Microchip announces the PIC16(L)F1826 and PIC16(L)F1827 general-purpose 8-bit microcontrollers (MCUs) — the latest PIC MCUs to feature the Company’s Enhanced Mid-range core. With this extension into the 18-pin range, the PIC16(L)F1826/7 MCUs provide an advanced peripheral set that includes an mTouch capacitive touch-sensing module and dual I2C/SPI interfaces, along with “LF” versions featuring industry-leading low power consumption via Microchip’s nanoWatt XLP eXtreme Low-Power technology.

In addition to the mTouch capacitive touch-sensing module and dual I2C/SPI interfaces, peripheral enhancements include enhanced PWM functionality, and a Digital Signal Modulator that enables designers to customise communication interfaces and combine many functions into a single MCU. The integration of Microchip’s nanoWatt XLP technology, which lowers standby current to just 0.030µA @ 1.8V (typical), delivers market-leading current consumption, further improving overall energy efficiency and extending battery life in a broad range of applications.

The PICkit 2 18-pin Demonstration Board ($23.99) provides a way to evaluate and develop with the PIC16(L)F1826/7 MCUs. The board includes four LEDs, a potentiometer for an Analogue-to-Digital Converter (ADC), a pushbutton, a prototyping area, a 6-pin connector for the PICkit 3 In-Circuit Debugger/Programmer , as well as two bare boards for designers to use for their own project.