Tech Specs | Product Specification

Microchip Technology EV58G97A Curiosity Nano Explorer Board

Development Board for Microchip Curiosity Nano Prototyping

General

Product TypeDevelopment Boards
ApplicationsPrototyping & Development, Embedded Systems, IoT & Smart Systems
Key FeaturesECC608 for CryptoAuthentication, PAC1944

Technical Specifications

Product TypeDevelopment Board
Compatible WithCuriosity Nano Development Boards
On-board Input DevicesButtons, Joystick, Potentiometers, Proximity Sensors, Microphone, Temperature Sensors, Touch Buttons
On-board Output DevicesLEDs, OLED Display, PWM, Speakers
CommunicationSPI, UART, I2C
SocketsCNANO, mikroBUS, MicroSD Card
Power Supply3.3V and 5.0V
ApplicationsRobotics, Embedded Systems

Overview

The Microchip Technology EV58G97A Curiosity Nano Explorer Board is a development tool designed for learning and prototyping with Microchip's microcontrollers. It features a wide array of input and output options, including multiple button types, sensors, LEDs, and displays. The board supports various communication protocols like I2C, SPI, and UART, and includes additional features like CryptoAuthentication™ and power monitoring.

This versatile platform is ideal for exploring microcontroller peripherals, software development, and experimenting with different applications. It’s a comprehensive tool for developing a wide range of embedded applications for robotics, camera control, automation, and many others. 

Flexible Security Features with Extensive I/O Options

The EV58G97A specializes in flexible I/O management by providing a versatile range of input, output, communication, and expandability options. It’s a feature-loaded board with various on-board peripherals. Its MCP2221A USB to UART/I2C Bridge chip converts data from USB input to serial protocols, allowing the microcontrollers to communicate with external USB connections and computers. 

The board enhances peripheral security with the Secure Element ATECC608B coprocessor to provide advanced cryptographic features. It provides protected storage for up to 16 keys, an internal random number generator, and supports advanced Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC). The Secure Element enables IoT device development, Secure boot, and secure authentication for embedded devices on the development board. 

Moreover, the board provides an array of sensors including the MCP9808 temperature sensor, proximity/ambient light sensors, and touch buttons. It features the MTCH1030 touch controller to support touch-based applications. Moreover, there is a 12-bit digital-to-analog converter (MCP4821) for direct input to the audio amplifier. 

Other input options include joysticks, buttons, potentiometers, and microphones with adjustable gain. On the output side, there are eight yellow LEDs, an RGB LED, and an OLED display. It also provides three PWM outputs for servo motors. For audio output, there is a dedicated speaker and Class-D amplifier with adjustable gain. 

The board also provides expandable options via two MCP23008 I2C I/O expanders and features a dedicated MicroSD card socket for additional memory. 

Support for All Curiosity Nano Development Boards

The Microchip Technology EV58G97A provides robust support for all Curiosity Nano Development Boards. It provides extensive hardware and peripheral support for microcontrollers with dedicated sockets, input and output connectors, and supports MCC Melody from Microchip.

The development board provides additional features such as ECC608 for CryptoAuthentication. Moreover, there is expandable functionality thanks to the mikroBUS, Grove, and Qwiic sockets. Its 1x8 PICKit compatible right-angled connector footprint also allows seamless debugging. A slide switch (S100) allows the user to program in UPDI or ICSP configuration. 

Versatile Power Management Options

For power management, the EV58G97A features the PAC1944 to ensure comprehensive Power Monitoring and enables power measurements from different power domains.

The board supports multiple power-sourcing options including:

  • USB Power connector for the Curiosity Nano Kit

  • On-board USB Type C connector

  • Externally connected power options for servo motors and addressable LEDs

Additionally, the board provides two fixed power options of 3.3V and 5.0V. There is also a user-remappable option of 1.5V and 3.0V voltage references.

References

Continue Reading

UART and SPI are key communication methods in electronics. UART is ideal for simple, long-distance connections, while SPI excels in fast data transfer. Used in GPS modules, SD cards, and microcontrollers, understanding their differences can help you choose the best for any given project.

UART vs SPI: A Comprehensive Comparison for Embedded Systems