PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP - 16-bit 60 MIPS 256KB Flash MCU | Microchip
MPN: PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $7.92 | $7.92 |
| 10 | $7.13 | $71.30 |
| 100 | $6.34 | $634.00 |
| 500 | $5.7 | $2,850.00 |
| 1,000 | $5.07 | $5,070.00 |
PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP Overview
A 16-bit microcontroller (MCU) is a microprocessor core with on-chip Flash, RAM and peripherals that executes one 16-bit instruction per cycle, typically reaching tens of MIPS. Within the broader semiconductor taxonomy, MCUs sit under microcontrollers -> embedded processors -> ICs. The PIC24E family uses a Modified Harvard RISC architecture with DSP instructions and 16-bit data paths, positioning it between 8-bit MCUs and full 32-bit ARM Cortex devices for performance- and signal-conditioning-rich embedded designs.
Key features of the PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP include on-chip high-speed PWM with up to 7.74 ns PWM resolution, dual operational amplifiers for current sensing, 12-bit ADC up to 1.1 Msps, comparators, a charge time measurement unit (CTMU), and multiple communication peripherals such as I2C, SPI, and UART. The 28-pin SPDIP package is breadboard-friendly, simplifying prototype bring-up.
The PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP targets precision motor-control systems: BLDC, PMSM, AC induction, switched reluctance and stepper drives. Internal op-amps directly condition shunt-resistor current signals, reducing external analog components, while high-resolution PWM and a fast 12-bit ADC close tight torque/speed loops. Industrial, appliance, and automotive auxiliary motor applications benefit from this integration.
When designing, plan for a single 3.3 V supply rail, an ICSP header for programming/debug, and decoupling per Microchip's typical application circuits. Ensure firmware uses the on-chip DSP instructions and dual-sample-and-hold ADC for the lowest torque ripple in FOC motor-control loops. The -E/SP suffix denotes an extended-temperature variant in a 28-pin SPDIP package.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in 28-pin SPDIP alternatives from the PIC24EP family, and practical design notes not collected in the manufacturer datasheet, helping procurement and firmware engineers qualify the part quickly for motor-control designs.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC24EP256MC202-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 PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP (same form factor and footprint) — differing in ADC, Package, Operating Temperature, Core Architecture, Mounting Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC24EP128MC202-E/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC24EP256MC202-I/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC24EP256GP202-E/SS
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PIC24EP256GP202-H/SS
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.3 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC24EP128MC202-E/SP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC24E (16-bit Modified Harvard RISC, DSP) |
| Maximum CPU Speed | 60 MIPS at 3.3 V |
| Program Flash | 256 KB (85.5K x 24 words) |
| RAM | 16 KB |
| Operating Voltage | 3.0 V to 3.6 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (extended, -E) |
| Package | 28-pin SPDIP (SP) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole (DIP) |
| ADC | 12-bit, up to 1.1 Msps |
| PWM Resolution | High-speed PWM, up to 7.74 ns resolution |
| On-chip Op-Amps | Yes (dual internal op-amps for current sensing) |
| Comparators | Yes |
| CTMU | Yes (Charge Time Measurement Unit) |
| Communication | UART, SPI, I2C |
| ICSP Debug | Yes (In-Circuit Serial Programming) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | MCLR — Master Clear (reset) input, active low |
| Pin 2 | AN0/CVREF/RA0 — Analog input 0 / comparator reference / GPIO |
| Pin 3 | AN1/RA1 — Analog input 1 / GPIO |
| Pin 4 | AN2/RA2 — Analog input 2 / GPIO |
| Pin 5 | AVDD — Analog supply voltage |
| Pin 6 | AVSS — Analog ground |
| Pin 7 | PWM1H/RP6/RB6 — PWM1 high output / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 8 | PWM1L/RP7/RB7 — PWM1 low output / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 9 | PWM2H/RP8/RB8 — PWM2 high output / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 10 | PWM2L/RP9/RB9 — PWM2 low output / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 11 | VSS — Digital ground |
| Pin 12 | VDD — Digital supply voltage (3.0-3.6 V) |
| Pin 13 | OSC1/CLKI/RA3 — Crystal oscillator input / external clock |
| Pin 14 | OSC2/CLKO/RA4 — Crystal oscillator output |
| Pin 15 | PGED1/RP0/RB0 — ICSP data / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 16 | PGEC1/RP1/RB1 — ICSP clock / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 17 | AN9/RP10/RB10 — Analog input 9 / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 18 | AN10/RP11/RB11 — Analog input 10 / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 19 | AN11/RP12/RB12 — Analog input 11 / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 20 | AN12/RP13/RB13 — Analog input 12 / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 21 | AN13/RP14/RB14 — Analog input 13 / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 22 | AN14/RP15/RB15 — Analog input 14 / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 23 | AN15/RP16/RC0 — Analog input 15 / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 24 | RP17/RC1 — Remappable peripheral |
| Pin 25 | RP18/RC2 — Remappable peripheral |
| Pin 26 | SDA1/RP19/RC3 — I2C1 data / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 27 | SCL1/RP20/RC4 — I2C1 clock / remappable peripheral |
| Pin 28 | VSS — Digital ground |
Typical Applications
PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP is suitable for 6 applications: BLDC Motor Control (Field-Oriented Control), Industrial Pump and Fan Drives, Home Appliance Motor Control, Automotive Auxiliary Motor Controllers, Robotics and Small Servo Drives, Power Tools and Cordless Drives.
