Microchip’s eight-core processor targets mission-critical applications

Microchip Technology has announced the PIC64HX family of microprocessors (MPUs). Unlike traditional MPUs, the PIC64HX is purpose-built to address the unique demands of intelligent edge designs.

 

The latest in Microchip’s 64-bit portfolio, the PIC64HX is a high-performance, multicore 64-bit RISC-V MPU capable of advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) processing and designed with integrated Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) Ethernet connectivity and post-quantum-enabled, defense-grade security. PIC64HX MPUs are specifically designed to deliver comprehensive fault tolerance, resiliency, scalability, and power efficiency.

 

The integrated Ethernet switch includes a TSN feature set with support for important emerging standards: IEEE P802.1DP TSN for Aerospace Onboard Ethernet Communications, IEEE P802.1DG TSN Profile for Automotive In-Vehicle Ethernet Communications and IEEE/IEC 60802 TSN Profile for Industrial Automation.

 

Eight 64-bit RISC-V CPU cores—SiFive Intelligence X280—with vector extensions help enable high-performance computing for mixed-criticality systems, virtualization, and vector processing to accelerate AI workloads. The PIC64HX MPU allows system developers to deploy the cores in multiple ways to enable SMP, AMP, or dual-core lockstep operations. WorldGuard hardware architecture support is provided to enable hardware-based isolation and partitioning.

 

The expected arrival of quantum computers poses an existential threat as it will make current security measures ineffective. As a result, government agencies and enterprises worldwide are beginning to call for the inclusion of post-quantum cryptography in any critical infrastructure. Addressing current and future security needs, the PIC64HX is one of the first MPUs on the market to support comprehensive defense-grade security including the recently NIST-standardized FIPS 203 (ML-KEM) and FIPS 204 (ML-DSA) post-quantum cryptographic algorithms.  

 

The PIC64HX MPU is a powerful and versatile solution for intelligent edge applications, addressing key requirements for low latency, security, reliability and compliance with industry standards.

The PIC64HX MPU is supported by a comprehensive package of tools, libraries, drivers and boot firmware. Multiple open-source, commercial and real-time operating systems are supported including Linux and RTEMS, as well as hypervisors such as Xen. PIC64HX MPUs leverage Microchip’s extensive Mi-V ecosystem of tools and design resources to support its RISC-V initiatives. To help reduce development cycles and accelerate time to market, Microchip offers the Curiosity Ultra+ PIC64HX evaluation kit and is partnering with single-board computer partners.

 
PIC64HX MPU samples will be available to Microchip’s early access partners in 2025.