Enhanced Graphics Suite Simplifies GUI Development

To cater to the needs of embedded developers in their design endeavors, Microchip Technology has unveiled the Microchip Graphics Suite (MGS). This innovative solution is a user-friendly and comprehensive tool that streamlines the process of integrating graphical user interfaces (GUIs), animations, and images into touchscreen displays.

Developing a GUI can often be a daunting and time-consuming task, involving debugging and code integration from various sources. MGS is specifically crafted to seamlessly integrate with Microchip’s 32-bit MCUs and MPUs, supporting multiple development platforms such as MPLAB® Harmony v3 and Linux® environments. By offering a complete graphics suite for building GUI interfaces, the aim is to enhance reusability across projects and simplify the complexities of design.

One of the key features of MGS is its compositional tools, which include a simulator for hardware-free prototyping. Through the MPLAB® Code Configurator (MCC), the simulator can compile the MCC-generated C code in web or native mode. In web mode, an HTML file is created for running on most web browsers with simulated touch interactivity, while in native mode, debugging on Windows® desktop computers is enabled. These capabilities allow for accurate display and functionality demonstrations independent of hardware availability.

With an intuitive WYSIWYG interface sporting a modern design, MGS empowers users to directly visualize and manipulate the final output, thereby reducing errors and enhancing efficiency. The versatility of MGS enables it to support a wide array of devices with varying performance levels, from resource-constrained devices with lower memory and system performance requirements to high-performance devices that can handle tablet-sized touchscreens with high-quality video playback.

Designed for developers seeking top-notch graphical performance without the need for expensive hardware upgrades, MGS is compatible with a diverse range of displays, including monochrome OLEDs and 1080p 16.7M color TFTs. It also supports interfaces such as MIPI® DSI®, LVDS, RGB, SPI, and HDMI®, along with touchscreens featuring 2D/3D gestures.

“At Microchip, we are dedicated to providing our customers with comprehensive solutions and cutting-edge tools that empower them to create high-quality products and accelerate time-to-market,” stated Rod Drake, corporate vice president of Microchip’s MCU32 and MPU32 business units. “This innovative tool suite simplifies the process of developing engaging and responsive displays for a wide range of applications, from smart home devices to industrial equipment.”

Microchip Graphics Suite offers a seamless integration of GUIs from the design phase to implementation across various applications. It is fully compatible with Microchip’s extensive portfolio of PIC32 MCUs, SAM MPUs, and maXTouch® touchscreen controllers. Supported by development tools like MPLAB Harmony v3, MPLAB Code Configurator, and Microchip’s mainlined Linux Distribution for 32-bit MCUs and MPUs, MGS is a game-changer for embedded developers looking to enhance their design capabilities.

For more information on Microchip Graphics Suite and other Microchip products, visit www.microchip.com.