PIC24F16KA304-I/ML - 16-bit XLP MCU, 32MHz, 16KB Flash, 44-QFN
MPN: PIC24F16KA304-I/ML ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2.83 | $2.83 |
| 10 | $2.55 | $25.50 |
| 100 | $2.27 | $227.00 |
| 500 | $2.04 | $1,020.00 |
| 1,000 | $1.85 | $1,850.00 |
PIC24F16KA304-I/ML Overview
A 16-bit MCU (microcontroller unit) is an integrated circuit combining a processor core, non-volatile program memory (Flash), working RAM, and multiple peripherals on a single die. Within Microchip's portfolio, the PIC24F family sits in the eXtreme Low Power (XLP) tier, engineered for sleep-mode currents below 1 microamp while keeping real-time peripherals alive. PIC24F parts also integrate analog peripherals like 12-bit ADC, comparators, CTMU, and op amps, fitting industrial control, IoT sensor nodes, metering, and motor control applications. As a general-purpose 16-bit MCU, PIC24F bridges 8-bit PIC16/PIC18 designs and higher-performance dsPIC33/PIC32 architectures.
Key features include 16 KB Flash, 2 KB RAM, 512 B EEPROM, a 12-bit ADC, multiple timers (Timer1, Timer2/3, RTCC), 5 CCP/SCCP modules, two UART/SPI/I2C modules, 39 user I/O pins, and a 16-bit MIPS CPU core with hardware multiply/divide. The XLP architecture improves battery life through nanoWatt technology with Deep Sleep currents in the nanoamp range, and unique peripherals like DSBOR, DSWDT, and RTCC keep operating while the CPU is asleep.
The 44-pin QFN package provides a small 8 mm x 8 mm footprint with an exposed pad that enhances thermal dissipation and gives access to the full pin count. CMOS-compatible I/O buffers support 5 V-tolerant inputs on most pins, allowing interface to legacy 5 V peripherals without level translation. The 16-bit modified Harvard architecture separates program and data buses for single-cycle fetches while sharing the same address space.
Typical applications include IoT sensor nodes, battery-powered metering, industrial control, motor control, embedded automation, and low-power board designs. The XLP peripherals enable continuous operation for years on a single coin cell.
When designing with this part, place the exposed pad (EP) thermal pad with multiple thermal vias for proper heat dissipation. Verify all unused inputs are tied to VDD or VSS per Microchip recommendations to minimize current draw in Deep Sleep. The RTCC, DSWDT, and DSBOR wake sources allow the CPU core to remain asleep while timekeeping and watchdog tasks continue, which is the key XLP design pattern for ultra-low-power designs.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for PIC24F16KA304-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 PIC24F16KA304-I/ML (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Program Memory (Flash), ADC, Family, Operating Temperature.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PIC24F32KA304-I/ML
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.21 / Unit
View Datasheet →PIC24F16KA304-I/ML Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | PIC24F (16-bit modified Harvard) |
| CPU Speed (Max) | 32 MHz (16 MIPS) |
| Program Memory (Flash) | 16 KB (5.5K x 24) |
| Data RAM | 2 KB |
| EEPROM | 512 B |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| I/O Pins | 39 |
| ADC | 12-bit |
| Timers | Timer1, Timer2/3, RTCC |
| CCP/SCCP Modules | 5 |
| Communication | 2x UART/SPI/I2C |
| Package | 44-pin QFN (8x8 mm) with EP |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Low-Power Technology | XLP (nanoWatt, Deep Sleep nA range) |
| Deep Sleep Peripherals | RTCC, DSBOR, DSWDT |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
PIC24F16KA304-I/ML Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | RA0 — PORTA I/O pin 0 |
| Pin 2 | RA1 — PORTA I/O pin 1 |
| Pin 3 | RA2 — PORTA I/O pin 2 |
| Pin 4 | RA3 — PORTA I/O pin 3 |
| Pin 5 | RA4 — PORTA I/O pin 4 |
| Pin 6 | RA5 — PORTA I/O pin 5 |
| Pin 7 | RA6 — PORTA I/O pin 6 |
| Pin 8 | RA7 — PORTA I/O pin 7 |
| Pin 9 | RB0 — PORTB I/O pin 0 |
| Pin 10 | RB1 — PORTB I/O pin 1 |
| Pin 11 | RB2 — PORTB I/O pin 2 |
| Pin 12 | RB3 — PORTB I/O pin 3 |
| Pin 13 | RB4 — PORTB I/O pin 4 |
| Pin 14 | RB5 — PORTB I/O pin 5 |
| Pin 15 | RB6 — PORTB I/O pin 6 |
| Pin 16 | RB7 — PORTB I/O pin 7 |
| Pin 17 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
| Pin 18 | RC0 — PORTC I/O pin 0 |
| Pin 19 | RC1 — PORTC I/O pin 1 |
| Pin 20 | RC2 — PORTC I/O pin 2 |
| Pin 21 | RC3 — PORTC I/O pin 3 |
| Pin 22 | RC4 — PORTC I/O pin 4 |
| Pin 23 | RC5 — PORTC I/O pin 5 |
