Microchip Technology MEC1609-PZV
- Part No.:
- MEC1609-PZV
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Application Specific Microcontrollers
- Package:
- 144-TFBGA
- Datasheet:
-
MEC1609-PZV.pdf
- Description:
- IC EMBEDDED CTLR 144TFBGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MEC1609-PZV from Microchip Technology is a 32-bit ARC625-based embedded controller (EC) for advanced I/O subsystems in x86 platforms, featuring 192 KB embedded Flash, 16 KB dual-ported SRAM, LPC interface compliance with ACPI, and operation at 3.3 V. It supports system power management, keyboard/PS/2 scanning, SMBus 2.0 host control, and PECI 2.0 for thermal monitoring in notebook and desktop motherboards.
For engineers reviewing the MEC1609-PZV datasheet, MEC1609-PZV pinout, MEC1609-PZV application, or MEC1609-PZV equivalent, key selection criteria include LPC host interface compatibility, VBAT/VTR dual-supply support, integrated 32.768 kHz clock generator, hibernation timer range (0.5 ms–128 min), and 115 GPIO pins with 8-channel DMA for SMBus and SPI peripherals.
Technical Context
The MEC1609-PZV implements an ARC625D 32-bit RISC core with 2 KB instruction cache and AHB memory-mapped SPI Flash read controller, enabling direct execution from flash. Its architecture integrates four ACPI EC interfaces, eight-channel DMA supporting SMBus controllers and EC/Host GP-SPI, and a maskable interrupt aggregator for hardware wake-up events including PS/2 edge, keyboard scan, and alarm timers.
It uses BC-Link™ and VLPC™ interconnect protocols to communicate with companion components-BC-Link supports up to four peer devices, while VLPC supports three untrusted and one trusted peripheral. Power management relies on separate VTR (standby) and VBAT (backup) supply planes, with integrated reset generation and SCI event support per ACPI specification.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Core Architecture | ARC625D 32-bit RISC microcontroller with 32×32×64 fast multiply, divide assist, and saturation arithmetic |
| Memory | 192 KB user Flash (35 ns access, 1K cycle endurance) + 16 KB dual-ported SRAM + 2 KB instruction cache |
| LPC Interface | ACPI-compliant, decodes LPC I/O and Trusted Cycles; supports 8042-style host interface and mailbox register access |
| Power Supply | 3.3 V main supply; dedicated VTR (standby) and VBAT (backup) planes for sleep-mode operation and RTC functions |
| Timers & Wake Sources | Four 16-bit auto-reloading counters/timers, two 32.768 kHz hibernation timers (0.5 ms–128 min wake), WDT, and input capture/compare unit |
| I/O & Peripherals | 115 GPIO pins, 18×8 keyboard scan matrix, three SMBus 2.0 host controllers (400 kHz capable), PECI 2.0, ADC (10-bit, 16 ch, 10 μs conversion) |
| Package | 144-pin TFBGA (7 mm × 7 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), RoHS compliant, commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C) |
Pinout & Package
MEC1609-PZV is housed in a 144-pin TFBGA package (7 mm × 7 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), RoHS compliant, optimized for space-constrained motherboard layouts. Pin functions are multiplexed across LPC, SMBus, PS/2, GPIO, and debug interfaces, with dedicated VTR/VBAT power domains and signal isolation per functional block.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| LAD[3:0] | LPC Address/Data Bus | Time-multiplexed 4-bit bidirectional bus for LPC transactions; supports I/O, memory, and firmware cycles |
| LFRAME#, LRESET#, PCI_CLK | LPC Control Signals | Frame initiation, reset assertion, and clock synchronization for LPC protocol timing compliance |
| SMB0[7:0]_DATA*, SMB0[7:0]_CLK* | SMBus 0 Interface | Primary SMBus 2.0 master/slave port with clock stretching, multi-master support, and DMA-driven operation |
| PS2_DAT[2:0]*, PS2_CLK[2:0]* | PS/2 Interface | Three independent hardware-driven PS/2 ports; fully operational in main/suspend power states with edge-wake capability |
| KSO[17:0], KSI[7:0] | Keyboard Scan Matrix | 18-row × 8-column matrix interface for keyboard controller function; supports fast GATEA20 and CPU_RESET legacy signals |
| VBAT, VTR | Power Supply Terminals | Dedicated backup (VBAT) and standby (VTR) supply pins enabling RTC, alarm timers, and SRAM retention during S3/S4 sleep |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| ACPI Embedded Controller Interface | Four instances supporting 1- or 4-byte data transfers; enables OS-directed power state transitions and SCI event generation |
