4 Next Generation of Microcontrollers

The rapidly evolving traction inverter requirements for MCUs in hybrid and electric vehicles (HEV/EVs) are pushing the boundaries of integration. While not yet standard, the trend of incorporating multiple functions within a single traction control MCU is increasingly popular. These functions often include vehicle control units (VCU), DC-DC converters, and, particularly in HEV designs, dual motor control. Such multifunctionality demands MCUs that provide not only high performance for swift control calculations but also large memory capacities for extensive program images and data tables. Additionally, these MCUs require advanced analog and digital peripherals, such as ADCs and PWMs, for accurate sensing and actuation.

To accommodate these varied needs and facilitate development by diverse teams within the same or different organizations, MCUs with multiple CPU cores are essential, with each core dedicated to a specific function. This approach enables modular design and enhances communication with other Electronic Control Units (ECUs), often necessitating compatibility with AUTOSAR and MCAL frameworks, particularly in the host and VCU cores.

The AM263Px MCU family adeptly addresses these complex requirements. The AM263Px MCU family combines the high performance and extensive ecosystem support of ARM CPU cores with the control peripherals from Texas Instruments’ flagship real-time control MCU, C2000. This synergy results in unparalleled control performance. Furthermore, the AM263Px introduces a new hardware resolver-to-digital conversion IP, facilitating up to two resolver feedback channels complete with necessary safety checks. Meeting ASIL D safety standards and fortified with comprehensive cyber security features, the AM263Px emerges as a holistic design for the sophisticated demands of modern HEV/EV traction inverters.