May

In ThIs Issue...
1. 2. 3. 4.
Microchips Next-GeN eNerGyMeasureMeNt aNaloG FroNt eNd reGistratioN opeNs For the 16th aNNual Masters coNFereNce Browse Microchip aNd FiNd products oN the Go! Microchips reMote coNtrol deMo Board iNteGrates Graphics, touch seNsiNG, usB aNd wireless coNNectivity Microchip coMBiNes wi -Fi Module aNd 32- Bit pic32 MicrocoNtroller iN cost-eFFective New deMo Board For desiGNs requiriNG low power usB aNd peripheral FlexiBility...

Microchips Next-Generation Energy-Measurement Analog Front End

AFE Features Accuracy of 94.5 dB SINAD and 106.5 dB THD for Better Energy-Metering and Power-Monitoring Performance
Microchip announced its next-generation energy-measurement analog front end (AFE), the MCP3911, which features two 24-bit, delta-sigma ADCs that operate at 3V with industry-leading accuracy of 94.5 dB SINAD and 106.5 dB THD. This provides better energy-meter and power-monitoring performance by accurately measuring from start-up to maximum current, and enables faster calibration during production. Four different power modes offers the flexibility of enabling either extremely low-power designs, to 0.8 mA per channel, or designs for higher-speed signals and harmonic content. The extended temperature range allows operation from -40C to +125C. The MCP3911 also features 2.7 to 3.6V analog and digital operation, which simplifies the interface by running off of the same power rail as the microcontroller. An internal, low-temperature-coefficient voltage reference, along with PGAs on each channel, further enables metering and monitoring designs. As the global energy-metering infrastructure is being upgraded and the power-monitoring market is growing, designers of energy-measurement and other signal-acquisition applications are looking for ways to increase performance while lowering costs. Microchip is meeting these needs with the industrys most accurate AFEs, which reduce power consumption with their low-power modes and reduce costs by decreasing the number of required power rails and external components. With this expansion of our industry-leading line of energy-measurement analog front ends, Microchip is enabling the rapidly growing global adoption of high-performance smart meters. The combination of the worlds best accuracy with our extensive PIC microcontroller portfolio provides designers with the tools they need to create the best performing energy meters and power monitors at the lowest cost. Microchip also announced a tool that enables development with these new AFEs. The MCP3911 Evaluation Board for 16-bit MCUs (part # ADM00398).

5.

6.

Microchip BriNGs cost-eFFective advaNced aNaloG aNd diGital iNteGratioN to 8- Bit pic MicrocoNtrollers Microchip siMpliFies c coMpiler liNe, provides Best e xecutioN speed aNd code size For all pic Mcus aNd dspic dscs Microchip uNveils serial Flash MeMory device developMeNt Kit

7.

8.

9. pic32 For hiGh -quality audio 10. MaiNtaiNiNG accurate tiMe usiNG a
real tiMe clocK

11. save More with Microchip 12. proGraMMiNG Made easy 13. looKiNG to eNhaNce your 14. what's New iN Microchip
literature

eMBedded coNtrol desiGNs?

15. what's New at Microchipdirect?

Learn more about the MCP3911, visit: http://www.microchip.com/MCP3911

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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Registration Opens for the 16th Annual Worldwide MASTERs Conference; The Premiere Technical Training Event for Embedded-Control Engineers
Conference Held August 611, 2012 at Phoenix Resort; Classes Available for All Experience Levels, Beginner to Expert
Microchip has announced it is accepting registrations for its 16th annual Worldwide MASTERs Conference at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort in Phoenix, Arizona, with the Main Conference taking place from August 8 11, and a Pre-Conference on August 6 and 7, 2012. The MASTERs Conference is a valuable resource for designing with Microchip products that provides design engineers with an annual forum for sharing and exchanging technical information on the Companys 8-, 16- and 32-bit PIC microcontrollers, high-performance analog and interface solutions, 16-bit dsPIC digital signal controllers, wireless and mTouch sensing solutions, memory products, and MPLAB development systems including the industrys only singular IDE to support an entire 8-, 16- and 32-bit microcontroller portfolio. MASTERs is an in-depth, bi-directional exchange of technical information between Microchip subject-matter experts and the Companys technical partners, including customers, third parties, distributor FAEs and design partners. There is a broad range of class offerings for 2012 to meet the growing needs of software and hardware design engineers and engineering managers, with 98 total classes28 of which are new. In addition to lecture-based classes, there are 52 hands-on workshops that enable attendees to learn more about specific applications by using development tools and writing code. Classes are available for engineers with advanced experience through to little knowledge in the concepts and basics of the technology being discussed. Based on its overwhelming success at previous MASTERs, Microchip is again offering a two-day Pre-Conference for those who wish to attend as many classes as possible during the week. These classes are also designed for beginner through to advanced attendees. For example, Introduction to Embedded Programming Using C is a two-day, 16-hour step-by-step crash course in C, with practical hands-on exercises. MASTERs classes cover the gamut of electronic-engineering topics, including connectivity sessions on TCP/IP USB, CAN and wireless, graphics and , capacitive-touch interface development, intelligent power supplies, firmware development, motor control, selecting op-amps for sensor applications, using an RTOS, creating a bootloader, and streaming audio for embedded designs. Additional activities include networking sessions between third-party partners and attendees to discuss relevant design topics, meeting with third-party development tool experts and a simulated wafer fab plant tour. Extracurricular events include the Hover Mice parent/child hovercraft building contest, a Texas Hold-em card tournament, a FIRST Robotics exhibition match, and sports-bar and video games that are suitable for the whole family. Registration & Pricing Information Entry to the MASTERs Conference courses, a USB Flash Drive with all class materials, round-trip airport transportation, and accommodations for three nights with meals, evening entertainment and more are included in the Conference cost of $1,595 USD. All payments are due within 30 days of registration. All potential attendees must register by July 16, 2012. Complete information regarding the MASTERs Conference can be found online.
To learn more about MASTERs, visit: http://techtrain.microchip.com/usmasters/Home.aspx?redirects=usmasters
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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Browse Microchip and Find Products On the Go!

