Freescale's 32-bit MCU delivers high functionality and performance under harsh conditions

TOKYO, JAPAN: Freescale Semiconductor has announced the MPC564xA microcontroller (MCU), the newest addition to its embedded 32-bit MCU portfolio that is ideal for automotive powertrain and transmission applications.

This 32-bit dual issue core MCU built on Power Architecture® technology is designed to deliver the performance and precision needed for the rugged environments of engine management and transmission control.

The MPC564xA is built to withstand temperatures up to 150º Celsius found in engine mount controllers as well as in-fluid transmission control applications while running more instructions per cycle in its dual issue core than a typical single issue core. This increased performance is accomplished while requiring minimal increase in power levels compared to its predecessors.

Some of the MPC564xA’s key features include:
* power Architecture core augmented by digital signal processing capability.
* up to 150 MHz operation.
* up to 4 MB of flash memory.
* 8 KB of instruction cache for increased memory performance.
* up to 192 KB of static random access memory.
* 32-channel enhanced Time Processing Unit (TPU) for high-precision time and event-based control of actuators such as engine fuel injectors or transmission pressure regulators.
* increased flexibility for current controlled actuators using a new reaction module to augment the advanced TPU.
* embedded hardware filters for enhanced knock and misfire detection.
* optional FlexRay communications protocol.

This set of features makes the MPC564xA ideal for lowering overall system cost, optimizing fuel economy, reducing emissions and improving shift control.