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Perchance to dream
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19/01/2006
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With microcontrollers found in everything from computer monitors to satellite systems, what better place to implement power saving strategies than via such a common component?
Microcontrollers have gained a reputation as a workhorse. However, this image belies the fact that today’s mcus are a sophisticated bunch and power saving has been a catalyst for new product development. Once, power saving used to refer to one or two low power modes; today, there are a wider variety of power saving options, involving more than just putting the entire device to sleep.
Toshiba’s TMP86 range is designed with handheld equipment in mind, typically battery powered – a mobile terminal or data logger for example. But Andreas Kohl, manager of Toshiba’s mcu engineering department, notes that utility meters provide typical applications for low power microcontrollers. A gas or water meter relies on one or two button cells to supply power for years. Meanwhile, an electricity meter is often required to take minimal current from the line.
The TMP86 range features nine power modes. Volker Schumann, manager for microcomputer and analogue ics for Toshiba Electronics Europe envisages design engineers switching back and forth between these modes in an application to control both the microcontroller’s power consumption and performance precisely.
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Author
Vanessa Knivett
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