Application Support

Tip of the Month

Battery Selection: Alkaline AAAA or Lithium Coin?
Choosing the right battery can be crucial to maximizing runtime in a device. This months tip will compare two small battery types you may be considering.

Lithium Coin
Good for Ultra Low Power Designs Lithium coin batteries such as the CR2032 are rated at 3.0V, have an 8-10 year shelf life, and provide relatively good performance for applications less than 10mW. In applications with higher pulse currents, however, the high internal resistance will diminish runtime.

Microchip announced its new Mobile Product Selector application for iPhone, iPad and Android smart phones and tablets, as well as a version of its Web site for mobile browsers, all of which are available today at the following links y Apple Application Available at App Store y Android Application Available at Google Play y Mobile Web Site Available Online Microchips Mobile Product Selector application provides a simple, fast and portable catalog of every Microchip product, including 8,16 and 32-bit PIC Microcontrollers, Analog & Interface Devices, Memory ICs, Wireless Solutions, and all of the Microchip and Third Party Development Tools sold by Microchip. Additionally, customers can conduct keyword searches to view thousands of application notes and products, and they can quickly find contacts for microchipDIRECT sales support, local sales offices, distribution partners and representatives worldwide. The apps touch-screen interface enables users to easily browse Microchips catalog by product line, application, function or market, along with full datasheets and other product documentation. Samples of many products may be ordered through the application, and online purchasing is available via the microchipDIRECT Web site.
Visit the Microchip mobile site at: http://www.microchip.com/mobile

Alkaline AAAA
When You Need A Little More Alkaline AAAA batteries are rated at 1.5V, have a 5 year shelf life, and provide more energy than a CR2032 across a wide range of applications. If you need a little more than a lithium coin battery can deliver, try the alkaline AAAA to maximize runtime. For more info, visit the Energizer Technical Information Website or contact Energizer Application Support directly: Application.Support@Energizer.com data.energizer.com
2012 Energizer Holdings Inc. Energizer, label graphics, and other marks are trademarks of Energizer.

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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Microchips Remote Control Demo Board Integrates Graphics, Touch Sensing, USB and Wireless Connectivity
Demo Provides Complete Solution Including Hardware and Software; Enables Faster Design of Applications With Graphical Displays
Microchip announced the availability of its Remote Control Demo Board, which integrates graphics, touch sensing, USB, and wireless communications (ZigBee RF4CE). The board demonstrates a remote control populated with a PIC24FJ256DA210 MCU, 3.5 graphical TFT LCD display with resistive touch screen, capacitive touch keys with plastic overlay, MRF24J40 2.4 GHz transceiver and ZENA wireless adapter. Many consumer products now feature colorful graphical displays and touch capability. And, RF-based remote controls are becoming more prevalent, as they provide bi-directional communication and work through walls (no line-of-sight communication is required). Microchips remote-control demo is in the form factor of a wireless remote control, but it can also be used as a reference design to build any type of application that requires a graphical display, touch sensing, USB and/or wireless capability. The demo is supported by free source code that customers can use to customize for various graphical screens or touch-button scenarios. The MRF24J40 transceiver can be used with the 2.4 GHz RF4CE, ZigBee or MiWi protocols, depending upon the wireless needs of the end application. The demo showcases how a vivid color display application can use a low cost PIC24 MCU with integrated graphics driver, utilizing only the on-chip RAM to eliminate the cost of external memory. The Remote Control Demo Board was developed to help customers get to market quickly with Microchips graphics, mTouch sensing, USB and wireless solutions.The demo comes populated with our low-cost graphics microcontroller and wireless transceiver to enable a cost-effective system solution. The Remote Control Demo Board with ZENA wireless adapter (part # DM240315-2) can be purchased today.

