As demands for real-time control and security rise simultaneously in AI data centers and industrial power systems, semiconductor companies are continuing to move to integrate control, analog, and security functions onto a single chip. In response to this trend, Microchip Technology has stepped up its Digital Signal Controller (DSC) product family.

Microchip Technology announced on the 15th that it has launched the dsPIC33AK256MPS306 and expanded its dsPIC33A DSC product family. The company cited the increasing demand for high-efficiency power design, deterministic real-time control, and quantum-resistant encryption in AI servers, data centers, automotive, and industrial systems as the background for this product launch.

Based on a 200MHz 32-bit core and a dual-precision floating-point unit, the new device integrates a 78ps resolution PWM, a 40MSPS ADC, a high-speed comparator, and a DAC. This structure supports the implementation of fast and stable control loops in applications such as DC/DC converters, auxiliary power supplies, and power conversion in high-frequency switching environments. In particular, the design incorporates considerations for application in SiC and GaN power semiconductor-based systems.

Security features have also been enhanced. It includes secure boot, firmware updates, and debug functions, and supports CNSA 2.0 recommendation-based post-quantum cryptography (PQC) algorithms and hardware-accelerated cryptography. Additionally, it takes into account the continuous operation environments required for server power devices and the like through a live update function that allows software updates without system interruption.

Considering its application in various industrial environments, this product supports communication interfaces such as I3C, CAN FD, LIN, SPI, I2C, and SENT, and also includes encoder and resolver interfaces for motor control. The implementation of Field-Oriented Control (FOC) based on trigonometric operation performance, along with an integrated touch controller and oversampling ADC function, focuses on simplifying sensing and HMI design.

In addition, it is pursuing vehicle-grade certification that incorporates functional safety processes based on ISO 26262 and IEC 61508 and supports operation up to 150°C. It also considers the scalability of the development environment by supporting open-source RTOS, including Zephyr, and existing development tool systems.

As environments requiring power efficiency, real-time control, security, and functional safety simultaneously expand, a single-chip-based integrated design approach is leading to a reduction in system complexity. This product family expansion is interpreted as an extension of the semiconductor design trend aimed at responding to these industry changes.