Microchip PIC32MX340F256H-80I/PT 32-bit Microcontroller Overview and Application Guide

The Microchip PIC32MX340F256H-80I/PT represents a high-performance member of the PIC32MX family, built around a 32-bit MIPS M4K core operating at up to 80 MHz. This microcontroller (MCU) is engineered to deliver a powerful blend of processing performance, peripheral integration, and power efficiency, making it a versatile solution for a wide array of embedded applications, from industrial control to consumer devices.

At its heart, the core leverages the MIPS32® architecture with a Harvard design, separate instruction and data caches, and a 5-stage pipeline. This enables efficient execution of complex code, achieving 1.56 DMIPS/MHz. The device features 256 KB of Flash memory and 64 KB of RAM, providing ample space for sophisticated applications and data handling. Its operating voltage ranges from 2.3V to 3.6V, supporting low-power operation.

A key strength of this MCU lies in its rich set of integrated peripherals. It includes a 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) capable of 1 Msps conversion speed with up to 16 channels, making it ideal for precision sensor interfacing. For connectivity, it offers multiple serial communication interfaces, including UART, SPI, and I2C modules. Furthermore, it is equipped with 5x 16-bit timers/counters and a real-time clock and calendar (RTCC) module, which are crucial for time-critical applications and event management.

For applications requiring robust human-machine interface (HMI) capabilities, the controller supports a Parallel Master Port (PMP) and an external memory interface, allowing for easy connection to graphical displays and additional memory. It also features a hardware crypto engine for accelerated AES, DES, and SHA encryption, which is critical for securing data in connected devices.

The 80 MHz CPU speed ensures that the device can handle computationally intensive tasks without external processing help. Its industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) ensures reliable operation in harsh environments, making it suitable for automotive, industrial, and outdoor applications.

Development is supported by Microchip’s comprehensive MPLAB® X IDE and the Harmony v3 framework, which simplifies software development with integrated libraries and drivers, reducing time to market.

In practice, the PIC32MX340F256H is well-suited for applications such as:

- Industrial automation: motor control, PLCs, and monitoring systems.

- Internet of Things (IoT) gateways: with wired connectivity and data processing.

- Medical devices: patient monitoring and diagnostic equipment.

- Audio processing: with its high-speed core and memory.

- Advanced control systems: leveraging its timer modules and communication interfaces.

ICGOODFIND: The PIC32MX340F256H-80I/PT stands out as a highly integrated, performance-optimized 32-bit microcontroller. Its balance of processing power, extensive peripherals, and security features makes it an excellent choice for developers building next-generation embedded systems that demand reliability, connectivity, and complex functionality.

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Keywords: 32-bit Microcontroller, MIPS M4K Core, Embedded Peripherals, Industrial Applications, Crypto Engine