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Microchip launches 8-bit microcontrollers with integrated Configurable Logic in 6- to 20-pin packages

27th September 2011

ES Admin

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Microchip Technology Inc., launched several new 8-bit PIC microcontrollers from the Embedded Systems Conference in Boston. The new MCUs feature configurable logic and a high level of peripheral integration in 6- to 20-pin packages. The PIC10F(LF)32X and PIC1XF(LF)150X MCUs also incorporate new peripherals, including Configurable Logic Cells (CLCs), Complementary Waveform Generators (CWGs) and Numerically Controlled Oscillators (NCOs), enabling functionality that was not possible before with low pincount MCUs. These general-purpose MCUs enable designers to enhance functionality, reduce design size, and decrease the cost and power consumption of products in the appliance (e.g. small kitchen appliances); automotive (e.g. interior lighting); consumer (e.g. power tools); and industrial markets (e.g. utility meters), among others.

The CLC peripherals on the PIC10F(LF)32X and PIC1XF(LF)150X MCUs enable software control of combinational and sequential logic, which increases the on-chip interconnection of peripherals and I/Os, thereby reducing external components, saving code space and adding functionality. The CWG peripheral works with multiple peripherals to generate complementary waveforms with dead-band control and auto shutdown, which provides improved switching efficiencies. Additionally, the NCO peripheral enables linear frequency control and high resolution, which is required for applications such as lighting ballast, tone generation and other resonant control circuits. The MCUs also feature low power consumption, with currents of less than 30 µA/MHz in active mode, and less than 20 nA in sleep; as well as an on-chip 16 MHz internal oscillator, Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC), and up to 4 Pulse-Width Modulation peripherals. An integrated temperature-indicator module enables low-cost temperature measurements.

These new MCUs expand the reach of the PIC10F, PIC12F and PIC16F families, enabling new applications for microcontrollers that didn't exist before, said Steve Drehobl, vice president of Microchip's Security, Microcontroller and Technology Development Division. They provide an unmatched combination of unique functionality, power consumption, size and cost.

Development support
To facilitate application development, the PICDEM Lab Development Kit (part # DM163045) now includes samples of both the PIC10F322 and PIC16F1507 MCUs. Additionally, the F1 Evaluation Platform (part # DM164130-1) is available for development with enhanced mid-range core 8-bit PIC MCUs, including the PIC1XF (LF) 150X family. Also available is a free CLC Configuration Tool, to streamline the setup process of the CLC module by simulating the functionality of the registers and combinational logic in a graphical user interface (GUI).