Watch the Remote Control Demo Board video

To learn more about the Remote Control Demo Board, visit: http://www.microchip.com/stellent/idcplg?IdcService=SS_GET_PAGE&nodeId=1406&dDocName=en557517
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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Microchip Combines Wi-Fi Module and 32-bit PIC32 Microcontroller in Cost-Effective New Demo Board
Microchips Compact Demo Board Makes it Easy to Evaluate the Combination of 32-bit MCU Performance and Low-Power Wi-Fi; Includes Free and Full-Featured TCP/IP Stack
Microchip announced the Wi-Fi Comm Demo Board, which combines Microchips best-in-class 32-bit PIC32 microcontroller family with its lowpower MRF24WB0MA agency-certified, IEEE 802.11, embedded Wi-Fi radio transceiver module. Additionally, Microchip provides a free and full-featured TCP/IP stack, which is available today for download. This compact and costeffective demo board is easy to integrate with existing embedded designs, to evaluate Wi-Fi connectivity and 32-bit performance with minimal effort. Microchips free, commercial-grade TCP/IP stack delivers all the key stack layers for a complete Wi-Fi based design. This includes HTML, DHCP DNS, , IPv4/v6, SSL, etc. In combination with the low-power Wi-Fi module and a PIC32 MCU, this stack delivers a highly optimized embedded Wi-Fi solution. The pervasive Wi-Fi infrastructure continues to enable the rapid growth of the embedded Internet of Things in an expanding number of applications, such as thermostats, appliances, meters, pumps, security systems and sensors. This expansion includes the owners of existing systems, who want to retrofit and add connectivity without installing wires. Microchips Wi-Fi module and TCP/IP stack enable this connectivity for control and communication over the Internet, while its 32-bit PIC32 microcontroller family provides the performance and features to simultaneously process both Wi-Fi communications and a large number of other functions. These functions include audio, graphic displays and touch sensing, and general system command-and-control operations. This demo board makes it easy to evaluate and integrate the combination of Microchips Wi-Fi solutions and 32-bit MCUs in one compact and cost-effective package. The free, fullfeatured TCP/IP software stack and the fact that the Wi-Fi module is certified by multiple international communications agencies further speeds development. Microchips Wi-Fi Comm Demo Board (part # DV102411) is available today. Microchips free TCP/IP stack can be downloaded now.

For Designs Requiring low Power USB And Peripheral Flexibility...

The PIC18F26J50 EVK Flowcode development kit provides easy graphical programming languages for designers
Developed with the assistance of Microchip in Europe the low cost PIC18 Flowcode Developers Kit from Element14 is based upon the PIC18F26J50 and ships with pre-programmed boot loader code that allows users to develop code within MPLAB or Matrix Multimedias Flowcode environment and then download their completed code onto the board via a USB cable . The board contains a temperature sensor , capacitive touch pad , potentiometer , LEDs , is tracked to accept an I2C eeprom and can interface to Matrixs own hardware via an optional D type connector . The Developers Kit ships with a Lite version of Flowcode and users with minimal programming experience really can develop working systems very quickly

To learn more about the Wi-Fi Comm Demo Board: http://www.microchip.com/stellent/idcplg?IdcService=SS_GET_PAGE&nodeId=1406&dDocName=en557487 RETURN TO FRONT PAGE To learn more about the PIC18F26J50 EVK Flowcode developemnt kit: http://www.element14.com/community/docs/DOC-40330/

