Microchip PIC18F24K50-I/ML: A Comprehensive Technical Overview and Application Guide

The Microchip PIC18F24K50-I/ML stands as a prominent member of the enhanced mid-range PIC18 family, engineered to deliver a powerful blend of performance, peripheral integration, and cost-effectiveness in a compact form factor. This 8-bit microcontroller, housed in a 28-pin QFN (ML) package, is specifically designed for a wide array of embedded control applications, from consumer electronics to industrial systems.

Core Architecture and Performance

At its heart, the device features an enhanced PIC18 core with a 16-bit instruction set and a 32-level deep hardware stack. Operating at speeds up to 48 MHz (12 MIPS), it provides ample processing power for complex control algorithms. A key architectural advantage is its nanoWatt XLP Technology, which enables extremely low power consumption, making it ideal for battery-powered and energy-harvesting applications where extended operation is critical.

Memory Configuration

The PIC18F24K50 boasts a balanced memory structure:

16 KB of Self-Read/Write Flash Program Memory: This provides ample space for application code and allows for field firmware updates.

768 Bytes of SRAM: Ensures efficient data manipulation during runtime.

256 Bytes of EEPROM: Offers reliable non-volatile storage for critical data such as calibration constants or user settings, which must be retained even after a power cycle.

Rich Integrated Peripheral Set

This microcontroller distinguishes itself through its robust suite of on-chip peripherals, reducing external component count and total system cost.

USB 2.0 Full-Speed (12 Mbps) Module: This is a cornerstone feature. With an on-chip transceiver, it enables direct connection to a USB host, facilitating applications like custom human interface devices (HID), data loggers, or bootloaders.

Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC): A 10-bit ADC with up to 13 channels allows for precise measurement of analog signals from sensors.

Timers and CCP Modules: Multiple 8-bit and 16-bit timers, along with Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) modules, provide essential functions for waveform generation, event timing, and motor control.

Communication Interfaces: It includes EUSART (for UART), MSSP (Master Synchronous Serial Port) for SPI/I²C, and a Comparator module, offering versatile connectivity options to sensors, memories, and other peripheral ICs.

Application Guide

The integration of USB, analog, and digital peripherals opens doors to numerous applications:

1. USB Peripherals: Development of custom keyboards, mice, game controllers, and USB-to-serial adapters.

2. Sensor Hub and Data Acquisition: Its analog capabilities make it perfect for reading multiple sensors (temperature, pressure, light) and transmitting the data via USB or serial communication.

3. Battery-Managed Systems: The ultra-low sleep currents enabled by XLP technology are perfect for remote controls, smart sensors, and medical devices that require years of operation on a single battery.

4. General Purpose Control: From industrial control and automation to hobbyist projects, it serves as a powerful and flexible controller for managing buttons, LEDs, displays, and motors.

Development Support

Designing with the PIC18F24K50 is streamlined by Microchip's extensive ecosystem. The MPLAB X IDE and XC8 Compiler provide a complete software development environment. Hardware prototyping is accelerated by development boards like the PIC18F47Q10 Curiosity Nano (which shares similar features) and the widespread availability of the PICKit™ 4 and MPLAB ICD 4 programmers/debuggers.

ICGOODFIND Summary

The Microchip PIC18F24K50-I/ML is a highly integrated and versatile 8-bit microcontroller. Its compelling combination of USB connectivity, nanoWatt XLP low-power technology, and a rich set of peripherals packaged in a small QFN form factor makes it an exceptional choice for developers aiming to create sophisticated, connected, and power-sensitive embedded designs with a minimal component footprint.

Keywords:

PIC18F24K50

USB Microcontroller

nanoWatt XLP Technology

Embedded Systems

8-bit MCU