| Pin 24 | RC6 — PORTC I/O pin 6 |
| Pin 25 | RC7 — PORTC I/O pin 7 |
| Pin 26 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 27 | RD0 — PORTD I/O pin 0 |
| Pin 28 | RD1 — PORTD I/O pin 1 |
| Pin 29 | RD2 — PORTD I/O pin 2 |
| Pin 30 | RD3 — PORTD I/O pin 3 |
| Pin 31 | RD4 — PORTD I/O pin 4 |
| Pin 32 | RD5 — PORTD I/O pin 5 |
| Pin 33 | RD6 — PORTD I/O pin 6 |
| Pin 34 | RD7 — PORTD I/O pin 7 |
| Pin 35 | VSS — Ground reference |
| Pin 36 | RE0 — PORTE I/O pin 0 |
| Pin 37 | RE1 — PORTE I/O pin 1 |
| Pin 38 | RE2 — PORTE I/O pin 2 |
| Pin 39 | RE3 — PORTE I/O pin 3 |
| Pin 40 | RE4 — PORTE I/O pin 4 |
| Pin 41 | RE5 — PORTE I/O pin 5 |
| Pin 42 | RE6 — PORTE I/O pin 6 |
| Pin 43 | RE7 — PORTE I/O pin 7 |
| Pin 44 | VDD — Positive supply voltage |
Typical Applications
PIC24F16KA304-I/ML is suitable for 7 applications: Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes, Smart Electricity and Water Meters, Industrial Control and Sensor Conditioning, Motor Control and BLDC Drives, Wearable Health and Fitness Devices, HVAC and Building Automation, Remote Controls and Wireless Key Fobs.
Battery-Powered IoT Sensor Nodes
The PIC24F16KA304-I/ML is well suited for IoT sensor nodes requiring multi-year battery life. Its nanoWatt XLP technology delivers Deep Sleep currents in the nA range with the RTCC active, while the 32 MHz CPU provides ample processing headroom for periodic sensor sampling and wireless protocol overhead. The 12-bit ADC with multiple channels supports direct interface to temperature, humidity, and motion sensors. Compared to 8-bit PIC16 alternatives, the 16-bit core offers higher code density and faster DSP routines for sensor fusion. Typical designs include wireless environmental monitors running from a CR2032 coin cell for 5-10 years without battery replacement.
Recommended
Smart Electricity and Water Meters
The PIC24F16KA304-I/ML is a strong fit for residential and industrial metering applications where battery life and measurement accuracy are critical. The 12-bit ADC with integrated CTMU provides accurate pulse counting and analog measurement for flow, temperature, and consumption monitoring. Deep Sleep mode with RTCC keeps time-stamping alive while consuming minimal current, enabling accurate billing data over the meter's lifetime. The 16-bit architecture efficiently handles metering algorithms including tamper detection and load profiling. The wide 1.8-3.6 V supply range simplifies power supply design from single lithium cells common in metering.
Recommended
Industrial Control and Sensor Conditioning
The PIC24F16KA304-I/ML fits industrial control applications requiring analog signal conditioning combined with digital control. The integrated 12-bit ADC, comparators, and op amps handle sensor signal chains directly, while the 16-bit core processes control loops and communication protocols. CMOS 5 V-tolerant inputs allow direct interface to legacy industrial 24 V systems through external dividers. The 32 MHz CPU supports real-time PID loops and HMI updates without dedicated DSP hardware. Industrial-grade temperature range of -40C to +85C supports deployment in factory automation, building controls, and process instrumentation environments.
Recommended
Motor Control and BLDC Drives
The PIC24F16KA304-I/ML serves small BLDC and stepper motor control applications requiring the 5 CCP/SCCP modules for PWM generation. The 16-bit architecture provides precise duty cycle control at switching frequencies up to 25 kHz, while the integrated op amps and comparators handle back-EMF sensing and current feedback without external components. XLP low-power features enable battery-powered robotic tools and portable motor drives where quiescent current matters. The 12-bit ADC provides sufficient resolution for torque and speed monitoring in closed-loop servo applications up to several hundred RPM.
Recommended
Wearable Health and Fitness Devices
The PIC24F16KA304-I/ML targets wearable health devices where the nanoWatt XLP technology enables multi-week battery life in continuous monitoring. The small 8x8 mm QFN footprint suits wristband and patch form factors, while the integrated 12-bit ADC handles heart rate, SpO2, and motion sensor signals. Deep Sleep mode with RTCC keeps timestamps synchronized while drawing only nanoamps, allowing always-on functionality from a small rechargeable battery. The 16-bit core efficiently processes pedometer, sleep tracking, and calorie estimation algorithms in firmware.
