Simple gesture sensing integration for the MGC3030 can be implemented through Microchip's free-to-download AUREA (AUREA) graphical user interface (GUI) with easy-to-configure general-purpose I/O ports that operate without requiring a host MCU/processor. Additionally, the MGC3030's on-chip 32-bit digital signal processor performs gesture processing in real-time, enabling faster and more natural interaction with the device without the need for external cameras or controllers for host processing.

The MGC3030 simplifies design work and shortens time-to-market by leveraging design tools in the GestIC product family, including Microchip's Colibri Gesture Suite. The Colibri Gesture Suite is an on-chip software library comprising sophisticated yet convenient gesture functions that recognize intuitive and natural hand motions, enabling more functional, intuitive, and engaging device operation. Without needing to touch the device, users can utilize capabilities such as flick gestures, air wheel, and proximity sensing to perform various commands including audio track changes, volume adjustment, and backlighting control. Since all gestures are processed on-chip, a highly effective user interface can be implemented with minimal development effort.

The programmable "Auto Wake-Up On Approach" feature is a unique GestIC capability that operates with power consumption in the 100 mW range, enabling continuous gesture recognition even in power-constrained applications. When actual user interaction is detected, the system automatically switches to full sensing mode, and when the user moves out of the recognition range, it automatically switches back to wake-up mode.

Through the combination of these features and characteristics, products with integrated gesture sensing can be offered at price points suitable for mass-production devices.

Fanie Duvenhage, Director of the Human-Machine Interface Business Unit at Microchip, stated, "The MGC3030 is a product focused on key gesture sensing capabilities, which will facilitate easier device design and is expected to be well-received in price-sensitive end-product markets. Microchip's distinctive GestIC technology with gesture sensing capabilities will continue to provide robust, sophisticated, and advanced 3D hand gesture recognition functionality at the most competitive price points."

Development Support

To support development work on the MGC3030, Microchip has simultaneously launched the Woodstar MGC3030 Development Kit (part number DM160226). This development kit is available through Microchip sales representatives or authorized distributors worldwide, or can be purchased from Microchip Direct. The kit serves as a core tool for configuring MGC3030 parameters and provides the AUREA (AUREA) graphical user interface and the Colibri Suite (Colibri Suit) with comprehensive design support. AUREA can be freely downloaded from http://www.microchip.com/AUREA-GUI-012015a. The Colibri Gesture Suite comes pre-programmed on the MGC3030 and comprises a broad library of 3D gesture functions with natural hand and finger motions.

Availability

The MGC3030 with GestIC technology is currently in mass production in a 28-pin SSOP package. More detailed information is available by contacting Microchip sales representatives or authorized distributors worldwide, or by visiting the Microchip website (http://www.microchip.com/GestIC-Page-012015a). Products mentioned in this press release can be purchased by visiting Microchip Direct or by contacting Microchip's official distribution partners.