Microchip sets new benchmark for low-power MCUs

CHANDLER, USA: Microchip Technology Inc. has unveiled several new 8-bit PIC microcontrollers (MCUs) that set the industry benchmark for low-power microcontrollers and peripheral integration.

These new MCUs feature active currents of less than 50 µA/MHz and sleep currents down to 20 nA. The PIC12F182X MCUs extend Microchip’s Enhanced Mid-range 8-bit core product line into the 8-pin segment, and include mTouch capacitive touch-sensing, and communications peripherals.

The PIC16F19XX MCUs feature a broad range of peripherals, such as mTouch capacitive touch-sensing module, LCD drive, multiple communications and more Pulse width Modulator (PWM) peripherals. All of these general-purpose MCUs are well suited for applications in the appliance; consumer; industrial and automotive markets, among others.

“With active current of less than 50 µA per MHz, Microchip has set the new industry benchmark for low-power microcontrollers,” said Tony Massimini, chief of technology with Semico Research Corp. Massimini continued: “These low active currents, plus sleep currents down to 20 nA and the industry-leading number of peripherals integrated onto the PIC12F182X, PIC16F182X and PIC16F19XX MCUs, enable engineers to create battery-friendly designs that also incorporate capacitive touch sensing, LCD, communications and other functions, which will help differentiate their products in the marketplace.”

Steve Drehobl, vice president of Microchip’s Security, Microcontroller and Technology Development Division, said: “Microchip further solidifies its low-power leadership with the introduction of the PIC1XF182X and PIC16F19XX 8-bit microcontrollers. The new MCUs represent a significant expansion of our enhanced Mid-range 8-bit core product family, which provides additional memory, peripherals and performance. The improvements to the active power consumption in combination with our XLP technology set the industry standard for low power operation in small 8-bit MCUs.”