Microchip Technology MCP355XDV-MS1

Overview

MCP355XDV-MS1 from Microchip Technology is a sensor application developer's board designed to accelerate high-resolution analog system development for weigh scale, temperature sensing, and other small-signal measurement applications. It integrates dual signal conditioning channels (low-cost MCP6XX-based and high-precision CS3002-based), preprogrammed PIC16F877 firmware for LCD output in g/kg/ADC units, PIC18F4550 USB interface for PC data analysis via DataView software, and bridge simulator boards for sensorless evaluation.

For engineers reviewing the MCP355XDV-MS1 datasheet, MCP355XDV-MS1 pinout, MCP355XDV-MS1 application, or MCP355XDV-MS1 equivalent, this board serves as a complete reference platform for evaluating MCP3550/1/3 22-bit delta-sigma ADCs in real-world sensor front-end designs - including gain configuration, offset cancellation, voltage reference selection, noise performance validation, and USB-enabled system-level data acquisition.

Technical Context

The MCP355XDV-MS1 implements two independent analog signal paths feeding MCP3551 delta-sigma ADCs: Channel 1 uses an MCP617 dual op-amp with analog switches for offset drift cancellation and fixed 21× differential gain; Channel 2 employs a CS3002 low-noise amplifier with 103× gain and configurable voltage reference (LM4140, PIC port pins RC6/RC7, or VDD) via JP2 header. Both channels support 4-wire and 6-wire load cell connections through P6 and P7 screw terminals.

Firmware execution is split across two microcontrollers: PIC16F877 handles ADC sampling, zero/full-scale calibration, unit conversion (g/kg/ADC), and LCD display control; PIC18F4550 manages USB communication, relaying post-processed data to DataView software on host PCs. The board includes hardware-level features such as jumper-selectable direct-connect mode (bypassing amplifiers), onboard bridge simulators for repeatable testing, and dual-row headers for flexible sensor and reference routing.

Key Specifications

Availability

MCP355XDV-MS1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for weigh scale development, precision temperature sensing systems, industrial load cell interface validation, and educational sensor signal chain labs requiring stable component supply and documented reference implementation.

Supply support for MCP355XDV-MS1 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 components, and development tools for embedded control applications.

The MCP355XDV-MS1 belongs to Microchip's sensor application developer board product line, engineered specifically to demonstrate best-practice front-end design techniques for high-resolution delta-sigma ADCs in demanding measurement environments.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the MCP355XDV-MS1?

The MCP355XDV-MS1 is a dedicated developer's board for evaluating and prototyping systems using Microchip's MCP3550/1/3 22-bit delta-sigma ADCs. It provides two fully implemented signal conditioning channels, preloaded firmware for LCD and USB interfaces, bridge simulators for sensor-free testing, and DataView software for PC-based analysis - enabling rapid validation of high-precision sensor front ends without custom PCB design.

Which ADC devices does the MCP355XDV-MS1 support?

The MCP355XDV-MS1 is built around the MCP3551 delta-sigma ADC, as confirmed by schematic documentation, noise performance tables, and firmware references throughout DS51609A. While the board name implies broader MCP355X family compatibility, all hardware design, calibration routines, and test results in the official User's Guide are explicitly tied to the MCP3551 device - including ENOB measurements, gain configurations, and SPI interface timing.

Does the MCP355XDV-MS1 include firmware, and what functions does it perform?

Yes, the MCP355XDV-MS1 ships with factory-programmed firmware on both the PIC16F877 and PIC18F4550 microcontrollers. The PIC16F877 firmware performs ADC sampling, zero/full-scale calibration, unit conversion (grams/kilograms/ADC counts), and LCD output control. The PIC18F4550 firmware handles USB communication, transmitting processed data to the DataView PC application for real-time visualization and analysis.

Can the MCP355XDV-MS1 be used without an external sensor?

Yes, the MCP355XDV-MS1 includes two bridge simulator boards that plug directly into P6 or P7 headers. These boards emulate zero-scale and full-scale Wheatstone bridge outputs using precision resistors (10 ppm/°C tempco), allowing complete functional validation of signal conditioning, ADC performance, and firmware behavior without requiring physical load cells or RTD sensors.

How is voltage reference selected for the MCP3551 on Channel 2?

Voltage reference selection for the MCP3551 on Channel 2 is controlled via the 14-pin dual-row header JP2. Three options are supported: (1) LM4140 low-noise standalone reference, (2) PIC16F877 port pins RC6 and RC7 used in parallel for higher drive capability, or (3) direct connection to VDD. This flexibility enables comparative evaluation of reference stability, noise contribution, and system resolution under different supply conditions.