Microchip Technology has introduced the PIC32-BZ6 microcontroller unit (MCU), a single-chip platform designed to address the increasing need for upgradeability and integration in connected devices. The company says this new MCU aims to reduce development costs, complexity, and time-to-market for products that require advanced connectivity and scalability.
“The PIC32-BZ6 MCU stands out for its powerful blend of connectivity, integration and flexibility in a single-chip solution,” said Rishi Vasuki, vice president of Microchip’s wireless solutions business unit. “Few devices bring together this breadth of features in a single chip, and we’re already seeing strong tremendous early adopter activity. Customers are leveraging its multiprotocol wireless capabilities, advanced analog features and high I/O to develop smarter, more connected products with greater efficiency.”
The company notes that as smart device design becomes more complex, manufacturers often rely on multiple chips or frequent redesigns to keep up with changing standards. The PIC32-BZ6 MCU is intended to replace these multichip solutions by providing a highly integrated chip that supports both wired and wireless connectivity protocols. It also includes analog peripherals for motor control development, touch and graphics capabilities for user interfaces, and enhanced memory suitable for demanding applications and over-the-air firmware updates.
Key features include 2 MB Flash memory, 512 KB RAM, Bluetooth Core Specification 6.0 qualification, support for Thread and Matter protocols, proprietary mesh networking options, two CAN-FD ports for automotive communication, Ethernet MAC for high-speed wired connections, USB 2.0 transceiver support, capacitive touch capabilities with up to 18 channels, advanced analog peripherals such as ADCs and DACs for motor control applications, secure boot functionality in ROM, hardware-based security engines supporting various encryption standards (AES, SHA, ECC), and qualification to AEC-Q100 Grade 1 standards.
Microchip provides development tools including reference designs and design check services aimed at reducing risk during product certification. Pre-certified modules are available globally to ease regulatory compliance. The PIC32-BZ6 Curiosity Board supports testing of all MCU features. Developers can use Microchip’s MPLAB Integrated Development Environment (IDE) along with the Zephyr Real Time Operating System (RTOS).
Currently available products in the platform include the PIC32CX2051BZ62132 System on Chip (SoC) priced at $3.73 each in quantities of 10,000 units and the PIC32WM-BZ6204UE RF-certified module at $5.84 each in similar quantities. Additional package options are planned.
Microchip Technology is headquartered in Chandler, Arizona and offers technical support across industrial, automotive, consumer electronics, aerospace/defense communications sectors through its range of system solutions.
For more information or purchasing details visit www.microchipdirect.com.
