Digital signal controllers streamline complex motor-control systems integrating many peripherals into one package

Microchip has introduced the new dsPIC33AK256MPS306 digital signal controllers (DSCs) with a high-performance 200MHz CPU speed and digital signal processor. The controllers are ideal for the increasing processing demands of modern efficient industrial drive designs.

The DSCs can efficiently implement complex control algorithms with minimal latency using a single- and double-precision floating-point unit coprocessor. This simplifies software development while improving response times in dynamic load conditions.

The controllers feature many peripherals such as pulse-width modulation (PWM) generators with 78ps resolution for use in high-frequency switching topologies commonly found in power conversion applications.

The PWM generators are complemented by three 12-bit resolution analog-to-digital converters capable of up to 40Msample/s, enabling oversampling techniques that minimize noise and improve current-sensing accuracy. The result is smoother motor operation and reduced torque ripple. The dsPIC33AK256MPS306 also includes dedicated hardware for direct memory access (DMA) to streamline data movement between peripherals and memory, without loading the CPU. 

Other peripherals include a resolver-to-digital converter allowing direct feedback from brushless DC motors for further control, as well as three dedicated 32-bit timer/counter modules.

For automotive systems, security is critical, so the dsPIC33AK256MPS306 incorporates robust hardware safety features such as:

• Flash and RAM error correcting code (ECC)
• Memory built-in self-test (MBIST)
• On-chip secure boot
• Post-quantum cryptographic accelerator
• Windowed watchdog timer
• Fail-safe clock monitor

These features enable the controller to be compliant with ISO 26262 ASIL B and IEC 61508 SIL 2 functional safety standards.