Microchip expands 8-bit PIC Microcontroller Portfolio

Microchip Technology Inc. has announced from Embedded World an expansion of its 8-bit PIC microcontroller (MCU) portfolio with the PIC12(L)F157X family, which features multiple 16-bit PWMs with an assortment of analog peripherals and serial communications in an 8-pin package. These MCUs deliver three full-featured 16-bit PWMs with independent timers, for applications where high resolution is needed such as LED lighting, stepper motors, battery charging and other general-purpose applications.
In addition to standard and center-aligned PWM output modes, the peripheral also has four compare modes and can serve as an additional 16-bit timer. The Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG), in combination with the 16-bit PWMs, can be used to create half-bridge and full-bridge drive control. The CWG is a powerful waveform generator, which can generate complementary waveforms with fine control of key parameters such as polarity, dead band and emergency shutdown states. It provides a cost-effective solution, saving both board space and component cost when driving FETs in motor-control and power-conversion applications. The Core Independent Peripherals (CWG, 16-bit PWMs) coupled with the Analog Peripherals (10-bit ADCs, comparator and 5-bit DAC) enable closed-loop feedback and control.

"The PIC12F157X family brings high-precision 16-bit PWM drive and closed-loop control capabilities to our 8-pin MCU portfolio," said Steve Drehobl, Vice-President of Microchip's MCU8 Division.  "These are the least expensive products with EUSART, which is paired with advanced PWMs and Core Independent Peripherals to bring high-end capabilities into lower pin counts."

The PIC12F1572 enables communication with a EUSART, at the lowest price point in the PIC MCU portfolio. The addition of the EUSART enables general-purpose serial communication and LIN for automotive and industrial control. The integrated 10-bit ADCs enable human-interface/touch applications using Microchip's capacitive mTouch sensing solution. Additionally, the PIC12F157X offers non-volatile data storage via High Endurance Flash (HEF) memory. The "LF" versions feature low-power technology, for active currents of less than 35 µA/MHz and sleep currents down to 20 µA, which is ideal for battery-powered applications.