Microchip Technology Inc. has a new, six-member family of 32-bit PIC32MX5/6/7 microcontrollers that provide performance specs of 1.56 DMIPS/MHz, and integrating Ethernet, CAN, USB and multiple serial communication channels, while offering more cost-effective memory options. Specifically, the family offers 32 Kbytes of RAM and up to 140 Kbytes of Flash. Additionally, design enhancements have been made that provide lower power consumption of 0.5 mA/MHz active current, higher Flash memory endurance of 20k read/write cycles and better EEPROM emulation capability while maintaining common pin outs.
The 32-bit PIC32MX5/6/7 family datasheet is available for download.
The first link is broken. It should be http://www.microchip.com/stellent/idcplg?IdcService=SS_GET_PAGE&nodeId=1824&appnote=en545749 I think. Its SS_GET_PAGE instead of SSO_GET_PAGE that is in this post.
Theres a press release at http://www.microchip.com/stellent/idcplg?IdcService=SS_GET_PAGE&nodeId=2018&mcparam=en552557 if anybody is interested in it.
I really like the idea of integrated ethernet PICs, but the 18Fs have low flash life (100 burns). I guess because the PHY is integrated and makes a lot of heat.
I checked this one out – looks like they moved the PHY off the chip, so it is pretty much the same ethernet deal as an ARM now. 20 or so pins to route for the RMII interface and other misc signals. Not as easy as the integrated PHY PIC 18Fs, but the tradeoff looks like flash endurance.