Column: MCUs


smaller MCUs at the edge of the vehicle’s architecture, minimising vehicle wiring. Within these zones, MCUs are a


A vast number of automotive control systems rely on 8-bit MCUs (Source: Universeal/stock.adobe.com)


Expanding automotive opportunities with 8-bit MCUs


By Mark Patrick, Technical Content Director, Mouser Electronics T


he automotive industry has undergone a significant transformation recently, perhaps one of its most substantial in history. A sector formerly


dominated by mechanical systems is transitioning to electronic, digital and smart systems. Tis seismic shiſt gives rise to new opportunities and requirements that must be met, and an old stalwart – the 8-bit microcontroller (MCU) – will still be a major beneficiary.


More functionalities Within automotive design some initiatives persist across every model and manufacturer: the obvious shiſt away from fossil-fuel internal combustion engines to sustainable electric vehicles and the rise of automotive “intelligence”. Among the increased


vehicle functionalities are advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), better safety features, and improved convenience and infotainment systems. One could easily say modern vehicles have become “data centres on wheels”, with every part continuously capturing and processing data. Connecting numerous vehicle


subsystems, ranging from chassis control modules to motorised mirror drivers and centralised processing systems, does impact vehicle weight and performance, so manufacturers are focusing on tighter and more efficient system architectures. One approach growing in popularity


among automotive system developers is zonal architecture, where systems are organised based on the specific area they occupy rather than functionality. Tis allows data processing and decision making to be localised, handled by


12 February 2024 www.electronicsworld.co.uk


fundamental component, providing control of peripheral functions and sensors without adding complexity or overhead to the overall architecture. MCUs can govern systems like seat controls, in-vehicle and exterior lighting, mirror and side-mirror control, steering wheel controls, switchgear, capacitive controls, and more. And, among the abundance of MCUs to choose from, some of the most popular are 8-bit PIC and AVR MCUs from Microchip Technology, because of their simplicity and efficiency. At the heart of these MCUs are low-cost, low-complexity 8-bit microprocessors, with simple system integration and programming, yet with a wide range of features including Microchip’s Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) tailored to precise requirements.


PIC and AVR solutions Microchip’s latest PIC and AVR solutions come with features such as an integrated ADC and flash memory, as well as automotive-qualified models with an on-board controller area network (CAN) bus for easier communication between vehicle systems, without external hardware. Furthermore, they provide reliable performance in harsh automotive environments, with off-the-shelf compliance to the latest rigorous safety standards required by the automotive industry. By taking what is in comparative terms


a very simple electronic component and integrating key additional functionality, electronics manufacturers can create devices that are of real value to the automotive industry. With modern vehicle makers seeking greater system intelligence and moving to zonal distribution, there is now a bigger demand than ever for low- powered MCUs. In essence, MCUs have now become a fundamental automotive component. While 16- and 32-bit microprocessors will have their place, 8-bit variants – with their low cost and low complexity – are arguably best suited to fill a large number of core vehicle applications.


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