC | 12-bit ADC / 5-bit DAC | 12-bit ADC / 5-bit DAC | 10-bit ADC / no 5-bit DAC |
| Temperature Grade | Extended -40C to +125C (E) | Industrial -40C to +85C (I) | Extended -40C to +125C (E) | Industrial -40C to +85C (I) | Extended -40C to +125C (E) | Industrial -40C to +85C (I) |
Key Differentiators
- Extended industrial temperature grade (E suffix) (vs PIC18LF24K42-I/SP)
- K42-generation Core Independent Peripherals (CLC, DMA, Vector Interrupts) (vs PIC18LF24K40-I/SP)
- Low-voltage LF (1.8 V-3.6 V) operation with XLP nanoWatt sleep (vs PIC18F24K42-E/SP)
Design Notes
The PIC18LF24K42-E/SP requires VDD between 1.8 V and 3.6 V (LF variant); exceed 3.6 V and the internal charge pump regulator will be destroyed. Place a 100 nF decoupling capacitor as close as possible to each VDD/VSS pair on the 28-SPDIP package, plus a bulk 1-10 uF on the board supply rail. For battery designs, XLP sleep currents in the nanoampere regime dominate total energy; verify the actual deep-sleep Iq of your specific configuration in the datasheet rather than relying on the headline nanoWatt figure.
The 28-SPDIP footprint is through-hole with 0.100 inch (2.54 mm) row spacing and 0.300 inch (7.62 mm) body width. Route analog signals (ADC inputs, comparators) with short traces and a ground guard ring where possible to limit digital switching noise coupling. Avoid running PWM outputs parallel to analog ADC inputs; if necessary, separate by a ground trace. The MCLR pin requires a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD and a 100 nF decoupling cap to ground for proper reset operation.
Do not confuse the LF (1.8 V-3.6 V) variant with the F (2.3 V-5.5 V) variant - applying 5 V to a LF part will damage it. The PIC18LF24K42-E/SP is the extended-temperature (-40C to +125C) variant; the PIC18LF24K42-I/SP is industrial (-40C to +85C) and slightly cheaper. Configuration words (fuses) must be set correctly to enable the internal HFINTOSC and PLL, otherwise the MCU will run from the default low-speed oscillator. Always use MPLAB X IPE for ICSP programming - the older PICkit 2/3 are supported but deprecated for new designs.
Keep the ICSP programming pins (RB6/RB7) accessible for in-circuit programming - do not place series resistors on those lines below 1 kohm or programming may fail. The 28-SPDIP allows easy rework on perfboard and through-hole prototype boards, but for volume production migrate to the 28-SOIC (SO) or 28-SSOP (SS) surface-mount variants. Reserve a UART test header for firmware debugging; the PIC18LF24K42-E/SP exposes EUSART on RC6/RC7 by default but can be remapped via PPS.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free per Microchip product page; AEC-Q100 not qualified - for AEC-Q100 automotive use select PIC18F24K42 with automotive-grade designation. REACH compliance per Microchip declaration.
