Microchip has added a full USB 2.0 development environment to a low cost 8-bit microcontroller for the first time.

The PIC18F13K50 and PIC18F14K50 microcontrollers are supported by a free USB software stack and free MPLAB IDE.

The microcontrollers include I2C, SPI and USART interfaces, alongside USB 2.0, enabling them to transfer data between USB and other embedded serial networks.

There is also a 10-bit, 9-channel analogue-to-digital converter and dual comparators with S/R latch, for use with temperature and humidity to capacitive touch-sensors.

Additional features include a USB host-detection capability, where the MCU can be configured to enter SLEEP or any other power-managed mode when a USB connection is not present.

The new Microcontrollers can also be internally or externally clocked with seamless on-the-fly switching, bringing further power saving options. 

Development kits include the low pin count USB development kit with PICki 2 (Part number DV164126) includes populated and unpopulated reference-design boards, a PICkit 2 Debugger/Programmer, a CD with tutorials  and other supporting materials.