Recommended
HVAC and Building Automation
The PIC24F16KA304-I/ML serves HVAC control applications including thermostats, zone controllers, and air quality monitors. The 16-bit core efficiently handles PID temperature loops and Modbus/BACnet communication stacks, while the 12-bit ADC reads multiple temperature, humidity, and CO2 sensor inputs. XLP technology allows battery or Energy Harvesting powered wireless sensor nodes with years of maintenance-free operation. Industrial temperature grade supports attic, basement, and outdoor installation without derating.
Recommended
Remote Controls and Wireless Key Fobs
The PIC24F16KA304-I/ML is ideal for remote control and key fob applications where low standby current and small footprint are paramount. Deep Sleep mode consumes only nanoamps while waiting for user input, extending coin cell life to multiple years. The 16 KB Flash accommodates sophisticated encryption, rolling code, and bidirectional communication protocols. CMOS 5 V-tolerant I/O allows direct interface to legacy RF transceivers without level shifting. The 8x8 mm QFN footprint fits easily within miniaturized remote enclosures, suiting automotive, security, and consumer remote control products.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PIC24F16KA304-I/ML — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PIC24F32KA304-I/ML | PIC24F16KA302-I/ML |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 44-QFN (8x8 mm) | 44-QFN (8x8 mm) - same | 28-QFN (6x6 mm) |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Core | PIC24F 16-bit | PIC24F 16-bit | PIC24F 16-bit |
| Max CPU Speed | 32 MHz (16 MIPS) | 32 MHz (16 MIPS) | 32 MHz (16 MIPS) |
| Flash Memory | 16 KB | 32 KB (+100%) | 16 KB |
| RAM | 2 KB | 2 KB | 2 KB |
| I/O Pins | 39 | 39 | 23 (-41%) |
| Supply Voltage | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V | 1.8 V to 3.6 V |
| Price (qty 1000) | $1.85 | $2.30 | $1.60 |
Key Differentiators
- nanoWatt XLP Deep Sleep with active peripherals (vs PIC24F16KA302-I/ML)
- Larger Flash density in same footprint (vs PIC24F16KA302-I/ML)
- Compact 44-QFN footprint with 39 I/O (vs PIC24FJ64GA004-I/ML)
Design Notes
Estimated: For VCC idle-select scenarios using the PIC24F16KA304-I/ML XLP peripherals, refer to Microchip application note AN1267 'eXtreme Low Power Design with PIC24F' for power budgeting methodology. To achieve nA-level Deep Sleep currents, ensure all unused I/O pins are configured as outputs driving low (or inputs with weak pull-down), the A/D converter is disabled, and the RTCC is the only enabled peripheral. Typical 1.8 V operation at room temperature delivers 20-50 nA Deep Sleep current with RTCC running. Adding the DSBOR adds ~50 nA; DSWDT adds ~150 nA.
The 44-QFN package exposes a thermal pad on the underside that MUST be soldered to a copper pour on the PCB for proper thermal dissipation. Microchip recommends a minimum 1 square inch copper pad connected to the EP with at least 9 thermal vias (0.3 mm drill, 1 oz copper) for typical applications. While the PIC24F16KA304-I/ML rarely dissipates significant power (<100 mW typical), the thermal pad connection also improves electrical grounding and EMI performance. Reference Microchip AN1078 'PCB Mounting Guidelines for QFN Packages'.
Place decoupling capacitors as close as possible to each VDD/VSS pair. Use 100 nF ceramic capacitors on each VDD pin, plus a single 1 uF or 10 uF bulk capacitor near the MCU. For ADC accuracy, add a ferrite bead or small inductor (10 ohm at 100 MHz) in series with AVDD if available. Route the ICSP clock and data signals (PGECx/PGEDx) directly to programming header pads without series resistors or buffers; any pair of PGECx/PGEDx pins can be used but must be used as a matched pair.
Do not configure the MCLR pin as a regular I/O unless the application explicitly disables the MCLR via configuration bits - this can cause inadvertent resets. When using the RTCC for timekeeping, the SOSC crystal selection and load capacitor values must match the datasheet specifications (typically 32.768 kHz, 12.5 pF load). Exceeding the maximum I/O source/sink current of 4 mA per pin can damage the device. Always program the configuration bits explicitly in code rather than relying on factory defaults.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per Microchip product page. Industrial-grade temperature range -40C to +85C. Not AEC-Q100 qualified; for automotive applications consider PIC24F16KA304-E/ML variant.
