DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR - 16-bit 70 MIPS DSC 128KB Flash | Microchip
MPN: DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4.09 | $4.09 |
| 10 | $3.89 | $38.90 |
| 100 | $3.55 | $355.00 |
| 500 | $3.25 | $1,625.00 |
| 1,000 | $2.98 | $2,980.00 |
DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR Overview
A Digital Signal Controller combines the peripheral set and ease of use of a microcontroller with the computational throughput of a DSP engine. Within the power-management hierarchy of embedded systems, the dsPIC33E family sits between general-purpose MCUs and dedicated DSPs, offering single-cycle MAC, DSP instruction support, and hardware divide, while retaining a rich microcontroller peripheral ecosystem such as UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, PWM, and 12-bit ADCs.
Key differentiating features of this device include the highest-speed dsPIC33E 70 MIPS core, enhanced CAN communication (ECAN), on-chip operational amplifiers and comparators, a Charge Time Measurement Unit (CTMU) for capacitive touch and precise timing, and a Peripheral Trigger Generator (PTG) that automates peripheral sequencing to offload the CPU. The supply voltage is 3.3V, and the industrial temperature grade (-I) supports -40C to +85C operation.
Architecturally, the dsPIC33EP core uses an enhanced Harvard pipeline with 24-bit instruction words, hardware loop support, and dual operand fetch, achieving deterministic single-cycle DSP math for control loops. Flash-based program memory supports in-circuit self-programming, and the device is supported by Microchip MPLAB X IDE, XC16 compiler, and MPLAB ICD/REAL ICE tools.
Typical applications include digital power supplies, motor control (BLDC, PMSM, FOC), industrial automation, and embedded sensing systems that exploit the CTMU, op amps, and CAN bus.
Design consideration: the -I/MR VQFN exposed pad should be soldered to a grounded copper pour for thermal dissipation and signal integrity; note that full-speed operation requires correct oscillator configuration and that flash density, not pin count, is the usual trade parameter within the GP506 family.
This page synthesizes verified distributor pricing, pin-compatible family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Analog Peripherals, Connectivity, Package, RAM, Special Peripherals.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
DSPIC33EP128GP506T-E/MR
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
DSPIC33EP128GP506-I/MR
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$3.42 / Unit
View Datasheet →DSPIC33EP256GP506T-I/MR
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$4.15 / Unit
View Datasheet →DSPIC33EP64GP506T-I/MR
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$3.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →DSPIC33EP128GP506T-E/PT
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$3.78 / Unit
View Datasheet →DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Core Architecture | 16-bit dsPIC33E DSC |
| Core Performance | 70 MIPS |
| CPU Frequency | 60 MHz |
| Flash Program Memory | 128KB (43K x 24) |
| RAM | 16KB |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V |
| Package | 64-VQFN (9x9 mm), exposed pad |
| Pin Count | 64 |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (Industrial, I-grade) |
| Connectivity | CAN, I2C, SPI, UART/USART, IrDA, LIN |
| Analog Peripherals | Op Amps, Comparators, CTMU |
| Special Peripherals | Peripheral Trigger Generator (PTG), ECAN |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging Type | Tape and Reel (T suffix) |
| Product Family | dsPIC33EP128GP506 (dsPIC 33EP General Purpose) |
DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR 64-vqfn (9x9 mm), exposed pad Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR (64-vqfn (9x9 mm), exposed pad package). This digital IC includes GPIO, communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C), and power pins. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for alternate pin functions and configuration options. Essential for embedded system design and PCB layout.
No detailed pinout data available for DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR is suitable for 6 applications: Digital Power Supplies, Motor Control (BLDC/PMSM FOC), Industrial Automation and CAN Networking, Capacitive Touch and Measurement (CTMU), Audio and Signal Processing Embedded Systems, Embedded Sensing and IoT Gateways.
