32-bit MCUs meet new cybersecurity mandates

Microchip Technology Inc. has announced the PIC32CK 32-bit microcontrollers (MCUs), a new family specifically designed to address the latest mandates for stricter requirements on cybersecurity ranging from consumer IoT devices to critical infrastructure. The new embedded security MCUs integrate a hardware security module (HSM) subsystem and Arm Cortex-M33 core with TrustZone technology that isolates and secures a device.

Microchip claims that the PIC32CK SG is the first 32-bit device to market that combines strong security with the TrustZone hardware-based secure privilege environment. Features for the mid-range cost-effective MCUs include the inclusion of an HSM that provides a high level of security for authentication, secure debug, secure boot and secure updates. TrustZone delivers additional protection for key software functions.

(Source: Microchip Technology Inc.)

The MCU family supports ISO 26262 functional safety and ISO/SAE 21434 cybersecurity standards and offers a range of options to tune the level of security, memory and connectivity bandwidth based on application requirements.

Designed with a 120-MHz Arm Cortex-M33 processor, the PIC32CK MCUs features a memory capacity of up to 2 MB Flash with ECC and 512 KB SRAM, a peripheral touch controller with up to 32 channels and a 12-bit ADC with a 3 ms/s sampling rate. Connectivity options include 10/100 Ethernet, SERCOM, CAN FD and USB.

For supply chains that require additional security and safety protection, the PIC32CK will be supported with Microchip’s Trust Platform Design Suite for provisioning as a service. This enables the secure factory provisioning of keys, certificates and IP without revealing the secrets within the supply chain, Microchip said.

The PIC32CK family is available in high-volume production quantities. Packaging options include 144-lead TQFP, 100-lead TQFP and 64-lead TQFP. The family is supported by Microchip’s software platforms including MPLAB Harmony v3 and Trust Platform Design Suite. PIC32CK SG and PIC32CK GC Curiosity Ultra Development Boards, including the EV33A17A and EV44P93A, are available.