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

Sept. 27, 2011 - PRLog -- :  [NASDAQ-  MCHP] Microchip Technology Inc., a leading provider of microcontroller, analog and Flash-IP solutions, today launched several new 8-bit PIC® microcontrollers (MCUs) 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).  
All of these new MCUs are supported by Microchip's standard development tools, including the PICkit™ 3 Debugger/Programmer (part # PG164130), as well as the  MPLAB® IDE, MPLAB REAL ICE™ In-Circuit Emulator and MPLAB ICD3 In-Circuit Debugger, and the Microchip and HI-TECH C® compilers.  All of these tools can be purchased today, at microchipDIRECT.

Packaging and availability
The PIC10F (LF) 320 and PIC10F (LF) 322 MCUs are available in a 6-pin SOT-23 package, as well as 8-pin PDIP and 2 mm x 3 mm DFN packages.  The PIC12F(LF)1501 MCU will be available in 8-pin PDIP, SOIC, MSOP and 2 mm x 3 mm DFN packages, and the PIC16F(LF)1503 MCU in 14-pin PDIP, SOIC and TSSOP packages, as well as a 3 mm x 3 mm QFN package.  The PIC16F(LF)1507 MCU is available in 20-pin SSOP, PDIP, SOIC, and 4 mm x 4 mm QFN packages, as will the PIC16F(LF)1508/9 MCUs, when available.
 
Samples and volume-production quantities of the PIC10F (LF) 320, PIC10F (LF) 322 and PIC16F (LF) 1507 MCUs can be ordered today,  The PIC1XF (LF) 1501/3/8/9 MCUs are expected to be available for sampling and purchase over the next two quarters.  For further information, contact any Microchip sales representative or authorised worldwide distributor To purchase products mentioned in this press release, go to microchipDIRECT or contact one of Microchip's authorised distribution partners.

About Microchip Technology
Microchip Technology Inc.  is a leading provider of microcontroller, analog and Flash-IP solutions, providing low-risk product development, lower total system cost and faster time to market for thousands of diverse customer applications worldwide.  Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality.
Note:  The Microchip name and logo, HI-TECH C, MPLAB, and PIC are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Inc. in the U.S.A., and other countries. mTouch, PICDEM, PICkit, and REAL ICE, are trademarks of Microchip Technology Inc. in the U.S.A., and other countries.  All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies.




Tags / keywords: Microchip, MCHP, PIC, microcontroller, MCU, configurable logic, low pin count, 6-pin
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
                                                                  For editorial queries only, please contact:
Daphne Yuen (Microchip): (852) 2943 5115 (email:daphne.yuen@microchip.com)
Emilee (PRHUB): 080- 22998141, 22483008 (email:emilee@prhub.com)
Shruthi (PRHUB):080-22998141, 22483008 (email:shruthi@prhub.com)
Shayan (PRHUB): 080-22998141, 22483008(email:shayan@prhub.com)