Microchhip launches products for wireless connectivity

These environments often demand connectivity solutions that can endure harsh conditions, including high temperatures, interference, and physical obstacles. To address this, Microchip Technology has expanded its Wi-Fi portfolio with the addition of 20 new products. Building on one of the industry’s most comprehensive wireless connectivity ranges, Microchip now offers high-performance Wi-Fi microcontrollers (MCUs), network and link controllers, and plug-and-play modules designed to streamline development and accelerate time to market.

Microchip’s Wi-Fi solutions cater to a wide variety of application needs and developer expertise. The offerings range from pre-certified modules that require no Radio Frequency (RF) knowledge and minimal programming to more advanced Systems-on-Chip (SoCs) featuring industrial-level functionality.

Key products in Microchip’s Wi-Fi portfolio include:

• Wi-Fi MCUs: Combining the functionality of a microcontroller with reliable wireless connectivity for an all-in-one solution
• Link controllers: Featuring an SDIO interface that enables easy addition of Wi-Fi to Linux MPUs
• Network controllers: Using an SPI interface to add wireless connectivity to an MCU
• Plug-and-play modules: These modules simplify wireless-to-cloud connectivity by sending simple text commands from an MCU over a UART interface

“For decades Microchip has been a respected MCU provider, and we’ve leveraged that background, along with our comprehensive support ecosystem, to build a portfolio of Wi-Fi products and services that is unmatched in the industry today,” said Rishi Vasuki, Vice President of Microchip’s wireless solutions business unit. “Our experience allows us to provide developers with wireless solutions designed to support advanced applications such as precision sensing and motor control operating under harsh conditions.”

The new PIC32MZ-W1 Wi-Fi MCUs enhance Microchip’s reliable 32-bit MCU line, offering advanced analogue peripherals like CAN, Ethernet, capacitive touch, and ADC, providing excellent versatility. They also boast some of the highest General-Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) capabilities available.

Additionally, the portfolio includes the next-generation WINCS02 network controllers and WILCS02 link controllers. These updated versions of the popular WINC and WILC solutions offer improved radio performance and enhanced security features, while maintaining pin-to-pin compatibility with previous models, making migration from legacy devices simpler.

To facilitate Wi-Fi-to-cloud connectivity, Microchip has expanded its plug-and-play range with the introduction of the RNWF02 modules. These modules allow MCUs to connect to cloud platforms via simple ASCII commands sent through a UART interface.

Given the challenges of implementing secure connections, particularly when transmitting or receiving cloud data, Microchip has integrated its Trust Platform into many of its Wi-Fi products. Trust&GO module variants come pre-provisioned for secure authentication with major cloud platforms, including AWS® and Azure®, simplifying the network authentication process for developers.