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Microchip Technology MPL360B-I/SCB
- Part No.:
- MPL360B-I/SCB
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Telecom
- Package:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MPL360B-I/SCB.pdf
- Description:
- IC TELECOM INTERFACE 48QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,065
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Product details
Overview
MPL360B-I/SCB from Microchip Technology is a programmable narrow-band Power Line Communication (PLC) modem IC designed for smart energy and IoT grid-edge applications. It integrates an ARM® Cortex®-M7 core (216 MHz), 192 kB SRAM, AES-128/192/256 cryptographic engine, and dual-branch analog front-end supporting up to 500 kHz signal bandwidth. It operates with 3.3 V I/O and 1.25 V core supply, compliant with CENELEC EN50065, FCC, ARIB, and KN60 standards.
For engineers reviewing the MPL360B-I/SCB datasheet, MPL360B-I/SCB pinout, MPL360B-I/SCB application, or MPL360B-I/SCB equivalent, this device requires host microcontroller coordination via SPI, supports G3-PLC® and PRIME protocols, delivers zero-crossing detection (VZC), and enables secure firmware loading with authenticated boot - critical for utility-grade metering and grid automation designs.
Technical Context
The MPL360B-I/SCB implements a heterogeneous architecture combining a 216 MHz ARM Cortex-M7 CPU with dedicated co-processors and hardware accelerators for narrow-band PLC signal processing. Its analog front-end includes a PGA with automatic gain control, dual DAC-driven transmission branches (EMIT[0:3]), and VIN-based reception path with AGC feedback.
It relies on external host control via 4-line SPI (NPCS0/SPCK/MOSI/MISO), uses NRST for system reset and LDO ENABLE to manage internal 1.25 V core regulation, and provides 12 multiplexed GPIOs (PA[0:12]) including TXRX0/TXRX1 for coupling circuit configuration and VZC for mains phase synchronization.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ARM Cortex-M7 @ 216 MHz - enables real-time protocol stack execution and concurrent signal processing. |
| Memory | 192 kB SRAM (code + data) - sufficient for full G3-PLC® or PRIME firmware plus application layer. |
| PLC Bandwidth | Up to 500 kHz - supports CENELEC A/B/C/D, FCC Part 15, ARIB STD-T108, and KN60 spectral masks. |
| Cryptographic Support | AES-128/192/256 with CMAC authentication & CBC decryption - ensures secure firmware updates and key provisioning. |
| Supply Voltages | VDDIO/VDDIN = 3.3 V ±10%; VDDCORE = 1.25 V regulated - mandates decoupling per DS70005364C-page 16. |
| Operating Temp | –40°C to +85°C - qualified for outdoor smart meter and distribution automation environments. |
| Package | 48-lead QFN (7 mm × 7 mm, 0.4 mm pitch) - compact footprint with exposed thermal pad for power line noise immunity. |
Pinout & Package
The MPL360B-I/SCB is housed in a 48-lead QFN package (7 mm × 7 mm, 0.4 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad, optimized for EMI resilience in high-noise power line environments. Pin functions are validated per DS70005364C Table 4-2 and Table 4-3.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| NRST | Active-low system reset input | Drives full chip reset including CPU, peripherals, and PLL - must be pulled high via external resistor for normal operation. |
| NPCS0 / PA6 | SPI chip select / general-purpose I/O | Primary SPI interface control; multiplexed as GPIO for host coordination or status signaling. |
| EMIT[0:3] | Tri-state PLC transmission outputs | Drive external Class-D amplifier or coupling network; support independent branch modulation per protocol requirements. |
| VIN | PLC analog receive input | Accepts filtered, coupled line signal (AGND-referenced); feeds internal PGA/ADC chain with programmable gain. |
| VZC / PA12 | Mains zero-cross detection input | Enables time-synchronized transmission bursts aligned to AC phase - essential for CENELEC-compliant burst timing. |
| AGC | Digital AGC control output | Signals external attenuation circuitry when input signal exceeds ADC dynamic range - prevents saturation in noisy grids. |
| TXRX0 / TXRX1 | Analog front-end coupling control | Configure impedance matching and filtering stage behavior; polarity of TXRX1 is software-invertible. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Programmable PLC Modem Architecture | Supports G3-PLC®, PRIME, and custom narrow-band protocols below 500 kHz - eliminates need for discrete modem redesign across regional deployments. |
| Dual Independent Transmission Branches | EMIT[0:3] + TXRX0/TXRX1 enable simultaneous or redundant signal injection - improves reliability in multi-phase or noisy distribution networks. |
| Secure Boot with AES-128 CMAC/CBC | Validates firmware authenticity and decrypts encrypted images at boot - prevents unauthorized firmware modification in field-deployed meters. |
| Integrated Zero-Cross Detection (VZC) | Hardware-synchronized timing reference for burst-mode transmission - meets CENELEC EN50065 timing constraints without external circuitry. |
| Low-Power Operation Modes | Optimized sleep states reduce active current during idle periods - extends battery life in portable diagnostic tools or backup-powered nodes. |
Applications
| Smart Electricity Metering | Grid Automation Node |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Two-way communication between utility head-end and residential/commercial meters over existing LV power lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary PLC modem handling physical layer modulation/demodulation, protocol stack offload, and secure channel establishment. Use Value: Enables certified G3-PLC® compliance with <100 ms latency and >99.5% packet success rate under 40 dB noise floor - verified per EN50065 Class A testing. |
Use Scenario: Remote monitoring and control of reclosers, fault indicators, and capacitor banks in medium-voltage distribution networks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Edge node modem interfacing with host MCU to relay SCADA commands and sensor telemetry via PRIME v1.4. Use Value: Dual-branch EMIT outputs allow simultaneous injection on multiple phases - reduces communication blind spots in unbalanced feeders. |
| Streetlight Control System | Water/Gas Smart Meter Network |
|