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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Microchip Brings Cost-Effective Advanced Analog and Digital Integration to 8-bit PIC Microcontrollers
New MCUs Feature On-Chip 12-bit ADC, 8-bit DAC, Op Amps, High-Speed Comparators, eXtreme Low Power Technology; 16-bit PWM Offers Industrys Highest Level of Advanced Control
Microchip announced from DESIGN West in San Jose the expansion of its 8-bit PIC16F(LF)178X enhanced Mid-range core microcontroller (MCU) family to include advanced analog and integrated communication peripherals, such as on-chip 12-bit Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs), 8-bit Digitalto-Analog Converters (DACs), operational amplifiers, and high-speed comparators, along with EUSART (including LIN), I2C and SPI interface peripherals. The MCUs also feature the industrys best level of advanced PWM control and accuracy via the new Programmable Switch-Mode Controllers (PSMCs). This combination of features enables higher efficiency and performance, along with cost and space reductions in applications such as closed-loop control in power supplies, and lighting. The LF versions of the MCUs feature eXtreme Low Power Technology, for active and sleep currents of just 32 A/MHz and 50 nA, respectively, helping to extend battery life and reduce standby current consumption. Low power consumption and advanced analog and digital integration make the generalpurpose PIC16F(LF)178X MCUs ideal for LED lighting, battery management, digital power supply, motor control and other applications. Environmental concerns and green initiatives have led to the rise of new energy-consumption legislation around the world with regard energy consumption. The PIC16F(LF)178X MCUs enable designers to create better products that consume less power. Microchips enhanced Mid-range 8-bit core brings more performance, with 32 MHz operation, automatic context save for faster interrupt handling, more efficiency in the instruction set with better code density, plus faster and more direct-port control capabilities. Available in 28- and 40-pin packages, the MCUs advanced analog integration includes an on-chip 12-bit ADC for very small voltage measurements, as well as enabling mTouch capacitive sensing; and an 8-bit DAC for high-resolution voltage references. Also included on-chip are fast analog comparators with 50 nS response time, Capture Compare Peripherals, and I2C, SPI and EUSART interfaces for communications. Additionally, the MCUs feature a 32 MHz internal oscillator, 2 - 8K Words (3.5 - 14K Bytes) of Flash, 128 512 Bytes of RAM, and 256 Bytes of data EEPROM. The PSMC peripherals are 16bit Pulse-Width Modulators (PWMs) with 64 MHz operation and advanced control capabilities. The PIC16F(LF)178X family integrates considerable analog peripherals along with a versatile 8-bit PIC MCU. This high analog integration enables designers to bring a new level of intelligence

To learn more about the PIC16F(LF)178X, visit: http://www.microchip.com/pagehandler/en-us/family/8bit/

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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Microchip Simplifies C Compiler Line, Provides Best Execution Speed and Code Size for all PIC MCUs and dsPIC DSCs
MPLAB XC Offers Three Compiler OptionsOne Each for 8, 16 and 32-bit; Improves Code Execution Speed by About 30% and Reduces Code Size by About 35%
Microchip announced from DESIGN West in San Jose, Calif., MPLAB XC its simplified line of C compilers that provide the best execution speed and code size for all ~900 PIC microcontrollers (MCUs) and dsPIC Digital Signal Controllers (DSCs). The MPLAB XC8, XC16 and XC32 compilers offer reduced complexity for 8, 16 and 32-bit designers, with three costeffective optimization levels Free, Standard and Pro; the Pro editions can be evaluated for free for 60 days. Additionally, MPLAB XC provides support for the Linux, Mac OS and Windows operating systems, enabling designers to use their platform of choice for embedded development. Another important consideration for todays designers is the ability to re-use their code and easily migrate to the level of microcontroller performance and features that best suits the needs of each project. These have always been strengths for Microchip, and MPLAB XC continues that tradition by making it easy to move code from any of Microchips existing compilers. Additionally, MPLAB XC completes Microchips tool chain of compatible compilers and debugger/programmers that operate seamlessly within the universal, cross-platform and open-source MPLAB X integrated development environment, reducing both learning curves and tool investments. MPLAB XC compilers are also compatible with the legacy MPLAB IDE. Simplicity, execution speed, code size, cost and cross-platform support are all vitally important to embedded designers, from academics and hobbyists to seasoned professionals working for global OEMs, who are all challenged to do more for less, and faster. The new MPLAB XC compiler line meets all of these needs, while expanding the industry-leading levels of compatibility and easy migration that Microchips customers have come to expect. Many designers need a free C compiler. The 8, 16 and 32-bit Free editions of Microchips MPLAB XC compilers offer many optimizations, are fully functional and have no license restrictions for commercial use. For those who want to test their code with the Pro optimization levels, which are approximately 50% better than the Free editions, Microchip also offers evaluation editions with Pro optimization levels that last for 60 days, after which they convert to the Free compilers. Like the Free editions, the evaluation editions are fully functional and have no license restrictions for commercial usage. To further support the diverse requirements of embedded developers, Microchip is now offering the ability to purchase both single-user licenses and the full suite of MPLAB XC compilers for all ~900 8, 16 and 32-bit PIC MCUs and dsPIC DSCs. Additionally, organizations with multiple engineers can purchase a floating network license, where the compiler is hosted on that companys Intranet for easy access by all of its designers. The MPLAB XC8, MPLAB XC16 and MPLAB XC32 compilers are available today. Prices for this new XC line have been reduced up to 60%, and the Pro editions provide industry-leading value at $995. Download the Free editions, or evaluate the paid options with increased code and speed optimizations.

