Microchip PIC18F25K50-I/SS 8-Bit Microcontroller Overview and Application Guide

The Microchip PIC18F25K50-I/SS is a high-performance, low-power 8-bit microcontroller based on Microchip’s enhanced PIC18 architecture. It is designed to deliver a flexible and cost-effective solution for a wide range of embedded applications, from consumer electronics to industrial systems. With its integration of USB functionality, ample memory, and a rich set of peripherals, this microcontroller offers a compelling blend of performance and connectivity.

Housed in a 28-pin SSOP package, the device operates over an extensive voltage range (2.0V to 5.5V), making it suitable for both battery-powered and line-operated applications. Its core can execute instructions at speeds up to 48 MHz, providing ample processing power for complex control tasks. A standout feature of the PIC18F25K50 is its integrated Full-Speed USB 2.0 module, which enables the development of devices like PC peripherals, custom HID interfaces, and data loggers without requiring external USB controllers.

The microcontroller is equipped with 32 KB of self-read/write capable Flash program memory and 2 KB of RAM, ensuring sufficient space for application code and data handling. It also includes 1 KB of non-volatile EEPROM for storing critical parameters. A suite of communication interfaces, including EUSART, SPI, and I2C, facilitates easy connection to sensors, displays, and other peripheral components.

For analog signal acquisition, the PIC18F25K50 features a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with up to 13 channels, allowing for precise monitoring of multiple analog sensors. Its robust peripheral set also includes multiple timers, a comparator, and a Charge Time Measurement Unit (CTMU) for advanced touch sensing applications without external components.

Development is supported by Microchip’s comprehensive MPLAB X IDE and the MPLAB Code Configurator (MCC), which drastically simplify code development and peripheral initialization. This makes the PIC18F25K50-I/SS an excellent choice for both novice developers and experienced engineers seeking to accelerate time-to-market.

ICGOODFIND: The PIC18F25K50-I/SS is a versatile and powerful 8-bit microcontroller that excels in applications requiring USB connectivity, low-power operation, and a rich set of integrated peripherals. Its balance of performance, cost, and development support makes it a strong contender for modern embedded designs.

Keywords: USB Microcontroller, Low-Power Operation, Enhanced PIC18 Core, Embedded Peripherals, Touch Sensing