Microchip Technology Unveils Energy-Efficient MCUs for Analog Sensors
Chandler, Thursday, 24 April 2025.
Microchip launches the PIC16F17576 microcontrollers, designed for low-power analog applications, consuming under 3.0 µA in sleep mode, priced at $0.57 per unit in large quantities.
Advanced Analog Capabilities
The newly launched PIC16F17576 incorporates sophisticated analog features, including four operational amplifiers with software-controlled gain ladders and a 12-bit differential ADC [1]. The microcontroller’s architecture supports operation at speeds up to 32 MHz, while featuring up to 28KB of program flash and 2KB of SRAM for robust application support [2]. A standout feature is the Analog Peripheral Manager (APM), which intelligently controls peripheral activation to minimize energy consumption in battery-operated devices [3].
Technical Specifications and Performance
Operating within a versatile voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V, the MCU demonstrates impressive power efficiency with consumption below 3.0 µA during analog measurements [4]. The device includes comprehensive digital peripherals, featuring two 16-bit Capture/Compare/PWM modules and multiple timing options [3]. For precision timing applications, the MCU incorporates a 16-bit timer with a 16-bit prescaler, supporting various clock sources including 31kHz and 32.768kHz options [3].
Development Support and Market Availability
Microchip is supporting developers with the Curiosity Nano evaluation kit (EV14L29A), priced at $9.99, which provides a comprehensive platform for project development [4]. The MCU family is compatible with MPLAB X IDE and MPLAB Code Configurator, offering streamlined functionality management [4]. Released on April 23, 2025, the PIC16F17576 is positioned competitively in the market with pricing starting at $0.57 per unit for 10,000-unit quantities [2].
Application Potential
The MCU’s capabilities make it particularly suitable for diverse applications including vibration and strain measurement, flow metering, gas detection, and cold asset tracking [1]. With operating temperatures ranging from -40°C to 125°C, the device is engineered for demanding industrial environments [4]. The integration of both analog and digital features positions this microcontroller as a versatile solution for IoT and embedded system applications requiring precise analog sensing capabilities [1][2].