Digital Power Supplies
The DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR fits digital power conversion because its 70 MIPS DSP core executes compensation-loop math with single-cycle MAC instructions, achieving deterministic loop closure for LLC, buck, boost, and PFC topologies. The Peripheral Trigger Generator synchronizes ADC current/voltage sampling directly to the PWM cycle, eliminating CPU-triggered jitter that degrades transient response. On-chip comparators support fast cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection without firmware latency. Placed as the main controller with the ECAN bus handling system telemetry, the 3.3V 64-pin VQFN device consolidates control, protection, and communication in one chip; the trade-off versus dedicated digital power controllers is a slightly higher firmware development effort in exchange for full algorithm flexibility.
Recommended
Motor Control (BLDC/PMSM FOC)
Field-oriented control of BLDC and PMSM motors demands fast, periodic execution of Clarke/Park transforms and PI loops, which the DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR handles comfortably at 70 MIPS with single-cycle multiply-accumulate. The 64-pin count supplies multiple complementary PWM outputs for three-phase bridges, while on-chip op amps buffer low-side current-shunt signals directly into the ADC, reducing external signal-chain parts. CTMU and comparators add hardware speed-limit and fault protection. Typical usage pairs the device with a three-phase gate driver, sampling phase currents at PWM center via PTG-triggered conversions; the measurable benefit is loop rates of tens of kHz, sufficient for smooth torque control in industrial drives, pumps, fans, and servo applications.
Recommended
Industrial Automation and CAN Networking
In industrial nodes, the DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR serves as a sensing and actuation controller whose enhanced CAN (ECAN) module links it to factory buses while I2C, SPI, and UART handle local sensors and HMIs. The 128KB Flash accommodates protocol stacks and diagnostics firmware with room for field upgrades via self-programming. On-chip op amps and comparators condition analog sensor signals without external amplifiers, and the CTMU supports capacitive touch interfaces for panel controls. Operating from a single 3.3V rail at -40C to +85C, the device survives cabinet and floor-level environments; the industrial temperature grade matches typical automation requirements, though extended-temperature (-E) variants are advisable near drives or heaters exceeding +85C.
Recommended
Capacitive Touch and Measurement (CTMU)
The Charge Time Measurement Unit (CTMU) on the DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR provides a precise constant-current source used for capacitive touch keys, proximity sensing, and time-of-flight style measurements. Combined with on-chip comparators and the 12-bit ADC pipeline, a single 64-pin device can implement a multi-key touch panel plus measurement front end without a dedicated touch controller. Microchip's CTMU application notes define calibration routines that compensate for drift, and the 70 MIPS core supports filtering and debounce algorithms in real time. In consumer appliance and industrial button-replacement designs, the measurable benefit is BOM reduction: the touch sensing, user feedback (PWM buzzer/LED control), and system logic all execute on this one 3.3V DSC.
Recommended
Audio and Signal Processing Embedded Systems
The DSP engine of the DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR supports embedded audio processing such as filtering, mixing, and simple codecs: single-cycle MAC and hardware loop instructions execute FIR/IIR filters efficiently at 70 MIPS. UART/SPI interfaces connect to audio codecs and DACs, while the 64-pin package provides DMA-capable data paths that offload sample transfers from the CPU. Typical deployments include industrial intercoms, active speaker protection, tone generation, and sensor-signal conditioning with spectral analysis. Compared with a general-purpose MCU, the benefit is DSP-class throughput per clock; compared with a dedicated audio DSP, the advantage is integrated control peripherals, CAN, and flash self-programming in one 3.3V device. For high-fidelity consumer audio, a dedicated audio codec front end remains recommended.
