Microchip Technology (Nasdaq: MCHP) has introduced the PIC16F13145 family of microcontrollers (MCUs), equipped with an innovative Core Independent Peripheral (CIP)—the Configurable Logic Block (CLB) module. This feature enables embedded designers to implement custom combinational logic functions directly within the MCU, streamlining the design process for embedded control systems. The integration of the CLB module significantly enhances the efficiency of embedded applications by optimizing speed and response times, while also reducing the overall Bill of Materials (BOM) cost and power consumption.
Enhancing Embedded System Design with CLB Module
The addition of the CLB module to the PIC16F13145 family allows for the realization of hardware-based, custom logic functions without the need for external logic components. This capability is facilitated by a user-friendly graphical interface tool, simplifying the creation of custom logic designs and enabling applications in critical sectors such as industrial and automotive, which require precise real-time control systems.
Advancing Customizable Logic Solutions
“The integration of the Configurable Logic Cell (CLC) Module within Microchip MCUs has been a key offering for over a decade, and the new CLB module represents a significant evolution in our customizable logic solutions,” stated Greg Robinson, vice president of Microchip’s 8-bit microcontroller business unit. The PIC16F13145 MCU family addresses the complex design challenges faced by embedded engineers, offering a single-chip solution that accommodates custom logic functions, minimizes power usage, and adapts to evolving design requirements.
Optimized System Performance and Power Efficiency
The operation of the CLB is independent of the CPU clock speed, which enhances system latency and provides a low-power solution. It enables logical decision-making processes while the CPU is in sleep mode, further diminishing power consumption and reliance on software. The PIC16F13145 family is also equipped with a fast 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with computation capabilities, an 8-bit Digital-to-Analog (DAC) converter, fast comparators, timers, and serial communication modules, supporting comprehensive system-level tasks autonomously.
Comprehensive Development Tools
Support for the PIC16F13145 MCUs is provided by the MPLAB® Code Configurator (MCC), a free software plug-in for the MPLAB X IDE. The MCC offers a graphical user interface to configure the device and its peripherals, including the CLB, thus reducing development time. Designers can create custom logic schematically or use Hardware Description Language (HDL) for more complex designs, with synthesizer options available both in MCC and online.
Availability and Pricing
The PIC16F131 MCUs are offered at a starting price of $.47 each for 10,000-unit quantities, available in a range of packages from 8 to 20 pins. The PIC16F131 Curiosity Nano Evaluation Kit supports comprehensive design exploration with the PIC16F131 family, ensuring a streamlined development process and expedited time to market.
