Microchip Technology today announced a new series of 16-bit PIC microcontrollers (MCUs) and dsPIC Digital Signal Controllers (DSCs) that enable sensorless motor-control designs with support for a wide range of motor-control algorithms and include an on-chip Charge Time Measurement Unit (CTMU), and 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) to enable intelligent sensor applications.
The devices are supported by three new Plug-In Modules (PIMs) and a single-board motor-control starter kit that includes cap-touch sliders and an onboard BLDC motor, making it easy for designers to create applications in the appliance, medical and industrial markets.
At prices near $1.00 each in high-volume quantities, the dsPIC33FJ16 “GP,” dsPIC33FJ16 and PIC24FJ16 “MC” devices offer, In addition to their on-chip CTMU and ADC peripherals, a Real-Time Clock/Calendar and up to 21 general-purpose output pins, making them well suited for driving intelligent sensors. The dsPIC33FJ16 and PIC24FJ16 “MC” devices include a 6-channel Pulse-Width Modulation (PWM) peripheral with synchronized outputs for 3-phase operation, enabling support for a wide range of motor-control algorithms and applications, from simple sensored motors, to advanced Sinusoidal Field-Oriented Control (FOC), Brushless DC (BLDC), Permanent Magnet, and Synchronous AC-Induction Motors (ACIMs).
