Microchip PIC16F15355-I/SS 8-Bit Microcontroller Technical Overview and Application Guide
The Microchip PIC16F15355-I/SS is a versatile 8-bit microcontroller unit (MCU) from Microchip Technology's enhanced mid-range PIC16F family. Housed in a 28-pin SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package), this device is engineered for a broad spectrum of embedded control applications, offering a compelling blend of core independent peripherals (CIPs), analog integration, and low-power operation.
Core Architecture and Performance
At its heart lies an enhanced 8-bit PIC® core with a 49-instruction set, operating at speeds up to 32 MHz with an internal oscillator, delivering a performance of 8 MIPS. The core features a 14-bit wide instruction word architecture, which simplifies programming and enhances code density. A key strength is its 16-level deep hardware stack and enhanced instruction set, including divide and multiply functions, significantly boosting computational efficiency for an 8-bit processor.
Memory Configuration
The PIC16F15355 boasts a substantial 14 KB of Flash program memory, providing ample space for complex application code. It is complemented by 1024 bytes of RAM for data handling and 256 bytes of non-volatile EEPROM for critical data storage that must be retained even during power cycles. This robust memory configuration supports firmware updates and data logging functionalities.
Advanced and Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs)
This MCU distinguishes itself with a rich set of integrated peripherals designed to minimize CPU intervention and power consumption.
Analog Capabilities: It includes a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with up to 21 channels, a 5-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC), and two comparators. This makes it ideal for sensor interface applications.
Communication Interfaces: Multiple serial communication protocols are supported, including EUSART (for UART), SPI, and I2C, enabling seamless connectivity with a vast ecosystem of sensors, displays, and other ICs.
Timing and Control: The module is equipped with multiple timers (e.g., 8-bit, 16-bit), a Windowed Watchdog Timer (WWDT) for enhanced reliability, and a Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG). The CWG is a CIP crucial for precise motor control and power conversion applications, capable of generating complementary PWM signals with dead-band control.
Other CIPs: Additional features like a Memory Access Partition (MAP) for bootloader security, a CRC/SCAN module for hardware-based data integrity checks, and a Hardware Limit Timer (HLT) further augment its capability for safety-critical designs.
Low-Power Features
The PIC16F15355 is built for energy-sensitive applications. It supports multiple low-power operating modes, including Idle, Doze, and Sleep. Its nanowatt XLP (eXtreme Low Power) technology ensures minimal current consumption in sleep mode (typically tens of nA), making it perfect for battery-powered and portable devices.
Application Guide
The integration of these features opens doors to numerous applications:
Motor Control: The combination of CWG, ADC, and comparators is optimal for controlling brushless DC (BLDC) and stepper motors in consumer appliances, drones, and industrial fans.
Automotive and Industrial: With its robust peripheral set and operating voltage range (1.8V to 5.5V), it is suitable for smart sensors, power converters, and lighting control in harsh environments.
Consumer Electronics: Ideal for touch interfaces (using its ADC for capacitive sensing), power tools, and personal healthcare devices due to its low-power profile and compact package.
Internet of Things (IoT) Endpoints: Serves as a capable node in IoT networks, handling sensor data acquisition, local processing, and communication via its serial peripherals before transmission.
The Microchip PIC16F15355-I/SS stands out as a highly integrated and flexible 8-bit MCU solution. Its powerful suite of Core Independent Peripherals effectively offloads the CPU, enabling deterministic real-time control and lower system power consumption. The significant on-chip memory, advanced analog, and communication features make it a superior choice for designers tackling complex embedded system challenges across automotive, industrial, consumer, and IoT markets. It successfully bridges the gap between basic 8-bit MCUs and more expensive 32-bit alternatives, offering exceptional value and performance.
Keywords:
1. Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs)
2. 8-Bit Microcontroller
3. Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG)
4. Low-Power Operation
5. Embedded Control
