Microcontroller Unit provides application oriented control.
Press Release Summary:
In addition to four 8-bit DACs and ADCs, Model FT51 incorporates 8051-compatible processor core operating at 48 MHz with 48 MIPS processing capacity. Hardwired USB hub enables cascading of sub-systems to extend system connectivity, facilitating data collection and downloading of complex systems. Other interfaces/ports include USB 2.0 full-speed peripheral, I2C slave and master, as well as SPI slave and master. In addition, IC has 16-bit PWMs on 16 output pins with drive capability from 4–16 mA.
Original Press Release:
48MIPS MCU Brings Distinct Advantages to Control System Implementations
Combining a highly effective processor core, numerous ADCs/DACs & a wide variety of interconnect options to inspire engineering innovation
FTDI Chip releases the FT51, the second of its ground-breaking application oriented controller (AOC) devices. Possessing a comprehensive feature set, a vast array of I/Os and extensive data conversion capabilities, this 8-bit microcontroller unit (MCU) incorporates one of the highest performance 8051 compatible processor cores on the market. Operating at a 48MHz clock speed, it has a 48MIPS processing capacity (1clock cycle per instruction).
In addition to standout performance, the FT51 differentiates itself through the high degree of connectivity it brings to system designs. The hardwired USB hub function enables cascading of sub-systems in order to extend overall system connectivity - facilitating data collection and downloading of complex systems. It can also be used as an expansion port facility that permits connection of multiple USB peripherals to the system (such as keyboards, mice, etc.). Other interfaces/ports include a USB 2.0 full-speed (12Mbit/s) peripheral, I2C slave and master, as well as SPI slave and master interfaces. Four, 8-bit single channel digital-to-analogue converters (DACs) and analogue-to-digital converters (ADCs) are integrated, in order to facilitate more efficient interaction with analogue ecosystems, through the inputs from sensors or actuator outputs. The built-in FT120 USB peripheral functions provide a simple interface mechanism for transmitting/receiving data and maximise throughput. Programming the FT120 element is straightforward, as it is a superset of the popular, D12 USB controller. The FT51 thus presents a higher performance, 8-bit microcontroller with an advanced feature set for multi-sensor environments and extensive USB functionality for system connectivity, data transfers and human interface device (HID) interaction.
The FT51 MCU has 16-bit PWMs on 16 of its output pins with drive capability from 4mA to 16mA, enabling control of system actuators/motors. Other features include a high-speed UART capable of operation up to 6Mbit/s, a 16kBytes multi-time programmable memory and battery charger detection (BCD). Human interface device (HID) and communication device class (CDC) support make it highly suited to data acquisition and industrial control applications, such as USB instrumentation, smartcard readers, barcode scanners, wireless modems, set-top boxes and smart metering systems. An Eclipse integrated development environment (IDE) plug-in is available to assist engineers in developing and debugging activities. Drivers for Windows, MAC, Linux and Android operating systems can be freely downloaded from the company website.Â
“Our ‘Design Made Easy’ idiom is at the heart of everything we do at FTDI Chip. By basing this new MCU on the 8051 we can rely on engineers’ familiarity with a processor core that is among the longest established and most widely utilised,” states Fred Dart, CEO and Founder of FTDI Chip. “The FT51’s superior system connectivity, provided by its USB hub, along with its ability to communicate directly with the outside world via multiple sensor/actuator devices, furnish this IC with unique characteristics suited to addressing the ‘Internet of Things’ as it becomes an ever more tangible entity.” “With the launching of the 8-bit FT51 and 32-bit FT900 MCUs here at Embedded World, we continue to broaden our portfolio of semiconductor solutions that solve real engineering problems,” he concludes.
The FT51 series is offered in 28-pin SSOP, 32-pin WQFN, 44-pin LQFP and 48-pin WQFN packages, with an operational temperature range covering -40°C to +85°C. Running off a 3.3V supply rail, its current consumption is just 8mA when active and 70µA while in suspend mode. Unit pricing (at 10k volumes) for the FT51 is $1.46 (for the 32-pin version).
For more information on the FT51 go to: http://www.ftdichip.com/MCU.htm
About FTDI Chip
FTDI Chip develops innovative silicon and software solutions capable of enhancing the way that people interact with today’s technology. Through application of its “made easy” principle, the company is able to support engineers with highly sophisticated, feature-packed, simple-to-use and robust product platforms which enable the creation of electronic designs that have higher performance, fewer peripheral components and lower power budgets, as well as utilising less board space. These products are focussed on making advancements two fundamental areas; the transferring of data between electronic devices via Universal Serial Bus (USB) interconnects and Graphic User Interface (GUI) implementation. Its long-established and ever expanding USB portfolio, which comes with proven, ready-to-use, royalty-free firmware and driver support for all major operating systems, includes peripheral, host and bridge chips, as well as highly integrated system solutions with built-in microcontroller functionality. These are complemented by its graphic controllers which, which by taking a unique, more streamlined approach, allow engineers to dramatically reduce the development time and bill-of-materials costs involved in implementing next generation GUIs. They combine display, audio and touch functionality in a single compact package and are offered along with an array of development modules and software.
FTDI Chip follows a fab-less semiconductor model, partnering with the world’s leading foundries. The company is headquartered in Glasgow, UK, with research and development facilities located in Glasgow, Singapore and Taipei (Taiwan), plus regional sales and technical support sites in Glasgow, Taipei, Portland (Oregon, USA) and Shanghai (China).
For more information go to http://www.ftdichip.com
Regional sales offices and distributor lists are available at http://www.ftdichip.com/FTSalesNetwork.htm
For further information and reader enquiries:
Dave Sroka - FTDI Chip
Unit 1, 2 Seaward Place
Centurion Business Park
Glasgow, G41 1HH, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 141 429 2777Â Â
Fax: +44 (0) 141 429 2758
E-mail: marketing@ftdichip.com