Recommended
Embedded Sensing and IoT Gateways
As a gateway controller, the DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR aggregates sensor data over multiple I2C/SPI buses, applies local filtering or thresholding on its DSP core, and forwards results via UART or ECAN to higher-level systems. The 128KB Flash holds communication stacks plus OTA-style bootloaders leveraging self-programming, while 16KB RAM buffers sensor samples and communication frames. On-chip op amps amplify bridge and thermocouple-front-end signals, and the CTMU adds precision charge measurement for custom sensors. Running from a single 3.3V rail with -40C to +85C industrial range, the 9x9 mm VQFN suits compact edge nodes; the PTG peripheral can run repetitive acquisition sequences autonomously, cutting average CPU load and overall system power in always-on monitoring products.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for DSPIC33EP128GP506T-I/MR — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | DSPIC33EP128GP506T-E/MR | DSPIC33EP128GP506-I/MR | DSPIC33EP256GP506T-I/MR | DSPIC33EP64GP506T-I/MR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 64-VQFN (9x9 mm) | 64-VQFN (9x9 mm) - same | 64-VQFN (9x9 mm) - same | 64-VQFN (9x9 mm) - same | 64-VQFN (9x9 mm) - same |
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
| Core Performance | 70 MIPS / 60 MHz | 70 MIPS / 60 MHz | 70 MIPS / 60 MHz | 70 MIPS / 60 MHz | 70 MIPS / 60 MHz |
| Flash Program Memory | 128KB (43K x 24) | 128KB | 128KB | 256KB | 64KB |
| RAM | 16KB | 16KB | 16KB | 16KB | 16KB |
| Temperature Range | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +125C (Extended) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) | -40C to +85C (Industrial) |
| Connectivity | CAN, I2C, SPI, UART, IrDA, LIN | CAN, I2C, SPI, UART, IrDA, LIN | CAN, I2C, SPI, UART, IrDA, LIN | CAN, I2C, SPI, UART, IrDA, LIN | CAN, I2C, SPI, UART, IrDA, LIN |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel (T suffix) | Tape & Reel | Tray | Tape & Reel | Tape & Reel |
| Relative Unit Cost | Baseline (from $4.09 as of 2026-09-23) | Higher (extended temp premium) | Comparable | Higher (2x Flash) | Lower (half Flash) |
Key Differentiators
- Highest-speed dsPIC33E core in family (70 MIPS) (vs DSPIC33EP64GP506T-I/MR)
- Extended-temperature sibling available with zero layout change (vs DSPIC33EP128GP506T-E/MR)
- Integrated analog (op amps, comparators, CTMU) reduces external BOM (vs DSPIC33EP256GP506T-I/MR)
Design Notes
The 64-VQFN 9x9 mm package includes a large exposed thermal pad on the underside that must be soldered to a grounded copper pour with an array of thermal vias. This pad provides the primary ground return for the device; relying only on the peripheral ground pins increases ground bounce during simultaneous PWM and DSP switching. Follow Microchip's VQFN layout guidelines in the datasheet: place decoupling capacitors (100 nF per VDD pin plus bulk) within 2 mm of the supply pins, and route the ICSP/ICD programming pins (PGD/PGC/MCLR) to a header even in production boards to preserve field reprogrammability.
Verify the exact package code before release: the GP506 family exists in both MR (64-VQFN) and PT (64-TQFP) suffixes, and while they share the same die, the land patterns are completely different and NOT interchangeable. Also note the 'T' suffix means tape-and-reel; ordering the non-T part delivers tray packaging, which breaks reel-fed SMT lines. Finally, several distributor listings report different RAM figures (8KB vs 16KB) for family variants - confirm the 16KB figure against the current official Microchip datasheet for the GP506 before sizing firmware buffers.
At 60 MHz core clock with parallel PWM edges, keep high-current PWM traces short and return them over an unbroken ground plane; separate the analog ground region serving the ADC, op amps, and CTMU from the power PWM switching region, joining them at a single point near the exposed pad. Use the PTG to trigger ADC sampling at PWM off-time (center-aligned) to minimize switching-noise coupling into current-sense readings. For ECAN routing, maintain controlled-impedance differential pairs for CANH/CANL with a stub length under 10 cm from transceiver to bus.
Compliance Information
Verified web data does not explicitly state environmental compliance attributes for this exact ordering code. Standard Microchip production parts are typically RoHS/lead-free; confirm on the official Microchip product page environmental datasheet before export-controlled production.
