Microchip 16-bit MCU Distribution & Selection Guide
As an authorized Microchip distributor, we offer the complete range of 16-bit microcontrollers including PIC24 and dsPIC series with comprehensive technical support and competitive pricing.
Understanding 16-bit Microcontrollers
16-bit microcontrollers offer an excellent balance between cost, power consumption, and processing performance. Microchip's PIC24 and dsPIC families provide enhanced computational capabilities compared to 8-bit devices while maintaining the simplicity of the microcontroller form factor.
Key Advantages of 16-bit MCUs:
- Enhanced processing power for more complex algorithms
- Better precision for mathematical operations
- Integrated DSP capabilities in dsPIC series
- Good balance of price and performance
- Mature toolchain and support ecosystem
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between PIC24 and dsPIC microcontrollers?
PIC24 microcontrollers are general-purpose 16-bit MCUs with enhanced peripherals, while dsPIC devices include digital signal processing (DSP) capabilities with specialized instruction sets for digital filtering and mathematical operations. Both offer excellent technical support through our FAE team.
Which 16-bit MCU is best for my digital power application?
For digital power applications, we recommend dsPIC33 series which features specialized PWMs and ADCs optimized for power conversion. Our technical team can provide specific recommendations based on your power requirements and topology.
16-bit MCU Product Specifications
| Part Number | Family | Core | Flash (KB) | RAM (KB) | Max Clock (MHz) | Pins | Package | Supply Voltage | Price (1000) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PIC24FJ128GA204 | PIC24F | PIC24 | 128 | 16 | 32 | 28 | SPDIP | 2.0V-3.6V | $3.45 |
| dsPIC33CK32MP508 | dsPIC33C | dsPIC | 64 | 16 | 100 | 28 | SOIC | 2.7V-3.6V | $2.98 |
| dsPIC33EP512MU810 | dsPIC33E | dsPIC | 512 | 64 | 70 | 80 | TQFP | 2.7V-3.6V | $5.75 |
| PIC24FJ256GB206 | PIC24F | PIC24 | 256 | 16 | 32 | 64 | UBQFP | 2.0V-3.6V | $4.25 |
| dsPIC33FJ128MC804 | dsPIC33F | dsPIC | 128 | 16 | 40 | 28 | SOIC | 3.0V-3.6V | $3.85 |
| PIC24FJ64GU205 | PIC24F | PIC24 | 64 | 8 | 32 | 44 | UQFN | 2.0V-3.6V | $2.55 |
| dsPIC33CH512MP508 | dsPIC33C | dsPIC | 512 | 64 | 100 | 64 | QFP | 2.7V-3.6V | $7.20 |
| PIC24FJ192GB206 | PIC24F | PIC24 | 192 | 16 | 32 | 64 | TQFP | 2.0V-3.6V | $3.95 |
Recommended Companion Products
MIC1555
High-Efficiency Synchronous Buck Regulator for 16-bit MCUs
Output Current: 3A
Input Voltage: 2.5V-5.5V
Package: TSOT-23-6
24AA512
512K I2C™ Serial EEPROM for Program Storage
Memory: 512 Kbit
Interface: I2C
Clock Rate: 400 kHz
MCP2515
Stand-Alone CAN Controller with SPI Interface
Protocol: CAN 2.0B
Interface: SPI
Package: SOIC-18
How to Choose the Right 16-bit MCU for Your Application
Selecting the right 16-bit microcontroller depends on your application's specific computational and peripheral requirements. Our technical experts recommend considering these key factors:
DSP Requirements
If your application involves digital signal processing tasks like digital filtering, PID control, or audio processing, the dsPIC series offers specialized hardware for these computations. The dsPIC33C series features improved DSP performance compared to older generations.
Performance Needs
The dsPIC33C series offers the highest performance with up to 100 MIPS operation, while the PIC24F series provides a good balance of features and power consumption for less demanding applications.
Memory Requirements
Consider both program memory (Flash) for your code and data memory (RAM) for runtime variables. Applications with large code size or data requirements will need devices with more memory.
Peripheral Integration
Consider the required peripherals for your application such as ADC channels, timers, communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C, CAN), and specialized functions like motor control peripherals.
Need help with your selection? Contact our FAE team for personalized recommendations based on your specific requirements.
FAE Insights: 16-bit MCUs in Industrial Applications
According to our field application engineers, 16-bit microcontrollers are particularly effective in industrial applications requiring moderate processing power with deterministic response times. The PIC24 series is favored for industrial control applications due to its reliability and extensive peripheral set.
The dsPIC series excels in applications requiring mathematical computations and control algorithms, such as motor control, power supplies, and digital signal processing. The integrated DSP features allow for efficient implementation of complex control algorithms.
Both architectures benefit from our comprehensive technical support and design resources, ensuring successful implementation in industrial environments.
Ready to Start Your Design with 16-bit MCUs?
Get in touch with our technical experts for product selection, sample requests, and design support.