Microchip PIC32MX350F256H-I/PT 32-bit Microcontroller Overview and Application Guide
The Microchip PIC32MX350F256H-I/PT represents a powerful and versatile member of the PIC32MX family of 32-bit microcontrollers (MCUs). Built around the high-performance MIPS32® M4K® core, this device operates at up to 80 MHz, delivering an impressive 1.56 DMIPS/MHz. This combination of robust processing power and a rich set of integrated peripherals makes it an ideal solution for a wide array of embedded applications, from industrial control and automation to consumer devices and advanced human-machine interfaces (HMI).
Core Architecture and Performance
At the heart of this MCU lies the efficient MIPS processor core, which supports the MIPS16e® mode for enhanced code density, effectively reducing the required program memory footprint. With 256 KB of Flash memory and 64 KB of RAM, the device offers ample space for complex application code and data handling. The inclusion of a prefetch cache module helps maximize throughput from the Flash memory, ensuring the core operates at peak efficiency with minimal wait states.
Integrated Peripheral Set
A key strength of the PIC32MX350F256H-I/PT is its extensive suite of on-chip peripherals, designed to minimize external component count and simplify system design.
Connectivity: It features multiple serial communication interfaces, including UART, SPI, and I2C™ modules, facilitating easy connection to sensors, memory, and other external devices. For broader connectivity, it integrates a 10/100 Ethernet MAC with a dedicated DMA controller, making it well-suited for networked applications.
Analog Capabilities: The MCU includes a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) with a throughput of up to 1 Msps, capable of sequencing up to 16 analog inputs, which is crucial for precision sensing and measurement.
Timing and Control: It is equipped with multiple timers/counters, Capture/Compare/PWM (CCP) modules, and a 16-bit parallel master port (PMP), offering flexible options for motor control, digital power supply management, and interfacing with LCDs or external memory.
System Integration: Hardware-based DMA controllers offload data transfer tasks from the CPU, significantly improving system performance for high-bandwidth operations.
Development and Ecosystem
Development is supported by a mature and comprehensive ecosystem. Engineers can utilize the MPLAB® X Integrated Development Environment (IDE) and the XC32 compiler. For hardware debugging and programming, tools like the MPLAB PICkit™ 4 or ICD 4 are available. The Microchip Harmony v3 embedded software framework provides a modular and interoperable library of drivers, system services, and middleware, dramatically accelerating development time by providing a unified platform for configuring the device and its complex peripherals.
Target Applications
The blend of processing muscle and peripheral integration makes this MCU suitable for demanding tasks such as:
Industrial Control Systems: PLCs, motor control, and monitoring equipment.
Networked Devices: Building automation controllers, networked sensors, and IoT gateways.
Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI): Driving graphical displays with touch input.
Advanced Consumer Products: Appliances, audio equipment, and gaming accessories.
ICGOODFIND: The Microchip PIC32MX350F256H-I/PT stands out as a highly integrated and capable 32-bit microcontroller. Its balance of 80 MHz MIPS core performance, substantial memory, and a vast array of communication and control peripherals, all supported by a mature development ecosystem, provides engineers with a reliable and powerful platform for tackling a diverse range of complex embedded design challenges.
Keywords: PIC32MX, MIPS32, 80 MHz, Ethernet MAC, Harmony Framework