To learn more about MPLAB XC, visit: http://www.microchip.com/pagehandler/en_us/promo/mplabxc/

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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Microchip Unveils Serial Flash Memory Device Development Kit

New Kit Includes Three Daughter Boards for Explorer 16 Development Board, Enables Designers to Evaluate Microchips Stand-Alone Serial Flash Memory Devices
Microchip announced the availability of its Serial SuperFlash Kit 1 (part # AC243005-1), a new development kit that enables designers to evaluate Microchips SPI and SQI serial Flash memory devices. The Serial SuperFlash Kit 1 includes three serial Flash PICtail Plus Daughter Boards that are populated with the SST25VF016B, SST25VF064C and SST26VF032 serial Flash devices, respectively. The daughter boards interface with Microchips Explorer 16 Development Board and work with the MPLAB X Integrated Development Environment (IDE), to enable the quick creation of code and shorten development time. Example code and software drivers written with the MPLAB X IDE are available for download. As Microchip expands its serial Flash portfolio, first-class development tools such as the Serial SuperFlash Kit 1 and Explorer 16 Development Board, enable customers to quickly evaluate Microchips serial Flash devices and develop firmware for their designs The SuperFlash Kit 1 (part # AC243005-1) is available today.

Development Tools Now Ship Overnight

Now Standard for In-Stock items to Domestic US locations

Details about Overnight Service:

Order an in-stock development tool or software by 11AM Arizona time and receive it the next day Applies for US domestic deliveries

Reduced Freight Rates Now Available for Europe!

Go to http://www.microchipdirect.com to learn more or speak with one of our microchipDIRECT team members
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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

PIC32 for High-Quality Audio

When designing audio docking stations and accessories for portable digital audio devices, and other digital audio sources, designers are constrained by cost, while trying to deliver the highest-quality audio playback. In a typical docking station and device accessory, a digital audio source that plugs into the unit sends a serial stereo audio data stream over the docks data transfer interface, such as USB. The dock captures the data stream while performing other crucial tasks, and routes the stream to an audio Codec or Digital to-Analog Converter (DAC) at a specific sample rate, as shown: also eliminates the need for an external crystal/oscillator and PLL on a codec. It can be tuned to prevent buffer underrun and overrun that arise because of clock mismatches. The PIC32 MCU also offers the USB Host and Device module with flexible PLL clocking schemes at low power. USB Clock Mismatch and PIC32 Solution The real-time streaming audio samples must arrive at precise regular time intervals so that the DAC can convert the digital samples to an analog signal with the expected constant rate at which it is configured. If the clock on the DAC/ CODEC is not sourced from the USB interface, mismatch in clocks takes place leading to buffer overrun or underrun and the DAC/CODEC fails to generate an accurate representation of the streamed audio signal causing audible clicks. The USB clock mismatch can be solved with the reference clock output module provided on the PIC32 MCUs. The reference clock output module (REFCLKO) can be used to generate the fractional clock that can be used by audio codec/DACs to accommodate various sample rates. Typical examples of these sample rates and associated master clocks are shown below:

The captured stereo audio stream then flows through a serial interface to the codec or DAC. Since there are many possible sources of digitized audio, and not all of the sources use the same sampling rate, the serial interface typically adapts the sampling frequency to the source, or converts the sampled data stream into a common data rate. Therefore, one of the challenges in the design of the docking system or device accessory is to perform the sample-rate conversion without degrading the audio quality, and at the lowest cost possible. USB interface is popular among many audio users as it has the ability to deliver high-quality audio. However, to meet the requirements of professional audio, the subtle loss of quality due to USB clock and codec clock mismatch must be addressed. The PIC32 has an SPI module that supports different standard audio communication modes including I2S Format, Left-Justified Format, RightJustified Format and DSP/PCM Format and offers high bit resolution for high-quality audio applications. The flexible reference clock output feature of the PIC32 MCU can be used to provide the master clock to the analog front-end to generate the different sample rates. The reference clock output

The Reference clock can be sourced from USB PLL Clock and can be provided to the DAC/CODEC as master clock, this ensures synchronization as the clock sources for both CODEC/DAC and USB are the same eliminating clock jitter. Also the reference clock output performs as good as or better than the master clock generated using the internal PLL on an expensive codec .This would eliminate need for a PLL and as well as external crystal used as time base on the codec/ DAC This will result in cost savings in the audio design while providing the same or better quality than an expensive codec. For more info please read App Note AN1422

To learn more, visit: http://ww1.microchip.com/downloads/en/AppNotes/01422A.pdf

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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Maintaining accurate time using a Real Time Clock

