This reference design provides a comprehensive solution with advanced analog, digital, and security features, making it ideal for portable, rechargeable, and secure modern electronic devices that require reliability and efficiency.
The Secure Nebulizer represents a significant advancement in medical technology, addressing the critical need for reliable and secure drug delivery systems in respiratory care. This device is designed to administer medication in the form of a mist, ensuring efficient and direct delivery to the lungs for patients suffering from conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory ailments. This integrates advanced security features to prevent unauthorised access and tampering, thereby safeguarding patient health and medication integrity. Its applications extend beyond traditional medical settings, proving invaluable in home healthcare, telemedicine, and emergency medical services.
Central to the design by Microchip Technology is an 8-bit core-independent analog microcontroller unit (MCU), specifically the PIC16F1718. This MCU boasts eXtreme Low Power (XLP) technology, ensuring minimal energy consumption. Its core-independent peripherals allow for versatile functionality, including a Numerically Controlled Oscillator (NCO) for precise frequency generation, a Configurable Logic Cell (CLC) for customised logic functions, and a Complementary Output Generator (COG) for producing complementary waveform outputs. Additionally, the Zero Cross Detect (ZCD) feature enhances signal processing capabilities.
The PIC16F1718 is equipped with a 17-channel 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC), providing high-resolution analog data conversion. It also includes both 8-bit and 5-bit Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs), facilitating accurate analog signal generation. The Peripheral Pin Select (PPS) functionality offers flexibility in pin configuration, and the device is available in various packages, including a compact ultra-thin QFN (UQFN) package, making it suitable for space-constrained applications.
For security, the design incorporates the ATSHA204 CryptoAuthentication IC, which provides multi-level hardware security. This IC supports secure authentication and key exchange, leveraging a superior SHA-256 hash algorithm and a best-in-class 256-bit key length. It features a high-quality hardware random number generator and guarantees a unique serial number for each device. With 4.5 Kbit EEPROM for key and data storage, it supports high-speed I²C and single-wire interface options, ensuring robust and flexible communication. Operating within a 1.8–5.5V range and consuming less than 150 nA in sleep mode, it is ideal for low-power applications. The secure personalization feature adds an extra layer of security, protecting against unauthorized access.
The PIC12F1572 8-bit MCU is another essential component of this design. It features an enhanced mid-range core with 49 instructions and 16 stack levels, providing efficient processing capabilities. Its Flash Program Memory includes self-read/write capability, and the High Endurance Flash Memory (HEF) offers 128B of non-volatile data storage. Available in a small UDFN package, this MCU is designed for compact and efficient integration into a variety of systems.
Microchip has tested this reference design. It comes with a bill of materials (BOM), schematics, assembly drawing, printed circuit board (PCB) layout, etc. You can find additional data about the reference design on the company’s website. To read more about this reference design, click here.
