16-bit microcontrollers offer a scalable upgrade from 8-bit embedded processors. In addition to twice the bandwidth of 8-bit chips, these devices integrate a larger number of peripheral functions on-chip and provide faster instruction execution and interrupt response. High-end 16-bit processors offer up to 144 I/O lines and 16MB of linear address space. Depending on the target application, these chips can be supported by operating systems. Phytec provides board-level support of a wide range of 16-bit embedded controllers.

*High Integration and Processing Speed

Phytec provides board-level support of both Infineon C166 and newer XC16x devices. The latter provide an enhanced core with on-chip Flash, MAC and an OCDS debugging interface. With its ST10 family, STMicroelectronics provides a second source for some infineon 16-bit devices. Phytec SBC modules support chips from both manufacturers. Phytec SBCs also support the Philips XA (eXtended Architecture) family. The XA is a full 16-bit architecture offering dual (code and data) 16MB address spaces. It is compatible to the 8051 only in terms of maintaining the 8051 instruction set for generation of source code, yet offers true 16-bit processing power. These 16-bit chips from Infineon, ST Microelectronics and Philips largely target applications requiring greater processing power and higher integration of on-chip features than available in the 8051 architecture.

*Maximum Miniaturization

The phyCORE achieves its small size through advanced SMD technology and use of appropriate pin headers enabling connectivity of the module to target hardware circuitry. In accordance with the complexity of the devices supported on a module, 0402-footprint and laser-drilled Microvias components are used on the multi-layered PCBs, providing phyCORE users with access to this cutting edge miniaturization technology for integration into their own target circuitry.

The type of header connector to be used is a function of the complexity of the underlying controller and other components that populate the board in relation to PCB space. According to Phytec design rules, high-density (0.635mm) Molex connectors are used if a considerable reduction in the size of the phyCORE module can be achieved. Signals from boards supporting less complex devices are broken out to standard 2.54 mm (0.10 in.) pitch header pins.