The advantages of the Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface in embedded designs include compatibility with a variety of devices, simplified communication protocols, field update capabilities and power supply capabilities. To help easily integrate this functionality into embedded systems, Microchip Technology Inc. introduces the AVR® DU series of microcontrollers. As the next generation of Microchip's 8-bit MCUs with integrated USB connectivity, the AVR DU series is designed to provide stronger security features and higher power output than previous versions.
"USB is the standard communication protocol and power delivery solution for electronic devices," said Greg Robinson, vice president of Microchip's 8-bit MCU business unit. "Microchip's AVR DU series combines the flexibility of our most advanced 8-bit MCUs with enhanced power delivery capabilities. The combination of versatility brings the benefits of USB to a wider range of embedded systems."
AVR DU MCU supports up to 15W of power from the USB interface, which is rare among other USB microcontrollers of its type. This feature can charge USB-C® at up to 3A at 5V, making these MCUs an excellent choice for devices such as power banks and rechargeable toys.
To enhance defense against malicious attacks, the AVR DU Series features Microchip’s Programming and Debug Interface Disable (PDID) feature. When enabled, enhanced code protection locks access to the programming/debugging interface, preventing unauthorized attempts to read, modify, or erase firmware. To enable secure firmware updates, the AVR DU Series utilizes "read while writing" (RWW) flash memory, which, combined with a secure bootloader, allows designers to use the USB interface to patch vulnerabilities, address security issues, and add new features without disrupting the product. run. This new addition to the AVR DU MCU enables uninterrupted field updates, helping to extend product life.
In addition, the AVR DU series features USB clock recovery that eliminates the need for expensive external crystals, helping to reduce overall design and bill of materials (BOM) costs. Core-Independent Peripherals (CIP) enable designers to integrate key device functions and system management tasks into compact single-chip solutions, saving board space and reducing design effort.
Developers of a variety of embedded designs, from fitness wearables and home appliances to agricultural and industrial applications, can benefit from incorporating efficient AVR DU MCUs into their designs.
development tools
MPLAB® Code Configurator (MCC) contains a software protocol stack that supports the hardware functionality of the AVR DU MCU USB module. Fully integrated into the MPLAB development tool system, the production-ready USB software stack can be easily configured through MCC Melody, simplifying the development process and reducing time to market. To further enable rapid prototyping and development, the Curiosity Nano development board (EV59F82A), MPLAB X integrated development environment (IDE) and MPLAB XC8 compiler are also available to support the AVR DU series.