Entry-level safety-critical MCUs reduce expenses and simplify operations

Microchip Technology has introduced the AVR® SD family of microcontrollers (MCUs) with a focus on meeting stringent safety requirements while minimizing design costs and complexity. These MCUs feature built-in functional safety mechanisms that are specifically designed to support applications requiring rigorous safety assurance. Paired with a dedicated safety software framework, the AVR SD family is the first entry-level MCU at this price point to meet Automotive Safety Integrity Level C (ASIL C) and Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL 2) requirements, which mandate redundant safety checks.

Enhancing the safety credentials of the AVR SD family, the MCUs follow a functional safety management system that has been certified by TÜV Rheinland. Hardware safety features include a dual-core lockstep CPU, dual ADCs, ECC on all memories, a dedicated error controller module, error injection mechanisms, and voltage and clock monitors. These features reduce fault detection time and software complexity, enabling the MCUs to detect internal faults quickly and deterministically.

The hardware features work in conjunction with the safety framework software developed by Microchip to manage functional safety diagnostics. This allows the MCUs to detect and handle errors autonomously, initiating a safe state when necessary. The MCUs can serve as the main processor for essential functions, such as detecting thermal runaways or monitoring sensor data like rotary positions, with minimal power consumption. They are also suitable for use as coprocessors in complex systems to mirror or offload safety-critical functions for applications targeting higher safety integrity levels up to ASIL D and SIL 3.

Greg Robinson, corporate vice president of Microchip’s MCU business unit, highlighted the significance of integrating specific safety features directly into an entry-level MCU and providing a supporting software framework. Robinson stated, “With the AVR SD family, designers can significantly reduce development time and minimize system and certification costs.” The AVR SD MCUs are designed in compliance with ISO 26262 and IEC 61508 standards, making them suitable for various applications including flight control systems, ignition control, robotics safety functions, ADAS, and medical infusion pumps.

AVR SD MCUs are compatible with the TÜV SÜD functional safety certified MPLAB® XC8 Pro compiler and Microchip’s popular Curiosity Nano development board. The MCUs are supported by functional safety packages that include safety documentation such as Failure Modes, Effects and Diagnostic analysis report, Safety manual, Dependent Fault Analysis report, safety software, and compliance reports. By offering a comprehensive solution for safety-critical applications, Microchip Technology aims to help customers meet stringent safety standards efficiently and cost-effectively.