A controller family combines real-time control, sensing, PWM, and communication functions into a single device to reduce system cost and components.
Designers working on real-time control systems are being pushed to improve performance, integrate more functions, and lower system cost at the same time. To address these requirements, Microchip Technology has introduced the dsPIC33CK Value Line family of Digital Signal Controllers (DSCs) for applications that need deterministic control, integrated peripherals, and lower design cost.
The dsPIC33CK Value Line devices combine up to 100 MHz processing performance with pulse-width modulation (PWM) and a 12-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC), enabling functions such as motor Field Oriented Control (FOC), touch sensing, and precision sensing within a single device. By focusing on control functions instead of adding extra features, the family is designed for applications where performance and pricing both matter.
The DSCs also integrate multiple peripherals to help reduce the need for external components and simplify PCB design. Features include up to eight PWM channels with 2 ns resolution, a 12-bit ADC supporting up to 2 MSPS, on-chip analog comparators with a 12-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC), and communication interfaces such as CAN FD, LIN, SENT, UART, SPI, and I²C. These capabilities allow designers to handle sensing, communication, and control functions using a single controller.
To support different design requirements, the devices are available with 32 KB to 256 KB of Flash memory and remain compatible with the broader dsPIC33CK family, allowing migration and scalability across designs. The family also supports AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification and includes security functions for secure boot and firmware updates, making the devices suitable for industrial, automotive, consumer, and medical systems requiring real-time control.
“Not every real‑time control design needs a high‑end solution, many just need dependable performance at the right cost,” said Joe Thomsen, corporate vice president of Microchip’s digital signal controller business unit. “The dsPIC33CK Value Line delivers the essentials designers rely on most while eliminating complexity and helping provide a straightforward path to building capable, reliable systems without paying for features they don’t need. Offering consistent pricing at any volume makes it easier for customers to plan, scale and control long‑term costs.”
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