4.2 PIC32CM
The PIC32CM MCUs implement either the Arm Cortex-M0+ or M23 processors. The Arm Cortex-M0+ and Cortex-M23 are both 32-bit MCU cores designed for low-power, cost-sensitive embedded applications, but they differ in architecture, features and security capabilities.
The Cortex-M0+ is based on the Armv6-M architecture and optimized for ultra-low power and simplicity, featuring a two-stage pipeline, basic interrupt handling, and a compact instruction set. In contrast, the Cortex-M23 is based on the newer Armv8-M architecture and introduces several enhancements, such as the optional Arm TrustZone technology, which enables the separation of secure and non-secure code for improved security in IoT and safety-critical applications. It also offers improved debug and trace capabilities, enhanced interrupt handling, and better support for modern embedded software development. While both cores are suitable for similar low-power applications, the Cortex-M23 is preferred when security and advanced features are required.
For more information on the Arm Cortex-M processors, refer to the product pages on the Arm website:
- Cortex-M0+—32-bit, Low-Power Processor at an 8-bit Cost
- Cortex-M23—Low-Power Microcontroller with TrustZone Security
Table 4-1 below provides a comparison of the cores and architectures of AVR and PIC32CM MCUs.
| AVR® | PIC32CM M0+ | PIC32CM M23 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core | 8-bit RISC | 32-bit Arm® Cortex®-M0+ | 32-bit Arm® Cortex®-M23 |
| Architecture |
Harvard (separate program/data memory) | Von Neumann, 32-bit data path | Similar to M0+ with enhanced security (TrustZone®) |
| Instruction Set | 8-bit, optimized for simple control tasks |
Arm®v6-M, efficient for low-power/cost apps |
Arm®v8-M, supports TrustZone® for secure execution |
| Power/Performance |
Low power Up to 32 MHz |
Ultra-low power Up to 48 MHz |
Ultra-low power Up to 72 MHz |
| Use Cases |
General-purpose Industrial IoT |
General-purpose Industrial IoT |
Secure IoT Hardware-based security Safety-critical |