BLDC Motor Control (Field-Oriented Control)
The PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP is purpose-built for BLDC and PMSM motor control using field-oriented control (FOC). Its dual internal op-amps directly condition shunt-resistor current signals without external amplifiers, while the 12-bit ADC samples up to 1.1 Msps for precise torque-loop feedback. The high-speed PWM module delivers up to 7.74 ns edge resolution, producing complementary 3-phase outputs with hardware dead-band insertion - critical for low-ripple, low-acoustic-noise motor operation. With 60 MIPS, 256 KB Flash, and 16 KB RAM, the MCU handles the full Park/Clarke/SVM transforms for sub-10 kHz control loops. The 28-SPDIP package suits prototype and small-volume industrial drives where through-hole assembly simplifies rework.
Recommended
Industrial Pump and Fan Drives
For variable-frequency pump and fan drives, the PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP integrates motor-control PWM with sufficient resolution to drive AC induction and BLDC motors in closed-loop speed control. The extended -40C to +125C temperature window handles under-hood industrial cabinet environments where ambient temperatures exceed 70C continuously. On-chip comparators and the CTMU enable fault detection (overcurrent, overtemperature) without external analog ICs. The 256 KB Flash allows space-vector and scalar V/Hz control algorithms plus a full IEC 60730 safety library. With 16 KB of RAM, the device supports serial-modbus/RTU communication stacks over UART for industrial PLC integration.
Recommended
Home Appliance Motor Control
Washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerator compressors rely on low-cost, integrated MCUs for BLDC compressor and pump control. The PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP integrates dual op-amps and 12-bit ADC, removing external analog components that would otherwise inflate BOM cost in consumer appliances. The 60 MIPS core and DSP instructions execute single-cycle MAC operations needed for sensorless FOC back-EMF estimators. 256 KB Flash stores the full sensorless algorithm plus UI/state-machine firmware. The 28-SPDIP package is breadboard-friendly for engineering samples, accelerating development of IEC 60335-compliant appliance drives.
Recommended
Automotive Auxiliary Motor Controllers
The -E temperature window of the PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP (-40C to +125C) is suitable for under-hood automotive auxiliary motors such as HVAC blowers, water pumps, and electronic throttle bodies where ambient temperatures fluctuate widely. The high-resolution PWM generates the precise commutation needed for smooth torque delivery in PWM-driven actuators. Dual op-amps handle bidirectional current sensing for H-bridge fault detection. The MCU supports CAN communication through companion MCP2515 ICs for vehicle network integration. Note that the -E variant is industrial-grade; for full AEC-Q100 qualification, the PIC24EP256MC202-H or related automotive parts should be considered.
Recommended
Robotics and Small Servo Drives
Small robotic servos, CNC spindle motors, and drone propulsion motors benefit from the PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP's high-resolution PWM and DSP-capable 60 MIPS core. The MCU executes PID, trajectory, and feedforward loops at millisecond rates for precise position/velocity control. 16 KB RAM supports up to 4 servo control loops simultaneously, while 256 KB Flash stores motion profiles and command interpreters. The internal op-amps simplify current sensing on small brushless motors where board space is constrained. Industrial-grade -E temperature rating supports robotics deployments in warehouses and outdoor settings.
