Microchip Releases Digital Signal Controller for Secure, High-Efficiency Designs
The device is the latest addition to the dsPIC33A family, featuring a 200 MHz 32-bit core, 78 ps high-resolution PWMs, and library support for post-quantum cryptography.
Microchip Technology has announced the addition of the dsPIC33AK256MPS306 to its dsPIC33A digital signal controller (DSC) family. This expansion is designed to meet the growing performance and security demands of AI servers, automotive systems, and industrial infrastructure. By integrating advanced real-time control features with specialized cybersecurity hardware, the device aims to streamline the design of high-efficiency power stages and sophisticated motor control loops.
Microchip has expanded its dsPIC33A DSC family with the dsPIC33AK256MPS306. Image used courtesy of Microchip Technology
The dsPIC33AK256MPS306 Digital Signal Controller (DSC)
The dsPIC33AK256MPS306 is built on a 200 MHz 32-bit core that includes a double-precision floating point unit. This computational capacity is paired with an extensive suite of analog and timing peripherals. Specifically, the controllers feature high-resolution pulse-width modulators with 78 ps timing accuracy. This precision is critical for controlling modern wide-bandgap semiconductors like silicon carbide and gallium nitride. These power devices often operate at high switching frequencies, requiring fine timing resolution to maintain system efficiency and stability.
To support high-speed feedback loops, the devices integrate multiple 40 MSPS 12-bit analog-to-digital converters and 5 ns high-speed comparators. On-chip digital-to-analog converters with slope compensation are also included. This high level of integration is intended to reduce designers’ total bill of materials by eliminating the need for many external components while enabling faster, more deterministic control loops in DC/DC converters and sensing applications.
The dsPIC33AK256MPS306 is built on a 200 MHz 32-bit core. Image used courtesy of Microchip Technology
Security and Ecosystem Support
A significant focus of the new dsPIC33A expansion is cybersecurity. The dsPIC33AK256MPS306 family includes dedicated hardware for secure boot, secure firmware updates, and secure debug. The devices provide library support for the Commercial National Security Algorithm Suite 2.0, including recommended post-quantum cryptographic algorithms. This makes the controllers suitable for connected applications that must resist emerging cryptographic threats, such as Open Compute Project power supplies and other intelligent infrastructure.
On the software side, the family now supports the Zephyr real-time operating system, an open-source platform that enables scalable and modular application development. The devices are also compatible with various functional safety tools and libraries to assist with automotive qualification, as they are rated for operation up to 150°C.
The dsPIC33AK256MPS306 targets AI data center, motor control, and intelligent sensing applications. Image used courtesy of Microchip Technology
High-Performance Applications
The expansion of the dsPIC33A DSC family provides engineers with a more powerful and secure platform for managing complex real-time systems. By combining a 200 MHz core with precise 78 ps PWMs and PQC support, Microchip addresses the technical requirements of next-generation power density and security. These controllers are ideal for AI data center power supplies, auxiliary power rails, and intelligent sensing. Furthermore, the automotive-grade temperature rating and integrated safety features make them well-suited for high-performance motor control in electric vehicles and industrial automation.
