Microchip Technology Inc. has expanded its portfolio of configurable logic block (CLB)-enabled microcontrollers (MCUs) with the introduction of the PIC16F13276 and PIC18-Q35 families. These devices integrate programmable logic functionality with embedded MCU control, targeting timing-critical applications such as motor control, industrial automation, and automotive safety systems.
In conventional MCU-based designs, latency and non-deterministic software execution can create challenges for real-time performance. The CLB architecture addresses these limitations by enabling logic functions to be implemented directly in hardware rather than software. This approach reduces execution latency, improves timing predictability, and lowers power consumption compared to software-based solutions or multi-chip implementations combining MCUs with discrete CPLDs.
The CLB can be configured to initialize automatically at power-up or reset, allowing logic functions to operate independently of the CPU. This capability ensures deterministic startup behavior, which is critical in safety-related and industrial applications. The PIC16F13276 devices provide 32 logic elements, while the PIC18-Q35 family offers up to 128 logic elements, enabling parallel processing and real-time signal handling alongside traditional embedded control functions.
By combining programmable logic and MCU capabilities in a single device, the new families can replace separate CPLD and MCU components, reducing bill of materials, PCB area, and overall system complexity. The devices are designed to be pin- and software-compatible with existing PIC16 and PIC18 platforms, allowing straightforward upgrades without major redesign.
Additional features include programming and debugging interface disable (PDID), which provides anti-tamper protection by preventing unauthorized access to the device. A dedicated timing analysis tool supports early identification of signal delays, critical paths, and potential timing issues, helping to reduce development time and simplify system validation.
Microchip also provides enhanced development tools to support CLB-based design. The updated CLB configuration tool, integrated into Microsoft Visual Studio Code, offers a graphical, drag-and-drop interface for logic design. It includes synthesis, simulation, and timing analysis capabilities, enabling developers to validate designs and observe real-time behavior without requiring hardware description language (HDL) coding.
The new MCUs are supported by Microchip’s MPLAB X IDE and MPLAB Code Configurator, along with evaluation platforms such as the Curiosity Nano kits, enabling rapid prototyping and system development.
Microchip Technology Inc. | microchip.com
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Kirsten Campbell is a Marketing Tornado and junk robot of information. Analytical and creative, she has been in marketing and communications since 2008 and worked with everyone from small businesses to your favorite household names.
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