USB MCUs support up to 15 W of power delivery

Microchip Technology Inc. has launched the AVR DU family of USB microcontrollers (MCUs) to deliver enhanced security features and higher power delivery compared with earlier solutions. These next-generation 8-bit USB MCUs enable embedded system designers to accommodate the addition of USB features at any stage of design.

(Source: Microchip Technology Inc.)

The MCUs use core independent peripherals (CIPs), USB 2.0, an event system and configurable custom logic (CCL) for efficient data transfer and noise immunity for industrial control applications. For safety-critical industrial and automotive use, the family complies with IEC 61508 and ISO 26262 functional safety standards.

The AVR DU MCUs support a wide range of applications with low-power connectivity and power delivery of up to 15 W from the USB interface, which is not commonly available in other USB MCUs in its class, according to Microchip. This enables USB-C charging with currents up to 3 A at 5 V for applications such as portable power banks and rechargeable toys.

On the security front, the AVR DU family incorporates Microchip’s program and debug interface disable (PDID) feature that delivers enhanced code protection, locking out access to the programming/debugging interface and blocking unauthorized attempts to read, modify or erase firmware. For secure firmware updates, the USB MCUs uses read-while-write (RWW) Flash and a secure bootloader so that the USB interface can be used to patch bugs, address security concerns, and add new features without disrupting product operation. This functionality allows uninterrupted, in-field updates to extend the lifetime of products.

Block diagram of AVR DU USB MCU. Click for a larger image. (Source: Microchip Technology Inc.)

The MCUs also reduce overall design and bill-of-material costs through a USB clock recovery, eliminating the need for an external crystal. The CIPs allow designers to incorporate main device functions and system management tasks in a compact, single-chip solution to reduce board space and design effort.

Development tools include the MPLAB Code Configurator with a software stack that supports hardware features for the MCU’s USB module. The production-ready USB software stack is easily configured by MCC Melody. A Curiosity Nano Development Board (EV59F82A), MPLAB X Integrated Development Environment and MPLAB XC8 compiler are also available to support the AVR DU family.

A virtual demonstration of the new USB MCUs is available here. Applications range from fitness wearables and home appliances to agricultural and industrial.