| System Message Interface | 8042-style host interface with two SRAM windows and dual-register mailbox for zero-latency host-EC communication without firmware intervention |
| Low-Power Timer Subsystem | Two 32.768 kHz hibernation timers + four 16-bit auto-reloading timers; programmable wake intervals from 0.5 ms to 128 minutes |
| Fan & PWM Control | Eight 16-bit PWM outputs with configurable on/off counters and four tachometer inputs; supports closed-loop thermal management |
| Debug & Programming Access | JTAG master/slave, MCU serial debug port (16C550A register interface, up to 2 Mbps), and LPC/JTAG flash programming with security protection |
| Integrated Clock Generation | 32.768 kHz crystal oscillator + 64.52 MHz ±2% main clock; programmable distribution and power management for suspend/resume timing |
Applications
| Mobile Notebook Platform Power Management | Desktop Motherboard EC Subsystem |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Managing S0–S5 power states, battery charging logic, thermal throttling, and lid-open/closed detection in ultrabooks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary embedded controller handling ACPI-defined power transitions, PECI thermal feedback, and hibernation timer wake events. Use Value: Enables instant-on resume via VBAT-backed 64-byte memory and 32.768 kHz clock generator; reduces platform boot latency by 120 ms through fast CPU_RESET and GATEA20 assertion. |
Use Scenario: Replacing legacy Super I/O in ATX motherboards requiring LPC-based EC functionality, keyboard/mouse support, and fan control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: System-level I/O controller interfacing with host chipset via LPC, managing PS/2, SMBus sensors, and GPIO expansion. Use Value: Delivers 115 GPIO pins and 18×8 keyboard scan matrix with hardware acceleration-eliminates need for external scan controllers and reduces BOM count by 3 components. |
| Industrial Thin Client Baseboard | Embedded Medical Device Control Unit |
|
Use Scenario: Enabling remote management, watchdog-triggered recovery, and secure firmware updates in fanless thin clients operating 24/7. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Trusted execution environment for secure boot, flash encryption, and JTAG-protected password-locked boot block (4 KB). Use Value: Supports flash security enhancements including direct LPC- and JTAG-protected pages near memory top-prevents unauthorized firmware extraction during field service. |
Use Scenario: Monitoring battery voltage, ambient temperature, and user interface inputs in portable diagnostic equipment with strict EMC and safety requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mixed-signal controller integrating 10-bit ADC (±0.5 LSB INL/DNL), RC_ID resistor-capacitor identification, and VBAT-powered alarm timer. Use Value: Replaces discrete analog front-end and timing ICs; achieves 10 μs ADC conversion with 16-channel sampling-enables real-time sensor fusion at <100 μs loop latency. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar embedded controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MEC1618-PZV | Higher Flash (256 KB), industrial temp (-40°C to +85°C), added USB 2.0 device controller and enhanced PECI 3.0 support | Required for medical or automotive platforms needing extended temperature operation and USB-based firmware update capability | Select MEC1618-PZV when USB device mode, wider temp range, or PECI 3.0 compliance is mandatory; not pin-compatible with MEC1609-PZV |
| IT5570E-128 | 8051-based EC, 128 KB Flash, no ARC core or AHB bus; supports LPC but lacks BC-Link/VLPC interconnect and dual-ported SRAM | Suitable for cost-sensitive legacy designs where ARC performance, DMA-accelerated SMBus, or companion-device topology is unnecessary | Choose IT5570E-128 only for simple ACPI EC tasks without need for high-speed peripheral offload or multi-chip I/O architectures |
Compared with MEC1618-PZV, the MEC1609-PZV offers lower-cost entry into ARC-based EC design with sufficient Flash and timers for mainstream notebooks; versus IT5570E-128, it delivers 3× higher instruction throughput, hardware-accelerated I/O, and architectural scalability for future companion-component integration.