Recommended
Power Tools and Cordless Drives
Cordless drills, impact drivers, and portable power tools use BLDC motors that demand precise torque and speed control. The PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP's motor-control PWM, dual op-amps, and 60 MIPS core deliver field-oriented control with sub-percent torque accuracy. Low-power modes extend battery life between charges, and the 256 KB Flash stores multi-mode tool firmware (drill, hammer, torque limit). The 28-SPDIP package simplifies prototyping but is also produced in QFN variants for volume SMT assembly. Extended -40C to +125C operation tolerates the heat generated inside sealed tool housings during continuous high-torque operation.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC24EP128MC202-E/SP | PIC24EP256MC202-I/SP | PIC24EP256GP202-E/SS | PIC24EP256GP202-H/SS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Package | 28-pin SPDIP | 28-pin SPDIP - same | 28-pin SPDIP - same | 28-pin SSOP | 28-pin SSOP |
| Core | PIC24E 16-bit, 60 MIPS | PIC24E 16-bit, 60 MIPS | PIC24E 16-bit, 60 MIPS | PIC24E 16-bit, 60 MIPS | PIC24E 16-bit, 60 MIPS |
| Flash | 256 KB | 128 KB (-50%) | 256 KB | 256 KB | 256 KB |
| RAM | 16 KB | 16 KB | 16 KB | 16 KB | 16 KB |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +85C (I) | -40C to +125C (E) | -40C to +150C (H) |
| On-chip Op-Amps | Yes (dual) | Yes (dual) | Yes (dual) | No | No |
| Motor-Control PWM | Yes (high-speed, 7.74 ns) | Yes (high-speed, 7.74 ns) | Yes (high-speed, 7.74 ns) | Standard PWM only | Standard PWM only |
| 1pc Price (USD) | $7.92 | $7.10 (approx.) | $7.50 (approx.) | $7.20 (approx.) | $8.10 (approx.) |
Key Differentiators
- On-chip dual operational amplifiers eliminate external analog ICs (vs PIC24EP256GP202-E/SS)
- Extended -40C to +125C temperature rating for harsh environments (vs PIC24EP256MC202-I/SP)
- Through-hole SPDIP package simplifies prototype bring-up (vs PIC24EP256MC202-I/MM (QFN-28))
Design Notes
The PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP requires a clean 3.0-3.6 V supply with low ripple for the on-chip ADC and reference. Place a 10 uF bulk capacitor near the VDD pins and 100 nF ceramic decoupling on every VDD/VSS pair within 5 mm of the MCU. Use a dedicated LDO such as the MCP1700 rather than a switching regulator when the analog op-amps and ADC are active - switching noise can couple into current-shunt measurements and corrupt FOC torque loops. AVDD and AVSS must be tied to VDD/VSS respectively; if unused, the analog supply pins still require decoupling.
Route the shunt-resistor traces as differential pairs to the on-chip op-amp inputs (OPA1IN+, OPA1IN-) and keep them short and matched in length to minimize offset error from thermocouple effects. Place the shunt resistors on the same PCB layer as the MCU with Kelvin connection to the op-amp input pins. The 28-SPDIP package has long leads - add a ground plane under the MCU and stitch vias around the SPDIP perimeter to provide a low-impedance return path for high-di/dt motor currents. The PWM outputs should be routed away from analog inputs to avoid capacitive coupling that could distort current feedback.
Do not exceed 3.6 V on any VDD pin; the PIC24EP256MC202-E/SP is a 3.3 V part and absolute-maximum VDD is 4.0 V with permanent damage above that. The MCLR pin must be tied through a 10 kohm pull-up to VDD; floating MCLR can cause intermittent resets from noise. The ICSP programming pins PGEC1/PGED1 must remain accessible in the PCB layout - do not connect them only to test points. When using the internal op-amps for current sensing, calibrate the offset at production by shorting the shunt to ground and storing the trim value in Flash - uncalibrated offset can produce torque ripple at low speeds.
The 28-pin SPDIP package has generous pin spacing (0.1 inch), simplifying breadboard and prototype design but requiring careful trace routing for high-frequency PWM signals. Keep PWM traces short and matched in length within a phase-pair (PWM1H/PWM1L) to within 2 mm to avoid duty-cycle skew. The crystal oscillator traces (OSC1/OSC2) must be short and surrounded by ground pour; route them perpendicular to PWM traces to avoid coupling. Place decoupling capacitors on the same PCB layer as the MCU - vias add parasitic inductance that degrades high-frequency decoupling.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. -E temperature grade is industrial extended, not AEC-Q100 automotive qualified; choose PIC24EP256MC202-H or automotive-grade variants for AEC-Q100 requirements. Lead-free reflow compatible per JESD97 classification.
