Microchip: MCUs feature highest level of advanced PWM control

These include on chip 12bit a/d converters; 8bit d/a converters; operational amplifiers; high speed comparators; and a EUSART which includes support for LIN, as well as SPI and I²C interface peripherals. According to Microchip, the mcus also feature the industry's highest level of advanced PWM control and accuracy via new programmable switch mode controllers. This combination of features is designed to enable higher efficiency and performance, as well as reductions in cost and space for applications such as closed loop control in power supplies and lighting. The LF versions of the mcus feature eXtreme Low Power technology, with active and sleep currents of 32µA/MHz and 50nA, respectively. Microchip says the low power consumption and advanced analogue and digital integration make the general purpose PIC16F(LF)178X mcus suitable for led lighting, battery management, digital power supply, motor control and other applications. Available in 28 and 40pin packages, the mcus' advanced analogue integration includes an on chip 12bit a/d converter for very small voltage measurements, as well as enabling mTouch™ capacitive sensing; and an 8bit d/a converter for high resolution voltage references. Also included on chip are analogue comparators with 50ns response time; capture compare peripherals and I²C, SPI and EUSART interfaces for communications.