Freescale Semiconductor: New 16-bit DSCs for cost-sensitive apps

Key application spaces for 56F8000 controllers are automotive systems, industrial and appliance motor control, and digital power systems (power supplies and line-interactive UPSs).

Freescale Semiconductor introduced new 56F8000 Series microcontrollers (MCUs) that feature a digital signal controller (DSC) core, providing MCU-like control and the signal processing capability of a DSP. Advanced peripherals designed for industrial applications reportedly come integrated with the DSC core. Current introduction includes two, 16-bit cost-sensitive devices—56F8013 and 56F8014—offering 16 KB program flash, 4 KB program/data RAM in a 32-pin package. Other products with more capability and features are expected to follow.

Key differentiators of 56F8000 devices include a high-performance PWM, enabling 96 MHz operation (3X core speed); accurate 12-bit A/D conversion (2 simultaneous conversions per 1.125

These digital signal controllers have software programmable phase-locked loop, up to six-output PWM module with up to four programmable fault inputs, and synchronization between PWM and A/D converter. The 32 MHz 56800E hybrid core delivers its 32 MIPS core speed over the full voltage and temperature range of the device, according to Freescale.

A full line of app-specific software libraries and development tools complement these controllers. Software tools include Metrowerks’ CodeWarrior for 56800/E, a Microsoft Windows-based visual IDE (integrated development environment), and Processor Expert, a rapid application design tool integrated with CodeWarrior.

Production for LQFP (low-profile, quad flat package) version devices has started with PDIP (plastic, dual inline package) versions slated for 4Q2005. Pricing is $2.99, each, in 10K lots.

—Frank J. Bartos, executive editor, Control Engineering, fbartos@reedbusiness.com

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