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Key Benefits of MCU to Hybrid MCU Migration: Performance, Scalability, Advanced Features

Last modified by Microchip on 2025/06/17 11:43

Introduction

MCU-to-hybrid MCU migration refers to the process of transitioning from a Microcontroller Unit (MCU) to a hybrid MCU in a system. This migration is needed when an embedded application outgrows the capabilities of an MCU, requiring more processing power, greater memory capacity, or enhanced functionality.

MCUs are designed for simple, low-power, and real-time applications, while hybrid MCUs are typically used for more complex tasks that involve operating systems (OS), multitasking, and intensive computational workloads. The shift from an MCU to a hybrid MCU often happens as the requirements of the system evolve, such as handling larger datasets, running sophisticated software, or supporting higher-end Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) and peripherals.

Benefits of Migrating From an MCU to a Hybrid MCU

  1. High Performance and Processing Power:

    • Generally, hybrid MCUs offer higher processing power and operating frequency, up to 800 MHz, compared to MCUs. This is crucial for applications that require intensive computations, such as advanced graphics processing, machine learning, and real-time data analysis.

  2. Advanced Graphical User Interface (GUI):

    • For designs that require a GUI, consumers expect high-resolution images similar to those on mobile devices. A hybrid MCU-based design can better handle the processing power required for graphical functions and the additional overhead of an operating system. In addition, different GUIs like MIPI DSI®, Low-Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS), and parallel RGB and camera interfaces like MIPI® CSI-2®, and Imaging System Interface (ISI) are supported by hybrid MCUs.

  3. Larger Memory and Storage Capacities:

    • Hybrid MCUs typically support larger memory capacities and external memory interfaces, which can be essential for applications that need to handle large datasets or require extensive storage.

  4. Rich Operating System Support:

    • Hybrid MCUs are often designed to run full-fledged operating systems like Linux, which can provide more advanced features, better multitasking, and a richer set of development tools and libraries compared to the simpler Real-time Operating Systems (RTOS) typically used with MCUs. The MPLAB Harmony v3 framework is also supported with bare-metal and RTOS-based application development.

  5. Wide Range of Peripheral and Interface Support:

    • Hybrid MCUs usually offer a wider range of interfaces and peripheral support, which can be beneficial for integrating various components and systems. For example, while MCUs might lack certain interfaces like MIPI for graphics, hybrid MCUs can support these through additional hardware or development roadmaps.

  6. Scalability and Flexibility:

    • Hybrid MCUs provide greater scalability and flexibility in terms of system design. They can be paired with various external components to tailor the system to specific needs, which is particularly useful in complex and evolving applications.

  7. Advanced Power Management:

    • Advanced power management features in hybrid MCUs can help optimize power consumption, which is critical for battery-operated and energy-efficient applications.

  8. System Integration – Microchip's System in Packages (SiP) and System on Module (SOM):

    • Hybrid MCUs typically require additional components such as external memory and Power Management Integrated Circuits (PMICs), which can increase the complexity of the design. However, using Microchip System in Package (SiP) modules can help reduce the board area and simplify integration.
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By considering these points, system designers can effectively transition from MCU-based designs to MPU-based designs, achieving improved performance and meeting the demands of modern applications.

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