Mixed-signal microcontroller for smart sensors

Cygnal Integrated Products has a new highly integrated, in-system-programmable, mixed-signal SoC microcontroller.

Cygnal Integrated Products has a new highly integrated, in-system-programmable, mixed-signal SoC microcontroller.

The C8051F006 combines a 25MIPS, pipelined 8051 CPU with an eight-channel 12bit A/D convertor with programmable gain amplifier.

This allows designers to convert ordinary sensors into compact smart sensors.

"This combination facilitates sensor data acquisition, signal conditioning, and self calibration and diagnostic algorithms", explains Danny Allred, Cygnal's Product Marketing Manager.

"The consolidation results in an effective way to reduce the system size and parts count".

Other features of the Cygnal microcontroller include 32Kbyte of onboard programmable Flash and 2.25Kbyte of RAM.

These elements allow users to easily and quickly modify or update software and profit by local data storage for data logging, calibration constants, serial numbers and look-up tables.

The serial interfaces enable communication via the host system.

Two 12bit D/A convertors provide the means for sensor signal gain and offset adjustments in real time.

System cost and development time are further reduced and test accessibility is increased with integrated JTAG-based debug circuitry on-chip.

This technology eliminates the need for performance degrading sockets and expensive in-circuit emulators.

Advanced power management features on the C8051F006 make it ideal for low power sensor applications.

The small outline, low profile TQFP 48-pin package allows the C8051F006 to be mounted in the same enclosure with the sensor, simplifying system architecture and improving measurement accuracy and reliability.

To support design with the microcontroller, Cygnal offers the C8051F005DK development kit.

This is a low-cost, complete development suite with capabilities typical of in-circuit emulators.

Along with purchasing both the microcontroller and development kit online, Cygnal offers a user group forum from which users can obtain technical support, share ideas, and explore solutions with other designers.

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