Availability
MEC1609-PZV is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for mobile computing, desktop motherboard, industrial thin client, and embedded medical device applications requiring stable component supply, long lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MEC1609-PZV 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 manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and embedded control solutions, with ISO/TS 16949-certified wafer fabrication and design centers globally.
The MEC1609 product line targets x86 platform I/O subsystems, delivering integrated power management, legacy interface support (PS/2, 8042), and scalable interconnect (BC-Link/VLPC) for modular embedded controller architectures.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the MEC1609-PZV?
The MEC1609-PZV is rated for the commercial temperature range of 0°C to +70°C. This is confirmed in the Microchip datasheet DS00001769A-page 2 and product identification table on page 11. The industrial variant MEC1609i-PZV extends to -40°C to +85°C, but MEC1609-PZV itself does not support that range. Thermal derating is not specified beyond these limits.
Does the MEC1609-PZV support direct LPC-based flash programming?
Yes, the MEC1609-PZV supports flash programming via the LPC interface, as explicitly stated in the Product Features section: "Programmable by LPC, EC and JTAG Interfaces." This enables host-initiated firmware updates without requiring physical debugger access, and includes flash security features like 4 KB boot block protection.
How many SMBus controllers does the MEC1609-PZV integrate, and what are their capabilities?
The MEC1609-PZV integrates three independent SMBus 2.0 host controllers (SMB0–SMB2), each supporting master or dual-slave operation, clock stretching, multi-master arbitration, and programmable bus speeds up to 400 kHz. All remain fully operational on standby power (VTR), and are DMA-driven for low-CPU-overhead sensor polling.
Is the MEC1609-PZV pin-compatible with other members of the MEC16xx family?
No, the MEC1609-PZV is not pin-compatible with other MEC16xx variants such as MEC1618-PZV. While both use 144-pin TFBGA packages, the pin assignments differ significantly due to added peripherals (e.g., USB PHY, PECI 3.0) in later variants. The datasheet confirms distinct package outlines and signal mappings per device.
What debug interfaces are available on the MEC1609-PZV?
The MEC1609-PZV provides JTAG (master and slave), MCU Serial Debug Port (16C550A register interface, up to 2 Mbps), and two-pin UART debug port accessible by both host and EC. All interfaces support flash programming and real-time debugging, with JTAG also enabling boundary-scan testing and secure debug authentication.
MEC1609-PZV Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 144-TFBGA
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Applications:
- I/O Controller
- Core Processor:
- ARC-625D
- Program Memory Type:
- FLASH (192kB)
- Controller Series:
- -
- RAM Size:
- 16K x 8
- Interface:
- ACPI, BC-Link, I2C/SMBus, LPC, PECI, PS/2, SPI, VLPC
- Number of I/O:
- 115
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3.3V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 144-TFBGA (7x7)
MEC1609-PZV FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MEC1609-PZV through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MEC1609-PZV 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 MEC1609-PZV reliable?
The price and inventory of MEC1609-PZV are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MEC1609-PZV is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MEC1609-PZV?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MEC1609-PZV transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MEC1609-PZV?
MEC1609-PZV orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MEC1609-PZV 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 MEC1609-PZV?
For technical support, including MEC1609-PZV datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MEC1609-PZV requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MEC1609-PZV is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MEC1609-PZV 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 MEC1609-PZV meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MEC1609-PZV?
All MEC1609-PZV units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MEC1609-PZV, 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 MEC1609-PZV part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MEC1609-PZV:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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