Microchip PIC16F15324T-E/ST: A Comprehensive Technical Overview

The Microchip PIC16F15324T-E/ST represents a versatile and robust 8-bit microcontroller within Microchip's expansive PIC16F family. Engineered for a wide array of embedded control applications, this device combines core-independent peripherals, enhanced mid-range core performance, and compact packaging, making it a compelling choice for space-constrained and cost-sensitive designs.

At its heart lies the high-performance 8-bit RISC CPU core. Operating at a maximum frequency of 32 MHz, it can execute most instructions in a single clock cycle, delivering a computational throughput of up to 8 MIPS. This efficiency is crucial for real-time control tasks. The core is supported by 3.5 KB of Flash program memory and 128 bytes of RAM, providing ample resources for many embedded firmware routines.

A defining characteristic of the PIC16F15324 series is its focus on Core-Independent Peripherals (CIPs). These are hardware modules designed to operate without constant intervention from the CPU, offloading processing overhead and enabling more deterministic system behavior. Key CIPs in this model include:

Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG): This peripheral is essential for advanced motor control and power conversion applications, generating complementary PWM signals with dead-band control to prevent shoot-through in half-bridge circuits.

Windowed Watchdog Timer (WWDT): Enhances system reliability by offering a configurable window for refreshing the timer, making it more robust against code malfunctions compared to a standard watchdog timer.

NanoWatt XLP Technology: This feature is critical for battery-powered and low-power applications. It enables the microcontroller to achieve extremely low current consumption in Sleep mode (typically tens of nA), significantly extending battery life.

The peripheral set is further rounded out by standard communication interfaces including MSSP (I²C/SPI) and EUSART (USART with support for LIN), providing flexible connectivity options for sensors, displays, and other system components. It also features a 10-bit ADC with up to 11 channels, allowing for precise analog signal acquisition.

Housed in a TSSOP-14 package, the 'T' in its part number signifies it is supplied on a tape and reel format, optimized for automated assembly processes in high-volume manufacturing. The PIC16F15324T-E/ST is also characterized for industrial temperature ranges (-40°C to +85°C), ensuring reliable operation in harsh environments.

ICGOODFIND: The PIC16F15324T-E/ST is a highly integrated 8-bit MCU that stands out for its core-independent peripherals like the CWG, which simplify complex control tasks, and its exceptional ultra-low power consumption enabled by NanoWatt XLP technology. Its small form factor and robust feature set make it an excellent solution for applications demanding performance, efficiency, and reliability in a compact footprint.

Keywords:

1. Core-Independent Peripherals (CIPs)

2. Complementary Waveform Generator (CWG)

3. NanoWatt XLP Technology

4. 8-bit RISC CPU

5. TSSOP-14 Package