Microchip Delivers First 8-bit MCU Family for CAN FD Networks

Rhea-AI Summary

Microchip Technology Inc. has launched the PIC18 Q84 microcontroller family, enhancing automotive applications with high-speed data transfer capabilities via a Controller Area Network Flexible Data-Rate (CAN FD) bus. This MCU family reduces costs and time by eliminating the need for gateways and complex network switching. It features Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) that support a variety of tasks without CPU intervention, ensuring quick sensor data transmission. The PIC18 Q84 family is available from $0.78 in volume production starting November 2020.

Positive

• Launch of the PIC18 Q84 family enhances automotive applications.
• First microcontrollers to support data transmission via CAN FD bus.
• Core Independent Peripherals allow for cost and time savings by reducing CPU reliance.
• Pricing starts competitively at $0.78 in large volumes.

Negative

• None.

Automotive designers can now increase system capabilities with flexible and easy to use CIPs while connected to a high performing network

CHANDLER, Ariz., Nov. 18, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Meeting the demand for increased bandwidth and flexible data rates in evolving automotive applications like safety and communication, while further supporting the development of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), Microchip Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: MCHP) today announced its PIC18 Q84 family — the first PIC18 microcontroller (MCU) family that can be used to transmit and receive data through a Controller Area Network Flexible Data-Rate (CAN FD) bus. Accompanied by an extensive array of Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) that handle a variety of tasks without requiring CPU intervention, Microchip’s PIC18 Q84 family cuts both time and cost when connecting systems to a CAN FD network.

The family provides a simple solution for transporting sensor data to a CAN FD bus, without the need for gateways or sophisticated network switching techniques. In addition, its configurable CIPs make it easy to create custom hardware-based functions for automotive and industrial designs with near-zero latency. Additional code is not required. Available peripherals include a 32-bit Cyclic Redundancy Check with Scan (CRC/SCAN) and a Windowed Watchdog Timer (WWDT) for functional safety capabilities, and a Joint Test Action Group (JTAG) interface to implement industry-standard testing and debugging.

“CAN FD will continue to play a critical role in delivering faster data transfer rates for applications, ranging from the connected car to industrial automation and smart homes,” said Greg Robinson, associate vice president of marketing for Microchip’s 8-bit microcontroller business unit. “Microchip is furthering the adoption of this protocol with our latest 8-bit PIC^® MCU family, helping designers create cost-effective network nodes at scale.”

Development Tools and CAN FD Product Support
The PIC18 Q84 family offers both hardware and software support. Hardware includes a Curiosity Nano Development Board and a Curiosity High Pin Count (HPC) Development Board. A plug-in module (PIM) is also available for the Automotive Networking Development Board and for use with Microchip development boards. Software includes Microchip’s MPLAB^® Code Configurator (MCC).

Microchip also provides a broad family of CAN FD transceivers and CAN FD controllers. To learn more about Microchip’s complete CAN and CAN FD offering, visit Microchip’s CAN technology design center.

Pricing and Availability
The PIC18 Q84 family is available in volume production starting at $0.78 in 10,000-unit quantities.

For additional information, contact a Microchip sales representative, authorized worldwide distributor or visit Microchip’s website. To purchase products mentioned here, click to order now or contact a Microchip authorized distributor.

Resources
High-res images available through Flickr or editorial contact (feel free to publish):

• Application image: https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/49946774376
• Tool image: https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/49947064327

About Microchip Technology
Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions. Its easy-to-use development tools and comprehensive product portfolio enable customers to create optimal designs which reduce risk while lowering total system cost and time to market. The company’s solutions serve more than 120,000 customers across the industrial, automotive, consumer, aerospace and defense, communications and computing markets. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at www.microchip.com.

Note: The Microchip logo, the Microchip name and logo, MPLAB and PIC are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies. 

Editorial Contact:	Reader Inquiries:
Chelsey Kruger	1-888-624-7435
480-792-5047
chelsey.kruger@microchip.com

FAQ

What is the PIC18 Q84 microcontroller family from Microchip?

The PIC18 Q84 is a microcontroller family designed for automotive applications, supporting data transmission through a CAN FD bus.

When was the PIC18 Q84 family announced?

The PIC18 Q84 family was announced on November 18, 2020.

What are the key features of the PIC18 Q84 microcontroller family?

Key features include support for CAN FD, Core Independent Peripherals for task handling without CPU intervention, and a competitive price starting at $0.78.

How does the PIC18 Q84 improve automotive system capabilities?

The PIC18 Q84 allows for faster data transfer rates and reduces the complexity and cost associated with connecting systems to a CAN FD network.

Where can I find more information about Microchip's CAN FD offerings?

More information can be found on Microchip's official website, specifically in their CAN technology design center.