Understanding 32-bit Microcontrollers

32-bit microcontrollers provide high performance processing capabilities while maintaining the ease of use of the microcontroller form factor. Microchip's PIC32 and SAM families offer ARM Cortex-M cores with comprehensive peripheral integration and strong ecosystem support.

Key Advantages of 32-bit MCUs:

  • High processing power with ARM Cortex-M cores
  • Advanced peripheral integration
  • Rich ecosystem with development tools
  • Scalability across performance levels
  • Extensive middleware and libraries

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between PIC32 and SAM microcontrollers?

PIC32 microcontrollers are based on MIPS cores and offer strong integration with Microchip's ecosystem of devices and tools. SAM devices are based on ARM Cortex-M cores and provide excellent performance-per-watt efficiency. Both offer comprehensive technical support through our FAE team.

Which 32-bit MCU is best for my IoT application?

For IoT applications, we recommend SAM D or G series for general IoT, or PIC32MZ EF for IoT applications requiring rich connectivity options. For applications with specific security needs, consider the PIC32MZ family with integrated security features. Our technical team can provide specific recommendations based on your connectivity and security requirements.

32-bit MCU Product Specifications

Part Number Family Core Flash (KB) RAM (KB) Max Clock (MHz) Pins Package Supply Voltage Price (1000)
PIC32MX270F256B PIC32MX MIPS M4K 256 64 50 28 SOIC 2.3V-3.6V $4.25
PIC32MZ2048EFM100 PIC32MZ MIPS M-Class 2048 512 200 100 TQFP 2.7V-3.6V $12.50
SAM D51J19A SAM D ARM Cortex-M4 512 192 120 64 TQFP 1.62V-3.63V $7.85
SAM E51J19A SAM E ARM Cortex-M4 512 192 120 64 TQFP 1.62V-3.63V $7.95
PIC32MX470F512H PIC32MX MIPS M4K 512 128 80 64 TQFP 2.3V-3.6V $6.45
SAM G55J20 SAM G ARM Cortex-M4 1024 384 120 144 LQFP 1.62V-3.63V $11.20
PIC32MZ1024EFK064 PIC32MZ MIPS M-Class 1024 256 200 64 UBGA 2.7V-3.6V $8.95
SAM D21J18A SAM D ARM Cortex-M0+ 256 32 48 64 TQFP 1.62V-3.63V $3.25

Recommended Companion Products

W25Q128JV

128M-bit Serial Flash Memory for 32-bit MCUs

Memory: 128 Mbit

Interface: SPI/QPI

Package: SOIC-8

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MCP16502

2A Synchronous Buck Converter

Output Current: 2A

Input Voltage: 2.5V-5.5V

Package: 3x3 DFN

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LAN8742A

10/100 Ethernet PHY for IoT Applications

Speed: 10/100 Mbps

Interface: RMII

Package: LQFP-48

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How to Choose the Right 32-bit MCU for Your Application

Selecting the right 32-bit microcontroller depends on your application's performance, connectivity, and peripheral requirements. Our technical experts recommend considering these key factors:

Performance Requirements

For applications requiring high computational performance, consider the PIC32MZ or SAM G series with up to 200MHz operation. For general-purpose applications, the PIC32MX or SAM D series provide excellent performance-per-watt efficiency.

Connectivity Needs

If your application requires rich connectivity options, select devices with integrated Ethernet, CAN, or USB Hi-Speed interfaces. The PIC32MZ series offers the broadest connectivity options.

Power Consumption

For battery-powered or power-sensitive applications, the SAM L series or PIC32MM offer excellent low-power features with sophisticated sleep modes and wake-up capabilities.

Security Requirements

Applications with security requirements should consider the PIC32MZ family with integrated security features or SAM devices with hardware security modules.

Need help with your selection? Contact our FAE team for personalized recommendations based on your specific requirements.

FAE Insights: 32-bit MCUs in IoT Applications

According to our field application engineers, 32-bit microcontrollers are essential for complex IoT applications requiring significant processing power, extensive connectivity options, or advanced security features. The SAM D and G series are particularly popular for IoT applications due to their excellent power efficiency and rich peripheral sets.

The PIC32 series is favored for IoT applications that need to integrate with Microchip's broader ecosystem of sensors, connectivity devices, and development tools. Both architectures benefit from our comprehensive technical support and design resources.

Our FAE team has extensive experience with IoT implementations and can provide guidance on hardware design, security implementation, and connectivity options.

Ready to Start Your Design with 32-bit MCUs?

Get in touch with our technical experts for product selection, sample requests, and design support.