High-Resolution 16-Bit PWMs Broaden 8-Bit PIC MCU Family

The PIC12(L)F157X family of three 16-bit pulse-width modulators (PWMs) offer precision drive capability in a small form factor, says developer Microchip. The PWMs, which come in 8-pin packages, further extend the company’s 8-bit PIC microcontroller (MCU) line. Incorporating independent timers, the devices feature standard and center-aligned PWM output modes as well as four compare modes, and can serve as an additional 16-bit timer. A complementary waveform generator (CWG), in combination with the 16-bit PWMs, can create half-bridge and full-bridge drive control. The CWG generates complementary waveforms with fine control of parameters such as polarity, deadband, and emergency shutdown states. The core independent peripherals (CWG, 16-bit PWMs) coupled with analog peripherals (10-bit analog-to-digital converters, comparator, and 5-bit digital-to-analog converter) can deliver closed-loop feedback and control. The 10-bit ADCs also enable human-interface/touch applications when using the company’s capacitive mTouch sensing. High Endurance Flash (HEF) memory provides nonvolatile data storage. “LF” MCU versions feature active currents of less than 35 µA/MHz and sleep currents down to 20 nA. Packaging options include 8-pin PDIP, SOIC, and MSOP, as well as 3- by 3-mm DFN.

MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGY INC.