These dsPIC devices provide the computational throughput to support complex filtering algorithms, spectrum, motion and timing window analysis in real-time required for many sensor applications. In addition, implementing FIR and IIR digital filters can help relax the external analog filtering requirements. This offers cost savings in addition to providing for a level of flexibility and performance which cannot be matched by analog filters.

For high-performance data acquisition, an on-chip 12-bit A/D converter provides 100,000 samples per second, 8- or 10-input channels and a 16-word conversion FIFO.  The FIFO allows multiple data samples to be collected while current data is being processed.  This translates to less CPU time spent on servicing interrupts and more time allowed for real-time processing of the data.

The four dsPIC30FXXXX Sensor family devices feature 12 Kbytes to 24 Kbytes of on-chip secure Flash program memory space and up to 2 Kbytes of data space.  The 2.5-5.5 operating voltage appeals to many microcontroller applications that remain at 5 volts, while many DSPs are restricted to 3.3 supply voltage maximum. The devices contain 16-bit Timer functionality, Input Capture, Output Compare and PWM outputs.

There are several communication protocol peripherals available to support centralized networking and control.  Some sensor applications are configured in a distributed sensor network. Data collected from multiple sensors can be processed by the dsPIC30FXXXX.  A range of serial communication interfaces, such as I2C™, SPI™, and UART, are provided to support a distributed sensor network.

April.2002