16-bit DSC/MCUs have touch, analog, 70 MIPS

With op amps, PWMs, and a charge time measurement unit peripheral (CTMU), the 16-bit dsPIC33 and PIC24EP digital signal controller and microcontroller families enable advanced features in user-interface, intelligent-sensing, and motor-control applications at very low cost. The devices are pin compatible with existing 16-bit dsPIC33 and PIC24 ICs and are available in multiple packages, including a new 5 x 5-mm 36-pin VTLA.

The chips feature 70 MIPS of DSP performance and a 6-channel PWM peripheral. They provide advanced motor control and their CTMU peripheral, used in capacitive touch-sensing, simplifies the addition of innovative and reliable user interfaces, including keypads, buttons, and sliders. They run from a 3.0 to 3.6-V supply over –40º to 85ºC. (From $1.58 ea/10,000 — samples available now.)

By Jim Harrison

Microchip Technology , Chandler , AZ
Sales 480-792-7200
www.microchip.com