The Next Evolutionary Step in Customizable Logic, Microchip Releases PIC16F13145 Family of MCUs
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The introduction of Microchip Technology's PIC16F13145 family of microcontrollers (MCUs) with integrated Configurable Logic Block (CLB) module is a strategic move that caters to the growing demand for customizable embedded solutions. The embedded systems market is highly competitive and the ability to reduce Bill of Materials (BOM) cost and power consumption while increasing functionality is a significant value proposition. The CLB's capability to operate independently of the CPU clock speed and to perform logical decisions during sleep mode can enhance system latency and power efficiency, which are critical factors in industrial and automotive applications.
From a market perspective, the ability to simplify the design process through a graphical interface tool and reduce development time with the MPLAB Code Configurator can be appealing to embedded engineers. These features may lead to increased adoption rates, potentially expanding Microchip's market share. The competitive pricing of the MCUs, starting at $0.47 for 10,000-unit quantities, positions them as an attractive option in cost-sensitive markets. The availability of development tools and evaluation kits further supports the adoption of this technology, potentially shortening the time to market for products utilizing these MCUs.
The release of the PIC16F13145 MCUs featuring the new CLB module represents a potential growth driver for Microchip Technology's revenue streams. By addressing the specific needs of real-time control systems in the industrial and automotive sectors, Microchip may tap into a niche market segment with high barriers to entry due to the technical requirements. The integration of advanced features such as a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC), 8-bit Digital-to-Analog (DAC) converter and serial communication modules enhances the product's appeal and may lead to higher sales volumes.
The reduction in BOM cost achieved by eliminating external logic components could lead to higher gross margins for Microchip, as manufacturing costs decrease while the product's selling price remains competitive. The impact on the stock market could be positive if investors view this innovation as a sign of Microchip's commitment to maintaining a competitive edge and expanding its product offerings in a way that aligns with current market demands.
The technical implications of the PIC16F13145 MCUs with the CLB module are substantial for the field of embedded systems design. The integration of custom combinational logic functions within the MCU simplifies the design process and enhances the efficiency of embedded control systems. This allows for more complex logic operations to be handled directly by the hardware, potentially increasing the system's responsiveness and reliability.
The inclusion of a graphical interface tool for custom logic design is a noteworthy advancement, as it streamlines the logic synthesis process. This could lead to a reduction in the learning curve for engineers new to hardware description languages, fostering innovation and creativity in embedded system design. The independence of the CLB from CPU clock speed is a technical advantage that can be leveraged to create more power-efficient systems, a key consideration in the design of industrial and automotive electronics.
New Configurable Logic Block (CLB) module offers tailored hardware solutions and helps eliminate the need for external logic components
CHANDLER, Ariz., Jan. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- To address the expanding need for increasing levels of customization in embedded applications, Microchip Technology (Nasdaq: MCHP) is offering a tailored hardware solution with the launch of its PIC16F13145 family of microcontrollers (MCUs). Outfitted with a new Core Independent Peripheral (CIP)—the Configurable Logic Block (CLB) module—the MCUs enable the creation of hardware-based, custom combinational logic functions directly within the MCU. Because of its integration into the MCU, the CLB allows designers to optimize the speed and response time of embedded control systems, eliminating the need for external logic components and reducing Bill of Materials (BOM) cost and power consumption. The process is further simplified by a graphical interface tool, which helps synthesize custom logic designs using the CLB. The PIC16F13145 family is designed for applications utilizing custom protocols, task sequencing or I/O control to manage real-time control systems in the industrial and automotive sectors.
“The Configurable Logic Cell (CLC) Module has been integrated into Microchip MCUs for more than a decade and the new CLB module is the next step in the evolution of our customizable logic offering, enabling this family of MCUs to be utilized in applications that are typically the domain of standalone programmable logic devices,” said Greg Robinson, vice president of Microchip’s 8-bit microcontroller business unit. “Few single-chip solutions in today’s market address embedded engineers’ design challenges like the PIC16F131 MCU family. The new MCUs handle custom logic functions, minimize power consumption, simplify designs and can accommodate changing design requirements.”
Since the CLB’s operation is not dependent on the CPU clock speed, it improves the system’s latency and provides a low-power solution. The CLB can be used to make logical decisions while the CPU is in sleep mode, further reducing power consumption and software reliance. The PIC16F13145 MCUs also include a fast 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with built-in computation, an 8-bit Digital-to-Analog (DAC) converter, fast comparators, 8- and 16-bit timers and serial communication modules (I2C and SPI) to allow many system-level tasks to be performed without the CPU. The family will be available in various packages from 8 pins up to 20 pins.
Development Tools
The PIC16F13145 family of MCUs is supported by the MPLAB® Code Configurator (MCC), a free software plug-in within MPLAB X IDE which provides an easy GUI-based interface to configure the device and on-board peripherals, including the CLB. This interface reduces development time as the desired custom logic can be designed schematically with options for an advanced user to utilize Hardware Description Language (HDL). The new synthesizer is available in two options: integrated into MCC and online at logic.microchip.com. The PIC16F131 Curiosity Nano Evaluation Kit offers complete support for designing with the PIC16F131 family and these features coordinate for a seamless embedded development experience and reduced time to market.
Pricing and Availability
PIC16F131 MCUs are available starting at $.47 each in 10,000-unit quantities. For additional information and to purchase, contact a Microchip sales representative, authorized worldwide distributor or visit Microchip’s Purchasing and Client Services website, www.microchipdirect.com.
Resources
High-res images available through Flickr or editorial contact (feel free to publish):
- Application image: https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/53451201638/sizes/l/
- Block diagram: https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/53450157287/sizes/o/
- Tool photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/53451411614/sizes/l/
About Microchip Technology:
Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions. Its easy-to-use development tools and comprehensive product portfolio enable customers to create optimal designs which reduce risk while lowering total system cost and time to market. The company’s solutions serve approximately 125,000 customers across the industrial, automotive, consumer, aerospace and defense, communications and computing markets. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at www.microchip.com.
Note: The Microchip name and logo, the Microchip logo and MPLAB are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies.
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