New PICs protect embedded data

23 September 2015 DSP, Micros & Memory

Microchip announced the expansion of its eXtreme Low Power (XLP) PIC microcontroller (MCU) portfolio with the PIC24F ‘GB4’ family.

Features include an integrated hardware crypto engine with both OTP and Key RAM options for secure key storage, up to 256 KB of Flash memory and a direct drive for segmented LCD displays, in 64-, 100- or 121-pin packages.

Dual-partition Flash with Live Update capability allows the devices to hold two independent software applications, and permits the simultaneous programming of one partition while executing application code from the other. These advanced features make the devices ideal for designers of industrial, computer, medical/fitness and portable applications that require secure data transfer and storage, and a long battery life.

To protect embedded data, several Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) that run without the CPU are integrated. The fully featured hardware crypto engine, which includes support for the AES, DES and 3DES standards, reduces software overhead, lowers power consumption and enables faster throughput.

A random number generator is used for generating random keys for data encryption, decryption and authentication, enabling a higher level of security.

For additional protection, this family offers the flexibility of choosing from two crypto-key storage options: one-time programmable (OTP) to prevent overwriting keys, or Key RAM that erases keys if power is lost. To allow the application’s real-time clock to continue running when primary power is removed, a VBAT pin can be used to supply backup power.

Reducing system components, a segmented LCD display driver provides the ability to directly drive up to 512 segments, enabling more informative and flexible displays that include descriptive icons and scrolling. Product variants are available with and without USB.

For more information contact Shane Padayachee, Avnet South Africa, +27 (0)11 319 8600, [email protected], www.avnet.co.za

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