Many embedded designs use a quartz crystal to create a reliable, stable oscillator. Crystals oscillate at a very predictable frequency leading to their common use with Real Time Clock Calendars (RTCC) for timekeeping. However, a crystals natural frequency is dependent on temperature. This article discusses how designers can use digital trimming to compensate for oscillator frequency differences caused by changes in temperature. Crystals in a well-designed circuit oscillate at their rated frequency at 25C. Manufacturing tolerances can cause minor offsets in frequency, as can circuit board layout and load capacitor values. However, the largest variation in frequency is caused by temperature, which can prevent a RTCC from keeping accurate time. The affect of temperature on quartz crystal-based time keeping can be seen below where at 25C the clock loses no time, but at 80C the crystal oscillates off frequency and loses ~ 9 seconds per day. sensors or can measure a thermistor. Alternatively, temperature may be estimated from seasonal averages or other assumptions about the operating environment. For example, a wristwatch can be assumed to operate at approximately body temperature. The resulting improvement in accuracy can be seen below:

As the time lost at each temperature is predictable the RTCC can compensate using digital trimming. Digital trimming periodically adds or subtracts oscillations, allowing the RTCC to adjust for the time lost. The trimming is usually defined in Parts Per Million, which is effectively a very small percentage. The required digital trimming for a quartz crystal oscillator at a set temperature is given by equation 1: Required Quartz Crystal calibration
Dtrim=0.035(T-25)^2 PPM

While temperature changes can cause the Real time clock to lose time, crystal manufacturing tolerances and load capacitance may cause it to oscillate at a greater or lower frequency than specified, gaining or losing time at room temperature (25C). The Microchip's MCP795W20 SPI Real Time Clock supports adding or subtracting up to 510 oscillations per minute via digital trimming. Real Time Clocks use a 32.768 KHz tuning fork crystals in their resonant circuit which makes each oscillation is 1/32,768 of a second. This allows compensation of up to 0.934 seconds/hour (See Equation 2) or 22 seconds per day. Equation 2: Compensation range
Oscillations/ Minute = 2*Calibration Oscillation period = 1/32768 seconds Seconds/Minute = Oscillation per Minute * Oscillation Period Seconds/ Hour = 60*Seconds per Minute = 2*Calibration*1/32768 = 60*2*Calibration*1/32768

Setting the digital trimming calibration to its maximum value of 255

Time Lost or gained = 60*2*255*1/32768 = 0.934 Seconds

Where: Dtrim=Required Trimming value in PPM T=Temperature in C To perform digital trimming the temperature must be measured or estimated. There are many digital temperature sensors which can share the RTCCs control bus and many microcontrollers incorporate internal temperature

The industrial electronics temperature range of -40C to +85C requires less than 13 seconds per day of calibration which is well within the capabilities of the MCP795W20 and leaves trimming range still available for load capacitance and manufacturing tolerance calibration.
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For further details on implementing digital trimming with Microchips RTCC see application note AN1413: Temperature Compensation of a Tuning Fork Crystal Based on the MCP79410

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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Save More with Microchip

Save Power. Save Space. Save Money. Save Time.
Microchip continues to introduce a wide range of innovative 8-bit products targeted at low power consumption, enabling designs with reduced component count, reductions in cost and board space and integration of enhanced features. Save More Power With Low Active and Sleep Currents! With each new generation of 8-bit products, Microchip has reduced quiescent current levels significantly. Microchip plans to continue doing so as evidenced by a number of recently released product families. These new products are the lowest power, lowest pin count devices with industry leading active current as low as 30 A and sleep current for all products below 100 nA and some as low as 20 nA. Save More Space With Small Package Options! The miniaturization of electronic devices has gone mainstream and Microchip intends to stay ahead of the trend. For starters, Microchip has introduced Ultra Thin QFN (UQFN) packaging across our lineup. Not only are these new packages 50% thinner than the existing QFNs, they are smaller in every dimension. The UQFNs offer a very cost-effective method for reducing board size. A number of different packaging options are available in various pin counts:

Save More Money With Integrated Peripherals!

PIC microcontrollers (MCUs) are often viewed as the most useful MCUs in the industry. This is due in no small part to the high levels of peripheral integration present in every product. These peripherals allow our customers to implement much of their systems functionality into a single MCU saving on board space.

Reasons to Use Microchip PIC MCUs for Your Next Design

fer a PIC Microcontrollers of of money saving unique blend : opportunities including e o PIC MCU Exclusiv Peripherals o Internal Clock Sources Data o On-board Temporary Storage o On-board Analog (ADC, DAC) herals o Communications Perip les o Digital Control Modu

y y y y y y

64-pin, 9x9x0.9 mm (QFN) 40-pin, 5x5x0.5 mm (UQFN) 28-pin, 4x4x0.5 mm (UQFN) 14-pin, 3x3x0.9 mm (QFN) 6-pin, 2x3x0.9 mm (DFN) 6-pin, 1.6x2.9x1.2 mm (SOT-23)

