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Microchip Technology AC320101
- Part No.:
- AC320101
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Accessories
- Package:
- Datasheet:
-
AC320101.pdf
- Description:
- ADAPTER BOARD MEB/II UART TO USB
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,506
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Product details
Overview
AC320101 from Microchip Technology is a UART-to-USB adapter board designed to interface PICtail™-equipped Multimedia Expansion Boards (MEB and MEB II) with USB hosts. It integrates the MCP2200 USB-UART bridge IC, provides 3.3V/5V signal-level compatibility, supports RTS/CTS hardware flow control, and routes UART signals via four configurable jumpers for MEB or MEB II pinout mapping.
For engineers reviewing the AC320101 datasheet, AC320101 pinout, AC320101 application, or AC320101 equivalent, this board enables rapid prototyping of PIC32MX/MZ-based embedded systems requiring USB-hosted serial debug, firmware upload, or peripheral bridging without custom PCB design.
Technical Context
The AC320101 implements a fixed-function USB-to-UART bridge using the MCP2200 IC, which operates in CDC ACM class mode and requires no external driver installation on Windows, macOS, or Linux. It delivers full-duplex asynchronous serial communication at baud rates up to 1 Mbps with automatic USB enumeration and built-in 12 MHz crystal oscillator.
Signal routing is managed through four 2-pin shunt jumpers (JP1–JP4), allowing selection between MEB (PIC32MX) and MEB II (PIC32MZ) header configurations. The board includes onboard voltage regulation (MCP1700 LDO), ESD protection on USB lines, and LED indicators for TX/RX activity tied to GP6/GP7 of the MCP2200.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core IC | MCP2200 USB-UART bridge IC - provides CDC-compliant virtual COM port functionality without custom drivers |
| USB Interface | USB 2.0 Full-Speed (12 Mbps) - enumerates as standard CDC ACM device on host OS |
| UART Interface | Asynchronous serial, up to 1 Mbps - supports standard TTL-level RX/TX/RTS/CTS signals |
| Power Supply | 5V USB bus-powered - regulated 3.3V output for target board logic via MCP1700 LDO |
| Crystal | 12 MHz onboard - provides precise timing reference for USB and UART clock domains |
| LED Indicators | GP6 (RxLED) and GP7 (TxLED) - provide real-time visual feedback of serial data activity |
| Configuration | 4× 2-pin jumpers (JP1–JP4) - select MEB or MEB II pin mapping without soldering or firmware change |
Availability
AC320101 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for embedded development, PIC32-based prototyping, and industrial USB-to-serial interface applications requiring stable component supply and immediate plug-and-play integration.
Supply support for AC320101 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Microchip Technology Inc. is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and development tools for embedded control applications.
The AC320101 belongs to Microchip's evaluation and interface board product line, designed specifically to accelerate development on PIC32 multimedia expansion platforms by eliminating USB protocol implementation overhead.
FAQ
What is the primary function of the AC320101 board?
The AC320101 board serves as a hardware bridge that converts USB signals from a host PC into UART signals compatible with the PICtail™ connector on Microchip's MEB and MEB II development boards. It uses the MCP2200 IC to implement a CDC ACM-class virtual COM port, enabling direct serial communication with PIC32MX or PIC32MZ microcontrollers without driver customization. The AC320101 simplifies firmware debugging and bootloader interaction in Microchip's ecosystem.
Does the AC320101 require custom drivers on Windows or Linux?
No, the AC320101 does not require custom drivers because its underlying MCP2200 IC implements the USB Communications Device Class (CDC) Abstract Control Model (ACM). This allows it to be recognized automatically as a standard virtual COM port on Windows (since XP SP2), macOS, and Linux distributions with built-in CDC ACM support. The AC320101 enumerates plug-and-play without additional software installation or INF file configuration.
How do I configure the AC320101 for use with the MEB II instead of the MEB?
Configure the AC320101 for MEB II operation by installing shunt jumpers on JP1–JP4 according to the MEB II column in Table 1 of the official information sheet. These jumpers route UART signals (TxD, RxD, RTS, CTS) to the correct PIC32MZ-specific pins on the PICtail™ connector (J1). The AC320101's physical layout and silkscreen labeling identify each jumper's function, and no firmware or solder modification is needed to switch between MEB and MEB II modes.
What voltage levels does the AC320101 support for UART communication?
The AC320101 provides 3.3V logic-level UART signals (RX, TX, RTS, CTS) compatible with PIC32MX and PIC32MZ microcontrollers. Its onboard MCP1700 LDO regulates USB 5V to a stable 3.3V supply, which powers the MCP2200 and drives the UART interface. The AC320101 does not support 5V-tolerant UART signaling or level-shifting; connecting to non-3.3V targets requires external translation circuitry.
Can the AC320101 be used with development boards other than MEB or MEB II?
The AC320101 is mechanically and electrically optimized for the PICtail™ connector found on MEB (DM320005) and MEB II (DM320005-2) boards. While its MCP2200-based UART interface is generic, direct use with non-PICtail™ boards requires manual wiring to J2/J3/J4 headers and verification of pin assignments, power sequencing, and signal polarity. The AC320101's jumper-based routing and footprint are not intended for general-purpose USB-UART breakout applications outside Microchip's specified expansion board ecosystem.
AC320101 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Box
- Product Status:
- Active
- Accessory Type:
- Adapter Board
- For Use With/Related Products:
- MEB, MEB II
AC320101 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AC320101 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AC320101 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for AC320101 reliable?
The price and inventory of AC320101 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AC320101 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AC320101?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AC320101 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AC320101?
AC320101 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AC320101 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for AC320101?
For technical support, including AC320101 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AC320101 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AC320101 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AC320101 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that AC320101 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AC320101?
All AC320101 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AC320101, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The AC320101 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AC320101:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
AC320101 Tags
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