Microchip PIC18F26K80-E/SO 8-Bit Microcontroller: A Comprehensive Overview

The Microchip PIC18F26K80-E/SO is a high-performance member of the enhanced PIC18 K-series family of 8-bit microcontrollers (MCUs). Fabricated with Microchip's advanced nanoWatt XLP technology, this device is engineered for applications requiring a powerful core, extensive peripheral integration, and exceptionally low power consumption, making it ideal for battery-powered and connected systems.

Housed in a 28-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package, this MCU is built around an enhanced PIC18 core that can operate at up to 64 MHz, delivering a performance of 16 MIPS (Million Instructions Per Second). A key feature is its wide operating voltage range (1.8V to 3.6V), which facilitates its use in low-power designs without sacrificing computational speed.

The memory architecture is robust, featuring 96 Kbytes of self-read/write capable Flash program memory and 3896 bytes of RAM. This substantial memory space supports complex application code and data handling. Furthermore, it includes 1024 bytes of Data EEPROM, providing critical non-volatile storage for parameters that must be retained even after a power cycle.

Its peripheral set is rich and versatile, designed to minimize external component count. Key integrated peripherals include:

Enhanced Communication Interfaces: Multiple serial communication modules, including EUSART (LIN/J2602 compatible), SPI, and I2C™, provide flexible connectivity options for system expansion and data exchange with sensors, other MCUs, or peripherals.

Analog Capabilities: The module incorporates a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with up to 13 channels, enabling precise measurement of multiple analog signals. It also features two analog comparators for monitoring external voltages.

Timing and Control: With 4 timers/counters, including a 16-bit timer, and 2 Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) modules, the MCU offers precise timing generation, waveform capture, and motor control capabilities. An additional 5-bit DAC is available for analog waveform generation.

nanoWatt XLP Technology: This is a cornerstone of its design philosophy, enabling deep sleep currents as low as 20 nA, making it a premier choice for applications where years of operation from a single battery are required.

Target applications for the PIC18F26K80-E/SO are vast and include medical devices, metering systems, security sensors, advanced consumer electronics, and industrial control systems.

ICGOODFIND: The PIC18F26K80-E/SO stands out as a highly integrated and power-efficient 8-bit microcontroller solution. Its blend of high-speed processing, extensive memory, a comprehensive peripheral set, and industry-leading ultra-low power management solidifies its position as a versatile and reliable choice for designing next-generation embedded systems.

Keywords: PIC18F26K80, nanoWatt XLP, 8-bit Microcontroller, Low Power Consumption, 64 MHz