Microchip Expanded its PIC24F MCU Family

Published:2012/1/10 1:29:00 Author:Phyllis From:SeekIC

Microchip has expanded its eXtreme Low Power (XLP) microcontrollers with the PIC24F ‘GA3’ 16-bit MCU family by adding a low-power sleep mode with RAM retention down to 330 nA and the first PIC MCUs with VBAT for battery backup of the on-chip real-time clock calendar.

With operating current of 150 microamperes/MHz, numerous low-power modes, and low-power sleep mode with RAM retention down to 330 nA, the PIC24F ‘GA3’ MCUs maximize battery life by reducing the overall amount of power that the application consumes.

To allow the application’s real-time clock to continue running when primary power is removed, a VBAT pin can be used to supply back-up power with 400 nA. Additionally, the transition from VDD to the VBAT supply pin occurs automatically as VDD is removed.

This is also the first time an integrated LCD display driver has been included in the PIC24F to provide the ability to directly drive up to 480 segments, with an eight-common-drive capability, enabling more informative and flexible displays that include descriptive icons and scrolling.

The MCUs also include a charge time measurement unit (CTMU) with a constant current source that can be used for mTouch capacitive sensing, ultrasonic flow measurement and many other sensors.

The ADC in the MCU includes a threshold detect function that allows the ADC to wake the CPU when a specific threshold of window is reached. The threshold detect function is particularly useful when used with the CTMU in a capacitive touch application. The button or proximity sensor can be monitored while the device is in sleep and can wake when a specific threshold value is reached.

The PIC24F ‘GA3’ devices are targeted for use in consumer thermostats, door locks, and home automation; industrial products such as security, wired and wireless sensors, and controls; portable medical devices and medical diagnostic equipment; and metering products including e-Meters, energy monitoring, automated meter reading and meters for gas, water or heat; in addition to other applications.

Microchip Technology Incorporated engages in the design, development, manufacture, and market of semiconductor products for embedded control applications. Its product portfolio includes microcontrollers and development tools that enable system designers to program a PIC microcontroller and dsPIC DSC for specific applications. The company also offers analog and interface products, including power management, linear, mixed-signal, thermal management, RF Linear drivers, safety and security, and interface products; and technology licensing products. In addition, it licenses flash intellectual property solutions, and provides assembly and test services for semiconductor manufacturers.

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