New PIC18 family offers a versatile array of core independent peripherals to simplify complex designs

Microchip announces the PIC18F “K42” family, which combines an extensive array of Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs), high-resolution analogue, on-chip Direct Memory Access (DMA) and vectored interrupts for fast processing.

The DMA controller enables data transfers between memory space and peripherals without CPU involvement, improving system performance and lowering power consumption.  When interrupts are required, vectored interrupts provide faster response times with fixed latency to reduce software overhead.  Code development is also simplified with the user-friendly MPLAB^® Code Configurator, making the PIC18F “K42” family  ideally suited for an extensive range of applications and markets, including touch sensing, automotive, industrial control, Internet of Things (IoT), medical and white goods.

The PIC18F “K42” family features the largest total memory of any 8-bit PIC^® MCU with up to 128KB Flash and 8KB RAM.  CIPs simplify the implementation of common system functions such as sensor interface, signal generation, power conversion, motor control, safety management and system communications.  The PIC18F “K42” features a 12-bit ADC with computation which automates analogue signal analysis for real-time system response.  The MCUs also include Configurable Logic Cells; low-power modes (IDLE, DOZE and Peripheral Module Disable) to reduce power consumption; improved serial communications including UART with support for asynchronous systems; and DMX, DALI and LIN protocols in addition to higher-speed, standalone I²C and SPI.

The family will be supported by Microchip’s development ecosystem including the Curiosity platform and MPLAB Code Configurator (MCC), a free software plug-in that provides a graphical interface to configure peripherals and functions specific to each application.  MCC is part of Microchip’s free downloadable and award-winning MPLAB X Integrated Development Environment (IDE).

Curiosity Development Boards are cost-effective, fully integrated MCU development platforms targeted at first-time users, manufacturers, and those seeking a feature-rich rapid prototyping board.  Designed from the ground up, to take full advantage of Microchip’s MPLAB X and MPLAB Xpress Integrated Development Environments, the Curiosity platform includes an integrated programmer/debugger, and requires no additional hardware to get started.  The Curiosity HPC (High Pin Count) board, DM164136, supports the PIC18F “K42” family.

The 10 products in the PIC18F “K42” family are all available for sampling and volume production in a variety of package options.