Texas Instruments Launches Piccolo 32-bit Microcontrollers

Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) has announced a series of 32-bit TMS320F2802x/F2803x microcontrollers (MCU) starting at less than $2 in volume. The Piccolo F2802x/F2803x microcontrollers feature architectural advancements and enhanced peripherals in package sizes starting at 38-pins to bring the benefits of 32-bit real-time control to applications typically unable to associated cost. Real-time control offers system efficiency and precision through the implementation of advanced algorithms for industrial, consumer and automotive applications such as solar power micro-inverters, LED lighting, white goods appliances and hybrid automotive batteries. The Piccolo F2802x/F2803x controllers can replace multiple electronic components to lower overall system cost while enabling advanced power electronics management. For example, in a variable frequency air conditioning unit, a single F2802x/F2803x controller can precisely control two electric three-phase motors as well as perform power factor correction (PFC) calculations. Currently required in approximately 30 percent of the world's markets, including Europe, China, Japan and India, PFC improves the efficiency of the load to make best use of the power from the utility.