Microchip MCUs Simplify Analogue Sensor Design

Microchip Technology has introduced the PIC16F17576 MCUs, which are designed to enable devices to capture rapidly changing analogue signals with quick response times and minimal power consumption, making them ideal for battery-operated applications. These MCUs feature integrated low-power peripherals and the ability to precisely measure volatile analogue signals, setting them apart in the market.

One of the key features of the PIC16F17576 MCUs is the new low-power comparator and voltage reference combination that can operate even when the MCU core is in sleep mode. This innovative design allows for continuous analogue measurement while consuming less than 3.0 µA of current, ensuring efficient power usage. The Analog Peripheral Manager (APM) further enhances energy efficiency by controlling active peripherals to minimize power consumption, making these MCUs perfect for applications requiring effective signal monitoring without draining the battery.

These MCUs are specifically targeted at applications that involve measuring volatile analogue signals. They come equipped with op-amps that have software-controlled gain ladders, allowing a single op-amp to switch between multiple gain options. This feature helps reduce noise while maintaining precision and power efficiency. With up to four op-amps and a 12-bit differential ADC with automated averaging, the PIC16F17576 MCUs enable precise signal measurement across a wide range of inputs.

Greg Robinson, corporate vice president of Microchip’s MCU business unit, highlighted the significance of these integrated analogue features in the PIC16F17576 MCUs. He emphasized how sensor systems often become complex due to multiple analogue components, leading to increased board size, cost, and power consumption. By integrating these features, Microchip aims to simplify designs, reduce costs, and enhance power efficiency, ultimately streamlining the overall design process.

The versatility of the PIC16F17576 MCUs makes them suitable for various industries, including environmental and industrial monitoring, smart homes, and building automation. These MCUs can be used in a wide range of applications such as vibration and strain measurement, flow metering, gas detection, cold asset tracking, and motion sensing, showcasing their adaptability and utility across different sectors.

To support designers in harnessing the full potential of the PIC16F17576 MCUs, Microchip provides compatibility with the MPLAB® X Integrated Development Environment (IDE) and MPLAB Code Configurator. These tools enable designers to easily manage the functionality of the APM and analogue peripherals, enhancing the development process. Additionally, the PIC16F17576 MCUs are compatible with Microchip’s Curiosity Nano EV14L29A development board and MPLAB PICkit™ development tools, offering a comprehensive ecosystem for designing and testing applications based on these innovative MCUs.