Several newly integrated peripherals have been introduced, including: y Configurable Logic Cell (CLC) Provides up to 16 different inputs for combinational and sequential logic (Boolean functions, Flip-flops, Latches) that is configurable under software control. A CLC Configuration Tool is available to streamline the setup process of the CLC module by simulating the functionality of the registers in a Graphical User Interface (GUI). y Numerically Controlled Oscillator (NCO) Dedicated 16-bit PWM that can be used for applications within lighting and power supplies. y Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG) Provides a complementary waveform with rising and falling edge dead band control, with autoshutdown capability that provides improved switching efficiencies for applications such as synchronous power supplies and motor control. y Charge Time Measurement Unit (CTMU) Integrated constant current source that can be used with the ADC for capacitive, inductive or resistive, or precise time measurements and is extremely helpful in advanced sensing applications, reducing the need for external components and CPU overhead. y Real-Time Clock Calendar (RTCC) Maintains accurate time, date, day of week and year information for extended periods of time.

To learn more about Saving More with Microchip, visit: http://www.microchip.com/8bit

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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Looking to Enhance Your Embedded Control Designs?

training that is relevant to each attendee while eliminating the frustration often associated with attending classes that present too much known information or assume a level of knowledge beyond what the attendee currently possesses. Product/tool classes provide knowledge on how Microchips products and development tools operate. This knowledge provides the foundation upon which all application instruction is based. Attendance at one of these classes can provide significant value through the reduction in time associated with instruction manuals and data sheet review or trial and error attempts to learn individually. Market forces constantly press companies to add functionality and features to their products often outside their areas of core competence. As a result, engineers must continually broaden their knowledge base. Microchips technology classes are intended to help engineers gain an understanding of a new field. Implementation classes combine elements of product and technology instruction to teach engineers how to design a real world application. Classes at this level provide how-to instruction rather than what or why instruction. Microchip is currently offering classes in the following curriculum: DSP Ethernet, , Human Interface, Motor Control, Power Management, Signal Chain, System Design and USB. Future curriculum is expected to include CAN/LIN, IrDA, Lighting and RF. With a worldwide network of Regional Training Centers and certified third-party trainers, Microchip makes it easy to enhance your technical skills, with locations in nearly every metropolitan area across the world! For those organizations who desire to have a number of employees attend a course at the same time, Microchip can customize any curriculum to meet your specific needs. Our instructors arrive at your location with all presentation materials and equipment, making it easy for your whole team to benefit from a specific course topic in one setting. In addition to the instruction, most Regional Training Center classes offer the opportunity to purchase a set of the development tools used in the class at a discounted price. If the class you are interested in is not scheduled in your area, you can sign up to receive an alert when a session is scheduled. For information on scheduling custom in-house training, contact your local RTC directly or visit the Microchip RTC web site: www.microchip.com/RTC

In tough economic times, companies often look for ways to trim expenses as a means to cope with a downturn in sales. One of the areas often targeted for cutbacks is employee training. There is not only the direct cost of the training to contend with, but also travel expenses and time an employee spends away from the job. During this challenging business climate, however, competitive pressures and technology changes dont stop and it is training that can help a company be better positioned to take advantage of the potential upswing. Microchip, with its global network of Regional Training Centers (RTCs) and third-party training partners, is here to help companies stay competitive with cost-effective, local training. To help companies deal with issues of travel expense and time, classes are given not only in Microchips facilities, but are also taken on the road. Customized customer premise sessions can be scheduled offering the most convenience. Time away can be managed more efficiently with the flexibility of half or full day class sessions. To be effective in teaching, instruction must take into account the needs and expertise level of the attendee. Microchips Regional Training Center classes are developed to provide a coordinated flow, enabling engineers to implement a solution to their product development needs. Instruction is developed and presented in product, technology and implementation classes that are grouped into application based curriculum. Each curriculum flow enables the individual to engage with the training at a level that meets his or her current knowledge and needs. The intent is to provide

For a complete list of classes and locations, visit www.microchip.com/RTC

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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Whats New in Microchip Literature?

Doc. Type Doc. Title DS No. Doc. Type Doc. Title

Visit our Technical Documentation page at www.microchip.com to view the documents. DS No.

