Microchip PIC18F25K80-E/SS 8-Bit Microcontroller Technical Overview and Application Guide

The Microchip PIC18F25K80-E/SS represents a powerful and versatile member of the enhanced mid-range PIC18 “K80” family of 8-bit microcontrollers. Engineered for a broad spectrum of embedded control applications, this device combines a robust feature set with the low-power operation and cost-effectiveness characteristic of Microchip's proven PIC® architecture. This guide delves into its core technical specifications and highlights its ideal application scenarios.

At the heart of the PIC18F25K80-E/SS lies a high-performance 8-bit RISC CPU. The core can operate at speeds up to 64 MHz, delivering a impressive 16 MIPS (Million Instructions Per Second), enabling it to handle complex control algorithms and time-sensitive tasks with ease. A significant feature of this microcontroller is its enhanced core with a hardware multiplier, which accelerates mathematical computations crucial for digital signal processing and data analysis tasks.

Memory configuration is a key strength. The device boasts 64 KB of self-read/write capable Flash program memory, providing ample space for sophisticated application code. It is complemented by 3,856 Bytes of RAM for data handling and 1,024 Bytes of high-endurance EEPROM for storing critical data that must be retained even after a power cycle, such as calibration constants or user settings.

The peripheral set is exceptionally rich and designed for connectivity and control:

Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC): A 10-bit ADC with up to 28 channels allows for precise measurement of multiple analog signals from sensors.

Communication Interfaces: It includes hardware support for multiple serial communication protocols: EUSART (for RS-232/RS-485), SPI, and I2C™, facilitating easy connection to peripherals like sensors, displays, memory chips, and other microcontrollers.

Timers and CCP: Five timers (including a 16-bit timer), along with Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) modules, provide precise timing, waveform generation, and motor control capabilities.

mTouch Sensing: The controller supports Microchip's mTouch® capacitive sensing technology, enabling the design of modern, robust user interfaces without mechanical buttons.

A standout feature of the "K80" family is its nanoWatt XLP (eXtreme Low Power) technology. This makes the PIC18F25K80-E/SS ideal for battery-powered and power-critical applications, as it achieves extremely low sleep currents down to 20 nA, significantly extending battery life.

Housed in a 28-pin Shrink Small Outline (SSOP) package, this device offers a high level of integration in a compact form factor.

Application Guide:

The robust feature set of the PIC18F25K80-E/SS makes it suitable for a diverse range of applications, including:

Industrial Control Systems: PLCs, sensor nodes, and motor control units.

Automotive Electronics: Body control modules, dashboard displays, and sensor interfaces.

Consumer Electronics: Advanced remote controls, home automation controllers, and appliances.

Medical Devices: Portable patient monitoring equipment and diagnostic tools.

Internet of Things (IoT) Endpoints: Battery-operated sensor nodes requiring long life and communication capabilities.

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip PIC18F25K80-E/SS is a highly integrated, high-performance 8-bit microcontroller. Its potent combination of substantial memory, a rich peripheral set, and exceptional nanoWatt XLP low-power management solidifies its position as a premier choice for designers tackling complex embedded control challenges across industrial, automotive, consumer, and IoT markets.

Keywords: 8-bit Microcontroller, nanoWatt XLP Technology, PIC18F25K80, Embedded Control, Peripheral Integration