MPLAB ecosystem combines configuration with knowledge-based search tools
Claiming to modernise the embedded development workflow, Microchip has announced that the MPLAB cloud tools ecosystems makes microcontroller design easier by modernising the workflow for PIC and AVR devices.
The free, all-in-one cloud platform combines easy, integrated search and discovery of example code, graphical configuration of projects and code debugging in a collaborative environment, says Microchip. This environment enables enterprise-scale rapid development while simplifying software design for users at all skill levels with a browser-based interface and cloud connectivity.
Users can find fully-configured and complete source code, projects, examples and software applications using the intuitive catalogue in MPLAB Discover. Selected code and projects instantly populate in the MPLAB Xpress integrated development environment (IDE) for further development. There is also MPLAB Code Configurator, with graphical configuration and point-and-click options to set up hardware peripherals and configure projects. Device set up is simplified with optimised peripheral libraries, modular downloads and updates, says Microchip. Developing, debugging and deploying project applications directly from any web browser can be completed without any software installation.
The enhanced MPLAB Xpress IDE delivers a powerful, scalable cloud infrastructure for development and debug as well as community collaboration tools using secure GitHub repository interface controls. Designers have the option to download MPLAB Xpress projects to continue development in MPLAB X IDE. Seamless, quick access to MPLAB Discover and MPLAB Code Configurator is provided from the Xpress toolbar.
Online security is provided through tight integration with secure public and private GitHub repositories for saving and sharing source code, as well as through seamless import and export of online projects to local storage. There is secure myMicrochip login enabled for online sessions.
Microchip’s Curiosity and Curiosity nano boards are available to evaluate and program its 8-bit PIC and AVR MCUs and are supported by the MPLAB cloud tools ecosystem. The platform includes an integrated programmer/debugger and requires no additional hardware to get started.
The MPLAB cloud tools ecosystem is available free of charge on Microchip’s website. Debugging and programming support is available for the PICkit4 development tool ($69.99). MPLAB SNAP debugger and Curiosity and Curiosity Nano boards are also available for sale.
Microchip Technology provides smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions, development tools and a comprehensive product portfolio to enable customers to create optimal designs which reduce risk while lowering total system cost and time to market. The company’s solutions serve more than 120,000 customers across the industrial, automotive, consumer, aerospace and defence, communications and computing markets.
