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The AVR family® DU makes it easier for embedded system designers to implement USB functions in a wider variety of systems
Among the well-known advantages of a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface for embedded designs are its compatibility with multiple devices, an optimized communication protocol, as well as its power and field upgradeability. With the goal of easily incorporating this functionality into embedded systems, Microchip Technology has presented its AVR family of microcontrollers® DU. Representing Microchip's next generation of 8-bit microcontrollers, the AVR DU family integrates USB connectivity and is designed to offer enhanced security features and deliver more power than previous versions.
“USB is the most widely used communication protocol and power method in electronic devices,” said Greg Robinson, corporate vice president of Microchip's 8-bit microcontroller business unit. “Microchip's AVR DU family combines the flexibility of our most advanced 8-bit microcontrollers and the versatility of enhanced power to deliver the benefits of USB to a wider variety of embedded systems.”
AVR DU microcontrollers can deliver up to 15W power via the USB interface, which is unusual for other USB microcontrollers in their segment. This feature enables USB-C charging® with currents up to 3A at 5V, making these microcontrollers an excellent choice for devices such as portable external batteries and rechargeable toys.
To enhance defense against malicious attacks, the AVR DU family incorporates Microchip's PDID (Program and Debug Interface Disable) function. When enabled, Enhanced Code Protection is designed to block access to the programming/debugging interface and unauthorized attempts to read, modify, or erase firmware. The AVR DU family uses RWW (Read-While-Write) Flash to enable secure firmware updates, and when combined with a secure bootloader, designers can use the USB interface to repair defects, resolve security issues, and add new features. functions without affecting the operation of the product. This enhanced functionality in AVR DU microcontrollers is designed to enable seamless field upgrades that extend the life of the products.
The AVR DU family also helps reduce overall bill of materials costs through a USB clock recovery feature that eliminates the need for an expensive external crystal. Core Independent Peripherals (CIP) allow designers to incorporate key device functions and system management tasks into a compact, single-chip solution that takes up less board space and makes design easier.
Developers of a wide variety of embedded designs, from fitness wearables and home appliances to agricultural and industrial applications, can benefit from incorporating high-efficiency AVR DU microcontrollers into their designs. A virtual demo of the AVR DU family is available at try.microchip.com.