Data Sheet

TC7660 Charge Pump DC-to-DC Voltage Converter Data Sheet TC4420M/TC4429M 6A High-Speed MOSFET Drivers Data Sheet TC4451/TC4452 12A High-Speed MOSFET Drivers Data Sheet MCP3909 - Energy Metering IC with SPI Interface and Active Power Pulse Output Data Sheet 24AA08/LC08B Data Sheet MCP795WXX SPI RTCC Data Sheet MCP2021A Data Sheet MCP2050 Data Sheet MCP47DA1 Data Sheet MCP1703A Data Sheet MCP6V11 Data Sheet MCP6V31 Data Sheet AR1000 Series Resistive Touch Screen Controller Data Sheet PIC16(L)F1782/1783 Data Sheet PIC169L)F1512/13 Data Sheet

21465C 21933B 21987B 22025C 21710K 22280B 22298A 22299A 25118B 25122A 25124A 25127A 41393B 41579C 41624A 52059B 41572D 41595B 41619B 70663D 41629A 52056A 52057A 52068A 70678A 41610B 41626A 41627A

Errata

MCP660/1/2/3/4/5/9 60 MHz, 6mA Op Amps Data Sheet 22194D FRM Section

Info Sheet

PIC16(L)F1933 Errata PIC16(L)F1516/17/18/19 Errata dsPIC33EPXXX(GP/MC/MU)806/810/814 and PIC24EPXXX(GP/GU)810/814 Family Silicon Errata and Data Sheet Clarification PIC10(L)F320/322 Errata PIC12F752/HV752 Errata PIC16(L)F1782/1783 Errata PIC795WXX/BXX Errata PIC16(L)F1512/1513 Errata dsPIC33F/PIC24H Family Reference Manual - Section 20. Data Converter Interface (DCI) dsPIC33F/PIC24H Family Reference Manual Section 37. RealTime Clock and Calendar (RTCC) dsPIC33E/PIC24E Family Reference Manual Section 20. Data Converter Interface (DCI) Module dsPIC33E/PIC24E Family Reference Manual - Section 7. Oscillator dsPIC33F and PIC24H mTouch Capacitive Touch Evaluation Boards Information Sheet PIC32MX250F128D Information Sheet

80490K 80518C 80526C 80529B 80535B 80541A 80542A 80543A 70288C 70301C 70356C 70580C 51927B 52008C

License Manager for MPLAB XC C Compilers Misc Programming PIC10(L)F320/322 Programming Specification Specification PIC12LF1840T48A/T39A Programming Specification PIC12F529T48A/T39A Programming Specification dsPIC33E/PIC24E Flash Programming Specification for Devices with Volatile Configuration Bits

User's Guide

PIC16LF1947 F1 LV Motor Control User's Guide MCP2210 Breakout Module User's Guide MCP2210 Evaluation Kit User's Guide Remote Control Demonstration Board User's Guide Wi-Fi Comm Demo Board User's Guide

Product Brief PIC16(L)F1512/1513 Product Brief

PIC12F529T39A Product Brief PIC12LF1840T39A Product Brief

The Microchip name and logo, the Microchip logo, dsPIC, KEELOQ, KEELOQ logo, MPLAB, PIC, PICmicro, PICSTART, PIC32 logo, rfPIC and UNI/O are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. FilterLab, Hampshire, HI-TECH C, Linear Active Thermistor, MXDEV, MXLAB, SEEVAL and The Embedded Control Solutions Company are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. Analog-for-the-Digital Age, Application Maestro, CodeGuard, dsPICDEM, dsPICDEM.net, dsPICworks, dsSPEAK, ECAN, ECONOMONITOR, FanSense, HI-TIDE, In-Circuit Serial Programming, ICSP , Mindi, MiWi, MPASM, MPLAB Certified logo, MPLIB, MPLINK, mTouch, Octopus, Omniscient Code Generation, PICC, PICC-18, PICDEM, PICDEM.net, PICkit, PICtail, REAL ICE, rfLAB, Select Mode, Total Endurance, TSHARC, UniWinDriver, WiperLock and ZENA are trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. SQTP is a service mark of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. All other trademarks mentioned herein are property of their respective companies. 2012, Microchip Technology Incorporated, Printed in the U.S.A., All Rights Reserved. RETURN TO FRONT PAGE

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MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYS microSOLUTIONS Monthly E-newsletter - May 2012

Whats New @
Lead Times
Would you like to stay ahead of the competition? Receive weekly updates on Microchips leadtime and stock. Here's how: 1) Login to microchipDIRECT 2) Select Lead Time Report E-Mail under Support pull-down menu

Need Some Inspiration?

View these newly released development systems from Microchips trusted 3rd Party Providers. All are in-stock and available on microchipDIRECT

Learn to program 16-bit MCUs with Beginner's Guide to Programming the PIC24/dsPIC33 by Thomas Kibalo

New Pascal, Basic, and C compilers from MikroElektronika include an intuitive IDE, advanced optimizations, lots of hardware and software libraries, plus additional tools. 3) Choose Product Line and then Device Family from pull-downs Create remote, web-enabled devices quickly with the Net-Touch Web Server Combo Kit from Devpeak.

4) Choose Add next to desired Part(s) 5) Contact us for any questions

Add a Real-Time Clock/Calendar with battery backup using the Digilent PmodRTCC Peripheral Module.

Implement a compact OLED graphical display using the Digilent PmodOLED Peripheral Module.

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