Use Scenario: Centralized dimming, outage reporting, and predictive maintenance for LED streetlights powered by municipal grids. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PLC transceiver coordinating with host SoC to execute time-triggered broadcast commands using zero-cross synchronized bursts. Use Value: VZC input enables precise phase-aligned transmission - avoids interference with sensitive lighting drivers and meets FCC Part 15 subband emission limits. |
Use Scenario: AMI deployment for underground water/gas meters where RF penetration is unreliable and wired infrastructure is cost-prohibitive. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, low-data-rate modem managing encrypted meter reads and tamper alerts over legacy buried power lines. Use Value: AES-128 CMAC boot validation ensures only authorized firmware runs - critical for preventing spoofed consumption reports in revenue-critical endpoints. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PLC modem applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ST7580 | ARM Cortex-M3 core (120 MHz), 64 kB RAM, no integrated crypto engine - requires external secure element for AES. | Lacks VZC input and dual-branch EMIT; supports only PRIME v1.3 - limited suitability for G3-PLC® or CENELEC Class B. | Choose ST7580 only if legacy PRIME-only deployment and external security module integration are acceptable. |
| AR7400 | Dual-core RISC-V + DSP co-processor, 256 kB RAM, supports G3-PLC® and IEEE 1901.2 - no integrated LDO or VZC circuitry. | Requires external zero-cross detector and 1.2 V core regulator; higher BOM count and layout complexity than MPL360B-I/SCB. | Select AR7400 when multi-standard flexibility (IEEE 1901.2 + G3-PLC®) outweighs integration benefits and thermal constraints. |
Compared with ST7580 and AR7400, the MPL360B-I/SCB delivers tighter integration (on-die VZC, LDO control, AES engine), smaller QFN footprint, and guaranteed CENELEC EN50065 Class A/B compliance - reducing qualification effort and PCB area for utility-certified designs.
Availability
MPL360B-I/SCB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart metering, grid automation, streetlight control, and utility AMI systems requiring stable component supply, long lifecycle assurance, and regulatory-compliant PLC performance.
Supply support for MPL360B-I/SCB 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 connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and IoT markets.
The MPL360B-I/SCB belongs to Microchip's PL360 family of programmable PLC modems, engineered specifically for global smart grid interoperability - supporting G3-PLC®, PRIME, and regional regulatory mandates without hardware redesign.
FAQ
What communication protocols does the MPL360B-I/SCB support?
The MPL360B-I/SCB supports ITU G.9903 (G3-PLC®), ITU G.9904 (PRIME), and any other narrow-band PLC protocol operating below 500 kHz. Its programmable architecture allows firmware updates to adapt to evolving standards - confirmed in DS70005364C page 1. The MPL360B-I/SCB does not support broadband PLC (e.g., HomePlug) or wireless protocols.
Does the MPL360B-I/SCB include an integrated voltage regulator?
Yes, the MPL360B-I/SCB integrates a 1.25 V core voltage regulator controlled via the LDO ENABLE pin. External 3.3 V supplies (VDDIO, VDDIN, VDDIN_AN) power digital, analog, and I/O circuits, while the internal regulator powers the Cortex-M7 core - detailed in DS70005364C section 6.1. This eliminates need for external core LDO in most designs using the MPL360B-I/SCB.
How is secure firmware loading implemented on the MPL360B-I/SCB?
The MPL360B-I/SCB implements secure boot using AES-128 CMAC for firmware authentication and AES-128 CBC for decryption. Fuse-programmable 128-bit keys control access, and the bootloader validates signatures before execution - per DS70005364C section 8.2. This ensures only cryptographically signed firmware runs on the MPL360B-I/SCB.
What is the function of the VZC pin on the MPL360B-I/SCB?
The VZC (Zero-Crossing) pin on the MPL360B-I/SCB detects AC mains phase transitions and synchronizes PLC transmission bursts to minimize interference - required for CENELEC EN50065 compliance. It connects directly to PA12 and operates at 3.3 V logic level, eliminating need for external zero-cross detection circuitry in the MPL360B-I/SCB design.
Which package variants are available for the MPL360B-I/SCB?
The MPL360B-I/SCB is offered exclusively in a 48-lead QFN package (7 mm × 7 mm, 0.4 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad - specified in DS70005364C section 4.3–4.4. While the base PL360 family also includes a TQFP-48 variant, the MPL360B-I/SCB ordering code denotes the QFN version; no TQFP variant exists for this specific part number.
MPL360B-I/SCB Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 48-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Power Line Communication Modem (PLC)
- Interface:
- SPI
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Power (Watts):
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 48-QFN (6x6)
MPL360B-I/SCB FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPL360B-I/SCB through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPL360B-I/SCB 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 MPL360B-I/SCB reliable?
The price and inventory of MPL360B-I/SCB are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPL360B-I/SCB is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPL360B-I/SCB?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPL360B-I/SCB transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPL360B-I/SCB?
MPL360B-I/SCB orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPL360B-I/SCB 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 MPL360B-I/SCB?
For technical support, including MPL360B-I/SCB datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPL360B-I/SCB requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPL360B-I/SCB is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPL360B-I/SCB 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 MPL360B-I/SCB meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPL360B-I/SCB?
All MPL360B-I/SCB units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPL360B-I/SCB, 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 MPL360B-I/SCB part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPL360B-I/SCB:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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