Embedded World: AVR MCU gets USB and code protection

Microchip has created an AVR microcontroller series with 12Mbit/s USB 2.0 and code protection.

“As the next generation of Microchip 8-bit MCUs to integrate USB connectivity, the AVR DU family is designed to provide enhanced security features,” said the company.

Protection comes from permanently disabling write capability within the programming and debug interface after initial programming, and handing over update to an internal secure bootloader which can bring in authorised in-field code updates over the USB interface.

On-board USB clock recovery removes the need for an external crystal.

The cores work up to 24MHz and the parts announced at Embedded World today were:

AVR64DU28 64kbyte flash 28pins 4x4mm VQFN, SPDIP and SSOP
AVR64DU32 64kbyte flash 32pins 5x5mm VQFN and 7x7mm TQFP

Microchip also told Electronics Weekly that: “The AVR DU supports functioning as a USB type C 1.2 power delivery sink” – which is for 5V 3A power over USB Type C connectors. Electronics Weekly has asked for further details.

Associated development tools include a software stack for the USB peripheral, and there is EV59F82A (left), a development board for AVR64DU32 with two USB Type-C connectors, one for programming and debugging, and one connected to the IC’s USB peripheral.